Moving to Evanston, Illinois: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Evanston blends the intellectual energy of Northwestern University with lakefront living just 12 miles north of Chicago. This diverse suburb of 76,000 residents features tree-lined streets with Victorian homes, Craftsman bungalows, and modern condos, while its five beaches and parks along Lake Michigan offer California-style outdoor recreation. The community has a walkable downtown with independent bookstores, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants, plus the beautiful Merrick Rose Garden. Northwestern’s presence brings cultural events, world-class athletics, and a youthful energy, while long-time residents maintain the city’s progressive values and community spirit.


The neighborhoods range from stately lakefront estates near Central Street to eclectic multicultural blocks near the Chicago border. Residents are highly educated (70% hold college degrees) with a median income around $66,000, creating an urban-suburban mix that values diversity, arts, and local business. The temperance movement once made Evanston dry until 1972, and that history lives on in brewery names and civic pride. This is a place where neighbors greet each other on morning walks, families bike to Lake Michigan beaches, students fill coffee shops, and weekend farmers markets draw crowds. Easy CTA and Metra access makes Chicago feel like an extension of the neighborhood rather than a separate destination.

Why move to Evanston? Whether you’re drawn to the excellent schools, family-friendly atmosphere, or easy access to Chicago, Evanston offers the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience.

🎓 Elementary Schools

Families moving to Evanston have access to quality elementary education:

Dewey Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Willard Elementary, Washington Elementary, Orrington Elementary, Kingsley Elementary

🏫 High Schools

Evanston students attend:

Evanston Township High School (ETHS)

Research school ratings and performance at GreatSchools.org before choosing your new home.

☕ Best Coffee Shops

Start your mornings at these excellent Evanston coffee shops:

Backlot Coffee (2006 Central St), Brothers K Coffeehouse (500 Main St), Colectivo Coffee (716 Church St), Newport Coffee House (622 Davis St)

🍽️ Top Restaurants

Discover the dining scene in Evanston:

Found Kitchen and Social House (1631 Chicago Ave), The Barn Steakhouse (1655 Chicago Ave), Tapas Barcelona (1615 Chicago Ave)

🍺 Bars & Entertainment

Enjoy Evanston’s local bars and entertainment venues:

The Blue Horse Tavern (1026 Davis St), Ward Eight (629 W Howard St)

🐕 Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spaces

If you’re moving to Evanston with a furry friend, check out these dog-friendly areas:

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💪 Gyms & Fitness Centers

Stay active at these Evanston fitness facilities:

Planet Fitness (2410 Main St) – 24-hour gym| cardio| weights| group classes; Chicago Athletic Clubs (1723 Benson Ave) – Full-service club| pool| yoga| climbing wall

🚗 Parking & Street Access in Evanston

Successfully moving to Evanston requires understanding suburban parking regulations and property access:

• HOA & Property Rules: Check with your homeowners association or property management about move-in procedures, temporary parking restrictions, and required notifications.
• Driveway Access: Most Evanston homes have driveway access for moving trucks. Verify your driveway can accommodate a 26-foot moving truck or if street parking is necessary.
• Street Parking Permits: Some Evanston neighborhoods require temporary no-parking signs or street permits. Contact your local village hall or HOA office for specific requirements.
• Best Moving Times: Year-round offers the most flexibility. Avoid moving on the last three days of the month when rates are 20-30% higher.
• Neighbor Courtesy: Inform neighbors about your move-in date, especially if trucks will block streets or driveways.

🏢 Building & Property Requirements in Evanston

Common requirements when moving to Evanston properties:

• Elevator Access: Sometimes buildings in Evanston have elevator access. For condos and apartments, reserve elevators 1-2 weeks in advance.
• Certificate of Insurance (COI): Varies by building – Many Evanston buildings and HOAs require proof of insurance with $1M+ general liability coverage from your moving company.
• Move-In Reservations: Book your move-in date with Evanston property management or HOA 2-3 weeks ahead. Some communities restrict moves to weekdays or specific hours.
• Property Protection: Professional movers use floor runners, door jamb protectors, and padding to prevent damage to your Evanston home.
• Single-Family Homes: For houses, ensure clear pathways from the street to all entry points and measure doorways for large furniture items.

💡 Pro Tips for Moving to Evanston

• Contact your Evanston HOA or property manager at least 2 weeks before moving
• Measure doorways, stairways, and hallways before moving day
• Introduce yourself to neighbors and provide your moving schedule
• Keep property management and HOA contact info readily available
• Tip your movers – the standard is 15-20% for excellent service

💡 Cost-Saving Tip: Moving to Evanston mid-week or mid-month can save 15-25% compared to weekend or month-end moves. Ask local moving companies about off-peak discounts!

How much does it cost to move to Evanston, Illinois?

The average cost for a Evanston move ranges from $700-1,100, depending on home size and specific requirements. Studio apartments typically cost $450-700, 1-2 bedroom homes range $600-900, 2-3 bedroom homes cost $900-1,500, and larger 3+ bedroom homes range $1,500-3,500. Factors affecting Evanston moving costs include property access, driveway availability, distance traveled, time of month, and additional services like packing.

Do I need a parking permit to move in Evanston?

Parking requirements vary in Evanston. Most single-family homes have driveway access for moving trucks, but some neighborhoods or HOAs require temporary no-parking signs or street permits. Contact your Evanston property manager, HOA office, or local village hall to understand specific requirements. For condos and apartments, check with building management about move-in procedures and guest parking reservations.

When is the best time to move to Evanston?

Year-round is typically the best time to move to Evanston. Mid-week and mid-month moves offer the best rates and availability. Avoid the last three days of the month when demand is highest and prices increase 20-30%. Summer months (June-August) are the busiest moving season in the Chicago suburbs, so book Evanston movers 4-6 weeks in advance during peak season.

Is Evanston a safe community?

Elevated Crime Rate: 42 crimes per 1,000 residents. This means about 1 in 24 people experience a crime each year. Higher than national average, primarily property crimes like theft and burglary.. As with any community, safety can vary by specific neighborhoods and streets. We recommend researching crime statistics for your exact address and visiting the area at different times of day before moving to Evanston.

Check local police department websites and community resources for current safety information in Evanston.

Do Evanston buildings require insurance from movers?

Varies by building – Many Evanston buildings, condos, and HOAs require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) with at least $1 million in general liability coverage from your moving company. All reputable suburban movers carry proper insurance and can provide COI documentation immediately upon request. This protects both you and the Evanston property from potential damages during the move.

How far in advance should I book movers for Evanston?

We recommend booking Evanston movers 3-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving season (May-September). For month-end moves or summer relocations, book 6-8 weeks ahead to ensure availability. Same-day and next-day moving services are often available for urgent Evanston moves, though rates may be higher. Early booking guarantees better rates and your preferred moving date. Many Evanston Movers recommend booking 4-6 weeks in advance during peak moving season to ensure availability and optimal pricing.

What should I look for in a Evanston moving company?

When choosing movers for Evanston, verify they are licensed with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), carry proper insurance, have positive online reviews, offer transparent pricing, and are familiar with suburban Chicago requirements. Ask about experience with Evanston properties, HOA procedures, and whether they provide COI documentation. Get written estimates from at least 3 companies before deciding.

Are there good schools in Evanston?

Yes, Evanston is served by quality schools. Elementary students attend schools including Dewey Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Willard Elementary, Washington Elementary, Orrington Elementary, Kingsley Elementary, while high school students attend Evanston Township High School (ETHS). When moving to Evanston with children, research individual schools’ performance ratings and visit campuses if possible.

What’s the best way to explore Evanston before moving?

Before moving to Evanston, spend time driving through different neighborhoods at various times of day, visit local coffee shops like those at Backlot Coffee (2006 Central St), Brothers K Coffeehouse (500 Main St), Colectivo Coffee (716 Church St), Newport Coffee House (622 Davis St), dine at area restaurants, and explore local parks. If you have pets, check out dog parks in the area. This hands-on research will help you understand the community’s character and determine if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.