Moving to Cicero, Illinois: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Cicero is Chicago’s densest suburb – a gritty community of 85,000 residents packed into just 5.9 square miles directly bordering the city. The town has colorful history as Al Capone’s headquarters during Prohibition, though today it’s known as Chicago’s largest Mexican-American community. The population is approximately 90% Hispanic, creating a vibrant Latino atmosphere with Spanish dominating commercial signage, authentic Mexican restaurants on every block, and cultural celebrations throughout the year. The housing stock consists primarily of two-flats and bungalows built pre-WWII, now housing multigenerational families and working-class residents.


Cicero functions more as urban neighborhood than traditional suburb – dense, diverse, with city-style challenges and urban energy. Commercial corridors along Cermak and Cicero Avenue buzz with activity – produce markets, bakeries, clothing stores, and restaurants serving the community. Residents are largely working-class families drawn by affordable housing near city jobs and the strong cultural community. This isn’t a place for suburban tranquility; it’s where immigrant families work hard, build equity in modest homes, and maintain strong cultural traditions. The town faces challenges with infrastructure and services but maintains tight-knit community bonds. Weekend mornings see families at the local panaderia, shopping at street vendors, and gathering at parks where soccer games and family picnics dominate. Cicero is raw, real, and represents the contemporary immigrant experience in Chicagoland.

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

🎓 Elementary Schools

Families moving to Cicero have access to quality elementary education:

Unity Junior High, Burnham Elementary, Columbus Elementary, Drexel Elementary

🏫 High Schools

Cicero students attend:

J. Sterling Morton High School East

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

☕ Best Coffee Shops

Start your mornings at these excellent Cicero coffee shops:

Cafe con Leche (multiple locations)

🍽️ Top Restaurants

Discover the dining scene in Cicero:

Nuovo Leon (1515 W 22nd St), Don Juan Restaurant (6730 Ogden Ave), Sabatino’s (7515 W Irving Park Rd)

🍺 Bars & Entertainment

Enjoy Cicero’s local bars and entertainment venues:

Hawthorne Race Course (3501 S Laramie Ave)

🐕 Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spaces

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

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💪 Gyms & Fitness Centers

Stay active at these Cicero fitness facilities:

LA Fitness (nearby) – Pool| weights| cardio| classes; Planet Fitness (nearby) – 24-hour| budget-friendly

🚗 Parking & Street Access in Cicero

Successfully moving to Cicero 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 Cicero 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 Cicero 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 Cicero

Common requirements when moving to Cicero properties:

• Elevator Access: Sometimes buildings in Cicero have elevator access. For condos and apartments, reserve elevators 1-2 weeks in advance.
• Certificate of Insurance (COI): Varies by building – Many Cicero 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 Cicero 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 Cicero 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 Cicero

• Contact your Cicero 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 Cicero 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 Cicero, Illinois?

The average cost for a Cicero move ranges from $600-850, 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 Cicero 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 Cicero?

Parking requirements vary in Cicero. 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 Cicero 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 Cicero?

Year-round is typically the best time to move to Cicero. 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 Cicero movers 4-6 weeks in advance during peak season.

Is Cicero a safe community?

Elevated Crime Rate: Approximately 35-40 crimes per 1,000 residents. About 1 in 27 chance of being a victim annually. Urban density contributes to higher crime rates.. 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 Cicero.

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

Do Cicero buildings require insurance from movers?

Varies by building – Many Cicero 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 Cicero property from potential damages during the move.

How far in advance should I book movers for Cicero?

We recommend booking Cicero 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 Cicero moves, though rates may be higher. Early booking guarantees better rates and your preferred moving date. Many Cicero 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 Cicero moving company?

When choosing movers for Cicero, 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 Cicero properties, HOA procedures, and whether they provide COI documentation. Get written estimates from at least 3 companies before deciding.

Are there good schools in Cicero?

Yes, Cicero is served by quality schools. Elementary students attend schools including Unity Junior High, Burnham Elementary, Columbus Elementary, Drexel Elementary, while high school students attend J. Sterling Morton High School East. When moving to Cicero with children, research individual schools’ performance ratings and visit campuses if possible.

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

Before moving to Cicero, spend time driving through different neighborhoods at various times of day, visit local coffee shops like those at Cafe con Leche (multiple locations), 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.