Moving to Montclare, Chicago: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Montclare occupies Chicago’s far Northwest Side near the suburb border offering a quiet residential neighborhood of bungalows and single-family homes with somewhat suburban character. The neighborhood developed as part of Chicago’s bungalow belt attracting homebuyers seeking peaceful residential streets and easy access to both city and suburbs. Today Montclare features well-maintained homes on tree-lined streets where homeownership rates remain relatively high and blocks maintain stability.


Riis Park on the neighborhood’s edge provides extensive recreation facilities including a pool, golf course, and cultural center serving the community. The Blue Line’s Jefferson Park station provides transit access though most residents rely on cars for transportation. Montclare appeals to working-class families seeking affordable homeownership, longtime residents who have lived in the neighborhood for decades, and those wanting quiet residential area with city and suburban access. The neighborhood maintains stability through high homeownership rates, well-kept properties, and strong sense of community.

Why move to Montclare? Whether you’re drawn to the neighborhood’s cultural attractions, excellent dining scene, or strong sense of community, Montclare offers an authentic Chicago living experience with easy access to downtown and all that the city has to offer.

🎓 Schools & Education

Families moving to Montclare have access to quality educational options:

Galewood Elementary School, 1630 N Luna Ave | Schorsch Elementary School, 4510 N Mobile Ave | Steinmetz College Prep, 3030 N Mobile Ave

Learn more about school options and enrollment at Chicago Public Schools.

☕ Best Coffee Shops

Start your mornings at these excellent Montclare coffee shops:

The Grind Cafe, 5050 W Fullerton Ave | Cafe Urbano, 2951 N Laramie Ave | Dunkin, 2951 N Laramie Ave

🍽️ Top Restaurants

Discover the diverse dining scene in Montclare:

Smoque BBQ, 3800 N Pulaski Rd | Gene & Jude’s, 2720 N River Rd | Chief O’Neill’s Pub, 3471 N Elston Ave

🍺 Bars & Nightlife

Experience Montclare’s vibrant nightlife at these popular spots:

Chief O’Neill’s Pub, 3471 N Elston Ave | Vaughan’s Pub, 5485 N Northwest Hwy | Jefferson Park Pub, 4914 N Milwaukee Ave

🐕 Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spaces

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

Riis Park Dog Area, 6100 W Fullerton Ave

Find more Chicago parks and recreation areas at the Chicago Park District.

💪 Gyms & Fitness Centers

Stay active at these Montclare fitness facilities:

Planet Fitness, LA Fitness, Anytime Fitness

🚗 Parking & Street Access in Montclare

Successfully moving to Montclare requires careful planning for Chicago’s parking regulations and street access requirements:

• Parking Permits: Most Montclare buildings sometimes require temporary no-parking signs posted 48 hours in advance. Contact your Chicago alderman’s office and pick them up in person.
• Parking Zone: Montclare is located in Zone 2, which affects residential parking permit eligibility.
• 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.
• Street Restrictions: Check for street cleaning schedules, rush hour restrictions, and neighborhood-specific regulations in Montclare.

🏢 Building Requirements in Montclare

Common building and condo requirements when moving to Montclare:

• Elevator Access: Rare buildings in Montclare have elevator access. Reserve elevators 1-2 weeks in advance and confirm padding requirements.
• Loading Dock Availability: Rare availability in Montclare. Coordinate with building management for dock schedules.
• Certificate of Insurance (COI): Yes – Most Montclare buildings require proof of insurance with $1M+ general liability coverage from your moving company.
• Move-In Reservation: Book your move-in date with Montclare building management 2-3 weeks ahead. Some buildings restrict moves to weekdays only.
• Building Protection: Movers must use floor runners, door jamb protectors, and elevator padding to prevent damage to Montclare properties.

💡 Pro Tips for Moving to Montclare

• Communicate with Montclare neighbors about your move-in date
• Take photos of hallways and common areas before moving
• Keep building management contact info readily available
• Tip your movers – the standard is 15-20% for excellent service
• Research specific blocks and streets within Montclare for safety and parking considerations

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

How much does it cost to move to Montclare, Chicago?

The average cost for a Montclare move ranges from $550-800, depending on apartment size and specific requirements. Studio apartments typically cost $450-700, 1BR apartments range $600-900, 2BR apartments cost $900-1,500, and 3BR+ apartments range $1,500-3,500. Factors affecting Montclare moving costs include building access (elevator vs. walk-up), parking availability, distance traveled, time of month, and additional services like packing. Get multiple quotes from licensed Chicago moving companies to compare rates.

Do I need a parking permit to move in Montclare?

Yes, most moves in Montclare require temporary no-parking signs posted 48 hours in advance and loading zone reservations through the City of Chicago. Contact 311 (dial 311 or visit 311.chicago.gov) to reserve loading zones. Your moving company can often help coordinate Chicago parking permits for Montclare relocations. Failure to secure proper permits can result in parking tickets and delays.

When is the best time to move to Montclare?

Year-round is typically the best time to move to Montclare. 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 Chicago, so book Montclare movers 4-6 weeks in advance during peak season.

Is Montclare a safe neighborhood?

Moderate – Generally safe. As with any Chicago neighborhood, safety can vary by specific blocks and streets. We recommend researching crime statistics for your exact address, visiting the area at different times of day, and talking to current residents before moving to Montclare.

Check the Chicago Police Department’s crime map and community resources for the most current safety information in Montclare.

Do Montclare buildings require insurance from movers?

Yes, most Montclare buildings and condo associations require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) with at least $1 million in general liability coverage from your moving company. All reputable Chicago movers carry proper insurance and can provide COI documentation immediately upon request. This protects both you and the Montclare building from potential damages during the move. Always verify your mover is properly licensed and insured.

How far in advance should I book movers for Montclare?

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

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

Are there good schools in Montclare?

Yes, Montclare is served by several quality schools including Galewood Elementary School, 1630 N Luna Ave | Schorsch Elementary School, 4510 N Mobile Ave | Steinmetz College Prep, 3030 N Mobile Ave. When moving to Montclare with children, research individual schools’ performance ratings, visit in person if possible, and consider proximity to your new home. Chicago Public Schools offers school choice options, allowing families to apply to schools outside their attendance area.

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

Before moving to Montclare, spend time walking the streets at different times of day, visit local coffee shops like The Grind Cafe, 5050 W Fullerton Ave | Cafe Urbano, 2951 N Laramie Ave | Dunkin, 2951 N Laramie Ave, dine at neighborhood restaurants, and talk to residents. Check out Riis Park Dog Area, 6100 W Fullerton Ave if you have pets, and explore nearby gyms and fitness centers. This hands-on research will help you understand the neighborhood’s character and determine if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.