Moving from Arizona to Chicago — From Desert Living to Lakeshore Luxury

Trading the wide-open skies of Arizona for Chicago’s dynamic lakeshore lifestyle is a move full of excitement — and probably a few questions. From the bustling streets of the Loop to charming tree-lined neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Chicago offers a vibrant mix of culture, dining, and waterfront living that’s a world apart from desert city life.

At Luxury Living, we specialize in helping newcomers navigate this transition with ease. Our relocation expertise ensures you can find a home that fits your style, desired commute, and lifestyle, whether you crave skyline views, private balconies, or proximity to parks and local hotspots.

Thinking about making the move from Arizona to Chicago? — Our Chicago Relocation Guide and local experts can help you find the perfect downtown apartment to match your style, schedule, and priorities.

From Scottsdale to Lincoln Park

Scottsdale residents are no strangers to upscale shopping, alfresco dining, and charming neighborhoods that combine culture with convenience. Lincoln Park offers a similar vibe in Chicago, complete with tree-lined streets dotted with boutique shops, artisanal cafés, and parks perfect for a morning stroll or weekend picnic. Whether you’re drawn to the Lakefront Trail, Lincoln Park Zoo, or the neighborhood’s lively farmers’ markets, you’ll find a balance of energy and serenity that mirrors the best of Scottsdale.

Want to see which Chicago neighborhood fits your style? — Check out our “Best Chicago Neighborhoods for Young Professionals” guide.

Featured Property: Norweta

Norweta offers spacious layouts that feel open and airy — a must for movers accustomed to Arizona’s wide-open spaces. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in natural light, while private balconies let you enjoy Chicago’s skyline and Lincoln Park’s greenery. 

The building’s resort-style amenities include a fitness center, private outdoor gardens, and 24/7 basketball court, blending convenience with everyday luxury. Available units include 3-bedroom layouts.

From Downtown Phoenix to River North

If Downtown Phoenix thrives on vibrant nightlife, art, and a lively dining scene, River North offers the Chicago counterpart: a neighborhood pulsing with galleries, rooftop lounges, and top-tier restaurants. Just steps from the Loop, River North blends high-rise sophistication with energetic city living. Residents can stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk, catch a gallery opening, or unwind after work at a rooftop bar with panoramic skyline views. For movers from Phoenix, the transition to River North feels like trading one energetic city center for another, with added walkability and lakeside charm.

Featured Property: The Leo

The Leo combines luxury living with lifestyle-first amenities. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping city views, while thoughtfully designed interiors include open layouts perfect for entertaining or cozy nights in. 

The building offers a rooftop terrace, fitness center, work-from-home accommodations, and pet-friendly features, making it a seamless choice for movers who want convenience and indulgence in equal measure. Plus, it’s just steps away from the Brown/Red CTA lines. Current units available include gorgeous one-bedroom apartments.

From Tempe to Fulton Market

Tempe is known for its youthful, cultural energy — think vibrant cafés, university life, and creative hubs — and Fulton Market brings that same spirit to Chicago. This neighborhood blends cutting-edge offices, bustling restaurants, and easy access to the United Center with the creative flair of a design-forward community. Movers from Tempe will feel right at home amid street art, rooftop dining, and curated local shops, all while enjoying the convenience of being steps from downtown and the Loop.

Still not sure which neighborhood will feel like home? — Take our “Where to Live in Chicago Quiz” to find your perfect fit.

Apartment Spotlight: Maeve on Ashland

Maeve on Ashland captures Fulton Market’s lively yet polished vibe. Spacious units feature open layouts, modern kitchens with high-end appliances, and private balconies in select units that frame downtown views — perfect for morning coffee or evening wind-downs. 

Being in Fulton Market gives residents easy access to some of the best food and creative hubs in the city. Get in touch with our team to inquire about availability.

Cost of Living: Arizona vs Chicago

Making the move from Arizona to Chicago comes with a change in lifestyle, but surprisingly, not necessarily in cost. While Phoenix and Scottsdale have seen steady increases in rent and living expenses, Chicago’s luxury rentals offer competitive value, especially when you consider the amenities, location, and design-forward interiors you get in return.

For movers who want to compare every detail, our Comprehensive Guide to the Average Cost of Living in Chicago provides a full breakdown of rent, utilities, transportation, and lifestyle expenses — making it easier to plan your transition and find the neighborhood that fits your budget and ambitions.

Transportation: From Car-Dependent Arizona to Chicago’s CTA

One of the biggest lifestyle shifts for movers from Arizona is transportation. In Phoenix or Scottsdale, life often revolves around the car — commuting, errands, even grabbing coffee requires driving. Chicago, by contrast, is built for walkability and transit-friendly living.

Neighborhoods like River North, Fulton Market, and the Gold Coast put you steps from work, dining, nightlife, and cultural destinations. The CTA Red, Brown, Green, and Pink Lines make commuting across the city quick and convenient, while bike lanes, Divvy stations, and scenic walks along the lakefront add flexibility and fun.

For those relocating, The Saint Grand stands out as a prime example of walkable luxury. Residents can stroll to Fulton Market restaurants, boutique shops, and the Riverwalk without ever hopping in a car. 

Lifestyle Shifts: Desert Calm to City Energy

Moving from Arizona’s desert trails and open skies to Chicago means swapping hiking vistas for lakefront strolls along Lincoln Park, festival weekends in Fulton Market, and rooftop cocktails in River North. The city effortlessly blends outdoor activity with cultural energy, from paddleboarding on Lake Michigan to catching a Bulls game at the United Center or exploring local dining gems in your neighborhood. Chicago’s urban rhythm keeps you engaged while offering green spaces and waterfront retreats to recharge in.

Apartment Hunting Made Simple with Luxury Living

Finding your ideal Chicago apartment doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Luxury Living offers concierge-level support, guiding movers from Arizona through every step — from curated listings to personalized tours. Whether you’re exploring lofts in River North, lakefront views in Lincoln Park, or modern high-rises in Fulton Market, our team ensures you see spaces that match your style, budget, and lifestyle.

Take advantage of resources like our Chicago Virtual Apartment Tour to preview units remotely, and use our Apartment Tour Checklist to evaluate each option efficiently. With expert guidance and smart tools, apartment hunting in Chicago becomes seamless — even enjoyable.

Ready to find your Chicago apartment?

Connect with Luxury Living today and let our experts simplify your move while helping you discover the perfect home in the city.