($1,152) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Irvine, CA

1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Irvine

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Irvine typically costs between $1,152 and $4,570. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,389 and $7,019 when moving from Chicago to Irvine. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Chicago to Irvine, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,926 up to $10,783.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Irvine

If you’re relocating from Chicago to Irvine, you’ll typically spend between $1,134 and $2,919 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,120 up to $3,985. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,849 and $5,830. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Irvine

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Chicago to Irvine move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,132 and $2,316. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,226 to $2,625. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,531 and $3,054.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 96% higher in Irvine than in Chicago, which may impact your monthly finances.
• A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 428% higher in Irvine than in Chicago.
• Exciting news here, the average income is about 59% higher in Irvine than in Chicago, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
• Anticipate increased living expenses in Irvine, as the cost of living for a single person in Irvine is 151% greater than in Chicago. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
• As you plan your move to Irvine, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 94% more than it is in Chicago.
• With an unemployment rate approximately 40% lower than Chicago, Irvine boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
• Sales taxes are 24% lower in Irvine than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
• Income taxes are 169% higher in California than in Illinois. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

• Irvine’s population is about 89% less than Chicago.
• Irvine’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Irvine is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
• Both Irvine and Chicago have similar bike-friendliness scores (72 vs 69), meaning Irvine is about as safe for cyclists as Chicago. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
• Irvine’s crime rate is lower than Chicago with a score of 31.01 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Irvine neighborhoods are safer than 31.01% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Irvine is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 68.99 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
• Air quality in Irvine is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
• Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
• State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Irvine without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Westpark
• Westpark II
• Oak Creek
• Woodbridge
• University Park

Best neighborhoods for families

• Westpark II
• Turtle Rock
• Woodbridge
• South Irvine
• Northwood Point

Things to do in Irvine

Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Irvine. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

• Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Irvine include museums and art centers like the Pretend City Children’s Museum, Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute & Museum of California Art, and Museum of Woman.
• Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Orange County Great Park, Adventure Playground, William R. Mason Regional Park, and Turtle Rock Community Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
• Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an UC Irvine Anteaters (Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball, Water Polo)Adult Basketball LeaguesAdult Soccer LeaguesAdult Softball LeaguesTennis LeagueSand Volleyball LeagueKickball League game.