($1,261) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento

When planning a move to Sacramento from Chicago, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,261 and $4,688. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,305 and $6,959 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,012 to $10,103.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Sacramento

When you’re heading from Chicago to Sacramento, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,130 and $2,969. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,136 and $4,438. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,672 to $5,762. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Illinois easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Sacramento

A moving rental truck from Chicago to Sacramento is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,178 to $2,162. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,251 to $2,707, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Chicago to Sacramento costs around $1,594 to $3,380.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

• Rent is about 7% less expensive in Sacramento than in Chicago, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
• Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 61% steeper in Sacramento compared to Chicago.
• Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 10% greater in Sacramento than in Chicago, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
• Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Sacramento. The cost of living for a single person there is 27% below that of Chicago.
• A move to Sacramento can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 33% lower compared to Chicago.
• Sacramento has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 14%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
• Sales taxes are 15% cheaper in Sacramento compared to Chicago. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
• Income taxes are 169% more in California than in Illinois. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

• Sacramento’s population is about 81% less than Chicago.
• Sacramento’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Sacramento is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 49 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
• Sacramento has a bike-friendliness score of 67 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Sacramento’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 49.21 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Sacramento neighborhoods are safer than 49.21% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Sacramento is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 50.79 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
• Air quality in Sacramento is Moderate, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Costs across Chicago and Sacramento are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in California, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
• Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Sacramento. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Downtown Sacramento
• East Sacramento
• Land Park
• Natomas Park
• North Oak Park

Best neighborhoods for families

• Boulevard Park
• River Park
• Land Park
• Village 7
• East Sacramento
• Natomas Park

Things to do in Sacramento

With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing Sacramento. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

• Arts and culture: Sacramento is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the California State Railroad Museum, Crocker Art Museum, California State Capitol Museum, and Old Sacramento.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, Capitol Park, William Land Park, and McKinley Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
• Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Sacramento Kings (NBA)Sacramento Republic FC (USL Championship)Sacramento River Cats (Triple-A West) game.