($1,263) Cost to Move From San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

1. Pure Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
3. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.5 out of 5 stars
5. Good Green Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from San Francisco to Chicago

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from San Francisco to Chicago typically costs between $1,263 and $5,031. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,391 and $7,658 when moving from San Francisco to Chicago. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from San Francisco to Chicago, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,104 up to $11,744.

Cost of moving containers from San Francisco to Chicago

If you’re relocating from San Francisco to Chicago, you’ll typically spend between $1,209 and $2,879 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,046 up to $4,352. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,777 and $6,118. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Francisco to Chicago

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a San Francisco to Chicago 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 $1,205 and $2,395. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,370 to $2,657. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,679 and $3,460.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Good news! When moving to Chicago from San Francisco, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 37% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
• With home prices being nearly 76% cheaper in Chicago, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
• Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 48% lower in Chicago than in San Francisco.
• With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Chicago and San Francisco, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
• As you plan your move to Chicago, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 6% more than it is in San Francisco.
• The unemployment rate in Chicago exceeds that of San Francisco by about 67%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
• Sales taxes in Chicago exceed those in San Francisco by 19%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
• Income taxes are 63% lower in Illinois than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

• Chicago’s population is about 239% greater than San Francisco.
• Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is lower than San Francisco’s score of 10.
• Chicago is less walkable than San Francisco with a score of 77 out of 100 vs San Francisco’s 99 out of 100.
• Chicago has a bike-friendliness score of 72 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as San Francisco, which has a score of 99.
• Chicago’s crime rate is lower than San Francisco with a score of 35.19 compared to San Francisco’s 61.41. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Francisco neighborhoods are safer than 61.41%.
• Chicago is considered to be less safe than San Francisco with a score of 33.87 vs San Francisco’s 38.59.
• Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in San Francisco it’s Moderate.

• 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: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a Illinois moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Illinois, 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 Chicago 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. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Lake View
• Lincoln Park
• The Loop
• Near North Side
• West Town

Best neighborhoods for families

• Beverly
• Edison Park
• Lincoln Park
• North Center
• West Loop

Things to do in Chicago

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

• Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chicago include museums and art centers like the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln 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 Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.