Quick answer: A move from Chula Vista to Chicago costs $1,536–$9,472 and takes six to 17 days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you're moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 2,082-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Chicago to Chula Vista guide.

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Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Chula Vista to Chicago

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from Chula Vista to Chicago isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to IL movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The top local movers servicing Chula Vista to Chicago moves

It's not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Chula Vista that also handles long-distance moves to Chicago. With so many options, figuring out which ones you can trust takes time.

Luckily, we've done the research for you. We evaluated the top local movers in Chula Vista who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Chula Vista to Chicago.

  1. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. One Stop Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Best California Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. McCarthy Transfer & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/RepublicMovingStorageSanDiego/, https://twitter.com/sdmovingstorage
75% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say Republic Moving & Storage stands out for speed, professionalism, and careful handling of belongings. Crews consistently arrive punctually, work efficiently, and communicate clearly, making moving days less stressful for families and individuals. Many highlight how staff go above and beyond to protect delicate items and accommodate client needs.
Affordable rates and accurate pricing set the company apart from other movers, as does their polite and knowledgeable team. Issues arise mainly with damage to items during transit, late arrivals, and breakdowns in communication, especially during long-distance or complex moves. While most feedback is positive, a sizable portion of input points to frustration with handling claims, delays, and some property loss. Republic's track record for efficient, courteous service positions them above many competitors, but persistent complaints about item damage and occasional administrative issues indicate room for improvement and more reliable service for every customer. A total of 501 reviews were analyzed, with about 75% giving positive input.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 639-8352

Company Info

State license #: 0190491

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 3369820

Alternate Names: Lovejoy's Family Moving, Republic Relocation Services


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/Onestopmoving, https://x.com/1StopMoving
76% of all reviews were positive
23% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
One Stop Moving & Storage stands out for its efficient, professional service, with a remarkable 76% of customer feedback describing a positive experience. Out of 628 reviews, most customers report quick moves, careful handling of belongings, polite staff, and clear communication—qualities that set this company above many competitors. Many mention moving day being stress-free thanks to a hardworking team skilled at protecting furniture and executing moves seamlessly.
Pricing is usually transparent and estimates tend to be accurate compared to other movers. On the downside, about 23% of feedback details more serious problems: some moves resulted in furniture damage, missing items, or unexpected charges, and customers who experienced these issues struggled to get satisfactory help after the fact. A few reviews also describe poor claims handling and communication gaps. While most people recommend One Stop Moving & Storage for careful, professional relocations, anyone booking a move should confirm all terms and insurance coverage in writing to help avoid surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (858) 633-8600

Company Info

State license #: 0190616

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1956864

Alternate Names: One Stop Moving & Storage Inc, San Diego Expert Movers, Quick San Diego Movers, Coastal Movers, Manpower Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BestCAMovers/,
99% of all reviews were positive
1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day stress gets left behind with Best California Movers, according to an overwhelming 1,177 reviews—of which 98.5% were positive. Customers repeatedly point out efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moving, and excellent communication—attributes not seen as consistently in most moving companies. Feedback shows that belongings arrive safe and undamaged, with movers working swiftly and showing courtesy at every stage.
Many notice that clear communication and transparent pricing make the process easier, and crews are praised for problem-solving in tough situations. A handful of reviewers, though, cite incidents involving damaged items, unexpected charges from inaccurate price quotes, or difficulty with claims and follow-up. These lapses are rare compared to industry averages but noteworthy for those prioritizing accountability. While neutral reviews mention minor flaws with after-move support, they still highlight professionalism and care by the moving teams. Compared to other moving services, Best California Movers stands out for reliability, speed, and the personal touch so often missing in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (858) 997-2487

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoMover/,
91% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about McCarthy Transfer & Storage’s professionalism and efficiency. Out of 221 feedback entries, over 91% praise the team’s politeness, careful handling, prompt communication, and quick moving process, reporting moves completed with speed and concern for personal property. Input frequently emphasizes courteous, skilled crews and services handled with respect for homes and belongings.
Some note that the company regularly exceeds experiences with other movers—especially for military relocations—earning more trust for reliability and staff friendliness. A small portion of feedback points out issues such as damaged or lost items, unprofessional conduct, or unexpected extra charges, particularly during military moves. Despite these isolated problems, most customer feedback compares McCarthy Transfer favorably to other moving companies for dependability and quality service.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 596-2594

Company Info

State license #: 0154190

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 2059504

Alternate Names: McCarthy Transfer & Storage Incorporated


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/stellamovinganddelivery/, https://twitter.com/StellaMoving
94% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Stella Moving & Delivery shows a standout excellence in moving services. Out of 331 reviews analyzed, 94% are positive, highlighting reliable efficiency, courteous and skilled crews, and careful handling of customer belongings. Many reviewers praise their rapid pace, clear communication, and impressive professionalism compared to other moving companies.
Clients repeatedly cite stress-free experiences, transparent pricing, and well-organized teams as key benefits. On the flip side, a small portion of reviewers report concerns about damage to belongings, unexpected charges, and difficulties reaching the company after issues arise. Some mention poor problem resolution by management, particularly regarding claims and complaints. While negative input does exist, it’s significantly outweighed by positive experiences. Compared to most moving services, Stella maintains a much higher percentage of five-star ratings and customer satisfaction, with efficiency and care as their calling card.
Show more
Get a Quote (619) 393-6426

Company Info

State license #: 0191958

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3299407

Alternate Names: Stella Moving & Delivery, The Remarkable Movers


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified

How much does it cost to move from Chula Vista to Chicago?

Chula Vista movers charge $140 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,613 - $5,926 $1,465 - $3,848 $1,479 - $2,796
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,429 - $9,472 $2,501 - $5,698 $1,536 - $3,292
4+ bedrooms $7,821 - $14,283 $3,609 - $7,036 $1,938 - $4,075
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,082 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from California to Illinois

Planning a move from California to Illinois? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,613 and $5,926. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,429 and $9,472 for the same journey (CA to IL). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,821 to $14,283.

Cost of moving containers from California to Illinois

If you're relocating from California to Illinois, you'll typically spend between $1,465 and $3,848 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,501 up to $5,698. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,609 and $7,036. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Illinois

A moving rental truck 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 $1,479 to $2,796. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,536 to $3,292, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from California to Illinois costs around $1,938 to $4,075.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors influencing moving costs from Chula Vista to Chicagotoggle

The cost of Chula Vista movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Chula Vista to Chicago can be as low as $1,613 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $13,602.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Chula Vista so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,479 to $3,873. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Chula Vista to Chicago

Moving from Chula Vista to Chicago means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Chula Vista than in Chicago, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Chula Vista compares to Chicago so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Chula Vista Chicago
Average rent cost $3,100 $2,045
Average home value $844,142 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $92,913 $71,566
Cost of living (single person) $7,167 $3,648
Cost of living (family of 4) $12,120 $9,266
Unemployment rate 7.9% 9.0%
Sales tax 8.75% 10.25%
State income tax 13.3% 4.95%
  • Rent prices in Chicago are 34% lower than in Chula Vista, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Chicago.
    Home prices in Chicago are 65.0% lower than in Chula Vista.
  • Income in Chicago is 23.0% lower than in Chula Vista, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Chicago — including U.S. Government, Chicago Public Schools, and City of Chicago — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Chicago. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 49.1% lower than in Chula Vista.
  • A move to Chicago can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 23.5% less than what it costs in Chula Vista.
  • The unemployment rate in Chicago is 13.92% higher than in Chula Vista.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Chicago, since its sales taxes are 17.14% higher than what you are paying in Chula Vista.
  • One perk of moving to Chicago is paying less in state income taxes, which are 62.78% lower than in Chula Vista.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,527.00 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chula Vista.

How life is different in Chula Vista vs. Chicago

Chicago Chula Vista
Population 2,746,388 275,487
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 6
Walkability score 77 46
Bike friendliness score 72 41
Crime Index 35.19 56.3
Safety Index 33.87 43.7
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • The population of Chicago is about 897% greater than Chula Vista, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Chicago offers better access to buses and trains than Chula Vista, based on public transportation ratings. Chicago has a transit score of 9 out of 10 compared to 6 in Chula Vista. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Chicago means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Chula Vista. Chicago is considered more walkable than Chula Vista, with a score of 77 out of 100 versus 46 out of 100 in Chula Vista. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, Chicago is considered more bike-friendly than Chula Vista in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Chicago has a bike-friendliness score of 72 out of 100, while Chula Vista is rated as 41 out of 100.
  • Chicago has a lower crime rate than Chula Vista based on scores of 35.19 and Chula Vista's 56.3, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Chicago. With a crime index of 33.87, Chicago ranks lower in overall safety than Chula Vista, whose index is 43.7. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Chicago has better air quality than in Chula Vista. Chicago has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Chula Vista. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your Chula Vista vs. Chicago move

  • Weather: Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Illinois, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Illinois doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • 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: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Chicago

Now that you've decided to make the move to Chi-Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chicago.

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

After getting comfortable in your new Illinois home, it's time to see what Chicago is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chicago include museums and art centers like the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago History Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Cubs (MLB), Chicago White Sox (MLB), or Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chula Vista to Chicago?

The best time to move from Chula Vista to Chicago is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Chula Vista.

When is the cheapest time to move from Chula Vista to Chicago?

With many people choosing to move from Chula Vista to Chicago in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Chula Vista to Chicago take?

The 2,082-mile move from Chula Vista, CA, to Chicago, IL, takes six to 17 days. Some Chula Vista movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Chicago.

Helpful moving resources