San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from San Francisco to Chicago typically costs $3,800–$8,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,131 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from San Francisco to Chicago
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL typically costs $3,800–$8,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,131-mile move from San Francisco to Chicago, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $3,300 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- AB Moving recently quoted $8,295 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $5,130 for a 5+ bedroom using a moving container.
Studio apartment
Feb 23, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 17, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 16, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 16, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 30, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 06, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 05, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 15, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 10, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from San Francisco to Chicago
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from San Francisco to Chicago might be as low as $2,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $13,100.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in San Francisco.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,400 to $3,800 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA guide.
Best San Francisco to Chicago movers by type
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Container
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from San Francisco to Chicago
When it comes to handling your interstate move from San Francisco to Chicago, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best CA→IL movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 372 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from San Francisco to Chicago
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Chicago runs about -4% higher for singles and 6% higher for families than San Francisco.
Singles spend around $3,648 in Chicago versus $3,781 in San Francisco; families pay $9,266 compared with $8,717.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| San Francisco | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $3,259 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,475 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $1,241,003 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $136,689 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,781 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $8,717 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.63% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.95% |
- 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.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between San Francisco and Chicago, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | San Francisco | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.91 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $5.06 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $125.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $99.96 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Francisco than in Chicago.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Francisco than in Chicago.
- Eggs cost more in San Francisco than in Chicago.
- Bread is more expensive in San Francisco than in Chicago.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Francisco than in Chicago.
- Gym memberships cost more in San Francisco than in Chicago.
How life is different in San Francisco vs. Chicago
| San Francisco | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 808,988 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 10 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 99 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 99 | 72 |
| Crime index | 61.41 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 38.59 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- 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.
Other things to consider for your San Francisco to Chicago move
- 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.
Where to live in Chicago
Ready to relocate to Chi-Town? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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
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.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from San Francisco to Chicago?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from San Francisco to Chicago. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in San Francisco.
When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to Chicago?
With many people choosing to move from San Francisco 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 San Francisco to Chicago take?
Covering 2,131 miles, the move from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL typically takes six to 17 days. Some San Francisco movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chicago can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in San Francisco offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in San Francisco offer AAA member savings.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in San Francisco can handle specialty items for my move to Chicago?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In San Francisco, 70 movers can handle pianos. 63 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
