Top San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL Movers

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

1. All Reasons Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. Vector Moving and Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
3. Lunardi Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. Ninja Movers, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
5. Trek Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from California to Illinois

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Illinois typically costs between $1,662 and $6,017. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,133 and $9,517 when moving from CA to IL. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Illinois, you're looking at costs ranging from $8,489 up to $13,512.

Cost of moving containers from California to Illinois

If you're relocating from California to Illinois, you'll typically spend between $1,570 and $3,705 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,577 up to $5,601. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,869 and $7,124. 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

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,493 and $2,883 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,583 to $3,717. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,041 to $4,337.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Rent prices in Chicago are 34% lower than in San Jose, 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 79.7% lower than in San Jose.
• Income in Chicago is 14.2% lower than in San Jose, 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.
• The cost of living for a single person is the same in Chicago and San Jose.
• If you're moving your family to Chicago, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 10.9% higher than in San Jose.
• The unemployment rate in Chicago is 36.36% higher than in San Jose.
• Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Chicago, since its sales taxes are 9.28% higher than what you are paying in San Jose.
• One perk of moving to Chicago is paying less in state income taxes, which are 62.78% lower than in San Jose.

• Chicago's population is about 183% greater than San Jose.
• Chicago's public transportation has a score of 9 out of 10 versus San Jose's lower score of 7.
• Chicago is more walkable than San Jose with a score of 77 out of 100 vs San Jose's 51 out of 100.
• With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than San Jose, which has a score of 62 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
• Chicago's crime rate is lower than San Jose with a score of 35.19 compared to San Jose's 47.73. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73%.
• Chicago is considered to be less safe than San Jose with a score of 33.87 vs San Jose's 52.27.
• Air quality in Chicago is good, and in San Jose it's moderate.

• 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: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth 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: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• 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 verify a Illinois moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• 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 Chicago. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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

After settling into your new Illinois home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chicago has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

• 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.