Quick answer: The cost to move from Chicago to Anaheim ranges from $1,629 to $8,702 and the journey will take approximately six to 17 days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 2,009-mile move on your own.

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

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Recommended by Time Magazine
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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 Chicago to Anaheim

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from Chicago to Anaheim can be tough. With so many options, it's hard to know which companies you can actually trust.

Skip the hassle of endless research — we've narrowed down the top choices for you. We picked these movers based on real reviews, competitive pricing, and the variety of services they offer.

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 IL to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 63 Illinois 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 best local movers servicing Chicago to Anaheim moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in Chicago that offers long-distance services to Anaheim can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in Chicago who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Chicago to Anaheim.

  1. New City Moving: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. H2H Movers Inc: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/NewCityMoving, https://twitter.com/newcitymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move.
While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Show more
Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

Company Info

State license #: 158051

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 3078026

Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoMover, https://twitter.com/TheProMove1
93% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication.
People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Show more
Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

Company Info

State license #: 136144

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 3383907


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/h2hmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/h2hmoving
88% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier for H2H customers. Out of 640 real customer reviews analyzed, a remarkable 88% delivered positive feedback, placing H2H Movers above most competitors in the moving industry. Clients most frequently highlighted the company’s efficient service, careful handling of possessions, professional and polite staff, great communication, and a quick moving process.
People appreciated teams who arrived on time, completed moves ahead of schedule, and made stressful relocations feel manageable, often noting that quoted prices were accurate or even lower than expected. On the other hand, the most common complaints were unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, and delays in arrival or delivery. A few customers reported being billed more than their estimates due to extra fees or poor packing, and some faced slow resolution for claims or communication gaps after their move. While some neutral reviews cited problems with lost items or payment methods, these were far less frequent than the praise received. H2H Movers stands out with efficient, reliable, and friendly crews—a reputation that exceeds the service level of many moving companies, though attention to transparent billing and timeliness could make experiences even better.
Show more
Get a Quote (773) 236-8797

Company Info

State license #: 184599

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2428328

Alternate Names: H2H Movers, Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/stimovingandstorage, https://twitter.com/stimovers?lang=en
68% of all reviews were positive
29% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings.
Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI's organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Show more
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

Company Info

State license #: 139020

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1308599

Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.


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
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/AllianceMovingTeam/, https://twitter.com/alliance_moving
96% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Alliance Moving & Storage feels like a breath of fresh air: 247 customer feedback entries were analyzed, with a remarkable 95.5% being positive. Most people describe the company as efficient, careful with belongings, highly professional, and quick. Customers consistently mention respectful staff and clear, reliable communication throughout the process.
Affordable, transparent pricing and rapid scheduling compared favorably versus rival companies. On the downside, a minority report unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, or trouble reaching someone after problems arose. Issues like last-minute price increases or lack of follow-up were sometimes cited by dissatisfied customers. Negative experiences remain much less common than positive ones. Compared with typical moving companies, Alliance stands out for speed, professionalism, and care, though some customers recommend confirming all charges up front to prevent misunderstandings.
Show more
Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Company Info

State license #: 214845

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2882675

Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Chicago to Anaheim?

Chicago movers charge $100 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 $1,550 - $5,781 $1,478 - $3,477 $1,403 - $2,929
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,920 - $8,702 $2,579 - $5,466 $1,629 - $3,388
4+ bedrooms $7,344 - $13,376 $3,710 - $7,232 $1,937 - $3,985
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,009 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 Illinois to California

Planning a move from Illinois to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,550 and $5,781. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,920 and $8,702 for the same journey (IL to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,344 to $13,376.

Cost of moving containers from Illinois to California

When you're heading from Illinois to California, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,478 and $3,477. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,579 and $5,466. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,710 to $7,232. 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 Illinois to California

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, 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 $1,403 and $2,929. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,629 to $3,388. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,937 and $3,985.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to Anaheimtoggle

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Chicago to Anaheim might cost just $1,550 for a one-bedroom, but up to $12,541 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,403 and $3,750, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Chicago to Anaheim

Moving from Chicago to Anaheim comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Anaheim is generally more expensive than Chicago, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Chicago Anaheim
Average rent cost $2,045 $2,550
Average home value $295,743 $924,742
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $88,538
Cost of living (single person) $3,648 $5,451
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,266 $11,381
Unemployment rate 9.0% 4.1%
Sales tax 10.25% 7.75%
State income tax 4.95% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Anaheim, since prices are typically 25% higher than in Chicago.
  • The home prices in Anaheim are 212.7% higher than in Chicago, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Anaheim, where incomes are, on average, 23.7% higher than in Chicago. Major employers in Anaheim include PacSun, Firmenich, and Styles For Less.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Anaheim, since the cost of living for a single person in Anaheim is 49.4% higher than in Chicago. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Anaheim, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Anaheim is 22.8% higher than in Chicago.
  • The unemployment rate in Anaheim is 54.44% lower than in Chicago.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Anaheim, since the city's sales taxes in Anaheim are 24.39% lower than in Chicago.
  • State income taxes in Anaheim are 168.69% higher than in Chicago.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,482.73 in Anaheim to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago vs. Anaheim

Anaheim Chicago
Population 346,824 2,746,388
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 9
Walkability score 56 77
Bike friendliness score 52 72
Crime Index 53.18 35.19
Safety Index 46.82 33.87
Air Quality Good Good
  • Anaheim's population is about 87% less than Chicago.
  • Anaheim's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Chicago's higher score of 9.
  • Anaheim is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 56 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
  • Anaheim has a bike-friendliness score 52 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
  • Anaheim's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 53.18 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Anaheim neighborhoods are safer than 53.18% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
  • Anaheim is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 46.82 vs Chicago's 33.87.
  • Air quality in Anaheim is good, and in Chicago it's good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago vs. Anaheim move

  • Weather: Anaheim has warm winters with erratic heavy rainfalls, and hot, essentially rainless summer
  • 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially 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: While California 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 Anaheim 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. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Anaheim

With your sights set on Ducktown, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Anaheim.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Platinum Triangle
  • Anaheim Resort Area
  • West Anaheim
  • Anaheim Hills
  • Canyon District

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Anaheim Hills
  • Canyon District
  • Platinum Triangle
  • West Anaheim
  • Northeast Anaheim

Things to do in Anaheim

Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what Anaheim has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Anaheim features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Disney Gallery, Muzeo, and Founder's Park.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Yorba Regional Park and Pearson Park Amphitheatre — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Anaheim Ducks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chicago to Anaheim?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to Anaheim You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chicago.

When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Anaheim?

Because spring and fall moves from Chicago to Anaheim are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Chicago to Anaheim take?

The 2,009-mile journey from Chicago, IL to Anaheim, CA, typically takes six to 17 days. Some movers in Chicago offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Anaheim.

Helpful moving resources