($1,196) Movers From Chicago, IL to California

1. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. New City Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
3. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
4. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Chicago to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,196 and $4,437. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,276 to $7,181 for the trip from Chicago to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,844 and $10,172.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to California

Moving containers from Chicago to California will cost you $1,203 to $2,809 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,079 to $4,204. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,766 to $5,454. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Chicago.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to California

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 $1,129 and $2,338 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Chicago to California with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,261 to $2,728. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,670 to $3,277.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Chicago:

• Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
• Time of year: Summer moves in Chicago fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
• DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

• In California, rent is about 9% lower than in Chicago, making housing easier on your budget.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 161% higher in California than in Chicago.
• On average, incomes in California run 28% above Chicago, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
• Expect the cost of living in California to be roughly 26% higher than in Chicago, which may require some budgeting adjustments.
• California has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 40%, suggesting a stronger job market.
• Expect to pay about 169% more in income taxes in California compared to Illinois.

• In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Chicago supported Democrat.
• Summertime highs settle at approximately 87ºF in California as well as 84ºF in Chicago, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
• Winter lows in California stay around 59ºF, noticeably warmer than Chicago, where lows drop to 19ºF. This shift means easier winters, lighter routines, and smaller heating bills.
• In California, you’ll get only about 22 inches of rain per year, versus 38 inches in Chicago. Less rain means more sunshine, more time outdoors, and fewer weather-related concerns.
• In California, you’ll get about 7 inches of snow each year, far less than Chicago. That means moving to California will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
• California records a lower crime rate (28.43) than Chicago (35.19), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.

• HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
• Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
• 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: 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 you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
• Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in California, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
• Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to California. Get started here.
• Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.