Industry-trained crews
Local moving companies in Chicago
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- New City Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- H2H Movers Inc: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
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
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
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
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
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
Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to California
The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:
- Move size: The number of belongings youโre moving will directly affect your overall moving costs, along with your homeโs size and layout.
- Time of year: Moving prices usually go up in the summer, which is peak moving season in Chicago.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Choosing to move yourself is typically less expensive, but it also means more effort and hassle than hiring professional movers.
What to know before moving from Chicago, IL, to California
Heading from Chicago to California comes with new adventures, but also a bump in living expenses. Because California usually has a higher cost of living than Chicago, itโs smart to budget and plan ahead.
Take a look at how living in Chicago stacks up against California so youโre prepared before making the move:
Compare cost of living: Chicago vs. California
| Chicago, IL | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $2,045 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $91,905 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 13.3% |
California sources: World Population Review, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation
- Good news. Rent in California is about 9% lower than what youโd pay in Chicago, freeing up more of your budget each month.
- Thinking about buying? Home prices in California are roughly 160.7% higher than in Chicago, so make sure you can afford a steeper mortgage.
- Youโll find average incomes are around 28.4% higher in California compared to Chicago.
- Youโll see about 40.0% lower unemployment in California versus Chicago.
- Brace yourself for higher income taxes. Theyโre 168.69% steeper in California than in Chicago.
How life is different in Chicago, IL, from California
If you're considering a move from Chicago to California, there are some notable lifestyle differences to keep in mind. From climate and population size to political leanings, hereโs how life in California compares to life in the Chi-Town.
| Chicago, IL | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 2,746,388 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 87ยบF | 84ยบF |
| Winter low | 59ยบF | 19ยบF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 38" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 35" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 35.19 |
California sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, BestPlaces
- In the latest presidential election, California voted Democratic and Chicago voted Democrat.
- No need to shop for new summer outfits. Average highs in California reach 87ยฐF, about the same as the 84ยฐF you're used to in Chicago.
- In the coldest months, Chicago dips down to 19ยฐF, while California sees milder lows of just 59ยฐF. That means youโll enjoy milder winters in the Golden State.
- When youโre heading to California from Chicago, you wonโt need your raincoat as often. California sees only about 22 inches of rain annually, less than the 38 inches youโre used to in Chicago.
- In California, you can expect just 7 inches of snow each year, much less than the 35 inches back in Chicago. Get ready for easier winters in the Golden State!
Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL, vs. California:
There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Chicago vs California side-by-side.
| Pros of living in Chicago, IL | Pros of living in California |
|---|---|
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious food | Pleasant weather |
| Abundant entertainment | Abundant recreational options |
| Intense sports culture | High quality of life |
| Ample economic opportunity | Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in Chicago, IL, vs. California:
Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Chicago for California.
| Cons of living in Chicago, IL | Cons of living in California |
|---|---|
| High crime rate | High cost of living |
| Temperamental weather | Heavy tax burdens |
| Terrible traffic | Natural disasters |
| High taxes | Terrible traffic |
| Pollution | Strange laws |
Other considerations when moving to California from Chicago
When relocating from Chicago to California, a few details are worth keeping in mind to avoid last-minute hiccups. Beyond choosing a mover and packing your belongings, itโs helpful to consider local rules, permit requirements, and other practical factors that could impact your move.
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days..
- 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, youโll 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a โT Numberโ 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection โ 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know youโve got everything covered.
Things to do in California
Whether youโre into sports, parks, museums, or universities, California has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in California
Parks in California
Sports Teams in California
Universities in California
FAQs
How long does a move from Chicago to California take?
Curious about how long itโll take to move from Chicago, IL to California? Typically, the process takes about six to 17 days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if youโre planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.
Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you wonโt get stuck with any surprise delays.
What is the best way to get a car from Chicago to California?
Need to ship your car from Chicago to California? Trust professionals whoโll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Chicago to California.
Why are people moving from Chicago to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather. On the other hand, people are moving away from Chicago because of the high crime rate and temperamental weather.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Chicago?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Chicago .
