($1,189) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Fresno, CA

1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Fresno

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Fresno typically costs between $1,189 and $4,930. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,159 and $7,287 when moving from Chicago to Fresno. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Chicago to Fresno, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,112 up to $10,746.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Fresno

If you’re relocating from Chicago to Fresno, you’ll typically spend between $1,162 and $3,055 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,088 up to $4,178. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,037 and $5,707. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Fresno

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Chicago to Fresno move, 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 $1,217 and $2,349. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,357 to $2,657. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,712 and $3,324.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Good news! When moving to Fresno from Chicago, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 19% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
• A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 29% higher in Fresno than in Chicago.
• Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 12% lower in Fresno than in Chicago.
• Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Fresno. The cost of living for a single person is 38% less compared to Chicago.
• Relocating to Fresno could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 42% lower than in Chicago.
• With an unemployment rate approximately 21% lower than Chicago, Fresno boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
• Sales taxes are 22% lower in Fresno than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
• Income taxes are 169% higher in California than in Illinois. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

• Fresno’s population is about 80% less than Chicago.
• Fresno’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Fresno is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
• Fresno has a bike-friendliness score of 58 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Fresno’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 56.85 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Fresno neighborhoods are safer than 56.85% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Fresno is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 43.15 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
• Air quality in Fresno is Moderate, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• 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: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, 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 Fresno 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. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Tower District
• Mural District
• Mclane
• Central Fresno

Best neighborhoods for families

• Woodrow Park
• Fig Garden
• Mclane
• Sunnyside

Things to do in Fresno

Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Fresno. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

• Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Fresno include museums and art centers like the Meux Home Museum, Fresno Discovery Center, Fresno Art Museum, and Legion of Valor Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Woodward Regional Park, Oso de Oro Park, and Inspiration 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 Fresno Grizzlies (Low-A West)Fresno Monsters (Premier Hockey League) game.