($1,532) Movers From Chicago, IL to Lancaster, CA

What to know before moving from Chicago to Lancaster

Moving from Chicago to Lancaster means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Chicago than in Lancaster, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Chicago compares to Lancaster so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Lancaster are 27% higher than in Chicago, which means you’ll have less 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 Lancaster are 60.0% higher than in Chicago.
• Income in Lancaster is 4.4% higher than in Chicago, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Lancaster include Antelope Valley Hospital, Antelope Valley Union High School District, and Lancaster School District.
• The cost of living for a single person in Lancaster is 30.4% lower than in Chicago. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Lancaster is 40.0% lower than in Chicago.
• The unemployment rate in Lancaster is 73.33% higher than in Chicago.
• Sales taxes are the same in Lancaster and Chicago.
• State income taxes in Lancaster are 168.69% higher than in Chicago.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,088.82 in Lancaster to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago vs. Lancaster

• Lancaster's population is about 94% less than Chicago.
• Lancaster's public transportation has a score of 0 out of 10 versus Chicago's higher score of 9.
• Lancaster is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 29 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
• Lancaster has a bike-friendliness score 40 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.
• Lancaster's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 45.5 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Lancaster neighborhoods are safer than 45.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Lancaster is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 54.5 vs Chicago's 33.87.
• Air quality in Lancaster is good, and in Chicago it's good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago vs. Lancaster move

• Weather: If you're looking to move to Lancaster, consider doing this on the months of May, October and April. Summers are hot and nearly rainless while winter could be mildly cold.
• 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: 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 verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
• 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 Lancaster. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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.

Where to live in Lancaster

Now that you've decided to make the move to "", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Lancaster.

Helpful moving resources