Best Anaheim to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Anaheim to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,073 mile move from California to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 47 Anaheim to Chicago moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Best California Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Anaheim compared to Chicago. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Anaheim to Chicago Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Best California Movers9.529.73Authorized For HHGContact
2606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHGContact
4NorthStar Moving Company9.228.97Authorized For HHGContact
5Trek Movers9.209.02Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Anaheim to Chicago

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,073 miles from Anaheim, CA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $3,544 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Anaheim to Chicago move is roughly $8,553. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,378300 ft³7.93
1 Bedroom$3,544450 ft³7.88
2 Bedrooms$5,869750 ft³7.83
3 Bedrooms$8,5531100 ft³7.78
4 Bedrooms$12,3611600 ft³7.73
5+ Bedrooms$13,8161800 ft³7.68
*Please note: These California to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Illinois. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to IL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Anaheim guide.

Compare the 5 Best Anaheim to Chicago Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

159 N Sangamon St Suite 300

Chicago, IL, 60607

About 606 Movers, Inc.

606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

3100 N Tripp Ave

Chicago, IL, 60641

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...

Services

  • Full Moves
  • Truck Loading and Unloading
  • Interstate Moving Assistance

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
3
NorthStar Moving Company Logo

NorthStar Moving Company

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.22/10
based on 9,882+ data points

633 W 5th St 26th floor

Los Angeles, CA, 90071

About NorthStar Moving Company

Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • International Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1836576 / 665757

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 6,965+ data points

7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321

Los Angeles, CA, 90046

About Trek Movers

Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Office Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Anaheim vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from city to city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you find Anaheim, CA & Chicago, IL neighborhoods that share similar vibes and communities. This guide aims to make your move smoother by matching you with a Chicago neighborhood that feels like home.

AnaheimChicagoHow They're Similar
Platinum TriangleWest LoopTrendy, bustling, food scene
Anaheim HillsLincoln ParkUpscale, family-friendly, parks
The ColonyOld TownHistoric, vibrant, entertainment
East AnaheimLakeviewDiverse, community-based, nightlife
West AnaheimLogan SquareArtsy, historic homes, eclectic
Southeast AnaheimRoscoe VillagePeaceful, family-oriented, quaint
Southwest AnaheimPilsenCultural, vivid arts scene, food
Anaheim ResortStreetervilleEntertainment, dining, attractions
Downtown AnaheimThe LoopUrban, historic landmarks, shopping
HarborEdgewaterLakeside, community-focused, diverse

If the entertainment and dining options around Anaheim Resort have been your go-to, you'll find Streeterville captivating with attractions like Navy Pier and the Shedd Aquarium. For those who enjoy the peaceful, suburban feel of Southeast Anaheim, Roscoe Village offers a similar quaint and family-oriented atmosphere, highlighted by its charming cafes and boutiques. And if you've loved the artistic and eclectic vibe of West Anaheim, stepping into Logan Square will feel like a seamless transition, with its vibrant arts scene, historic boulevards, and a blend of unique restaurants and bars like those found at Longman & Eagle. Each Chicago neighborhood carries its own distinct flavor, matching the diverse communities found in Anaheim while introducing you to new experiences and possibilities.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Anaheim to Chicago

Moving from one place to another always comes with its set of challenges and adventures. This guide aims to honestly reflect on the Anaheim, CA to Chicago, IL relocation journey , weighing both the benefits and drawbacks. Whether you're drawn by new opportunities or seeking a change of scenery, understanding the pros and cons is essential for a smooth transition.

CONs
PROs
Anaheim, CA iconAnaheim, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less public transit
  • Warmer winters
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Affordable housing
  • Extensive public transit
  • Seasonal weather
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Colder winters
  • Fewer attractions
  • More indoor days
Anaheim, CA iconAnaheim, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Theme parks
  • Outdoor lifestyle

While Anaheim boasts of its year-round sunny weather and proximity to major attractions like Disneyland, moving to Chicago opens the door to experiencing the city's rich culture and seasons. Chicago's extensive public transit system, including the CTA, makes getting around the city a breeze compared to Anaheim's car-centric lifestyle. The winter months in Chicago might be a stark change, offering snowy scenes and activities like ice skating at Millennium Park. Despite the colder winters, Chicago's diverse neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park and Wicker Park brim with lively bars, restaurants, and shops. Moreover, the city's affordable housing market compared to Anaheim's can significantly lower living expenses, enabling a fuller exploration of Chicago's rich tapestry of culture, from the art installations at The Art Institute of Chicago to the historic sights of The Magnificent Mile.

Anaheim vs. Chicago Food Guide

Food is an integral aspect of understanding local culture and getting a real sense of life in a new city. Consequently, we're diving into a comparison of the local cuisine between Anaheim & Chicago , providing insights to help you get better acquainted with the culinary scene of your new home.

AnaheimChicago
Most iconic local food itemFish TacosDeep-Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemStreet TacosChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Anaheim Packing House
  • Blue Bayou Restaurant
  • Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Anaheim to Chicago, you'll transition from enjoying the sunny flavors of Southern California, known for its fresh fish tacos and vibrant street food scene, to embracing the heartier, iconic dishes of the Windy City. In Chicago, neighborhoods like The Loop beckon with deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati's and the unique flavors of the Italian beef sandwich found at Portillo's. Chicago's food scene is renowned for its diversity and innovation, offering a broad spectrum from Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea to the ubiquitous presence of Chicago-style hot dogs at street corners and sports venues across the city. In contrast, Anaheim's culinary culture takes full advantage of its agricultural bounty, favoring fresh, local ingredients that can be explored at places like the Anaheim Packing House.

Anaheim vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Moving can stir a mixture of emotions, especially when it comes to finding your new favorite dining spots. In this guide, we've drawn comparisons between top restaurants in Anaheim and Chicago to help ease your transition. This Anaheim to Chicago restaurant comparison is designed to help you quickly feel at home in your new city by discovering eateries that resonate with your tastes. Let's explore the culinary bridges between Anaheim and Chicago .

AnaheimChicagoWhat You'll Love
The Ranch RestaurantGirl & The GoatBoth offer inventive American cuisine with a focus on farm-to-table freshness.
Orange Roll and SushiJuniper Spirits & OystersSimilar in offering fresh, innovative sushi and seafood in a casual, chic environment.
Napa RoseAlineaWhile Alinea is more avant-garde, both provide a top-tier, fine dining experience spotlighting American cuisine.
Earl of SandwichPortillo'sBoth are beloved for their unique, high-quality sandwiches, although Portillo's leans into a Chicago-style menu.
Anaheim Packing DistrictTime Out Market ChicagoBoth spots are trendy food halls where you can sample a variety of gourmet, artisanal foods.
Roscoe's House of Chicken and WafflesLuella’s Southern KitchenLuella’s offers a similar comfort food vibe, with a focus on Southern classics.
BruxiëWildberry Pancakes and CaféBoth offer a unique take on breakfast and brunch classics, with Bruxië focusing on waffle sandwiches.
Taqueria De AndaBig StarAuthentic tacos and a laid-back atmosphere make both spots favorites for casual, delicious dining.
Ralph Brennan's Jazz KitchenHeaven on SevenBoth provide a lively setting with a focus on Cajun and Creole cuisine, bringing a taste of New Orleans to their respective cities.
Marri's Pizza & PastaSpacca Napoli PizzeriaBoth are acclaimed for their commitment to authentic Italian pizzas and pastas, offering a taste of Italy in their cities.

Exploring the depths of culinary offerings in Chicago akin to those loved in Anaheim, your transition to the Windy City can be as flavorful as it is smooth. At Girl & The Goat, you'll find the same pioneering spirit in American cuisine as at The Ranch Restaurant, albeit with Chicago's unique flair. Alinea elevates the fine dining experience much like Napa Rose, pushing the boundaries of what food can be. Meanwhile, the welcoming ambiance at Portillo's and the innovative breakfast options at Wildberry Pancakes and Café stand out as reflections of the comfort and culinary innovation found back in Anaheim. Lastly, indulging in the authentic Italian fare at Spacca Napoli Pizzeria will remind you of Marri's Pizza & Pasta, making Chicago feel closer to your Anaheim home with every bite.

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Anaheim vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current city and future home is crucial. This comparison between Anaheim, CA, and Chicago, IL, focuses on housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonAnaheimChicago
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish ColonialBrick Bungalows and Skyscrapers
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingBackyards and PoolsLake Views and Transportation Access

Moving between cities as diverse as Anaheim and Chicago is sure to present changes in lifestyle, particularly in terms of housing and urban living. In Anaheim, the median home price is significantly higher, reflecting California's overall real estate market, while Chicago offers more affordable housing options. Chicago's architecture is rich in history, featuring iconic brick bungalows and towering skyscrapers, compared to Anaheim's prevalent Spanish Colonial style homes. The walkability and bikeability scores showcase Chicago's urban planning and infrastructure, designed to support a bustling city lifestyle. Furthermore, real estate listings in Chicago often highlight lake views and access to extensive public transportation, appealing to those who prioritize city living and convenience.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL

1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.

2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.

3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.

Anaheim vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When preparing for a move from Anaheim, CA to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to grasp how the climate will shift. This comparison offers insight into the weather differences between Anaheim and Chicago , helping you adjust to your new environment and plan accordingly.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Anaheim, CA

83°F / 63°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 48°F

Anaheim, CA

32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
13

Anaheim, CA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Anaheim, CA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonAnaheimChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersEarthquakesSnowstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Anaheim to Chicago, you'll experience a drastic change in winter weather, with Chicago winters being much colder and snowier than Anaheim's mild winters. Chicago's higher annual rainfall and snowfall mean you'll encounter more diverse weather, including the possibility of snowstorms and cold snaps. The significant difference in the number of days of sunshine will impact daily life, likely requiring adjustments in your outdoor activities and mood management strategies during the longer, cloudier winters.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Anaheim to Chicago

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. It's crucial to compare and understand how Anaheim and Chicago differ in terms of cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities to make an informed decision about your move.

ComparisonAnaheimChicago
Avg. Household Income$81,747$66,576
Cost of Living Index136.4116.9
State Income Tax9.34.95
Avg. Property Tax0.722.16
Avg. Sales Tax7.7510.25
Top 3 IndustriesEntertainment, Manufacturing, HealthcareFinance, Manufacturing, IT
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyNoticeableSignificant
HomelessnessConcerningAlarming

Comparing Anaheim and Chicago reveals significant differences in cost of living and tax rates that can affect your financial well-being. While Anaheim boasts a higher average household income, the cost of living index and state income tax are considerably lower in Chicago, potentially offsetting the income disparity. However, property and sales taxes are higher in Chicago, which may impact longer-term financial planning. The diverse economic landscapes, with Anaheim's strength in Entertainment and Healthcare juxtaposed against Chicago's Finance and IT sectors, offer differing professional opportunities. Understanding these nuances can help you prepare financially and professionally for your move.

Anaheim vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Anaheim, CA, to Chicago, IL, understanding the comparison of the politics between Anaheim & Chicago and the religious landscape provides a quick snapshot of the community you're entering. This comparison aims to offer you an at-a-glance look at the differences and similarities that make each city unique.

AnaheimChicago
Political Make-upModerately conservativeStrongly liberal
Local PoliticsCity council governanceMayoral system with strong city council influence
ReligionDiverse, with notable Christian and Catholic communitiesHighly diverse with strong Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim presences

While both Anaheim and Chicago boast a rich diversity in religion, their political climates reveal significant differences. Anaheim's moderately conservative leanings contrast with Chicago's solidly liberal stance. Local governance in Anaheim operates through a city council, whereas Chicago employs a powerful mayoral system complemented by its city council. Religious life in both cities reflects their multicultural fabric, though Chicago stands out for its notably vibrant Jewish and Muslim communities alongside a significant Catholic presence. This blend of politics and religion impacts the cultural atmosphere and community initiatives in each city, shaping the urban experience for residents and newcomers alike.

Anaheim vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Anaheim, CA to Chicago, IL, it's important to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Anaheim & Chicago will help you prepare for the differences and plan your daily life accordingly.

ComparisonAnaheimChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3034
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

Moving from Anaheim to Chicago, you'll notice significant differences in your daily commute due to varying levels of traffic congestion and public transit options. In Anaheim, a car is almost essential due to the limited public transit availability, making the city less accessible for non-drivers. Conversely, Chicago's extensive public transit system, including buses and the "L" train, facilitates getting around without a car. This feature makes Chicago more accommodating for those who prefer public transportation or do not own vehicles. Considering these differences will be crucial in adjusting to your new city.

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