Best Lancaster to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Lancaster to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,998 mile move from California to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Lancaster 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 606 Movers, Inc.), 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 Lancaster 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.
Best Lancaster to Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Speedwell Transportation Inc. | 8.03 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.75 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Meathead Movers | 7.22 | 5.82 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Lancaster to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,998 miles from Lancaster, CA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $3,480 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lancaster to Chicago move is roughly $8,397. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,335 | 300 ft³ | 7.78 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,480 | 450 ft³ | 7.73 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,763 | 750 ft³ | 7.68 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,397 | 1100 ft³ | 7.63 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,134 | 1600 ft³ | 7.58 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,561 | 1800 ft³ | 7.53 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Lancaster guide.
Compare the 5 Best Lancaster to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
606 Movers, Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
Speedwell Transportation Inc.
860 W. Avenue L8
Lancaster, CA, 93534
About Speedwell Transportation Inc.
Speedwell Transportation Inc. is a team of professional movers in Santa Clarita, CA with over 60 years of experience. The team...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1861478 / 673344 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Antelope Valley Van and Storage
602 E Ave R
Palmdale, CA, 93550
About Antelope Valley Van and Storage
Instead of memories of stress, you’ll remember moving day as a memorable experience with Antelope Valley Van and Storage, a moving...
Services
- Local Moves
- Intrastate Moves
- Interstate Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 34380 / 133696 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 13,629 (2024) |
Meathead Movers
2905 Unicorn Rd suite a
Bakersfield, CA, 93308
About Meathead Movers
Meathead Movers was founded by two high school brothers in 1997, and now handles 18,000 moves per year! From Eureka down...
Services
- Full Service Local Moving
- On-Site Labor Moves Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 921143 / 398077 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 53 |
| Registered Drivers | 87 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,188,444 (2023) |
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.
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.
Lancaster vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from Lancaster, CA, to Chicago, IL, it helps to find a piece of your old neighborhood in your new city. This guide is aimed at making your transition smoother by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Lancaster, CA & Chicago, IL. By identifying similar communities, you can quickly feel at home in the Windy City.
| Lancaster | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| West Lancaster | Lincoln Park | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| Quartz Hill | Edison Park | Suburban feel, tight-knit community |
| Rancho Vista | Wicker Park | Vibrant nightlife, young professionals |
| Desert View Highlands | Beverly | Historic homes, strong community bonds |
| Lake Los Angeles | Rogers Park | Diverse, near waterfront |
| East Lancaster | Hyde Park | Rich history, cultural institutions |
| Antelope Acres | Bridgeport | Family-oriented, working-class roots |
| Del Sur | Logan Square | Arts scene, historic boulevards |
| Sun Village | Pilsen | Vibrant murals, strong cultural presence |
| Lancaster Village | Andersonville | Quaint, local shopping |
For those looking to relive the vast, family-friendly spaces of West Lancaster, Chicago's Lincoln Park offers an urban refuge with its large parks and zoo. Meanwhile, if the suburban and close-knit feel of Quartz Hill is what you desire, Edison Park's quiet, residential streets and quality schools could be your new haven. For the culturally inclined and those who enjoyed the arts and historic landscapes of Del Sur, Logan Square presents an eclectic mix of indie coffee shops, such as Intelligentsia Coffee, galleries, and boulevards that echo the commitment to community and creativity. Plus, those moving from a neighborhood like Sun Village will find Pilsen's vibrant murals and strong cultural presence, highlighted by institutions like the National Museum of Mexican Art, an appealing Chicago counterpart.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Lancaster to Chicago
Moving from one city to another is a major decision that involves weighing various factors. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Lancaster, CA to Chicago, IL . Through concise charts, we will explore the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision about this significant change in your life.
Lancaster, CA- Less public transportation
- Higher temperatures
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less dining options
Chicago, IL- Extensive public transit
- Seasonal weather
- Vibrant cultural life
- Diverse cuisine
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Less green space
- More traffic congestion
- Noisier urban life
Lancaster, CA- Lower living costs
- Open spaces
- Less traffic
- Quieter neighborhoods
Moving from Lancaster to Chicago will immerse you in a larger, more vibrant cultural scene. You'll enjoy the acclaimed Art Institute of Chicago, diverse dining experiences from deep-dish pizza at Pequod’s Pizza to innovative dishes at Alinea. You’ll experience Chicago's seasonal weather, trading Lancaster’s high desert climate for the beauty of snowy winters and pleasant summers along Lake Michigan's beaches, like Ohio Street Beach. While Lancaster offers quieter living with lower costs and open spaces, Chicago provides an unmatched urban experience with extensive public transportation, making it easy to explore every corner of the city from the Loop to Wrigley Field.
Lancaster vs. Chicago Food Guide
When it comes to relocating, tasting the essence of your new home through its local cuisine is key. This comparison of the local cuisine between Lancaster & Chicago will give you a better sense of what culinary delights await you in both cities.
| Lancaster | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Avocado Toast | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-Tip Steak | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Kale Salad | Vegan Deep Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you prepare to move from Lancaster, CA, to Chicago, IL, anticipation for Chicago’s rich culinary scene grows. You'll find the city’s famed deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, iconic in the heart of the city. Those with a love for meat will relish in the classic Italian beef sandwiches found at Portillo's. For vegans, Chicago does not disappoint, offering vegan deep dish pizzas that challenge the traditional. Furthermore, the food truck scene and overall foodie culture in Chicago score high, promising a diverse and expansive culinary adventure across its vibrant neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park and the West Loop.
Lancaster vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Whether you're moving for work, love, or adventure, settling into a new city means finding places that start to feel like home. One way to do this is through food. Use this restaurant comparison chart to find your new favorite eateries in Chicago, transitioning from Lancaster, and make your move a delicious journey.
| Lancaster | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Broken Bit Steakhouse | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | High-end steakhouse experience |
| Marie Callender's | Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Iconic deep-dish pizza with a comforting vibe |
| Spicy Thai Restaurant | JJ Thai Street Food | Authentic, street-style Thai food |
| BeX Bar & Grill | The Publican | Upmarket American fare in a lively setting |
| LEMON LEAF CAFE | Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Spanish tapas restaurant known for variety |
| Crazy Otto's Diner | Lou Mitchell's | Legendary diner serving classic American breakfast and lunch |
| BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse | Revolution Brewing | Brewpub offering craft beer and American pub fare |
| Kinetic Brewing Co. | Lagunitas Brewing Company | Craft brewery with tours and a taproom |
| Medrano's Mexican Restaurant | Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | Authentic Mexican cuisine from a renowned chef |
| Sugar Twist Bakery | Stan's Donuts & Coffee | Artisanal donuts and coffee shop |
When considering the culinary transition from Lancaster to Chicago, you'll find places that echo the flavors and atmospheres of your old favorites, with some offering more nuanced dining experiences. For example, moving from the Broken Bit Steakhouse to Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, you'll find yourself immersed in a quintessentially opulent Chicago steakhouse environment, where the quality of the meat and the precision of the cooking techniques speak volumes. Meanwhile, for those who relish in the comforting embrace of a home-style meal, Lou Mitchell’s in Chicago serves as a perfect analog to Crazy Otto's Diner, capturing the essence of American diner culture with its sumptuous breakfast and lunch menus. These transitions not only reflect a change in geography but also an exciting gastronomic journey that awaits you in the Windy City.
Ready to start your move?
Lancaster vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element of any move, offering deep insights into lifestyle, affordability, and community. Understanding the differences in housing between Lancaster, CA and Chicago, IL is essential for making an informed decision on where to call home next.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Ranch | Brick and Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards | Proximity to public transit and parks |
Comparing Lancaster and Chicago in terms of housing shows significant contrasts. For instance, while the median home price is slightly higher in Lancaster, the cost of living in terms of monthly rent is notably more affordable in Chicago, reflecting the city's dense, urban landscape and the higher cost associated with it. Chicago's architecture is renowned for its historic brick and greystone buildings, offering a blend of modernity with rich history. On the other hand, Lancaster features more modern and ranch-style homes, catering to those who prefer sprawling spaces. Chicago's strong scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle underscore the city's vibrant, interconnected community—appealing to those who thrive in a bustling city atmosphere. Notably, real estate listings in Chicago often highlight proximity to public transit and parks, catering to the city's on-the-go residents, whereas Lancaster's listings emphasize spacious yards, catering to those seeking more open space.
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.
Lancaster vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Lancaster to Chicago, understanding how the weather compares is essential. This side-by-side look provides a clear snapshot of what you can expect in terms of climate changes.
Lancaster, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Lancaster, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Lancaster, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Lancaster | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Lancaster and Chicago enjoy warm summers, Lancaster's are longer and hotter, with Chicago experiencing milder temperatures but higher humidity. Winters in Chicago are significantly colder and snowier, making winter gear a new necessity for someone moving from Lancaster. The drastic difference in annual sunshine days might also impact your daily life, with Chicago offering fewer sunny days. Additionally, the difference in natural disasters, such as Chicago's snowstorms and Lancaster's wildfires, might require adjustments in preparedness strategies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Lancaster to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your finances will be impacted is crucial. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and income between Lancaster and Chicago can provide valuable insight into what your financial situation might be like in a new city.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,242 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.8 | 2.1 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Entertainment | Finance, Technology, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Considerable |
The cost of living index shows that Chicago is more affordable than Lancaster, contrary to what many might expect given Chicago's urban setting. However, this affordability comes with higher property taxes. Income in Chicago tends to be higher, which can help mitigate the financial pressures of the city's cost of living. The state income tax is significantly lower in Illinois compared to California, providing some relief to residents. Both cities have their economic strengths, with Lancaster boasting industries like aerospace and Chicago excelling in finance and technology. This comparative analysis aims to provide you with a clearer financial picture as you contemplate your move.
Lancaster vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When planning a move from Lancaster, CA to Chicago, IL, it's beneficial to quickly understand the community you're about to join. This comparison of the politics between Lancaster & Chicago provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in both cities, aiming to ease your transition.
| Lancaster | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Conservative | Strongly Liberal |
| Local Politics | City Council-led | Mayor-Council system |
| Religion | Mixed, with evangelical Protestants prominent | Diverse, strong Catholic presence |
In both Lancaster and Chicago, the political orientation and governance structure significantly influence local policies, public services, and community initiatives. Lancaster's moderately conservative lean contrasts with Chicago's more liberal stance on various issues, reflecting in the cities' respective local governance: the City Council in Lancaster versus a Mayor-Council system in Chicago. Furthermore, religious diversity in both locations informs community values and events, with Lancaster having a strong evangelical Protestant community and Chicago boasting a diverse religious landscape, prominently featuring Catholic churches such as Holy Name Cathedral. These distinctions might affect your experience and interaction within your new community.
Lancaster vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Lancaster, CA to Chicago, IL signals a significant change, especially in how you'll navigate daily commutes and understand traffic patterns. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Lancaster & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, easing your transition.
| Comparison | Lancaster | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
In Lancaster, although the average commute time is shorter and the traffic congestion is significantly lower than in Chicago, the availability and dependency on public transit are also much lower. This means in Lancaster, having a car is more of a necessity for getting around. On the other hand, Chicago's robust public transit system, including the CTA, Metra, and buses, significantly reduces the need for a personal car despite higher traffic congestion levels. Transitioning to Chicago, you'll find it easier to rely on public transit for your daily commute, offering a more sustainable and often less stressful option compared to driving.
Additional Resources
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