Best Oakland to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Oakland to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,168 mile move from California to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Oakland 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland 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 Oakland to Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Upline Moving | 8.60 | 8.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Oakland to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,168 miles from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $3,625 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Chicago move is roughly $8,751. 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 | $2,432 | 300 ft³ | 8.11 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,625 | 450 ft³ | 8.06 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,004 | 750 ft³ | 8.01 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,751 | 1100 ft³ | 7.96 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,648 | 1600 ft³ | 7.91 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,139 | 1800 ft³ | 7.86 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
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) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
Upline Moving
30956 San Clemente St
Hayward, CA, 94544
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1881933 / 678648 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2012) |
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.
Oakland vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that leverages your familiarity with Oakland, CA, to help you find a comparable neighborhood in Chicago, IL. This approach aims to make you feel right at home by comparing Oakland, CA & Chicago, IL local neighborhoods. From the artsy to the upscale, understand where your tastes and lifestyle would fit best in the Windy City.
| Oakland | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Andersonville | Diverse, vibrant community |
| Piedmont Avenue | Lincoln Square | Charming, walkable shopping district |
| Montclair | Roscoe Village | Family-friendly, laid back vibe |
| Temescal | Wicker Park | Trendy, bustling nightlife |
| Jack London Square | River North | Entertainment hub, waterfront dining |
| Grand Lake | Uptown | Historic theaters, diverse culture |
| West Oakland | Pilsen | Rich in art and culture, vibrant murals |
| Lake Merritt | Lincoln Park | Scenic parks, cultural attractions |
| North Oakland | Logan Square | Booming culinary scene, historic boulevards |
| Downtown Oakland | The Loop | Urban center, iconic architecture |
Exploring neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Andersonville in Chicago can evoke the familiar vibes of Temescal and Rockridge with their bustling streets lined with unique eateries and shops. For instance, Wicker Park aligns with the stimulating energy of Temescal, hosting lively bars and indie music venues, an essence mirrored in Oakland's artsy and food-centric atmosphere. Family-oriented individuals who appreciate Montclair's serene environment might find a similar comfort in Roscoe Village, where quaint boutiques and casual dining spots create a welcoming community feel. Meanwhile, the vibrant art and culture scene that defines West Oakland finds its counterpart in Chicago's Pilsen, celebrated for its rich Hispanic heritage, stunning street murals, and thriving artistic community. These comparable neighborhoods ensure that no matter where you move, there's a slice of home waiting to be discovered, from Lake Merritt's scenic beauty and cultural spots, echoing in Lincoln Park's verdant spaces and museums, to the urban energy of Downtown Oakland reflected in The Loop's iconic skyline and dynamic streets.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Chicago
Moving from one city to another can be a monumental decision, filled with both excitement and hesitation. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL , outlining both the challenges and rewards that come with such a relocation. By examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision regarding this significant change in your life.
Oakland, CA- Higher living costs
- Frequent earthquakes
- Heavy traffic
- Less seasonal weather
Chicago, IL- More affordable living
- Stable ground
- Efficient public transit
- Distinct seasons
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- Different vibe
- Fewer options
- Less accessible nature
Oakland, CA- Mild winters
- Vibrant culture
- Diverse cuisine
- Outdoor activities
Moving from Oakland to Chicago introduces you to a city with a vibrant blend of cultures, reflected in its neighborhoods and culinary scene. Chicago's restaurants, like the famed deep-dish pizza spots, offer a distinct flavor not found in Oakland. However, you might miss Oakland's milder winters and its proximity to nature, which allows for year-round outdoor activities. Chicago makes up with its beautiful lakefront, expansive parks like Millennium Park, and a calendar packed with cultural events. Both cities boast strong cultural venues, but Chicago's rich history in jazz and blues, alongside landmarks like the Art Institute of Chicago, offers a different cultural palette to explore. While the transition may come with its set of challenges, embracing Chicago's unique charms could make it feel like home.
Oakland vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape is a vital part of getting to know your new home, spotlighting how food is an integral aspect of local culture. In this guide, we're making a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Chicago to help you dive into the flavors awaiting you in your new city.
| Oakland | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough bread | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Barbecue brisket | Italian beef sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit tacos | Seitan wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the culinary scene is vibrant and heavily influenced by its diverse communities, leading to a rich blend of flavors and dishes. Neighborhoods like Temescal are known for their taco trucks, showcasing the city's love for Mexican cuisine. On the other hand, Chicago's food landscape is deeply rooted in its history and multicultural population. The Loop and River North areas are food havens where you can indulge in the city's famous deep-dish pizza or an Italian beef sandwich. Both cities boast a dynamic foodie scene with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that no matter your dietary preference or palate, you'll find something to love.
Oakland vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering where to eat. Food is a universal language of comfort and community. This guide aims to bridge the gap between Oakland, CA, and Chicago, IL, by comparing local favorite eateries. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite spot in Chicago, based on your Oakland preferences.
| Oakland | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Alinea | Both offer an exquisite fine-dining experience with multi-course meals |
| Shakewell | Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Both are loved for their Mediterranean-inspired tapas and vibrant atmosphere |
| Grand Lake Kitchen | Lula Cafe | Both serve eclectic, farm-to-table meals in a casual, welcoming setting |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | Virtue | Both specialize in soulful, Southern comfort food with a modern twist |
| Pizzaiolo | Spacca Napoli | Both are renowned for their authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas |
| Mua | Girl & The Goat | Both offer a funky, industrial-chic vibe with a menu of eclectic, globally-inspired dishes |
| Dona Tomas | Frontera Grill | Both celebrate robust, traditional Mexican flavors in an upscale setting |
| Hopscotch | Longman & Eagle | Both have a gastropub feel with a focus on innovative American cuisine and a stellar whiskey selection |
| Belotti Ristorante e Bottega | Osteria Langhe | Both are recognized for their dedication to authentic Italian cuisine, particularly from the Piedmont region |
| Tacos Oscar | Big Star | Both offer a trendy, laid-back setting for creative tacos and strong margaritas |
In the heart of Chicago, you'll discover that Osteria Langhe brings a slice of Piedmont, Italy, to your plate, masterfully mirroring the authentic Italian dining experience of Belotti Ristorante e Bottega in Oakland. Similarly, if it's the soul-warming comfort of Southern cuisine you're after, Virtue in Chicago serves up dishes with heart and finesse, a culinary echo to what you cherished at Brown Sugar Kitchen. And for a taste of home, Spacca Napoli’s Neapolitan pizzas promise an artisanal approach that harks back to Pizzaiolo’s cherished pies, ensuring your move does not mean leaving behind the flavors you love.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing real estate in your current and future cities is essential. Whether you prioritize affordability, lifestyle, or commuting options, understanding how Oakland and Chicago stack up is key to making an informed decision. This guide focuses on the vital aspects of housing to help you weigh your options.
| Comparison | Oakland | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Prairie, Chicago School |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Bay views, green spaces | Lake views, historic districts |
In comparing Oakland and Chicago, you'll find significant differences, especially in terms of housing affordability. Chicago offers a more diverse architectural landscape, with an emphasis on the Prairie and Chicago School styles, reflecting its ric, urban history. On the other hand, Oakland showcases beautiful Victorian and Craftsman homes, often with sought-after bay views mentioned in listings. Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores align with its urban lifestyle rating, indicating a slightly more conducive environment for those who prefer to navigate the city without a car. Both cities boast unique features mentioned in real estate listings, such as Oakland's green spaces and Chicago's proximity to Lake Michigan and its historic districts.
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.
Oakland vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Oakland, CA, to Chicago, IL, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will highlight how the climate in Oakland and Chicago varies, aiding in your preparation for the change.
Oakland, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
If you're moving from Oakland to Chicago, brace yourself for a significant climate change, particularly during winter. Chicago experiences harsh winters with average lows of 18°F and substantial snowfall, contrasting sharply with Oakland's mild winters. While both cities enjoy a vibrant summer, Chicago's is warmer. Additionally, preparedness for natural disasters shifts from earthquakes and wildfires to blizzards and tornadoes. Adapting to these conditions will be an important part of your relocation journey.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in cost of living, income, and taxes between Oakland and Chicago is crucial for financial preparedness. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.
| Comparison | Oakland | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 (max) | 4.95 (flat) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | High |
In moving from Oakland to Chicago, you'll find a significant variation in the cost of living and average incomes, with Oakland presenting a higher cost of living index and average household income. Yet, moving to Chicago could mean lower state income tax due to Illinois' flat tax system but beware of the higher property tax rates. The top industries in each city indicate local economic strengths—technology and healthcare in Oakland versus finance and manufacturing in Chicago—which could influence your job search or career growth in your new city.
Oakland vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
Embarking on a move from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL invites an exploration into the unique characteristics that define each city. This comparison specifically shines a light on the politics and religious landscapes between Oakland & Chicago, offering a quick glance at what you might expect when transitioning from one vibrant community to the other.
| Oakland | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Heavily Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive with strong social activism | Diverse, with a historical emphasis on Democratic machine politics |
| Religion | Pluralistic, with a significant non-religious population | Pluralistic, but with a notable Catholic presence |
When you move from Oakland to Chicago, you'll find that both cities share a predominantly Democratic political orientation, reflecting their urban constituency's preferences. However, Oakland's local political scene is markedly shaped by a heritage of social activism and progressivism, illustrating the city's commitment to social justice causes. In contrast, Chicago's politics are characterized by a blend of progressive ideals and traditional Democratic machine politics—a legacy of its complex political history. Religion in both cities showcases diversity, but Chicago distinguishes itself with a stronger presence of Catholic institutions and influence, mirroring its historical immigrant roots. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate to your new surroundings and appreciate the rich cultural tapestry of your new home.
Oakland vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison between the traffic and transportation options in Oakland & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, assisting in a smooth transition between these two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Oakland | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible, but challenging | Easier than in Oakland |
In Oakland, relying solely on public transit can be feasible yet demanding due to its moderate availability. However, exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and attractions, like the Oakland Museum of California, becomes a unique experience when navigating the Bay Area's transit options. In contrast, Chicago boasts a more expansive and efficient public transit system, making it easier for residents to commute without a car. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers extensive bus and train services, connecting the city's iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago, and contributes to a slightly higher average commute time due to its sprawling nature.
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