Best San Francisco to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,174 mile move from California to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,174 miles from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $3,630 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Chicago move is roughly $8,763. 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 | $2,435 | 300 ft³ | 8.12 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,630 | 450 ft³ | 8.07 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,012 | 750 ft³ | 8.02 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,763 | 1100 ft³ | 7.97 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,667 | 1600 ft³ | 7.92 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,160 | 1800 ft³ | 7.87 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco 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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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.
San Francisco vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can feel like a step into the unknown, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we’re offering a guide to compare the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Chicago, IL. This will help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by matching you with areas similar to your current locale.
| San Francisco | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Lakeview | Vibrant nightlife, extensive shopping |
| SoMa (South of Market) | West Loop | Loft-style living, trendy eateries |
| Haight-Ashbury | Wicker Park | Bohemian vibe, quirky shops |
| Mission District | Pilsen | Rich cultural heritage, vibrant art scene |
| Nob Hill | Gold Coast | Upscale, historic charm |
| Pacific Heights | Lincoln Park | Elegant homes, lush parks |
| Outer Richmond | Edgewater | Beach access, diverse community |
| The Castro | Boystown | LGBTQ+ friendly, vibrant nightlife |
| North Beach | Old Town | Rich history, lively entertainment |
| Financial District | The Loop | Business hub, architectural landmarks |
Delving into the details, if you adore the upscale and historic ambiance of Nob Hill, with its luxurious residences and iconic cable cars winding through the streets, you'll find a similar charm in Chicago's Gold Coast. The Gold Coast boasts stunning lakefront views, coupled with landmarks like the historic Driehaus Museum showcasing Gilded Age design. For those who appreciate the cultural vibrancy and the eclectic dining scene of the Mission District, Pilsen will captivate you with its rich Mexican heritage, reflected in its colorful murals and the renowned National Museum of Mexican Art. Meanwhile, tech professionals and artists who thrive in SoMa's loft spaces and innovative spirit will find West Loop's converted warehouses and cutting-edge restaurants like Girl & The Goat an exciting environment to explore and call home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Chicago
Moving from one city to another involves weighing both the advantages and disadvantages each location offers. This comparison between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL is crafted to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Whether it concerns cost of living, weather patterns, or lifestyle differences, understanding these factors can guide a more informed decision-making process.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Dense population
- Frequent fog
- Less public transit
- Steeper hills
Chicago, IL- More affordable housing
- Spacious living
- Diverse seasons
- Extensive transit options
- Flatter terrain
Chicago, IL- Cold winters
- Less tech jobs
- Less seafood variety
- Lacks ocean
- Less iconic views
San Francisco, CA- Mild winters
- Tech hub
- Seafood cuisine
- Ocean views
- Iconic landmarks
Moving to Chicago from San Francisco introduces you to a vibrant cultural scene and an array of seasonal experiences. In Chicago, you can enjoy the sprawling Millennium Park, eat deep-dish pizza from famous spots like Lou Malnati's, and explore renowned museums like the Art Institute of Chicago. Although you might miss the seafood and ocean views of San Francisco, Chicago's culinary scene is diverse, with neighborhoods like Andersonville offering international cuisine that satiates any palate. Moreover, Chicago's flatter terrain makes it a haven for bikers and walkers alike, presenting a different yet appealing lifestyle change.
San Francisco vs. Chicago Food Guide
Food is a vital component of what makes each city unique, offering a taste of local culture and lifestyle. In this segment, we provide an insightful comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Chicago to equip you with a better understanding of the food scenes in your new home.
| San Francisco | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Cioppino | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Deep Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring the culinary scenes of San Francisco and Chicago reveals distinct flavors and experiences tailored to their cultural backgrounds. In San Francisco, the Mission District is renowned for the Mission Burrito, a hefty, foil-wrapped delight found at local taquerias. Meanwhile, Chicago’s deep dish pizza, a cheesy, tomato-heavy pie, is a must-try experience, best enjoyed at local institutions like Lou Malnati's in neighborhoods like River North. Both cities boast a vibrant food truck scene, though San Francisco’s slightly warmer climate allows for a more year-round outdoor dining and food truck experience. Whether you’re indulging in the seafood bounty at San Francisco's Swan Oyster Depot or biting into an Italian beef sandwich at Portillo's in Chicago, each city offers a unique taste that reflects its rich cultural tapestry.
San Francisco vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your next favorite dining spots. Let this guide serve as your culinary compass, drawing parallels between San Francisco's and Chicago's top restaurants to ease your transition. From high-end dining to casual eateries, we've mapped out the essentials for making anywhere feel like home.
| San Francisco | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | avec | Both are renowned for their comfort food with a sophisticated twist. |
| Gary Danko | Alinea | Upscale dining experiences that push the boundaries of culinary art. |
| Tartine Bakery | Floriole Café & Bakery | Celebrated for artisanal breads and pastries. |
| The Slanted Door | Le Colonial | Both offer a modern take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine. |
| Nopa | Longman & Eagle | Known for their innovative approach to local and sustainable sourcing. |
| La Taqueria | Big Star | Both are go-to spots for authentic tacos in a lively atmosphere. |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Shaw's Crab House | Famous for their fresh seafood offerings and classic setting. |
| Benu | Oriole | Both offer exquisitely crafted tasting menus in an intimate setting. |
| State Bird Provisions | Girl & The Goat | Both excite with their creative and shareable small plates. |
| Mister Jiu’s | Duck Duck Goat | Both excel in offering a modern twist on traditional Chinese dishes. |
For aficionados of innovative and high-quality dining, both San Francisco and Chicago bring much to the table. At Gary Danko in San Francisco, the experience is akin to a culinary symphony, a sentiment echoed by Alinea in Chicago, where the presentation and flavors make each course a masterpiece. Artisanal baking enthusiasts will appreciate the mastery at Tartine Bakery, much like their counterparts find solace in the warmth of a freshly baked loaf from Floriole Café & Bakery. For those who yearn for the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, a visit to Le Colonial will mirror the gastronomic experience offered by The Slanted Door, with both restaurants prioritizing authenticity and innovative takes on traditional dishes. Each city's selection not only reflects a broad spectrum of culinary delights but also showcases the diversity and creativity that fuel these food scenes.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocating decisions. Understanding how San Francisco and Chicago stack up against each other with respect to housing costs, styles, and urban living is crucial. This comparison aims to provide insights into these dynamic and diverse cityscapes.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Greystone and Chicago Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Luxury Amenities | Historic Details, Location |
In both San Francisco and Chicago, the urban lifestyle scores highly, which points to both cities' dynamic, bustling nature and the plethora of amenities and opportunities they offer. San Francisco's iconic Victorian homes and ultra-modern high-rises often feature prominently in real estate listings, reflecting the city's blend of history and innovation. Chicago's real estate, on the other hand, is perhaps best known for its picturesque Greystones and the highly coveted Chicago Bungalows, which often highlight historic craftsmanship and unique architectural details. Additionally, San Francisco’s higher walkability and bikeability scores stem from its compact, dense layout, while Chicago offers expansive parks and lakeside paths, combining urban convenience with scenic beauty.
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.
San Francisco vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move, comparing the weather between San Francisco and Chicago will prepare you for what's ahead. Understanding the climate differences is essential to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible, helping you adapt to new weather conditions more comfortably.
San Francisco, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While San Francisco enjoys a more moderate climate year-round, Chicago experiences a broader range of temperatures, including hotter summers and much colder winters. One of the most striking differences you'll find is in the winter temperatures and the amount of snowfall, with Chicago experiencing an average of 36 inches of snow annually compared to none in San Francisco. Furthermore, the number of sunny days dramatically differs, with San Francisco enjoying more sunshine throughout the year. This stark contrast in weather conditions means you'll need to prepare differently for each season, especially winter, when moving from San Francisco to Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Chicago
If you're planning a move, understanding how the cost of living and financial climate in San Francisco compares to Chicago is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge your expected living expenses and economic opportunities in your new city.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Very High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When moving from San Francisco to Chicago, you'll find significant financial changes. Chicago's cost of living is substantially lower, making day-to-day expenses more manageable. However, the average household income also drops. This can impact your standard of living. Chicago's higher poverty rate contrasts with its lower cost of living index, indicating that affordability varies widely across different demographics. Despite higher sales taxes, you may find real estate more accessible in Chicago due to lower property taxes compared to San Francisco, reflecting a different distribution of fiscal burdens.
San Francisco vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help understand the comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Chicago and the religious beliefs of their inhabitants. Knowing these aspects will give you a better idea of the community you're moving into.
| San Francisco | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, emphasis on social issues | Democratic stronghold, with a focus on economic development and public safety |
| Religion | Diverse; notable presence of non-religious communities | Diverse; significant Catholic community, along with other religious groups |
Both San Francisco and Chicago share a Democratic political inclination, yet the focus of their local politics somewhat differs. San Francisco is known for its progressive stance on various social issues, strongly emphasizing inclusivity and environmental concerns. On the other hand, Chicago, while also democratic, places a higher priority on economic development and public safety. Religiously, both cities are diverse. However, Chicago has a more noticeable Catholic presence, reflecting its historical immigration patterns, alongside other vibrant religious communities. Understanding these nuances will help you better acclimate to your new home.
San Francisco vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your daily routine, especially when it comes to commuting. In this guide, we'll explore a bold comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Chicago to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might look like in your new home.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes |
In both San Francisco and Chicago, you can expect an average commute time of about 34 minutes, which reflects the hustle and bustle of city life. However, San Francisco edges out slightly with a higher traffic congestion score, indicating busier roads on average. In contrast, Chicago offers a robust public transit system, though not rated as highly as San Francisco's, it still makes car-free living viable. The high availability of public transit in both cities underscores their efforts to provide efficient alternatives to driving, mitigating some of the traffic congestion and making it possible for residents to get by without a car.
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