Best Sunnyvale to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Sunnyvale to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,205 mile move from California to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Sunnyvale to Chicago moving companies and more than 20,000 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 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Sunnyvale 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 Sunnyvale 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 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | White Red Moving & Storage | 9.08 | 9.34 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Sunnyvale to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,205 miles from Sunnyvale, CA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $3,656 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Sunnyvale to Chicago move is roughly $8,828. 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 | $2,453 | 300 ft³ | 8.18 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,656 | 450 ft³ | 8.13 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,056 | 750 ft³ | 8.08 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,828 | 1100 ft³ | 8.03 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,760 | 1600 ft³ | 7.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,265 | 1800 ft³ | 7.93 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Sunnyvale guide.
Compare the 5 Best Sunnyvale 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) |
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
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) |
White Red Moving & Storage
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About White Red Moving & Storage
Based in Sunnyvale, California, White Red Moving & Storage has been providing local and long-distance moving services since 2010. As a...
Services
- Local Moving Service
- Long Distance Moving Service
- Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3707629 / 1299933 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
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.
Sunnyvale vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Whether you're moving from Sunnyvale, CA to Chicago, IL, comparing familiar neighborhoods with those in your new city can make the transition easier. We'll help you navigate using your current surroundings as a baseline, focusing on the similarities to ease your adjustment to this vibrant new environment.
| Sunnyvale | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Sunnyvale | Lincoln Park | Trendy, vibrant social scene |
| Birdland | Ravenswood | Residential with suburban feel |
| Lakewood Village | Lakeview | Family-friendly, active community |
| Ponderosa | Wicker Park | Young professionals, nightlife |
| Cherryhill | Roscoe Village | Calm, family-centric atmosphere |
| Heritage District | Old Town | Historic charm with modern amenities |
| Cumberland South | Logan Square | Diverse, artistic vibe |
| San Miguel | West Loop | Urban living, dining hotspot |
| The Dalles | Andersonville | Quaint, Scandinavian roots |
| Sunnyvale West | Edgewater | Waterside, community-driven |
Exploring the similarities between these neighborhoods can ease your transition. For example, if you enjoy the trendy, vibrant social scene of Downtown Sunnyvale, you'll find much to love in Lincoln Park with its many dining options and lively atmosphere. Similarly, if the calm, family-centric vibe of Cherryhill appeals to you, you'll appreciate the serenity and tight-knit community of Roscoe Village. For those who revel in the combination of historic charm and modern amenities in Heritage District, Old Town in Chicago offers a rich history combined with contemporary living. Each paired neighborhood provides a balance of familiar comfort and new adventures, making your move an exciting new chapter.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Sunnyvale to Chicago
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the good with the bad. This guide aims to present an honest reflection of relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Chicago, IL. By comparing cons and pros, you'll get a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of lifestyle changes, climate adjustments, and cultural shifts. Let's dive into the specifics to help you make an informed decision about your move.
Sunnyvale, CA- High cost of living
- Less public transit options
- Temperate climate
- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse cuisine
Chicago, IL- More affordable housing
- Better public transportation
- Distinct seasons
- Vibrant city life
- World-class dining
Chicago, IL- Colder winters
- Far from tech hubs
- Harsh weather conditions
- Bigger, busier environment
- Less outdoor options
Sunnyvale, CA- Vibrant tech scene
- Proximity to Silicon Valley
- Year-round mild weather
- Tight-knit community
- Plenty of outdoor activities
Moving from the tech-savvy, mild climate of Sunnyvale to the bustling and architecturally rich city of Chicago offers a transition filled with new discoveries. Chicago's housing affordability allows for exploration in vibrant neighborhoods like Lakeview and Wicker Park, known for their spacious parks, trendy restaurants like Girl & The Goat, and iconic sights such as The Art Institute of Chicago. Despite its colder winters, Chicago's seasonal diversity brings a charm Sunnyvale lacks, with the city coming alive in summer festivals, snowy winters, vibrant autumns, and blooming springs. The increased public transit options in Chicago also mean that exploring these unique aspects of the city will be easier, offering a blend of cultural richness and convenience not found back in Sunnyvale.
Sunnyvale vs. Chicago Food Guide
Whether you're a foodie or not, there's no denying that food is a significant part of local culture and everyday living. To help you transition seamlessly, we're diving into a comparison of the local cuisine between Sunnyvale & Chicago so you can get a taste of what your new home has to offer.
| Sunnyvale | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Avocado Toast | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Burrito | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Sunnyvale to Chicago, you’re transitioning from the health-conscious, internationally diverse food scene of California to the hearty, rich flavors that Chicago is famous for. Sunnyvale, with its sunny disposition, offers a variety of vegan and health-focused options like the beloved Vegan Burrito and internationally lauded Dishdash restaurant. Chicago, on the other hand, is a haven for those who love to indulge. The city is renowned for its deep-dish pizza, which you can find at iconic spots like Lou Malnati’s, and its food scene is bursting with eateries famous for meats and sweets. If you're a food enthusiast moving to Chicago, neighborhoods like Logan Square and The West Loop are must-explores for their innovative and diverse culinary offerings.
Sunnyvale vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Chicago, IL, finding your new favorite eateries is crucial for feeling at home. This restaurant comparison will help ease the transition from Sunnyvale to Chicago, guiding you through a curated selection of dining spots that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions.
| Sunnyvale | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| DishDash | Aba | Mediterranean flavors with a similar emphasis on fresh, vibrant ingredients |
| Philz Coffee | Intelligentsia Coffee | Both are pioneers in the third-wave coffee movement |
| Murphy Avenue | Longman & Eagle | Offers a unique dining experience that echoes the casual, yet refined atmosphere of Murphy Avenue |
| Armadillo Willy’s BBQ | Smoque BBQ | Brings authentic, smoked flavors that are reminiscent of Armadillo Willy’s |
| Falafel STOP | Mana Food Bar | Though more broadly vegetarian, it offers satisfying, flavorful alternatives similar to Falafel STOP’s specialties |
| In-N-Out Burger | Au Cheval | Elevated burgers that could stand in for your In-N-Out cravings with a gourmet twist |
| Lilly Mac’s | The Gage | An Irish pub in Chicago that offers a hearty, comfortable dining experience akin to Lilly Mac’s |
| Sumika | Yusho | Japanese cuisine with a focus on yakitori and creative plates that reflect Sumika’s quality and atmosphere |
| Calafia Café | Bad Hunter | A focus on vegetable-forward dishes that draw parallels with Calafia Café’s health-conscious menu |
| Chelokababi | Reza’s Restaurant | Offering Persian cuisine that rivals the authenticity and flavors of Chelokababi |
Upon moving to Chicago, if you find yourself missing DishDash's Middle Eastern delights, Aba's menu promises a similar journey through Mediterranean cuisine with its focus on herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients. Coffee aficionados transitioning from Philz Coffee’s meticulously crafted blends will find solace in Intelligentsia Coffee’s commitment to quality and sustainability. For those barbecue weekends, while Sunnyvale has Armadillo Willy’s BBQ, Smoque BBQ in Chicago offers a smoky slice of heaven with its own take on American barbecue traditions, emphasizing the importance of low and slow cooking techniques. Thus, no matter your culinary preferences, Chicago’s diverse dining scene ensures you’ll discover new favorites that echo the cherished flavors of Sunnyvale.
Ready to start your move?
Sunnyvale vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience, especially when moving across states. When comparing Sunnyvale, CA with Chicago, IL , understanding the differences in real estate—like housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle—becomes crucial. These insights arm you with knowledge for a more informed decision about your new home.
| Comparison | Sunnyvale | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Ranch | Victorian and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to tech hubs | Lakefront access, Historic landmarks |
When unpacking the data, the stark difference in median home prices and monthly rent stands out, illustrating Sunnyvale's higher living costs due to its Silicon Valley location. However, Chicago offers a compelling urban lifestyle with higher walkability and bikeability scores that cater to those who prefer the hustle and bustle of city life, along with easier access to historic landmarks and lakefront views. The typical architecture styles also reflect the cities' characters; Sunnyvale’s Modern and Ranch-style homes suit its tech-centric, suburban feel, while Chicago’s blend of Victorian and modern buildings mirror its rich history and contemporary growth.
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.
Sunnyvale vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When relocating from Sunnyvale, CA to Chicago, IL, it's essential to grasp the weather differences you'll experience. This comparison aims to highlight the weather variations between Sunnyvale and Chicago , providing insights into how your lifestyle might need to adjust to these changes.
Sunnyvale, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Sunnyvale, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Sunnyvale, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Sunnyvale, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Sunnyvale | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Sunnyvale and Chicago enjoy warm summers, Chicago's winters are significantly colder with an average low of 22°F compared to Sunnyvale's 39°F. Additionally, Chicago experiences a notable difference in the number of sunny days and annual snowfall, receiving almost double the snowfall of Sunnyvale. Air quality and natural disasters vary dramatically, with Sunnyvale being prone to earthquakes and Chicago facing snowstorms and tornadoes. Understanding these variances is crucial for preparing for your move, especially if you're not accustomed to the colder, snowier winters and the potential for severe weather events that Chicago experiences.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Sunnyvale to Chicago
When contemplating a move from one city to another, grasping the financial disparities can be vital. This comparison will illuminate how moving from Sunnyvale to Chicago may impact your wallet, providing a clearer picture on the cost of living, tax rates, and economic conditions you're about to encounter.
| Comparison | Sunnyvale | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $156,059 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79 | 2.31 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Scientific Research, Manufacturing | Finance, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Very High | Moderately High |
| Poverty | Low | Higher |
| Homelessness | Low | Higher |
The contrast in average household income between Sunnyvale and Chicago is stark, reflecting the profound impact location can have on your financial health. Despite a higher cost of living in Sunnyvale, the affluence level is significantly higher, which is closely tied to its dominant technology and scientific sectors. Conversely, Chicago, with its more diverse economic foundation, has a more moderate cost of living but also faces higher poverty and homelessness levels. Tax rates also vary greatly; for instance, you'll find a much higher state income tax in Sunnyvale compared to Chicago. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for your move.
Sunnyvale vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Sunnyvale, CA to Chicago, IL, understanding the landscape you're entering is crucial. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Sunnyvale & Chicago , offering a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of your new home.
| Sunnyvale | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Technologically focused policies | Varied, with emphasis on social reform |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant non-religious community | Diverse, with prominent Catholic and Protestant communities |
While both Sunnyvale and Chicago lean Democratic, Chicago's political environment is more intensely so, with a strong history of Democratic leadership. Local politics in Sunnyvale often revolve around tech and innovation, reflecting its Silicon Valley roots. In contrast, Chicago's political scene is broader and often focused on social reforms and community issues. Regarding religion, Sunnyvale presents a mixed landscape with a considerable non-religious population, which contrasts with Chicago's more pronounced religious communities, especially Catholic and Protestant. These elements together paint a vivid picture of the societal texture you'll encounter as you transition from Sunnyvale to Chicago.
Sunnyvale vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Sunnyvale & Chicago, aiming to provide a better understanding of what to expect in your daily commute and traffic flow when moving from one city to the other.
| Comparison | Sunnyvale | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
Moving from Sunnyvale to Chicago comes with significant changes in your daily commute, primarily due to differences in public transportation systems and traffic congestion levels. In Sunnyvale, while the average commute time might be shorter, you'll find that having a car is almost a necessity due to the city's sprawling layout and less available public transportation options. Chicago, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive public transport system, including the L train and buses, making it easier and more convenient to get around without a car, despite a slightly higher average commute time and traffic congestion level.
Additional Resources
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