Best Chicago to Hayward Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chicago to Hayward and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,238 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 44 Chicago to Hayward 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 Chicago compared to Hayward. 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 Chicago to Hayward Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHGContact
3A1 Movers, Inc9.329.57Authorized For HHGContact
4Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHGContact
5All Star Movers & Storage9.259.11Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Chicago to Hayward

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,238 miles from Chicago, IL to Hayward, CA will cost on average $3,684 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Hayward move is roughly $8,896. 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$2,471300 ft³8.24
1 Bedroom$3,684450 ft³8.19
2 Bedrooms$6,103750 ft³8.14
3 Bedrooms$8,8961100 ft³8.09
4 Bedrooms$12,8601600 ft³8.04
5+ Bedrooms$14,3781800 ft³7.99
*Please note: These Illinois to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & California. 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 IL to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Hayward to Chicago guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Hayward Movers

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

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
1
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 15,326+ 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
2
A1 Movers, Inc Logo

A1 Movers, Inc

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 776+ data points

315 S Harrison St

Geneva, IL, 60134

About A1 Movers, Inc

A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...

Services

  • LOCAL MOVES
  • LONG DISTANCE MOVES
  • PACKING SERVICES

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
All Star Movers & Storage Logo

All Star Movers & Storage

Exceptional9.25/10
based on 1,858+ data points

4101 Dublin Blvd Suite F # 517

Dublin, CA, 94568

About All Star Movers & Storage

Established in 1999, All Star Movers & Storage is a locally-owned and operated company serving the Bay Area, Hayward, Central Valley,...

Services

  • Residential movers
  • Commercial movers
  • In-state moves and local moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2971368 / 10247

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved59,102 (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.

Chicago vs. Hayward Neighborhood Comparison

Whether you're moving for a new job, family, or just a change of scenery, finding your next neighborhood can be daunting. To ease the transition, we've compared popular neighborhoods in Chicago, IL & Hayward, CA to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. Discover how each Chicago neighborhood finds its counterpart in Hayward.

ChicagoHaywardHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkFairviewVibrant community spaces
Wicker ParkUpper B StreetArtsy vibe, rich culture
The LoopDowntown HaywardCentral, bustling atmosphere
Gold CoastHayward HillsExclusive, upscale living
Hyde ParkSouthgateHistoric homes, intellectual atmosphere
AndersonvilleGlen EdenDiverse, friendly community
River NorthHarder-TennysonDynamic nightlife, urban
Logan SquareTennyson-AlquireTrendy spots, growing art scene
Old TownWhitman-MocineQuaint, charm-filled
RavenswoodLongwood-Winton GroveQuiet, family-friendly

Moving from Chicago's vibrant, culturally-rich neighborhoods to Hayward's diverse and charming communities offers an exciting new chapter with plenty to explore. If you've enjoyed Lincoln Park's lush park spaces and community vibe, you'll find Fairview in Hayward a breath of fresh air with its vibrant community spaces and scenic views. Wicker Park's artsy and rich culture is mirrored in Upper B Street's eclectic mix of art studios and cultural festivals. For those drawn to the hustle and bustle of The Loop, Downtown Hayward offers a bustling atmosphere with unique local businesses like Buffalo Bill's Brewery, one of California's first brewpubs. Meanwhile, the upscale living and panoramic views of Chicago's Gold Coast find their match in Hayward Hills, where luxury meets natural beauty near the Hayward Japanese Gardens. Each neighborhood transition brings its own blend of familiarity and new discoveries, ensuring your move from Chicago to Hayward is as seamless as exciting.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Hayward

Moving from one city to another is a significant life change, encompassing both exciting opportunities and potential drawbacks. This comparison digs deep into the shift from Chicago, IL to Hayward, CA , highlighting the good and the bad to provide an honest reflection on what to expect. Understanding these aspects will help in making an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher crime rates
  • Dense urban living
  • Higher living costs
Hayward, CA iconHayward, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Lower crime rates
  • More suburban feel
  • More affordable living
Hayward, CA iconHayward, CA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Quieter nightlife
  • More reliant on cars
  • Less culinary variety
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Richer cultural scene
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Better public transit
  • Diverse culinary options

Moving from Chicago to Hayward offers both pros and cons that deeply impact daily life. Hayward, CA, provides a reprieve from Chicago's harsh winters with its milder, more temperate climate, making outdoor activities like hiking in Garin Regional Park a year-round possibility. Although you might miss Chicago's rich cultural scene and vibrant nightlife, Hayward offers its charm with local gems such as Hayward Japanese Gardens and a variety of neighborhood parks. The culinary scene in Hayward, while smaller, still boasts unique spots like Val's Burgers that offer a taste of local flavor. Additionally, while you might find yourself more reliant on a car in Hayward, this gives you the freedom to explore the broader Bay Area, including nearby cities and natural sights.

Chicago vs. Hayward Food Guide

When considering a move, it's crucial to explore what daily life offers, including the culinary landscape. Food is a significant aspect of local culture, creating a unique living experience in different areas. Our guide includes a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Hayward to help you better understand the gastronomic scene in your new city.

ChicagoHayward
Most iconic local food itemDeep Dish PizzaBurritos
Most popular meat dishItalian Beef SandwichCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodChicago-style Vegan PizzaVegetarian Burritos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's
  • Val's Burgers
  • Berkeley's
  • Acqua E Farina
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In transitioning from Chicago to Hayward, you'll notice a vibrant shift in culinary preferences that mirror the local culture and lifestyle of each city. Chicago is famed for its hearty, indulgent dishes like the deep-dish pizza found in neighborhoods like The Loop, and innovative dining experiences at places like Alinea. Hayward offers a diverse and flavorful array of foods, with an emphasis on Mexican cuisine, such as the tacos and burritos loved by locals and available throughout the city, including at food trucks that dot the downtown area. The move brings you into contact with a food scene that combines traditional tastes with a health-conscious sensibility, reflecting California's broader food culture.

Chicago vs. Hayward Restaurant Comparison

Making an area feel like home often comes down to finding your new favorite spots to dine. Whether you're craving fine dining or the comfort of a casual meal, this comparison aims to ease your transition. By comparing top restaurants in Chicago to their counterparts in Hayward, you'll discover new go-to places that echo the flavors of your old neighborhood.

ChicagoHaywardWhat You'll Love
AlineaAcqua E' FarinaA fine dining experience with a distinct Italian flair, similar in elegance and creativity.
Portillo's Hot DogsCasper's Hot DogsAn iconic spot for hot dog lovers with a history, reminiscent of Portillo's atmosphere and taste.
The Purple PigVal's BurgersA local hangout that offers hearty meals in a laid-back setting, akin to The Purple Pig’s vibe.
Girl & The GoatBijou Restaurant & BarInnovative and eclectic dining that mirrors the adventurous spirit of Girl & The Goat.
Lou Malnati's PizzeriaThe Pizza HouseA destination for deep-dish pizza lovers seeking that Chicago-style pizza in Hayward.
Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillEl TaquitoAuthentic Mexican cuisine that brings the flavors of Frontera Grill to Hayward.
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabHayward FisheryDelivers a wide variety of fresh seafood and prime meats, offering a fine dining experience akin to Joe’s.
Gene & GeorgettiFavorite Indian RestaurantWhile not Italian, it offers a similar dedication to traditional, hearty meals and a fine dining ambiance.
Gibsons Bar & SteakhouseBuffalo Bill's BreweryKnown for its satisfying meals and casual, friendly atmosphere, evoking Gibsons' spirit.
Big StarLa PiñataA lively spot for Mexican dishes and margaritas, echoing Big Star’s vibrant atmosphere and quality eats.

While no two cities are exactly alike, the culinary landscapes of Chicago and Hayward showcase unique, memorable dining experiences. For instance, if you've cherished Alinea's innovative dishes, Acqua E' Farina in Hayward offers an Italian twist with its own creative flair, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking top-tier dining. Similarly, Portillo's Hot Dogs fans will find comfort in the nostalgic, flavorsome bites of Casper's Hot Dogs. Echoing the dedication to quality and the essence of Chicago's pizza, The Pizza House stands as Hayward's haven for deep-dish aficionados. These comparisons not only bridge the gap between home and destination but also highlight the diverse, vibrant food scenes waiting to be explored and loved in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Hayward Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate greatly impacts relocating decisions, understanding how Chicago, IL compares with Hayward, CA in housing can guide your move. Knowing about cost, architecture, and lifestyle helps pinpoint your ideal city.

ComparisonChicagoHayward
Typical Architecture StyleArt Deco, Brick bungalowsRanch-style, Mid-Century Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLake views, Access to public transitQuiet streets, Proximity to parks

In analyzing these cities, the contrast in housing costs starkly stands out; Chicago presents a more budget-friendly option compared to Hayward's pricier market. Chicago's rich architectural diversity, from the sleek Art Deco skyscrapers to charming brick bungalows, contrasts with Hayward's prevalent Ranch-style and Mid-Century Modern homes. Moreover, Chicago boasts a higher score in walkability and urban lifestyle, reflecting its dense, vibrant urban layout and extensive public transit system, something to consider if you favor city living. Meanwhile, Hayward's appeal lies in its quieter streets and close proximity to natural parks, offering a more suburban feel within the Bay Area.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Hayward, CA

1. Southgate: This neighborhood boasts the spacious Kennedy Park, where you and your furry friend can enjoy long walks and community events.

2. Fairview: With its proximity to Garin Regional Park, you have access to numerous trails and open spaces ideal for adventurous pets and their owners.

3. Tennyson-Alquire: This area is home to the Hayward Animal Shelter, making it a community deeply connected to pet welfare and offering plenty of pet-friendly events and resources.

Chicago vs. Hayward Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather conditions. Understanding how the weather in Chicago, IL compares to Hayward, CA is essential for a smooth transition. Let's explore how these climates differ to better prepare for your move.

Summer icon
85°F / 68°F

Chicago, IL

75°F / 58°F

Hayward, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

58°F / 43°F

Hayward, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

20

Hayward, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

0

Hayward, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonChicagoHayward
Air QualityVariableGenerally Good
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, Cold WavesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The climate difference between Chicago and Hayward can dramatically affect your daily life and activities. Chicago experiences notable seasonal variations, from hot summers to cold, snowy winters, while Hayward enjoys a more moderate climate year-round, with less rain and virtually no snow. This equates to more sunny days and a higher UV index in Hayward, demanding different health and lifestyle adaptations. Hayward's mild climate might decrease the need for winter gear but increase the importance of sun protection. Understanding these differences helps ensure you're prepared for your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving between cities involves not just a change of scenery but also a new financial ecosystem. Understanding how the cost of living and average incomes in Chicago compare to those in Hayward is crucial for planning your move and managing your budget effectively.

ComparisonChicagoHayward
Avg. Household Income$66,576$96,386
Cost of Living Index116.9136.4
State Income Tax4.9513.3 (max rate)
Avg. Property Tax2.160.79
Avg. Sales Tax10.259.75
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Retail, HealthcareTechnology, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableLower
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

When moving from Chicago to Hayward, you'll encounter a significant jump in both the average household income and the cost of living index. This reflects the overall higher standard and cost of living in California compared to Illinois. The state income tax in California has a maximum rate that is substantially higher than Illinois's flat rate, which might affect your take-home pay. However, the property tax rate in Hayward is much lower than in Chicago, potentially making homeownership more accessible. The top industries also shift from a focus on manufacturing in Chicago to technology in Hayward, indicating a different job market and professional opportunities landscape.

Chicago vs. Hayward Political & Religious Comparison

When contemplating the move from Chicago, IL to Hayward, CA, understanding the local environment helps ease the transition. This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in a comparison of the politics between Chicago & Hayward , providing insights into what to expect in your new community.

ChicagoHayward
Political Make-upStrongly DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsNotably active in social issuesHigh involvement in community and environmental initiatives
ReligionDiverse, with a significant Catholic presenceDiverse, leaned towards non-affiliated and Christian faiths

In Chicago, the political scene is highly dynamic, with residents actively engaging in social issues reflecting the city's diverse population. Similarly, Hayward shares a strong Democratic leaning but stands out for its residents' commitment to community and environmental initiatives, which may resonate with your personal values. The religious landscape in both cities is diverse, however, Hayward has a notable inclination towards non-affiliated beliefs and various Christian denominations, representing the city's inclusive and varied community. Together, these aspects contribute to the unique cultural and social fabric that defines each city, offering a rich backdrop as you make your new life in Hayward.

Chicago vs. Hayward Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chicago, IL to Hayward, CA brings a significant change in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This guide aims to offer a better understanding of what to expect from this comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Hayward, assisting in your transition to a new city lifestyle.

ComparisonChicagoHayward
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3429
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with effortChallenging

In Chicago, the relatively high rating for public transportation reflects the city's comprehensive network, including the CTA buses and "L" trains, offering extensive coverage that can somewhat mitigate the challenges of traffic congestion. On the other hand, Hayward, while enjoying slightly less congestion, doesn't boast the same level of public transit infrastructure, meaning a car is often more necessary for daily commuting. Although it's possible to get by without one, especially if you live and work near BART stations, doing so can present more of a challenge than in Chicago.

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