Best Chicago to Lancaster Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Chicago to Lancaster and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,060 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Chicago to Lancaster 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 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Lancaster. 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 Chicago to Lancaster 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 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.32 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Speedwell Transportation Inc. | 8.02 | 7.08 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Antelope Valley Van and Storage | 7.74 | 7.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Lancaster
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,060 miles from Chicago, IL to Lancaster, CA will cost on average $3,533 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Lancaster move is roughly $8,526. 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 | $2,370 | 300 ft³ | 7.90 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,533 | 450 ft³ | 7.85 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,851 | 750 ft³ | 7.80 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,526 | 1100 ft³ | 7.75 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,322 | 1600 ft³ | 7.70 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,772 | 1800 ft³ | 7.65 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lancaster to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Lancaster 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) |
A1 Movers, Inc
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (2024) |
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) |
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.
Chicago vs. Lancaster Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide compares popular neighborhoods in Chicago, IL & Lancaster, CA to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your current city as a baseline. Let's find the Lancaster neighborhood that matches the vibe of your favorite Chicago area.
| Chicago | Lancaster | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | West Lancaster | Family-friendly with vibrant parks |
| Wicker Park | Downtown Lancaster | Booming arts scene and eateries |
| Loop | North Lancaster | Bustling commercial hub |
| Gold Coast | Quartz Hill | Upscale homes and serene landscapes |
| Lakeview | Westside Lancaster | Lively community gatherings |
| Logan Square | Lancaster East | Rich in cultural diversity |
| Hyde Park | South Lancaster | Educational institutions and museums |
| River North | Downtown Lancaster | Thriving nightlife and galleries |
| Andersonville | Westside Lancaster | Quaint shops and diverse eateries |
| Old Town | West Lancaster | Historic charm with modern amenities |
In comparing these neighborhoods, it's clear that each offers its own unique set of attractions. For example, if you're drawn to the artistic vibrancy and dining options of Wicker Park, Downtown Lancaster, with its burgeoning arts scene showcased at venues like MOAH: Cedar, will resonate with your tastes. Similarly, the serene suburban feel of the Gold Coast finds a counterpart in Quartz Hill, where attractions such as the serene George Lane Park provide an idyllic escape within the city. And if the lakefront appeal and bustling district of Lakeview is what you'll miss, Westside Lancaster's community-centric events, like those at Antelope Valley Fairgrounds, offer a comparable sense of local spirit and engagement.
Things to Do in Lancaster
Visit the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve- Enjoy a show at Lancaster Performing Arts Center
- Explore Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
- Stroll around The BLVD
- Hike in Antelope Valley
- Try local brews at Bravery Brewing
- Watch a JetHawks baseball game
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Lancaster
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the positives against the negatives to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to highlight both the advantages and challenges of moving from Chicago, IL to Lancaster, CA, presenting an honest reflection of what such a change entails.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- High cost of living
- Dense traffic
- Urban pollution
Lancaster, CA- Milder climate
- More affordable
- Less congestion
- Cleaner air
Lancaster, CA- Quieter nightlife
- Less cultural venues
- Car-dependent
- Fewer dining options
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Rich cultural scene
- Public transport options
- Diverse dining
While Lancaster boasts a more affordable cost of living and milder climate compared to Chicago, it's not without its trade-offs. For instance, Chicago's vibrant nightlife and rich cultural scene, highlighted by landmarks such as the Art Institute of Chicago, may be more limited in Lancaster. However, Lancaster offers its own unique attractions, such as The BLVD, a revitalized downtown area bustling with local businesses and entertainment options. Additionally, Lancaster's proximity to natural beauty and outdoor activities, like those at Saddleback Butte State Park, contrasts with Chicago's urban environment. Deciding between the two will depend significantly on your lifestyle preferences and priorities.
Chicago vs. Lancaster Food Guide
Understanding the fabric of local culture includes savoring its foods, an integral aspect of the daily life and identity of a place. This guide embarks on a flavorful journey through a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Lancaster , aiding you in acclimating to the tastes and dining scenes of your new locale.
| Chicago | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | A.V. Fair Cinnamon Rolls |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Trip-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you settle in Lancaster, you'll discover a vibrant blend of traditional and innovative culinary delights. For instance, the A.V. Fair Cinnamon Rolls have become an iconic sweet treat that locals and visitors cannot resist. Barbecue enthusiasts will appreciate the city's affinity for Tri-tip, a smoking technique bringing out a distinct flavor in the meat. For street food lovers, Lancaster's plethora of food trucks serve everything from authentic Mexican street tacos to innovative vegan dishes like Jackfruit Tacos. Among Lancaster's must-visit eateries, Black Angus Steakhouse offers a quintessential meat-lover's experience while The Salty Avocado caters to those seeking refreshing vegan options. Azteca Mexican Restaurant stands as a testament to Lancaster's rich and diverse food scene, serving traditional Mexican cuisine that pleases all palates.
Chicago vs. Lancaster Restaurant Comparison
As you transition from Chicago, IL, to Lancaster, CA, finding those new go-to eateries plays a huge part in making a new city feel like home. Through this restaurant comparison, you can navigate from Chicago's diverse culinary scene to Lancaster's local flavors , ensuring you discover your next favorites.
| Chicago | Lancaster | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Olives Mediterranean Café | Fine dining with a uniquely Mediterranean twist. |
| Girl & The Goat | Giannini Bistro & Grill | Offers creative, globally-inspired American cuisine. |
| Portillo's | Crazy Otto’s Diner | Known for big flavors and hearty portions, much like Portillo’s classics. |
| Giordano's | Barone’s Pizzeria | Famed for its deep-dish pizza reminiscent of Giordano's. |
| Smoque BBQ | Red House BBQ | Authentic, smoky barbecue favorites that evoke Smoque BBQ vibes. |
| The Purple Pig | Kinetic Brewing Company | Craft brews and innovative dishes similar to The Purple Pig’s offerings. |
| Big Star | LA Tacos | Known for their street-style tacos, echoing Big Star’s casual, tasty fare. |
| Publican | Lemon Leaf Café | Its eclectic menu has parallels to Publican’s refined dishes. |
| Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | Medrano's Mexican Restaurant | Authentic Mexican cuisine that rivals the acclaimed Frontera Grill. |
| Pequod's Pizza | Runway Cafe | While known for its aviation theme, it offers a pizza that locals swear by, much like Pequod's. |
Whether you're reminiscing over Alinea's inventive dining in Chicago or exploring Olives Mediterranean Café for a Lancaster twist on fine dining, there's a local haunt ready to welcome you. For lovers of the iconic deep-dish pizza from Giordano's, Barone’s Pizzeria in Lancaster awaits with its own take that's sure to please. Meanwhile, those missing the smoky tastes of Smoque BBQ will find solace in Red House BBQ's authentic, flavor-packed offerings. Each Lancaster establishment not only offers a taste reminiscent of your Chicago favorites but carries its unique ambiance and local flair, promising new dining experiences that might just become your new go-to spots.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Lancaster Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how the housing markets in Chicago, IL, and Lancaster, CA, compare can significantly influence your decision-making process. This guide will dive into the details of each city's real estate landscape, from costs and architectural styles to lifestyle ratings, providing a comprehensive comparison.
| Comparison | Chicago | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Historic Mix | Ranch and Desert Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood Floors, Lake Views | Spacious Yards, Solar Panels |
In comparing the housing markets of Chicago and Lancaster, you'll find distinct differences that cater to varying lifestyles and preferences. Chicago's eclectic mix of modern and historically significant architecture lends itself to an urban environment rich in culture and amenities, reflected in its higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores. In contrast, Lancaster boasts an appeal for those seeking more space and a connection to nature, evident in its popularity for spacious yards and solar panels, catering to a more sustainable living. The cost of living in terms of real estate shows Lancaster with a higher median home price, yet offers more affordable rent options compared to Chicago's bustling market. These contrasts highlight the importance of aligning your housing preferences with the character and offerings of each city.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lancaster, CA
1. West Lancaster: Home to several spacious parks, including Prime Desert Woodland Preserve, West Lancaster offers abundant walking trails and natural areas for you and your pets to explore.
2. Rancho Vista: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Rancho Vista provides plenty of green spaces and dog parks, like the popular Apollo Community Regional Park, for pet owners to enjoy outdoor activities.
3. Quartz Hill: A quiet, suburban neighborhood with a tight-knit community vibe, Quartz Hill offers easy access to pet services and outdoor spaces suitable for pets, including the dog-friendly George Lane Park.
Chicago vs. Lancaster Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another requires understanding crucial differences, especially in terms of weather , crucial for a smooth transition. This guide compares Chicago, IL to Lancaster, CA weather, illustrating how drastically your new climate might differ from what you're accustomed to.
Chicago, IL
Lancaster, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Lancaster, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Lancaster, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Lancaster, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Extreme Cold | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Chicago to Lancaster, prepare for a substantial change in climate. You'll enjoy far more sunny days a year in Lancaster but with higher summer temperatures that could top out in the high 90s. The winter is milder, eliminating the heavy snowfalls characteristic of Chicago winters. However, adaptability to a drier atmosphere is crucial, given Lancaster's significantly lower humidity and rainfall. Additionally, the higher UV index in Lancaster means more robust sun protection is a daily necessity.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Lancaster
When planning a move from one city to another, validating the financial implications is crucial. This is especially true when relocating from Chicago, IL to Lancaster, CA. Understanding how your expenses, taxes, and income prospects will change can help facilitate a smoother transition. This comparison chart aims to shed light on the financial landscape you’re moving into.
| Comparison | Chicago | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $64,242 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 9.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Aerospace, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Emerging |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Significant |
| Homelessness | Widespread | Concerning |
Comparing Chicago and Lancaster reveals notable differences in financial landscapes. Chicago's average household income is higher, but Lancaster's lower property tax rate could mean more disposable income for homeowners. The stark contrast in state income tax shows that your paycheck in Lancaster might feel smaller, but this is somewhat offset by a lower average sales tax. The cost of living index indicates that Lancaster is more expensive overall; however, factors such as the burgeoning aerospace industry offer new employment opportunities that could attract talent and investment into the area, potentially changing its economic status in the long run.
Chicago vs. Lancaster Political & Religious Comparison
In this section, we provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed at comparing the politics between Chicago & Lancaster , focusing on the political and religious makeup of each city. This comparative insight will help you gauge the community environment you're moving into.
| Chicago | Lancaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Moderately Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Mix of conservative and liberal policies |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape | Christianity predominant, with a mix of other faiths |
Chicago, known for its heavily Democratic leaning, contrasts with Lancaster's more moderate conservative stance. While both cities show a diverse religious landscape, Christianity stands more predominant in Lancaster, coupled with a broad spectrum of other faiths. Understanding the nuanced political and religious makeup of Lancaster compared to the progressive environment of Chicago can assist you in navigating your new community with ease, ensuring a smoother transition.
Chicago vs. Lancaster Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Lancaster, CA brings a shift in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Lancaster is designed to help you understand what to expect as you transition from one city to the other.
| Comparison | Chicago | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some effort | No, a car is necessary |
In Chicago, the robust public transit system, including buses and the 'L' train, means commuting without a car is feasible, though it might require some effort. This is contrasted sharply with Lancaster, where the availability of public transit scores much lower. Lancaster's relative tranquility in terms of traffic congestion compared to Chicago's bustling streets could make for a more relaxed driving experience. Despite this, the need for a personal vehicle in Lancaster is much more pronounced due to its less developed public transit network.
Additional Resources
Chicago Moving Services
Popular Chicago to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
