Best Chicago to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,214 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Chicago to Oakland 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 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 Chicago compared to Oakland. 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 Oakland 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 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.32 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,214 miles from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA will cost on average $3,664 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Oakland move is roughly $8,846. 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 | $2,458 | 300 ft³ | 8.19 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,664 | 450 ft³ | 8.14 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,069 | 750 ft³ | 8.09 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,846 | 1100 ft³ | 8.04 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,788 | 1600 ft³ | 7.99 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,296 | 1800 ft³ | 7.94 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Oakland 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) |
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) |
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) |
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. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you’re not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease your transition, we’ve created a comparison that identifies the most similar neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Oakland, CA . This guide is designed to help you find a new home that feels like your old one, by highlighting comparable lifestyles, amenities, and vibes in Oakland to what you loved back in Chicago.
| Chicago | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Rockridge | Family-friendly, vibrant shopping |
| Wicker Park | Temescal | Hip, artsy with eclectic dining |
| The Loop | Downtown Oakland | Urban center, cultural attractions |
| Gold Coast | Piedmont Avenue | Upscale, historic charm |
| Old Town | Grand Lake | Quaint, with a strong community feel |
| Lakeview | Adams Point | Diverse, with waterfront views |
| Hyde Park | Dimond District | Rich history, tight-knit community |
| Logan Square | Oakland Ave/Harrison St | Creative, with a bohemian vibe |
| River North | Uptown Oakland | Vibrant nightlife, arts scene |
| West Loop | Jack London District | Trendy, with a rich industrial history |
When diving deeper into what makes these neighborhoods similar, you might be intrigued to learn that Rockridge, much like Lincoln Park, is known for its bustling streets lined with cafes, bookstores, and family-friendly activities, making it a warm, inviting place to live. For example, Rockridge's College Avenue shares the same lively ambiance as Lincoln Avenue, sprinkled with local favorites like Zachary’s Chicago Pizza, which could easily rival Chicago’s own deep-dish institutions. Temescal’s Telegraph Avenue, akin to Wicker Park's Milwaukee Avenue, boasts an impressive array of boutique shops, outdoor murals, and eateries like Cholita Linda, drawing in a creative and eclectic crowd eager to explore Oakland's vibrant culture. The parallel between Oakland’s Uptown district and Chicago’s River North is apparent in their thriving nightlife and the prominence of arts, with venues like Fox Theater hosting a variety of live performances that contribute to the dynamic and spirited atmosphere of Oakland.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Oakland
Moving from one city to another brings about significant changes, both good and bad. This detailed comparison offers an honest reflection on relocating from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA, helping you weigh your options wisely. By contrasting the cons with the pros, you can make an informed decision on whether this move aligns with your expectations and lifestyle preferences.
Chicago, IL- Cold winters
- Higher crime rates
- Limited outdoor activities
- State income tax
Oakland, CA- Milder climate
- Lower crime rates
- Rich outdoor culture
- No state income tax
Oakland, CA- Less nightlife
- More expensive
- Smaller city feel
- Less public transit
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cuisine
- Rich cultural history
- Expansive public transit
Moving from Chicago, with its iconic deep-dish pizza, to Oakland introduces you to a vibrant, diverse culinary scene along the bustling streets of Temescal and the scenic waterfront Jack London Square. Though Oakland may have less nightlife compared to Chicago's buzzing scene in neighborhoods like Wrigleyville and Logan Square, it boasts an impressive array of parks and outdoor spaces such as Joaquin Miller Park, perfect for those seeking a connection with nature. Oakland's weather is significantly milder, offering an extended season to enjoy its abundant outdoor activities and beautiful regions like Lake Merritt, a popular area for jogging, picnicking, and sailing. Despite the higher cost of living, moving to Oakland means embracing a lifestyle rich in cultural experiences, from the annual Art + Soul Festival to the historic Fox Theater, ensuring there's always something new to explore.
Chicago vs. Oakland Food Guide
Food plays a crucial role in reflecting the local culture and lifestyle of a city. To help you transition smoothly, we're offering a comparison of the culinary landscapes; comparing the local cuisine between Chicago & Oakland ensures you're well-acquainted with the food scene of your new home.
| Chicago | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-Dish Pizza | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-Style Hot Dog | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan-based Dishes | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Comparing Chicago and Oakland's food scenes reveals distinct culinary identities shaped by local culture and preferences. In Chicago, the hearty and iconic deep-dish pizza at places like Giordano's tells the story of a city that loves its rich, indulgent flavors. In contrast, Oakland introduces you to a more health-conscious, diverse culinary experience, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients showcased at Chez Panisse. Both cities celebrate their unique food scenes, from street food like the Chicago-style hot dog to Oakland's diverse taco trucks often found in vibrant neighborhoods like Fruitvale. Each city offers a distinct taste of local and international cuisines, making them exciting places for foodies to explore.
Chicago vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding that perfect dining spot where you can feel right at home is crucial. This comparison of Chicago to Oakland restaurants aims to seamlessly transition your palate, guiding you to discover new culinary delights that echo your old favorites. Let's make Oakland feel like home, one meal at a time.
| Chicago | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Commis | High-end dining with inventive tasting menus |
| Portillo's | Belly | Casual spot known for flavorful sandwiches and hot dogs |
| Giordano's | Zachary's Chicago Pizza | Famous for their deep-dish pizza |
| The Purple Pig | Wood Tavern | Rustic, foodie haven offering New American dishes |
| Rick Bayless's Frontera Grill | Calavera | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist |
| Girl & The Goat | Dona Tomas | Vibrant atmosphere with innovative dishes |
| Smoque BBQ | Everett & Jones Barbeque | Classic BBQ place with a soulful vibe |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Rockridge Oyster Bar | Seafood-focused fare with high-quality ingredients |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Pizzaiolo | Offers delicious thin-crust pizzas and Italian dishes |
| The Berghoff Restaurant | Suppenküche | German cuisine with a cozy, traditional feel |
Discovering Oakland's culinary scene through the lens of Chicago's diverse dining can be an exciting journey. For instance, akin to the legendary deep-dish pizzas of Giordano's in Chicago, Zachary's Chicago Pizza in Oakland brings a slice of the Windy City to the West Coast, with its award-winning pies bringing comfort to any homesick Chicagoan. If your penchant leans towards high-end dining, swapping Alinea's innovative experience for Commis's equally remarkable tasting menus ensures that exceptional culinary adventures await you in Oakland. Both cities offer rich, foodie-driven experiences that cater to a broad range of tastes and preferences, from the rustic and cozy ambiance of The Purple Pig against Oakland’s Wood Tavern to the soulful BBQ flavors of Smoque BBQ mirrored by Everett & Jones Barbeque. Engaging with these parallel dining establishments will not only satisfy your cravings but also help weave your narrative into the fabric of Oakland's vibrant community.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's crucial to explore the real estate landscape. Understanding how Chicago, IL and Oakland, CA compare in housing costs, architectural styles, and urban lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. Let’s dive into the specifics.
| Comparison | Chicago | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Brick Bungalows, Greystones | Craftsman, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to parks | Bay views, eco-friendly features |
Comparing Chicago and Oakland, it's evident that housing costs, particularly median home prices and rent, are significantly higher in Oakland. However, Oakland offers an edge with its unique blend of Craftsman and Victorian homes, catering to those seeking architectural variety and historical charm. Both cities score equally on walkability and bikeability, indicating an urban environment conducive to exploring neighborhoods without a car. Chicago's lake views and Oakland's bay views are highly sought after, reflecting each city's unique geographic appeal. For those with sustainability in mind, Oakland stands out with listings frequently highlighting eco-friendly features. Understanding these distinctions will help you navigate the housing market in your prospective city.
Chicago vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires adapting to a new climate. Understanding the weather differences between your current and future home is essential. This comparison aims to highlight how Chicago's and Oakland's climates differ, helping you prepare for your relocation.
Chicago, IL
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities experience their own sets of natural disasters, with Chicago facing snowstorms and tornadoes, and Oakland contending with earthquakes and wildfires, it's important to note the drastic difference in sunshine and temperature. Oakland offers a more temperate climate with mild winters and fewer days of extreme heat or cold, compared to Chicago's icy winters and warm summers. This makes outdoor activities more accessible year-round in Oakland. Additionally, the significantly fewer inches of annual snowfall in Oakland means less winter maintenance and more consistent commutes during the colder months.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Oakland
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and the broader financial landscape in your new city compare to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will shed light on various economic aspects, including average income levels and living costs, providing a comprehensive view of what to expect in Chicago versus Oakland.
| Comparison | Chicago | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 13.3 (max) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Healthcare, Information Technology, Retail |
| Affluence | Variable | Higher |
| Poverty | Notable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Critical |
Moving from Chicago to Oakland, you'll encounter significant differences in your financial landscape, notably in the average household income and cost of living. While the average income in Oakland is notably higher, this advantage can be offset by a higher cost of living index and the state's maximum income tax rate. The substantial difference in average property tax rates between the two cities could impact your decision if you plan to buy a home. Additionally, understanding the leading industries can offer insights into job market dynamics in each city, crucial for career planning. This overview highlights key financial considerations, setting the stage for a smoother transition to your new home.
Chicago vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
In making the move from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA, it's not just a change of scenery you're signing up for. This quick overview aims to give you a glimpse into how the political and religious makeup of the residents compares between Chicago & Oakland . Understanding these facets will help you gauge the cultural atmosphere and community priorities in your new city.
| Chicago | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Major focus on social equity and health care | Emphasizes police reform, housing, and community programs |
| Religion | Varied, with a significant Catholic presence. Archdiocese of Chicago | Diverse, notable for its progressive religious communities. Diocese of Oakland |
Chicago and Oakland share Democratic leanings, but your new home in Oakland tends to take a more progressive stance in local politics, focusing heavily on police reform and affordable housing. While both cities enjoy religious diversity, Oakland is known for its forward-thinking religious communities that often engage in social justice initiatives. You might find Oakland's approach to social issues and community support aligns closely with or differs significantly from Chicago's, offering you a fresh perspective on civic engagement and community building.
Chicago vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Oakland will help you gauge what to expect as you transition to your new city.
| Comparison | Chicago | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 29 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with difficulty | Yes, more easily |
In both cities, having a car is beneficial but not absolutely necessary, offering different experiences in terms of commuting. Chicago's extensive public transit network, comprising buses, trains (the L), and commuter rails, closely integrates daily life with the city's vast geography. Conversely, Oakland, while having strong public transit options with BART and buses, allows for a slightly more car-optional lifestyle due to its smaller size and bike-friendly infrastructure. This difference in public transit availability and the necessity of a car affects how one would plan their daily commute and leisure outings. Overall, you'll find Oakland a bit more forgiving if you prefer to travel without a car, but in Chicago, while possible, expect a bit more planning and time to navigate the city.
Additional Resources
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