Best Chicago to Oceanside Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Chicago to Oceanside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,096 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Chicago to Oceanside 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 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 Oceanside. 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 Oceanside 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 | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Right Way Movers | 8.99 | 8.77 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Vector Moving and Storage | 8.85 | 8.84 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Oceanside
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,096 miles from Chicago, IL to Oceanside, CA will cost on average $3,564 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Oceanside move is roughly $8,601. 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 | $2,391 | 300 ft³ | 7.97 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,564 | 450 ft³ | 7.92 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,902 | 750 ft³ | 7.87 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,601 | 1100 ft³ | 7.82 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,431 | 1600 ft³ | 7.77 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,895 | 1800 ft³ | 7.72 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oceanside to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Oceanside 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) |
Right Way Movers
825 College Blvd
Oceanside, CA, 92057
About Right Way Movers
Right Way Movers is a family moving company located right in Oceanside, California. Since 2002, this California moving company has been...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Military Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1154565 / 536559 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 36,550 (2023) |
Vector Moving and Storage
6920 Miramar Rd # 305
San Diego, CA, 92121
About Vector Moving and Storage
Vector Moving and Storage was founded in San Diego, CA, in 2010 on the principles of customer satisfaction, honest pricing, and...
Services
- Local moving services in San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, and more
- Long distance moving services, including dedicated truck and trailer options
- Packing services, including furniture, kitchen and furniture, and full-service packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3152229 / 105580 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 210,000 (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. Oceanside Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be overwhelming, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Oceanside, CA. This guide will help you find a new neighborhood in Oceanside that shares the vibe and characteristics of your old Chicago haunt.
| Chicago | Oceanside | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | South Oceanside | Vibrant, near the beach |
| Wicker Park | Fire Mountain | Trendy, artistic community |
| Gold Coast | Ivy Ranch | Upscale, family-friendly |
| Loop | Downtown Oceanside | Urban, lively area |
| River North | Henie Hills | Upscale, with lively nightlife |
| Hyde Park | Rancho Del Oro | Historic, community-focused |
| Andersonville | Loma Alta | Diverse, with a rich cultural scene |
| Old Town | Jeffries Ranch | Charming, with historic homes |
| Logan Square | Guajome | Eclectic, with a creative spirit |
| Lakeview | North Valley | Residential, community-active |
For those moving from Lincoln Park in Chicago to Oceanside, you'll find South Oceanside offers a similar beachside vibrancy with bustling cafes, local shops, and beachfront parks like Buccaneer Park. Wicker Park's creative and artistic flair is mirrored in Fire Mountain's community with events and local art studios, providing an edgy yet homely feel. If the upscale and historic charm of the Gold Coast is what you're leaving behind, Ivy Ranch in Oceanside provides an eloquent neighborhood with family-friendly parks and schools. And, for those who thrive in the urban buzz of the Loop, Downtown Oceanside's mix of cultural venues, restaurants like Local Tap House & Kitchen, and proximity to the Oceanside Pier offers a lively setting that's hard to beat.
Things to Do in Oceanside
Stroll along Oceanside Pier- Visit the California Surf Museum
- Explore Mission San Luis Rey
- Go whale watching
- Experience the Sunset Market
- Hike in Guajome County Park
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Oceanside
Moving from one city to another presents an array of changes; some are welcome, others not so much. Here's an insightful guide that frankly weighs the good against the bad of relocating from Chicago, IL to Oceanside, CA. With these charts, visualize the benefits and downsides to better prepare for your upcoming transition.
Chicago, IL- Cold winters
- High taxes
- Dense traffic
- Higher crime rate
Oceanside, CA- Warmer climate
- Lower taxes
- Less traffic
- Safer neighborhoods
Oceanside, CA- Quieter nightlife
- Less historical sites
- Dependent on cars
- Fewer dining options
Chicago, IL- Vibrant culture
- Rich history
- Excellent public transit
- Diverse food scene
While moving from Chicago's brisk winters to Oceanside's sunny climate is a major plus, it's the nuances that make the transition interesting. Oceanside, with its iconic pier and vibrant harbor, offers a unique coastal experience, significantly different from Chicago's urban hustle. The quieter nightlife in Oceanside might seem like a downside after Chicago's bustling scene, yet this city compensates with beautiful beaches and engaging outdoor activities. Local dining might not match Chicago's diversity, but places like Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub showcase innovative culinary trends that food lovers will appreciate. As for history and culture, Oceanside's Museum of Art and historical missions offer a compelling glimpse into California's past.
Chicago vs. Oceanside Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Oceanside is essential for understanding the vibrant food scenes in each city. Knowing what culinary delights await can significantly enrich your experience as you transition to your new home.
| Chicago | Oceanside | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-dish pizza | Fish tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian beef | Carne asada |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style hot dog | Street tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan dishes | Acai bowls |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, the culinary landscape is deeply integrated with its history, featuring unique dishes like deep-dish pizza and the Chicago-style hot dog that can be found in many neighborhoods, particularly in The Loop or River North. Meanwhile, Oceanside boasts a fresher, more health-conscious selection, with an abundance of seafood and Mexican-inspired cuisine reflecting its coastal and cultural influences. Fish tacos and street tacos, popular among locals and tourists alike, can be savored along the Oceanside Pier and in the South O area, showcasing the city’s laid-back beach vibe and its proximity to the sea.
Chicago vs. Oceanside Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to dine. This comparison of top restaurants from Chicago, IL to Oceanside, CA is tailored to help relocating food enthusiasts find their next favorite spots by drawing parallels with familiar favorites back home.
| Chicago | Oceanside | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Jeune et Jolie | Avant-garde French cuisine with a creative twist |
| Portillo's | That Boy Good | Southern BBQ vibes meet California freshness |
| The Purple Pig | Local Tap House & Kitchen | Eclectic small plates and a gastropub atmosphere |
| Girl & The Goat | Dija Mara | Southeast Asian cuisine with a Western flair |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Privateer Coal Fire Pizza | Authentic, coal-fired pizzas with unique toppings |
| Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | 608 Oceanside | Upscale steaks and seafood with a modern twist |
| MingHin Cuisine | Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub | Innovative and sustainable sushi |
| Au Cheval | The Miller's Table | Craft sandwiches and salads with gourmet flair |
| Piña's Boulangerie | Bread & Cheese Eatery | Artisan breads and exquisite cheese pairings |
| Rick Bayless's Frontera Grill | Marieta's Fine Mexican Cuisine | Authentic Mexican dishes with a local twist |
When you start seeking out dining experiences in Oceanside that remind you of the culinary adventures back in Chicago, you'll appreciate places like Jeune et Jolie, which mirrors Alinea's innovative approach to French cuisine. For those craving a taste of home at Lou Malnati's, Privateer Coal Fire Pizza offers a slice of comfort with its authentic, coal-fired pizzas. Meanwhile, fans of the world-renowned sushi at MingHin Cuisine can find a novel twist on seafood and sushi offerings at Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub, known for its commitment to sustainability and inventive cuisine. These comparisons are just the beginning of a delicious journey as you make Oceanside your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Oceanside Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor to consider when relocating. Understanding how Chicago, IL, and Oceanside, CA compare in terms of housing can greatly impact your decision. This comparison covers various aspects including cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Chicago | Oceanside |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Historic | Spanish and Coastal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, rooftop decks | Ocean views, proximity to beaches |
When comparing real estate between Chicago and Oceanside, the most striking difference is the median home price, with Oceanside's being considerably higher. This reflects the premium put on coastal living in California. Chicago's architecture is varied, blending modern skyscrapers with historic brownstones, while Oceanside features Spanish-inspired homes and beachfront properties. Despite Chicago being more walkable and having a higher urban lifestyle rating due to its dense and vibrant city life, Oceanside offers a laid-back vibe with its unique coastal and Spanish architectural elements, appealing to those seeking a serene lifestyle close to the ocean.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oceanside, CA
1. South Oceanside: Known for its dog-friendly beaches and the Buccaneer Park which offers a spacious area for your pets to play, making it a perfect neighborhood for pet owners.
2. Fire Mountain: Your pets will love the numerous walking trails and the community’s close proximity to Buddy Todd Park, offering plenty of space for exercise and exploration.
3. Rancho Del Oro: With its pet-friendly community atmosphere and several pet stores such as Petco, this neighborhood ensures your furry friends are well-cared for and welcomed.
Chicago vs. Oceanside Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Oceanside, CA, understanding how the weather compares between your current city and your new home is crucial. This comparison will give you a clear picture of the climatic changes you should expect, helping you to adapt more comfortably to your new environment. Here's how the weather variables stack up in Chicago versus Oceanside.
Chicago, IL
Oceanside, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Oceanside, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Oceanside, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Oceanside, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Oceanside |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Variable | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold waves | Wildfires, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Chicago to Oceanside, you’ll say goodbye to icy winters and hello to mild, sunny days year-round. While Chicago experiences a wide range of temperatures and welcomes a fair share of snow, Oceanside offers a stable climate, boasting over 260 days of sunshine with minimal rainfall. However, with Oceanside’s higher UV index, it’s important to prepare for more sun exposure. Adaptation might include incorporating sun protection into your daily routine. Though air quality in Oceanside is generally good, being aware of wildfire season and its impact is crucial. Additionally, shifting from snow-driven winters to the occasional earthquake requires a new set of preparedness skills. Understanding these differences will help you make a smooth transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Oceanside
When relocating, it's crucial to compare the financial landscape of your current and future home. This guide highlights the money and finance differences between Chicago, IL and Oceanside, CA, providing insights into what to expect. Understanding these variances can help you make an informed decision and prepare for your move.
| Comparison | Chicago | Oceanside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $78,125 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information | Defense, Tourism, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Critical | Concerning |
In transitioning from Chicago to Oceanside, you'll observe a notable rise in the cost of living, primarily driven by housing and daily expenses. While Oceanside boasts a higher average household income, the increase in state income tax and the cost of living index might offset this advantage. However, the significantly lower property tax rate in Oceanside compared to Chicago's 2.1% could provide some financial relief. It's also worth noting that Oceanside's economy, buoyed by sectors like defense, tourism, and technology, presents new job opportunities distinct from Chicago's finance and manufacturing-driven market. Understanding these nuances is crucial for a smooth financial transition.
Chicago vs. Oceanside Political & Religious Comparison
In this comparison, we're giving you a quick snapshot to understand the political and religious makeup between Chicago, IL and Oceanside, CA . This overview aims to provide a clearer picture of the communities you're moving from and to, touching upon their political leanings, local governance, and prevalent religious congregations.
| Chicago | Oceanside | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mayor-Led City | City Council-Manager |
| Religion | Varied, with Catholicism being significant | Varied, with a strong Protestant presence |
Chicago and Oceanside both lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, though the mechanisms of local governance differ, with Chicago being led by a mayor and Oceanside operating under a city council-manager system. This reflects on how policies and decisions are approached in each city. Religious diversity is a common thread between the two, yet the dominant religious affiliations differ. While Catholicism plays a significant role in Chicago's community life, Oceanside showcases a stronger Protestant presence. Understanding these dynamics can provide you with a smoother transition and integration into your new locale.
Chicago vs. Oceanside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in driving and transiting between Chicago & Oceanside can be crucial for planning your daily commute post-move. This comparison aims to give a clearer picture of the traffic conditions and transportation options you might experience in these cities.
| Comparison | Chicago | Oceanside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some effort | Possible, but challenging |
Chicago's dense urban environment lends itself to a robust public transit system, making it easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle, compared to Oceanside, where the layout and infrastructure lean more towards car dependency. The lower traffic congestion in Oceanside reflects its less crowded nature and potentially smoother commutes, albeit with a weaker public transit framework. This discrepancy highlights the importance of considering personal and work-related transit needs when moving from a city like Chicago to a more spread-out locale like Oceanside.
Additional Resources
Chicago Moving Services
Popular Chicago to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
