Best Chicago to Ontario Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Ontario and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,043 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 49 Chicago to Ontario 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 Ontario. 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 Ontario 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 | Antonio’s Moving Services LLC | 9.03 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Merit Moving Systems, Inc. | 9.03 | 8.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Ontario
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,043 miles from Chicago, IL to Ontario, CA will cost on average $3,519 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Ontario move is roughly $8,491. 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 | $2,361 | 300 ft³ | 7.87 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,519 | 450 ft³ | 7.82 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,827 | 750 ft³ | 7.77 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,491 | 1100 ft³ | 7.72 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,270 | 1600 ft³ | 7.67 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,714 | 1800 ft³ | 7.62 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Ontario to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Ontario 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) |
Antonio’s Moving Services LLC
Norco, CA, 92860
About Antonio’s Moving Services LLC
Established in 2014, Antonio's Moving Services LLC is a professional moving company that offers customizable residential and commercial moving services. Based...
Services
- Unloading & Loading
- Packing & Unpacking
- On-site Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3853814 / 1542735 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2023) |
Merit Moving Systems, Inc.
5655 Dolly Ave
Buena Park, CA, 90621
About Merit Moving Systems, Inc.
Since 1958, Merit Moving Systems has been a trusted name in the industry. It is a locally-owned business that has been...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- International moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1839600 / 934680 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 216,100 (2020) |
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. Ontario Neighborhood Comparison
Understanding the lay of the land in a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've put together a comparison of local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Ontario, CA . This should help you familiarize yourself with Ontario by using Chicago's diverse neighborhoods as a baseline.
| Chicago | Ontario | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Archibald Ranch | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| Wicker Park | Edison | Vibrant, artsy community |
| The Loop | Downtown Ontario | Urban, bustling center |
| Gold Coast | Creekside | Upscale, exclusive vibes |
| Old Town | Euclid Avenue | Historic homes, charming streets |
| South Loop | Ontario Ranch | Growing, diverse community |
| Andersonville | Deer Creek | Welcoming, strong community spirit |
| Logan Square | Armada | Hipster-friendly, with a creative flair |
| Hyde Park | Hawthorne | Educated, with a sense of history |
| River North | Ontario Gateway | Dynamic, with lots of dining options |
For those moving from Chicago's bustling city life to Ontario, there are several key neighborhoods that offer familiar vibes but with a distinct local flavor. Imagine exploring the tree-lined streets of Archibald Ranch, reminiscent of Lincoln Park's verdant tranquility but with Southern California's unique flair. Picture yourself in Downtown Ontario, which buzzes with an energy akin to The Loop but offers a glimpse into California's urban renaissance. Foodies who reveled in the diverse dining options of River North will find Ontario Gateway's array of restaurants and cafes a delightful transition. Edison's artsy community offers a slice of Wicker Park's creativity amidst Ontario's suburban landscape. Whether it's strolling through historic Euclid Avenue with homes that echo Old Town's charm or engaging in the vibrant, tightly-knit community of Deer Creek as one might in Andersonville, moving to Ontario does not mean leaving behind what you loved about Chicago—it's about discovering it anew.
Things to Do in Ontario
Explore Ontario Museum of History & Art- Attend events at Toyota Arena
- Shop at Ontario Mills
- Enjoy Cucamonga Peak hike
- Visit Graber Olive House
- Play at San Bernardino County Gardens
- Relax at De Anza Park
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Ontario
Moving from one place to another comes with its share of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to offer you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Ontario, CA . By examining both sides, you can make a more informed decision about whether this move aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- High taxes
- Dense traffic
- Higher cost of living
Ontario, CA- Milder winters
- Lower state taxes
- Lesser traffic congestion
- More affordable living
Ontario, CA- Quieter city life
- Fewer cultural venues
- More limited dining options
- Dependent on car
Chicago, IL- Vibrant city life
- World-class museums
- Diverse culinary scene
- Extensive public transit
While the thought of leaving the bustling city life of Chicago and its iconic skyline might seem daunting, Ontario, CA, offers its own charm. You'll trade the intense hustle and bustle for a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere. Ontario may not have The Art Institute of Chicago, but it boasts unique attractions like the Ontario Museum of History & Art and the beautiful Cucamonga Peak trails for nature lovers. Though the culinary scene is more limited, you'll still find gems like Vince's Spaghetti that give the local dining scene character. Moreover, the transition to a more car-dependent lifestyle is rewarded with significantly less traffic than Chicago's famed congestion, making daily commutes more bearable.
Chicago vs. Ontario Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Ontario, designed to give you a taste of the food scene in both cities. Food is a pivotal aspect of local culture and living experience. By comparing these two locations, you'll be better informed about what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Chicago | Ontario | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-Dish Pizza | Poutine |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Butter Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-Style Hot Dog | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Vegan Poutine |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, the deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati's has become synonymous with the city's culinary identity, tempting residents and visitors alike with its thick, cheesy layers and buttery crust. Over in Ontario, the classic Canadian dish of poutine, especially the vegetarian versions found at spots like Vegan Supply Co., showcases the versatility and global influence on the local cuisine. If you're venturing into the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, don't miss the chance to try the Italian beef sandwich in Little Italy or a Chicago-style hot dog at one of the many stands across the city. Meanwhile, Ontario's diverse food scene is reflected in its love for international dishes like butter chicken and tacos, often explored in areas like Kensington Market or the food trucks that dot the city landscape.
Chicago vs. Ontario Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your favorite places to dine. This restaurant comparison between Chicago, IL, and Ontario, CA , serves as a guide to help you quickly feel at home by finding new eateries that echo your old favorites. Whether you're craving high-end dining, a casual bite, or something uniquely foodie, this list aims to make your transition deliciously smooth.
| Chicago | Ontario | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | New York Grill | Offers a sophisticated dining experience reminiscent of Alinea's innovation. |
| Giordano's | Anthony's Pizza & Pasta | Known for their deep-dish pizzas, a taste of Chicago in Ontario. |
| The Purple Pig | Vince's Spaghetti | Casual yet flavorful Italian dining that mirrors The Purple Pig's charm. |
| Frontera Grill | Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar | Captures the essence of Frontera Grill's Mexican cuisine. |
| Portillo's | Portillo's Hot Dogs | Yes, the same beloved chain brings Chicago's iconic hot dogs to Ontario. |
| Smoque BBQ | Joey's BBQ Spot | Offers a homely BBQ experience with a focus on smoked meats, akin to Smoque BBQ. |
| Girl & the Goat | The Rustic Loaf & Eatery | Known for inventive dishes and a cozy atmosphere, like Girl & the Goat. |
| Big Star | El Pescador | Features a laid-back vibe and delicious tacos, drawing parallels to Big Star. |
| Roister | Zen Sushi & Sake | Though more focused on Japanese cuisine, it offers a creative dining experience like Roister. |
| Publican | Market Broiler | Reflects Publican's emphasis on quality seafood and meats in a casual setting. |
Exploring Ontario's culinary scene through the lens of your Chicago favorites can be an adventure. For instance, Anthony's Pizza & Pasta stands out as a beacon for deep-dish pizza lovers, presenting a slice of Chicago with every bite. On the other hand, if the unique blend of casual yet innovative dining at Girl & the Goat is what you miss, The Rustic Loaf & Eatery in Ontario promises a culinary experience with a personal touch, emphasizing creativity in their dishes. Meanwhile, BBQ enthusiasts who cherished the smoky flavors at Smoque BBQ will discover a similar dedication to the art of barbecue at Joey's BBQ Spot. This comparison not only serves as a bridge between your past and future dining experiences but also introduces you to the local flavors and communities within Ontario.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Ontario Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is fundamental when relocating. Understanding how Chicago, IL's and Ontario, CA's housing markets compare is key. This comparison focuses on cost, architecture, and livability aspects to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Chicago | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Victorian | Ranch, Spanish |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to public transit | Backyard space, proximity to freeways |
Examining the two cities, you'll notice distinctive differences and unique qualities in their respective housing markets. Chicago's urban environment, with its higher urban lifestyle score, suggests a vibrant city life, complemented by its characteristically elegant Prairie and Victorian-style homes. On the other hand, Ontario curates a more suburban appeal, reflected in its preference for Ranch and Spanish architecture, emphasizing more personal space and backyard living. While Chicago's real estate listings often boast of lake views and quick access to public transit, enhancing its walkability score, Ontario's listings highlight backyard space and easy access to freeways, indicating a preference for driving over walking or biking. These insights can guide potential movers in aligning their living preferences with what each city uniquely offers.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Ontario, CA
1. Liberty Village: This neighborhood offers a variety of off-leash areas and pet-friendly cafes, making it a perfect place for you and your furry friend.
2. The Beaches: With its spacious off-leash dog park along the beach and pet-friendly walking paths, The Beaches is an ideal spot for pet owners who love water activities.
3. High Park: Known for its large off-leash area and beautiful walking trails, High Park offers you and your pet plenty of space to explore and play.
Chicago vs. Ontario Weather Considerations
Deciding to move can bring about a multitude of changes, especially in the climate you're accustomed to. Understanding how the weather in your new location compares to your current city is crucial for a smooth transition. Here's a detailed look at what to expect when moving from Chicago, IL to Ontario, CA.
Chicago, IL
Ontario, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Ontario, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Ontario, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Ontario, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Chicago to Ontario involves adapting to a drier climate, with significantly more sunny days and higher summer temperatures. While both cities experience moderate air quality levels, Ontario's proximity to wildfires may introduce "unhealthy for sensitive groups" AQI days more frequently. Seasonal allergies in Ontario might be a bit easier to manage due to the lower humidity and fewer dominant allergens. Lastly, prepare to swap out your winter snow gear for earthquake and wildfire readiness kits, reflecting the change in natural disaster risks.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Ontario
When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Ontario, CA, it's crucial to look into the financial implications. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income compare between your current city, Chicago, and your potential new home, Ontario, can pave the way for a smoother transition. This comparison aims to shed light on these vital financial aspects.
| Comparison | Chicago | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $73,872 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 0.8 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Logistics, Technology, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | High |
Moving from Chicago to Ontario will present you with several financial transitions. While the average household income in Chicago is slightly higher, the cost of living and state income tax rates are markedly lower in Ontario, effectively balancing out. However, it's noteworthy that property taxes in Ontario are considerably less than in Chicago, potentially offering more affordable housing options. The difference in the top industries suggests diverse job opportunities based on the city's economic focuses. Understanding these financial nuances can significantly aid in preparing for your move and setting realistic expectations for your new lifestyle in Ontario.
Chicago vs. Ontario Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome! In this section, we provide a quick snapshot to compare the political and religious makeup of Chicago, IL, and Ontario, CA. This comparison aims to give you an understanding of the community landscape you're moving into. This comparison of the politics between Chicago & Ontario will highlight key differences and similarities to help with your transition.
| Chicago | Ontario | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive urban policies | Local governance with a balance of progressive and conservative viewpoints |
| Religion | Diverse religious communities, significant Catholic presence | Multicultural religious landscape, strong Christian denominations |
When you move from Chicago to Ontario, you'll find that both cities lean Democratic, but local politics in Ontario may present a more balanced mix of progressive and conservative viewpoints than the predominantly progressive urban policies in Chicago. Your religious and community engagement might also shift. While Chicago boasts a diverse array of religious communities with a significant Catholic presence, Ontario offers a multicultural religious landscape with strong Christian denominations. This transition could provide an opportunity to explore a variety of community and religious groups, enriching your experience in your new home.
Chicago vs. Ontario Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to understanding daily commutes and navigation in a new environment. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Ontario, aimed at helping you better grasp what your day-to-day journey might look like.
| Comparison | Chicago | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | No |
Reflecting on the table, while Chicago and Ontario have their unique challenges and benefits, the average commute times are relatively similar. However, the reliance on public transportation greatly differs. In Chicago, the CTA offers a comprehensive network, making it feasible to live without a vehicle. Conversely, Ontario's public transit options are more limited, so having a car is almost a necessity for convenience and broader access to the city and surrounding areas. Understanding these differences ahead of time can significantly ease the transition and plan for your daily commute.
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