Best Chicago to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,248 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Chicago to Salinas 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 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Salinas. 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 Salinas 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 | Mod Movers | 8.80 | 8.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Poulos Moving Systems | 8.34 | 8.48 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Salinas
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,248 miles from Chicago, IL to Salinas, CA will cost on average $3,693 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Salinas move is roughly $8,917. 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 | $2,477 | 300 ft³ | 8.26 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,693 | 450 ft³ | 8.21 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,117 | 750 ft³ | 8.16 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,917 | 1100 ft³ | 8.11 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,890 | 1600 ft³ | 8.06 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,412 | 1800 ft³ | 8.01 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Salinas 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) |
Mod Movers
1118 Airport Way STE 100
Monterey, CA, 93940
About Mod Movers
Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Interstate Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2983026 / 1294330 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
Poulos Moving Systems
222 Commission St
Salinas, CA, 93901
About Poulos Moving Systems
A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...
Services
- Local Moves
- Office Moves
- Intrastate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2618126 / 1016606 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 39,036 (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. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move, it's helpful to compare your current environment with your future one. This guide is designed to help you transition smoothly from Chicago, IL to Salinas, CA by comparing the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Salinas, CA . We'll match popular neighborhoods in Chicago with those in Salinas that share similar vibes, amenities, and lifestyles, making it easier for you to find your new favorite local spot.
| Chicago | Salinas | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | South Salinas | Historic homes, community-focused |
| Wicker Park | Maple Park | Artsy, with local boutiques and cafes |
| The Loop | Oldtown Salinas | Bustling business district, local events |
| Gold Coast | Creekbridge | Upscale, family-friendly environment |
| Lakeview | Los Olivos | Vibrant community spirit, close to nature |
| River North | North Salinas | Trendy eateries and convenient shopping |
| Hyde Park | University Park | Educational hub, rich in history and culture |
| Bucktown | Laurelwood | Cozy, with a mix of traditional and modern homes |
| Logan Square | Harding Park | Diverse, with a growing arts scene |
| Andersonville | Creekside | Charming, with a strong sense of community |
In moving from Chicago to Salinas, you'll find neighborhoods that echo the endearing qualities of your old haunts. For example, if Lincoln Park's blend of historic homes and vibrant community has always appealed to you, you'll find a similar atmosphere in South Salinas where tradition meets a strong community spirit. For those drawn to the artsy, bustling environment of Wicker Park, Maple Park in Salinas offers an engaging local scene with its unique boutiques and cozy cafes like Local Café. Similarly, lovers of The Loop's dynamic business district and cultural events might find Oldtown Salinas a perfect match with its array of local business events and historic charm highlighted by landmarks such as the Salinas Oldtown Marketplace. Whether it's the upscale neighborhoods, vibrant community spots, or the arts scene that you're looking to match, Salinas presents a diverse array of neighborhoods ensuring that everyone can find their place in this Californian city.
Things to Do in Salinas
Explore Pinnacles National Park.- Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
- Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
- Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
- Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
- Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
- Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Salinas
Moving from one city to another can be a significant life event, and it's vital to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks honestly. This guide aims to provide a realistic comparison of moving from Chicago, IL to Salinas, CA , so you can make an informed decision. We will explore both the challenges and advantages in detailed charts below.
Chicago, IL- High crime rates
- Harsh winters
- Higher cost of living
- Intense traffic congestion
- Dense population
Salinas, CA- Lower crime rates
- Mild climate
- More affordable living
- Less traffic
- Smaller community feel
Salinas, CA- Quieter nightlife
- Less culinary diversity
- Car-dependent areas
- Fewer museums/galleries
- Smaller job market
Chicago, IL- Vibrant city life
- Diverse food scene
- Better public transportation
- Rich cultural institutions
- Extensive job opportunities
Both Chicago and Salinas have their unique attributes that make them desirable places to live, depending on your priorities and lifestyle. Chicago's bustling city life offers a vibrant food scene from renowned establishments like Au Cheval to the historic deep-dish pizzas at Lou Malnati's. Moreover, cultural institutions such as The Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park provide residents with enriching experiences and beautiful sights. Conversely, Salinas offers a more relaxed pace of life, with the advantage of having a milder climate which allows for year-round outdoor activities in nearby natural preserves like Toro County Park. The city's small community feel brings residents closer together, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration that might be harder to find in the vastness of Chicago. This transition from urban sprawl to coastal calm can significantly impact your daily lifestyle and well-being, depending on what you value most in your living environment.
Chicago vs. Salinas Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Salinas to help you discern the cultural and culinary changes you might experience. Understanding the food scene is crucial in appreciating the local culture and lifestyle of your new home.
| Chicago | Salinas | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-dish pizza | Artichokes |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Tri-tip |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style hot dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan dishes | Veggie burritos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Chicago is renowned for its hearty deep-dish pizzas and flavorful Italian beef, Salinas offers a fresh perspective with its artichoke dishes and tri-tip, reflecting California's agricultural abundance. In Chicago, neighborhoods such as the Loop and River North are food meccas where you can find iconic restaurants like Lou Malnati's for deep-dish pizza or Alinea for a high-end dining experience. Salinas, on the other hand, is proud of its local produce, with restaurants like Salinas City BBQ showcasing the area's best meats and The Steinbeck House offering a taste of local history. This transition from the urban foodie scene of Chicago to the produce-rich offerings of Salinas provides an exciting culinary journey for any newcomer.
Chicago vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison
As you're transitioning from Chicago, IL, to Salinas, CA, finding the right spots to dine can be crucial in making your new area feel like home. This comparison aims to connect you with your next favorite haunts by guiding you from Chicago eateries to their Salinas counterparts . Let’s simplify your culinary journey and keep your taste buds happy.
| Chicago | Salinas | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Gabriel's Fine Dining | Offering an inventive, gourmet experience similar to Alinea's innovative approach. |
| Portillo's Hot Dogs | El Charrito | Known for its casual vibe and local favorite, resembling Portillo’s dedication to quality fast foods. |
| Girl & The Goat | Patria | Offers eclectic dishes in a lively atmosphere echoing the unique dining experience of Girl & The Goat. |
| Pequod's Pizza | Gino's Fine Italian Food | Although more traditionally Italian, Gino’s serves up hearty pizzas reminding one of Pequod's deep dish. |
| Au Cheval | XL Public House | With its famed burger, Au Cheval's equivalent in Salinas lies in XL’s mouthwatering burgers and casual pub atmosphere. |
| Smoque BBQ | Somos BBQ & Brew | Both known for their smoked meats and homey vibes, Somos offers a similar satisfaction for BBQ enthusiasts. |
| The Purple Pig | Rancho Cielo | A farm-to-table experience that rivals The Purple Pig's charcuterie and array of Mediterranean delights. |
| Frontera Grill | Águila | Flaunting authentic Mexican flavors and a vibrant atmosphere that pays homage to Frontera Grill’s legendary status. |
| Gene & Jude's | Zeph's One Stop | While more of a general eatery, Zeph’s offers a similarly unpretentious approach to serving up beloved classics. |
| Roister | Chef Lee's | Known for its innovative yet comforting dishes, providing an atmospheric nod to Roister's dynamic dining experience. |
When seeking out the best dining experiences that Salinas has to offer, it's wonderful to discover places like Gabriel's Fine Dining and Patria, which not only match the high standards set by iconic Chicago restaurants like Alinea and Girl & The Goat but also offer their unique local charm. Similarly, transitioning from the beloved Chicago deep dish to Salinas's best, you'll find Gino's Fine Italian Food ready to satisfy that pizza craving with a local twist. And for those barbecue aficionados, Somos BBQ & Brew in Salinas brings a piece of Chicago's renowned Smoque BBQ into the heart of California with its commitment to quality smoked meats. These equivalents not only reassure you of finding familiar tastes but also encourage exploring the rich, local culinary landscape.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, evaluating the real estate market is crucial for a seamless transition. Understanding how Chicago, IL and Salinas, CA stack up in terms of housing will aid in making informed decisions. This comparison delves into varying facets of living environments, offering insights into costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle offerings in two diverse cities.
| Comparison | Chicago | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Historic Mix | Craftsman and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake Views, Access to Public Transport | Proximity to Agriculture, Quiet Neighborhoods |
When moving from Chicago to Salinas, you'll notice a distinct shift not only in the housing market but also in the lifestyle each city promotes. Chicago's diverse architectural landscape, blending modern skyscrapers with historic homes, contrasts with Salinas's predominance of Craftsman and Ranch style homes, reflecting its more suburban feel. The higher walkability and urban lifestyle score in Chicago aligns with its dense, vibrant city life, full of amenities nearly at your doorstep. In comparison, Salinas offers a quieter, more laid-back environment, with an emphasis on community and agricultural surroundings. This change in pace might be exactly what you're looking for, or it could be a challenging adjustment, depending on your lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA
1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.
2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.
3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.
Chicago vs. Salinas Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another involves many considerations, and understanding how the weather compares between Chicago, IL and Salinas, CA is crucial. This comparison will highlight differences in climate you should expect, helping you prepare for your new environment.
Chicago, IL
Salinas, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Salinas, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Salinas, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Salinas, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Chicago and Salinas experience a similar average annual humidity, the overall climates are quite different. Salinas enjoys a milder temperature year-round and significantly more days of sunshine, making it an attractive destination for those who prefer less extreme weather conditions. Unlike Chicago, which faces harsh winters with considerable snowfall and summers that can be quite humid, Salinas offers a more consistent climate with cool summers and mild winters. Furthermore, the natural disaster risks shift from blizzards and tornadoes to earthquakes and wildfires as you move from Chicago to Salinas. These changes in weather patterns and risks are important to consider for your lifestyle and preparedness in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Salinas
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape in your new home compares to what you're used to. This comparison between Chicago, IL and Salinas, CA aims to shed light on various economic aspects to help you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Chicago | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $80,154 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from Chicago to Salinas, you'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living, with Salinas being markedly higher. This increase is reflected in areas such as housing and daily expenses. Despite the higher cost, the average household income in Salinas is also elevated, which can help mitigate the financial impact. State and sales tax rates are higher in California, which is crucial to consider when budgeting. Interestingly, the primary industries differ greatly between the two cities, with Chicago focusing on finance and IT, while Salinas boasts a strong agricultural base. This industry shift hints at different employment opportunities. Understanding these financial nuances will prepare you for a smoother transition to your new home city.
Chicago vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison
In considering a move from Chicago, IL, to Salinas, CA, it's essential to get acquainted with the communities you'll be joining. This overview provides a comparison of the politics between Chicago & Salinas and gives insight into the religious landscape of both cities, presenting a dynamic view of the social fabric you are about to become a part of.
| Chicago | Salinas | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic | Democratic |
| Local Politics | Highly active, diverse representation | Community-centered, agriculture-focused |
| Religion | Diverse: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, etc. | Primarily Christian, with significant Catholic presence |
While both Chicago and Salinas lean Democratic in political makeup, the nature of their local politics diverges somewhat, reflecting each city's unique character. Chicago is known for its highly active political scene and diverse representation, echoing the city's vast demographic mix. Salinas, while also Democratic, focuses more on issues pertinent to its community, particularly those tied to its agricultural roots. The religious landscape presents a rich tapestry as well; Chicago's religious makeup is incredibly diverse, hosting a wide array of faiths. Salinas, by contrast, has a significant Catholic presence, indicative of its strong Latino community. This comparison should provide a clearer picture of the social environment awaiting you.
Chicago vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Salinas, CA requires adjusting to new driving and transit differences. This comparison between Chicago & Salinas will help you better understand the daily commute and traffic.
| Comparison | Chicago | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.7 | 23.5 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with CTA | More challenging |
When comparing the two, you'll notice that Chicago has a higher average commute time and more traffic congestion than Salinas. However, Chicago also boasts a robust public transit system, rated highly, with the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) providing comprehensive coverage that makes it possible to live without a car. On the other hand, Salinas offers a more relaxed pace with less congestion and shorter commute times but has a less extensive public transit system, making it more challenging to rely solely on public transportation.
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