Best Chicago to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,125 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Chicago to San Diego 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 The Rock Movers), 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 San Diego. 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 San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.32 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,125 miles from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,588 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to San Diego move is roughly $8,661. 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 | $2,407 | 300 ft³ | 8.02 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,588 | 450 ft³ | 7.97 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,943 | 750 ft³ | 7.92 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,661 | 1100 ft³ | 7.87 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,518 | 1600 ft³ | 7.82 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,993 | 1800 ft³ | 7.77 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
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) |
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. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move, it can be helpful to find the familiar in the unknown. This guide compares some of the top neighborhoods in Chicago, IL with their closest counterparts in San Diego, CA, helping you find a new home that feels right. We'll look at the essence and character of local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & San Diego, CA to make your transition smoother.
| Chicago | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Pacific Beach | Vibrant nightlife, youthful vibe |
| Wicker Park | North Park | Hipster-friendly, great local shops |
| Gold Coast | La Jolla | Upscale living, stunning views |
| Loop | Downtown San Diego | Urban center, cultural hotspot |
| River North | Little Italy | Trendy restaurants, art scene |
| Hyde Park | Hillcrest | Diverse community, cultural attractions |
| Andersonville | South Park | Quaint boutiques, craft eateries |
| Old Town | Gaslamp Quarter | Historic architecture, entertainment hub |
| Logan Square | East Village | Artistic community, trendy bars |
| West Loop | Little Italy | Dynamic dining scene, trendy vibes |
In comparing neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Pacific Beach, you'll find both offer an array of nightlife options and attract a younger, vibrant crowd. Bars like Lion's Share in San Diego echo the vibe of Chicago's aliveOne, with their unique selections and lively atmospheres. Moving from Wicker Park to North Park, you make a seamless transition between eclectic, artsy locales steeped in local culture with an abundance of craft stores and independent coffee shops like Communal Coffee. Meanwhile, the upscale residential feel and scenic coastlines of La Jolla perfectly match the luxury and prestige found in Chicago's Gold Coast, though with the added benefit of San Diego's stunning ocean views. Each pair of neighborhoods showcases unique charms and conveniences that could make your transition feel more like a new chapter in the same great story.
Things to Do in San Diego
Visit the San Diego Zoo- Tour the USS Midway Museum
- Explore Balboa Park
- Relax at Coronado Beach
- Dine in Little Italy
- Experience SeaWorld San Diego
- Play golf at Torrey Pines
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to San Diego
Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that can bring both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA . Exploring these aspects will help you weigh your options carefully and make an informed decision about your move.
Chicago, IL- Cold winters
- Higher crime rate
- State income tax
- Less sun
San Diego, CA- Mild winters
- Lower crime rate
- No state income tax
- More sunshine
San Diego, CA- Higher living costs
- Smaller city
- Dependence on cars
- Less historic charm
Chicago, IL- Vibrant culture
- Diverse food scene
- Excellent public transit
- Rich history
Chicago is known for its vibrant culture and rich history, visible in its diverse food scene and neighborhood character. Places like the Field Museum and Lincoln Park offer cultural and green space that contrasts with San Diego's famous San Diego Zoo and the beauty of Balboa Park. Although San Diego might have higher living costs, it compensates with its milder winters, an abundance of sunshine, and a more laid-back lifestyle. The move from Chicago to San Diego would mean exchanging the Windy City's bustling urban environment and excellent public transit system for Southern California's beach vibes, outdoor activities, and dependency on cars for transportation. Each city offers unique pros and cons; your preferences will guide your choice.
Chicago vs. San Diego Food Guide
As you prepare for your move, understanding the vibrant local cuisines you’re transitioning between is crucial. This comparison highlights the rich flavors and dining experiences unique to each city. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just love to explore local dishes, this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & San Diego that aims to give you a taste of what your new home has to offer.
| Chicago | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-Dish Pizza | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | California Burrito |
| 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 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring the food landscapes of Chicago and San Diego reveals distinct flavors and experiences unique to each city. In Chicago, the legendary deep-dish pizza can be savored at places like Aurelio's, while San Diego offers coastal delights with its famed fish tacos available in spots like Pacific Beach. Chicago's hearty meat dishes like Italian Beef contrast with San Diego’s fresh Carne Asada, a staple in the city's vibrant Mexican food scene. Not to mention, both cities boast a growing vegan scene, but San Diego, with its health-conscious lifestyle, offers a plethora of vegan options like the jackfruit tacos you can enjoy in the trendy neighborhoods of North Park. As you make your move, dive into these diverse culinary worlds that await you in your new city.
Chicago vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Knowing where to dine plays a big part in feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison guide Chicago to San Diego is designed to help you swiftly find your next favorite spot, using familiar flavors from your current hometown as an invaluable guide.
| Chicago | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Addison | High-end dining experience with a focus on innovation |
| Portillo's | Phil's BBQ | Iconic local spot for casual dining and meat lovers |
| Deep Dish Pizza | Lefty's Chicago Pizzeria | Authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza |
| The Purple Pig | Ironside Fish & Oyster | Eclectic seafood in a vibrant setting |
| Rick Bayless's Frontera Grill | Puesto | Modern Mexican cuisine with an innovative twist |
| Girl & The Goat | Herb & Wood | Creative American dishes in a stylish space |
| Giordano's | Regents Pizzeria | Offers both Chicago and New York-style pizzas, capturing the essence of Giordano's |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Eddie V's Prime Seafood | Upscale steak and seafood with a luxurious feel |
| Publican | Ballast Point Brewery & Kitchen | High-quality American fare with craft beers |
| Smoque BBQ | Grand Ole BBQ | Authentic, slow-cooked BBQ with a cult following |
For those missing the hearty, indulgent slices of Chicago-style pizza, Lefty's Chicago Pizzeria in San Diego offers an authentic taste of the Windy City right on the West Coast. The transition from Alinea's elaborate tasting menus might find a comforting resemblance in the culinary artistry at Addison, where the innovative dishes and luxurious dining experience mirror Chicago's high-end dining scene. Meanwhile, BBQ enthusiasts who swear by Smoque's flavors will appreciate the craftsmanship and authenticity of Grand Ole BBQ, where the slow-cooked meats and homely ambiance bring a slice of Chicago's beloved BBQ culture to San Diego.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial aspects to consider when planning a move. Understanding how the cities of Chicago and San Diego compare will help you make an informed decision on which location best suits your lifestyle and budget. This comparison focuses on housing costs, styles, and the overall experience of living in these vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Chicago | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Chicago School, Greystones | Spanish Revival, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to public transport | Ocean views, outdoor living spaces |
When moving from Chicago to San Diego, you'll notice significant differences in housing costs and styles. San Diego's median home price and rent are notably higher, reflecting its coastal location and desirability. However, the investment comes with perks, such as the prevalent Spanish Revival architecture and abundant outdoor living spaces, catering to the city's temperate climate. While Chicago boasts a higher walkability score, indicative of an urban lifestyle where amenities and public transportation are more accessible, San Diego offers a laid-back environment with a focus on the outdoors. Choosing between the two depends on your priorities: urban convenience and cultural heritage or seaside living and year-round sunshine.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.
2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.
3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.
Chicago vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can dramatically alter your daily life, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding the climatic differences between Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to prepare you for the weather changes you'll experience, ensuring you know what to expect once you relocate.
Chicago, IL
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When comparing Chicago and San Diego, the marked difference in winter temperatures and sunshine days stands out. In San Diego, mild winters and significantly more sunny days create an environment that allows for outdoor activities year-round. Contrarily, Chicago's harsh winters with significant snowfall can limit these activities for months. Additionally, the shift in natural disaster risks from blizzards and tornadoes in Chicago to earthquakes and wildfires in San Diego requires new types of emergency preparedness. Understanding these variations helps in adapting to your new home with confidence.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to San Diego
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your expenses might shift. This comparison aims to shed light on the financial landscape you're entering, from housing costs to taxes. Understanding the cost of living, income prospects, and tax rates between Chicago and San Diego will help you prepare for your new economic environment.
| Comparison | Chicago | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | Up to 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.12 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare | BioTech, Military, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Notable |
Moving from Chicago to San Diego, you'll encounter a stark difference in the cost of living, primarily influenced by the housing market. San Diego's higher average household income reflects the need to offset these costs, yet higher wages may not fully compensate for the elevated expenses. Despite California's progressive tax system, potentially higher taxes for higher earners in San Diego contrast with Illinois's flat tax rate. Meanwhile, Chicago's significant sales tax can impact daily expenditures. Adapting to San Diego also means adjusting to its economic structure, with a robust presence in BioTech and Tourism versus Chicago's Manufacturing and Retail sectors.
Chicago vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA presents a unique opportunity to explore the diverse communities that characterize these two cities. This quick guide is designed to offer you a glimpse into the comparison of the politics between Chicago & San Diego , as well as the religious landscapes that color the social fabric of each location, providing a comprehensive snapshot at a glance.
| Chicago | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | High Interest in Urban and Community Development | Active on Environmental and Border Issues |
| Religion | Diverse; large Catholic and Protestant communities | Diverse; notable Catholic, Protestant, and increasing Non-religious segments |
When you move from Chicago to San Diego, you'll notice differences and similarities in the political and religious climates. Chicago’s political scene is heavily Democratic with a strong focus on urban development and community issues, reflected in local policies and community activism. In contrast, San Diego leans Democratic but has a distinct emphasis on environmental concerns and border issues, indicative of its geographical location. Religiously, both cities boast diverse populations. Chicago has significant Catholic and Protestant communities actively engaged in local congregations like the Archdiocese of Chicago. Similarly, San Diego's religious landscape is varied, with a noteworthy presence of Catholic and Protestant communities alongside a growing number of non-religious individuals, mirroring broader national trends towards secularism. Understanding these dynamics will help you acclimate to your new home in San Diego.
Chicago vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
In this guide, we aim to offer a better understanding of the daily commute and traffic patterns by comparing the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & San Diego. Whether you're a driving enthusiast or rely on public transit, this comparison will shed light on what to expect when moving from Chicago to San Diego.
| Comparison | Chicago | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, but with challenges | Yes, but more difficult |
While Chicago boasts a robust public transit system, including buses, trains, and the famous "L" subway line, enabling residents to navigate the city without a car, this is more challenging in San Diego due to its lower public transit score. San Diego's beautiful weather and scenic drives might encourage more personal vehicle use compared to Chicago's bustling and compact urban environment. However, the shorter average commute time in San Diego hints at a potentially less stressful daily journey, although the city's traffic congestion is only slightly less than Chicago's. Understanding these nuances can help you better prepare for your new daily routine post-move.
Additional Resources
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