Best Chicago to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,179 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Chicago to Santa Rosa 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 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 Santa Rosa. 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 Santa Rosa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Celis Movers | 9.37 | 9.32 | 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 | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Santa Rosa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,179 miles from Chicago, IL to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $3,634 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Santa Rosa move is roughly $8,774. 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 | $2,438 | 300 ft³ | 8.13 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,634 | 450 ft³ | 8.08 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,020 | 750 ft³ | 8.03 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,774 | 1100 ft³ | 7.98 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,682 | 1600 ft³ | 7.93 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,177 | 1800 ft³ | 7.88 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Rosa to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Santa Rosa 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) |
Celis Movers
601 Petaluma Blvd N C
Petaluma, CA, 94952
About Celis Movers
Celis Movers is a family-owned Petaluma business committed to providing quality moves that don’t break the bank. For over 30 years,...
Services
- Local moving services
- Nationwide moving services
- Strategic warehousing locations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2594954 / 921948 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 95,000 (2023) |
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. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when moving from a city you know well to one you don't. To ease this transition, we'll compare popular Chicago, IL neighborhoods with those in Santa Rosa, CA, finding the closest equivalents in the vibrant locales between both cities. This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| Chicago | Santa Rosa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Montecito Heights | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| Wicker Park | Ridgway Historic District | Artsy, vibrant community |
| Gold Coast | Fountaingrove | Upscale, scenic views |
| Old Town | Cherry Street Historic District | Rich in history, charming homes |
| The Loop | Downtown Santa Rosa | Bustling, cultural center |
| Logan Square | West End | Diverse, eclectic dining |
| Hyde Park | Bennett Valley | Serene, academic atmosphere |
| River North | Railroad Square | Trendy, nightlife hub |
| Lakeview | Oakmont | Community-oriented, outdoor activities |
| Andersonville | Juilliard Park | Cozy, local shops |
In the heart of Chicago's Lincoln Park, the lush green spaces and family-friendly atmosphere are unmatched, much like Montecito Heights in Santa Rosa, where families can enjoy similar amenities and outdoor activities. For those enchanted by the artsy and vibrant community of Wicker Park, Santa Rosa's Ridgway Historic District offers an eclectic mix of art galleries, such as the Santa Rosa Arts Center, and dining experiences that echo the lively vibe of your Chicago favorite. On the other end, the upscale allure and scenic views of Chicago's Gold Coast find their match in Fountaingrove, renowned for its luxurious homes and panoramic views of Santa Rosa’s rolling hills. And if the cultural and bustling energy of The Loop captivates you, Downtown Santa Rosa won’t disappoint with its array of theaters, like the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, and cultural events that keep the vibrant heart of the city beating.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Santa Rosa
Moving to a new city always comes with its set of challenges and triumphs. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Santa Rosa, CA . By comparing the cons and pros through the following charts, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits you in your new home.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- Higher crime rates
- Dense urban living
- Hot, humid summers
- Lower air quality
Santa Rosa, CA- Milder climate
- Lower crime rates
- Spacious, natural surroundings
- Comfortable, dry summers
- Higher air quality
Santa Rosa, CA- Smaller cultural scene
- Limited public transit
- Lesser dining variety
- Fewer entertainment options
- Quieter nightlife
Chicago, IL- Vibrant cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Various dining options
- Vast entertainment options
- Diverse nightlife
Relocating from the bustling city of Chicago to the serene landscapes of Santa Rosa presents a mix of expectations. Chicago's vibrant cultural scene, including landmarks like the Art Institute of Chicago and a wide variety of dining options ranging from deep-dish pizza joints to upscale restaurants, contrasts with Santa Rosa's quieter but equally enriching offerings. Santa Rosa, nestled in California's wine country, is home to parks such as the Trione-Annadel State Park and unique local businesses like Russian River Brewing Company. This relaxed atmosphere, combined with access to outdoor activities and a focus on local cuisine and wineries, presents a refreshing shift from Chicago's fast-paced lifestyle. Though you might miss the extensive public transit and vast entertainment options of Chicago, the trade-off includes enjoying a milder climate and embracing a lifestyle closer to nature in Santa Rosa.
Chicago vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Santa Rosa, highlighting the importance of food as a part of the local culture and living experience. Whether you're looking for iconic dishes, vibrant street food, or vegetarian options, this comparison will help you get acquainted with your new food scene.
| Chicago | Santa Rosa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Wine Country Cuisine |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Grass-fed Beef Burger |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Chicago-style Vegan Pizza | Quinoa Stuffed Peppers |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, the iconic deep-dish pizza can be best enjoyed at places like Lou Malnati's, which epitomizes the city's rich culinary traditions. On the other hand, Santa Rosa, nestled in the heart of California's wine country, offers a unique blend of local ingredients and wine country cuisine, with restaurants like Willow Wood Market Cafe standing out for their local flavors. Santa Rosa's focus on health and sustainability is reflected in its higher score for vegan-friendliness and fitness consciousness, making it a haven for those who prioritize these aspects in their lifestyle. Whether you're indulging in a Chicago-style hot dog while exploring the vibrant streets of Chicago or enjoying fresh fish tacos in the relaxed atmosphere of Santa Rosa, you're sure to find a rich, diverse food scene waiting for you.
Chicago vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city is key to making it feel like home. This restaurant comparison guide is specifically designed to bridge the gap for those moving from Chicago, IL to Santa Rosa, CA, focusing on finding comparable dining experiences. Whether you're in search of a high-end meal or a casual bite, this chart will help you find your new favorite spots using the flavors of your current hometown as a guide.
| Chicago | Santa Rosa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Stark's Steak & Seafood | Offers a high-end dining experience with exceptional quality. |
| Girl & The Goat | Willi's Wine Bar | Famous for its inventive small plates that span global cuisine. |
| Portillo's Hot Dogs | Hank's Creekside Restaurant | Beloved local spot for American comfort foods & casual eats. |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Mountain Mike's Pizza | Known for deep-dish pizzas reminiscent of Chicago's own. |
| The Purple Pig | Spinster Sisters | Offers a gourmet, eclectic menu in a casual yet refined atmosphere. |
| Giordano's | Mary's Pizza Shack | While not a deep dish, it's a local staple for delicious pizza. |
| Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | El Coqui | Authentic Puerto Rican cuisine mirroring the vibrant flavors found at Frontera Grill. |
| Smoque BBQ | Sonoma County BBQ | Provides a focus on smoked meats and traditional BBQ dishes. |
| The Berghoff Restaurant | Russian River Brewing Company | Offers a great selection of craft beers with hearty, delicious fare. |
| The Signature Room at the 95th | John Ash & Co. | Known for its sophisticated ambiance and exceptional dining experience. |
Foodies making the move from Chicago to Santa Rosa will delight in discovering that their new city offers a diverse culinary scene that echoes the familiar flavors of their old home, albeit with a Northern California twist. A visit to Stark's Steak & Seafood, for example, can replicate the upscale dining experience of Alinea, focusing on prime quality and innovation in each dish. On the more casual side, Hank's Creekside Restaurant serves as a comfort food haven similar to Portillo's, providing that sense of culinary comfort new residents often crave. And for those who cherish the deep, flavorful crust of a Chicago-style pizza, Mountain Mike's Pizza in Santa Rosa strives to offer a taste that reminisces about Lou Malnati's famed pies. These establishments are not just about food; they're about recreating those cherished dining moments and fostering new memories in a fresh setting.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison will highlight the housing market, affordability, and lifestyle between Chicago, IL, and Santa Rosa, CA, to assist in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Chicago | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Brick Bungalows, Greystones | Craftsman, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lakefront Views, Proximity to Public Transit | Vineyard Proximity, Large Lots |
Moving from Chicago to Santa Rosa represents a significant change in lifestyle, particularly in terms of housing and community vibes. While Chicago is lauded for its architectural diversity and urban lifestyle—highlighting lakefront views and excellent public transit, Santa Rosa offers a more laid-back atmosphere with its Craftsman and Ranch-style homes nestled among vineyards. Here, housing costs are notably higher, but you're also paying for the luxury of space and proximity to some of California’s premium vineyards. Walkability in Santa Rosa is lower, so you might find yourself relying more on a car than you would in Chicago. This move invites a transition from the urban zest of Chicago to the serene, spacious, and nature-immersed lifestyle of Santa Rosa.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA
1. Montgomery Village: With its numerous pathways and the nearby Howarth Park, your furry friends will enjoy countless hours of outdoor activity and socializing.
2. Oakmont: This neighborhood is known for its hiking club and proximity to Annadel State Park, offering expansive areas for you and your pets to explore the great outdoors together.
3. Bennett Valley: Home to the Galvin Community Park, which features a dedicated dog park where your pets can run free and socialize with other dogs in a safe and friendly environment.
Chicago vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations
When preparing for a move from Chicago, IL to Santa Rosa, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather patterns between these two locations compare. Knowing this will help you adjust to your new environment more smoothly and plan for any necessary changes in your daily routine or wardrobe.
Chicago, IL
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Santa Rosa, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Santa Rosa, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from the windy, chilly climate of Chicago to the milder, more temperate weather in Santa Rosa will be a noticeable shift. You'll enjoy significantly more sunny days and far less humidity in Santa Rosa, fostering outdoor activities and an overall healthier lifestyle. The lack of snow coupled with Santa Rosa's consistent good air quality represents a major change in seasonal preparation and daily comfort. However, it's also important to prepare for the unique natural disaster threats, such as wildfires and earthquakes, that could affect Santa Rosa.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Santa Rosa
When considering a move from one city to another, comparing financial aspects can provide crucial insights into what life might be like in your new home. This chart aims to outline the key financial differences between Chicago, IL and Santa Rosa, CA , helping you gauge how your finances might be affected by the move.
| Comparison | Chicago | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $86,459 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
While the average household income in Santa Rosa is higher than in Chicago, it's accompanied by a substantially higher cost of living index, indicating that your expenses in Santa Rosa can be significantly greater, especially in housing and day-to-day expenditures. The state income tax in California is also notably higher than in Illinois, which could affect your take-home pay. On a positive note, Santa Rosa boasts a lower average property and sales tax compared to Chicago, which may provide some financial relief. The contrast in top industries between the two cities reflects the economic diversity and job opportunities that might be available to you, further influencing your decision to move.
Chicago vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome to a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed at providing you with insights into this is a comparison of the politics between Chicago & Santa Rosa. Here, we aim to highlight the differences in the political and religious makeup of the two cities, offering you a glimpse into what to expect as you transition from one community to another.
| Chicago | Santa Rosa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Mostly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on social issues, urban development | Emphasis on environmental policies, community health |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence | Varied, progressive religious communities |
As you plan your move from Chicago to Santa Rosa, understanding the cultural and political landscape can be invaluable. In Chicago, politics are heavily Democratic, with an urban agenda that prioritizes social issues and development. The religious scene is diverse, but there is a notable Catholic influence. On the other hand, Santa Rosa, while also leaning Democratic, puts a stronger emphasis on environmental policies and community health, reflecting California's overall progressive stance. The religious spectrum in Santa Rosa mirrors its political diversity, with a range of progressive religious communities. This contrast highlights the unique cultural nuances that define each city, giving you a clearer idea of the social environment you’re moving into.
Chicago vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can present a maze of new routines, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This comparison will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Chicago & Santa Rosa, shedding light on how transit and traffic differ between these unique cities.
| Comparison | Chicago | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, quite easily | More challenging |
Chicago enjoys a robust public transit system, making it possible for many residents to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. The city's Chicago Transit Authority operates an extensive network of buses and trains, covering a vast area and serving millions yearly. On the contrary, Santa Rosa, while offering its CityBus and other local transit services, has a less extensive public transit system. This makes owning a car more of a necessity. However, Santa Rosa makes up for this with significantly lower traffic congestion levels, offering a more relaxed pace of life with shorter average commute times.
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