Best Illinois to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Illinois to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,087 mile IL to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 399 Illinois to California 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 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Illinois compared to California. 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 Illinois to California Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | 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 |
| 6 | Murphy Family Movers | 9.29 | 9.35 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Illinois to California
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,087 miles from Illinois to California will cost on average $3,556 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IL to CA move is roughly $8,582. 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 in Illinois and dropoff in California 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 Illinois to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,386 | 300 ft³ | 7.95 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,556 | 450 ft³ | 7.90 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,889 | 750 ft³ | 7.85 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,582 | 1100 ft³ | 7.80 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,404 | 1600 ft³ | 7.75 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,864 | 1800 ft³ | 7.70 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Illinois guide.
Popular Illinois to California Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Illinois to California
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Compare the 6 Best IL to CA 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) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
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) |
Murphy Family Movers
4N951 Old Lafox Rd Unit C
St. Charles, IL, 60175
About Murphy Family Movers
Murphy Family Movers has over 25 years of combined moving experience in Aurora, Illinois. This Aurora, IL mover promises the highest...
Services
- Local Moving
- Interstate Moving
- Professional Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2965334 / 7122 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2023) |
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Illinois to California
Moving from one state to another offers a blend of excitement and challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Illinois to California, highlighting both the benefits and drawbacks. By comparing the Cons of living in Illinois to the Pros of living in California , and vice versa, this comparison seeks to offer a balanced perspective on what to expect from such a significant change.
Illinois- Harsh winters
- Higher taxes
- Less diverse landscapes
- Limited tech industry presence
California- Mild winters
- Greater job opportunities
- Varied natural beauty
- Tech industry hub
California- Higher living cost
- Water scarcity issues
- Heavy traffic areas
- Earthquake risks
Illinois- Affordable housing
- Abundant water sources
- Lower traffic congestion
- Rich historical sites
While the move from Illinois to California invites a change of scenery characterized by California's varied natural beauty, from the iconic beaches of Southern California to the towering forests in Yosemite National Park, it also introduces some challenges. The cost of living in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles is notably higher compared to cities in Illinois, making budgeting and planning crucial. However, for those in the tech industry or looking to break into it, the Silicon Valley offers unmatched job opportunities. Although Californians must content with water scarcity issues and the risk of earthquakes, the state's proactive approach to these challenges, along with its commitment to environmental sustainability, often offsets the negatives. Living in California means access to an unrivaled mix of urban centers, like the bustling streets of Los Angeles, and pristine natural parks, providing a unique lifestyle that balances between the vibrancy of city life and the tranquility of nature.
Illinois vs. California Food Guide
Understanding the local cuisine is vital to immersing yourself in the culture and lifestyle of a new area. This guide will provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Illinois & California, helping you grasp the essence of the food scene in both states before your big move.
| Illinois | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-dish pizza | California roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian beef | Tri-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style hot dog | Fish tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan-based dishes | Acai bowls |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While both Illinois and California offer vibrant and diverse culinary scenes, each has its own distinct flavor. In Illinois, particularly in Chicago, you can dive into the world of deep-dish pizzas and Italian beef sandwiches, embodying the state's rich, comforting flavors. Check out neighborhoods like The Loop or River North for some of the best eating spots. On the west coast, California's love for fresh, local ingredients shines through in dishes like the California roll and health-focused creations like acai bowls, highlighting the state's commitment to wellness and innovation in food. The food truck scene is especially prominent in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, where you can taste a wide range of cuisines on a budget. No matter where you go in California, you're never far from a vegan-friendly restaurant or a spot that epitomizes the state's culinary ethos.
Ready to start your move?
Illinois vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding how real estate in your new destination compares with what you're accustomed to is crucial. This guide compares housing aspects between Illinois and California , offering insight into costs, architecture, and lifestyle . Such comparisons provide a foundation for making informed decisions in one of the most vital aspects of relocating.
| Comparison | Illinois | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Spanish and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, basements | Ocean views, sustainable features |
In comparing Illinois and California, it's important to note not just the stark difference in housing costs but also the lifestyle and aesthetic that come with each state's typical home. Illinois, with its more affordable housing market, often features homes with large yards and basements, catering to a family-friendly environment. On the other hand, California's premium on price brings with it breathtaking ocean views and a focus on sustainability and modern living. This contrast extends to the urban lifestyle rating, which slightly favors California due to its more walkable cities and robust biking infrastructure, reflecting the state's commitment to a healthier, environmentally friendly lifestyle. While Illinois offers a more traditional approach to living spaces, California's real estate market is geared towards those seeking an active, outdoor-oriented life amidst stylish, contemporary designs.
Illinois vs. California Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Illinois to California, understanding the weather differences between these two states can help you adjust more smoothly to your new environment. This comparison will spotlight what to expect and how to prepare for your relocation.
Illinois
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Illinois
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Illinois
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Illinois
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Illinois | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good-Moderate | Varies Widely |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Illinois to California, you'll experience notably milder winters and significantly more sunny days, making outdoor activities possible year-round. However, it's important to prepare for California's higher UV index by adopting sun safety practices. Also, be aware of the risk of natural disasters distinct to each region — tornadoes and storms in Illinois versus earthquakes and wildfires in California. Adjusting to these differences will be key in making your transition as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Illinois to California
Moving from one location to another, it's crucial to gauge how the cost of living, state income tax, and average household income will change. This comparison, particularly focusing on the financial aspects between Illinois and California, will help in making an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Illinois | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $76,708 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94.25 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.31 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.8 | 8.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Services, Agriculture | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
While both states boast abundant opportunities, the cost of living difference between Illinois and California is significant, largely due to California's steep housing prices. California's average household income is higher, but this is somewhat offset by its higher cost of living and maximum state income tax rate, which is the highest in the country. Conversely, Illinois has a more moderate cost of living but also deals with high property taxes. Each state showcases leading industries, suggesting significant employment opportunities, albeit in different sectors. Considering these financial aspects will guide you in preparing for the move and adjusting to the economic environment of your new home.
Illinois vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
When considering relocating from Illinois to California, it's vital to get a quick snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Illinois & California and the religious landscape you're moving into. This overview offers a concise look at the political leanings, local governance, and predominant religious affiliations in both states, helping you understand the cultural and societal environments you'll be transitioning between.
| Illinois | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mixture of liberal urban areas and conservative rural regions | Predominantly liberal, especially in coastal cities |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, with diverse religious communities | Pluralistic, with Christianity prevalent but a significant presence of other faiths |
While both Illinois and California lean Democratic, the level of liberal influence is more pronounced in California, especially within its vast coastline cities. You'll find California's local politics to be more uniformly liberal, contrasting with Illinois, which features a more defined mix of political leanities based on geographic location. Despite this political variance, both states are home to diverse religious communities. However, California stands out for its greater religious pluralism, reflecting its broad spectrum of cultures and beliefs. This move not only situates you within a different political atmosphere but also among a rich mosaic of faiths and cultural heritage.
Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to California
When planning a move from Illinois to California, understanding the differences in educational opportunities is crucial. This guide serves to highlight these variations, helping you make an informed decision about your family's future. The purpose of this comparison is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Illinois and California.
| Illinois | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Illinois Northwestern University University of ChicagoUniversity of California-Berkeley Stanford University University of California-Los Angeles | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Lincoln Elementary School Chicago; South Park Elementary Deerfield; White Eagle Elementary NapervillePoint Vicente Elementary School Rancho Palos Verdes; Hawthorne Elementary Beverly Hills; Amesti Elementary Watsonville | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Kennedy Junior High Lisle; Maple School Northbrook; Daniel Wright Junior High LincolnshireMiller Middle School San Jose; Rancho San Joaquin Middle Irvine; Carmel Valley Middle San Diego | |
Top 3 High School Schools Adlai E. Stevenson High Lincolnshire; Walter Payton College Prep Chicago; Northside College Prep ChicagoHenry M. Gunn High Palo Alto; Whitney High Cerritos; California Academy of Mathematics and Science Carson | |
Top 3 private high schools University of Chicago Lab School Chicago; Francis W. Parker School Chicago; Lake Forest Academy Lake ForestHarvard-Westlake School Los Angeles; Phillips Academy Andover; The Thacher School Ojai | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Latin School of Chicago Chicago; The British International School of Chicago Chicago; Morgan Park Academy ChicagoThe Harker School San Jose; Crossroads School Santa Monica; The Webb Schools Claremont | |
Top 3 School Districts New Trier Township High School District Northfield; Naperville Community Unit School District 203 Naperville; Community Unit School District 200 WheatonPalo Alto Unified School District Palo Alto; San Ramon Valley Unified School District Danville; Irvine Unified School District Irvine | |
In comparing educational options between Illinois and California, it's evident both states offer robust opportunities for quality education. Illinois boasts prestigious institutions like the University of Chicago for higher education and top-performing public schools like Adlai E. Stevenson High. Likewise, California is home to world-renowned universities such as Stanford and high-ranking high schools including Henry M. Gunn High. Particularly noteworthy are the private educational institutions in both states, like the University of Chicago Lab School and Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, providing exceptional education from elementary through high school levels. This comparison reveals significant educational opportunities, whether you're considering public, private, or higher education in either state.
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