Best Irvine to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sun-soaked streets of Irvine, CA, to the bustling city vibes of Chicago, IL, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading in the laid-back Orange County lifestyle for the Windy City's towering skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza. Given the distance and complexities of such a move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're matched with the best, making your journey to Chicago as smooth as possible.
Best Irvine to Chicago Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Irvine guide.
5 Best Irvine to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helpe...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
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 movi...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
About Safe-Way Moving, Inc.
As a family-owned and operated moving company, Safe-Way Moving, Inc. has served all of Orange County since 2007. It offers both residential ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
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.
Irvine vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from Irvine, CA to Chicago, IL, it can feel like stepping into a whole new world. To bridge this transition, let's compare the top neighborhoods in Irvine, CA with similar neighborhoods in Chicago, IL . This guide is designed to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home by drawing parallels with what you already know and love.
| Irvine | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Woodbridge | Lakeview | Family-friendly with vibrant community events |
| Northwood | Lincoln Park | Offers expansive parks and top-rated schools |
| Turtle Rock | Ravenswood | Known for its quiet residential streets and greenery |
| Shady Canyon | Bucktown | Boasts unique homes and a close-knit community vibe |
| Quail Hill | Wicker Park | Offers trendy dining and boutique shopping |
| Westpark | Andersonville | Diverse and vibrant with a rich history |
| Woodbury | Roscoe Village | Family-oriented with a small-town feel |
| University Park | Hyde Park | Intellectual hub with historic landmarks |
| Portola Springs | Logan Square | Known for its arts scene and nightlife |
| Great Park Neighborhoods | South Loop | Modern and bustling with cultural attractions |
In comparing these neighborhoods, you'll discover each has its own unique charm that might remind you of home. For example, Lakeview in Chicago is reminiscent of Woodbridge with its family-friendly atmosphere and community-focused events like those found at Gallagher Way. Turtle Rock's tranquil and scenic environment echoes through Ravenswood's leafy streets and historic architecture, perfect for those leisurely afternoon strolls you love. Quail Hill and Wicker Park both attract young professionals and foodies with an affinity for trendy dining spots such as Big Star and boutique stores like Gather Home + Lifestyle. Lastly, if the intellectual and culturally rich atmosphere of University Park sparked your curiosity, Hyde Park's robust history, anchored by the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry, will certainly captivate your imagination further.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Chicago
Making the big move from Irvine, CA, to Chicago, IL, requires weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to spotlight the trade-offs between leaving Irvine for Chicago , providing an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding these aspects will help you prepare better for what's ahead.
Irvine, CA- High living costs
- Limited public transit
- Mild winters
- Smaller job market
Chicago, IL- More affordable housing
- Extensive public transit
- Vibrant seasons
- Diverse job market
Chicago, IL- Higher crime rate
- No natural beaches
- Colder winters
- Variable air quality
Irvine, CA- Low crime rate
- Proximity to beaches
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Clean air
While moving from Irvine to Chicago brings about a change in seasons, allowing you to experience the vibrancy of colors from spring through autumn, Chicago's colder winters are something to prepare for. Chicago, being a city with a rich cultural history, offers a plethora of activities, from visiting the Art Institute of Chicago to enjoying a concert in Millennium Park. Food lovers will delight in the city's diverse culinary scene, featuring everything from deep-dish pizzas at Giordano's to gourmet experiences along the Magnificent Mile. Moreover, Chicago's extensive public transit system surpasses Irvine's, making it easier and more efficient to explore this vibrant city and its neighborhoods.
Irvine vs. Chicago Food Guide
Food is a fundamental element of local culture and living experience. To help you transition smoothly, we're providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine & Chicago . This guide aims to offer insights into the culinary scenes of your current and future homes, so you can anticipate the flavors that await you.
| Irvine | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Poke | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Vegan Deep-dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Irvine to Chicago, you'll notice a stark contrast in the food scene. In Irvine, the cuisine is heavily influenced by Asian and Mexican cultures, offering a rich variety of seafood, tacos, and vegan options. Places like Habuya Okinawan Dining offer a taste of Japan right in California. Chicago, known for its hearty deep-dish pizzas and meaty sandwiches, also has its share of innovative vegan cuisine, such as the vegan deep-dish pizza found in many local pizzerias. Chicago's foodie scene is bustling with iconic eateries like Lou Malnati's and Alinea, showcasing the city's diverse culinary prowess from classic to contemporary dishes.
Irvine vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
For many, food is integral to feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison between Irvine, CA, and Chicago, IL, aims to make your transition smoother by guiding you to new favorites reminiscent of your current go-to spots.
| Irvine | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| HiroNori Craft Ramen | Ramen-San | Authentic Japanese ramen with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Mendocino Farms | Little Goat Diner | Creative sandwiches and an upbeat vibe |
| Din Tai Fung | Duck Duck Goat | Expertly crafted Asian dumplings and cuisine |
| North Italia | Eataly | Italian dining with a modern twist |
| Tacos & Co | Big Star | High-quality tacos and a great selection of tequilas |
| Kura Revolving Sushi Bar | Sushi-San | Fresh and innovative sushi rolls in a fun environment |
| Urban Plates | Beatrix | Health-focused dishes with a homey feel |
| Habana | Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Authentic Spanish tapas and a lively atmosphere |
| Portola Coffee Roasters | Intelligentsia Coffee | Specialty coffee with an emphasis on quality |
| 85°C Bakery Cafe | Stan's Donuts & Coffee | Variety of baked goods and excellent coffee |
Finding a comparable dining experience in a new city can be a delightful adventure. For instance, diners who relish the meticulously prepared ramen at HiroNori Craft Ramen in Irvine will find a similar dedication to authentic flavors and ingredients at Ramen-San in Chicago. If you've enjoyed the upscale, farm-to-table sandwiches at Mendocino Farms, Little Goat Diner in Chicago offers a creative twist on classic American diner fare, emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients and inventive recipes. Moreover, sushi enthusiasts will appreciate Sushi-San's fresh approach to traditional and modern sushi dishes, echoing the innovative and high-quality experience found at Kura Revolving Sushi Bar in Irvine. Each of these Chicago establishments mirrors the vibrant community and rich culinary scene found back in Irvine, ensuring a seamless transition for your tastebuds.
Ready to start your move?
Irvine vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate profoundly influences the relocation process, making it essential to compare Irvine, CA and Chicago, IL in terms of housing features like cost, architecture, and overall lifestyle. Understanding these differences helps in making an informed decision when moving.
| Comparison | Irvine | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Spanish | Brick and Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Energy Efficiency, Community Amenities | Historic Details, Proximity to Transit |
In the pursuit of your perfect home, consider Irvine's modern and Spanish-influenced architecture if a newer home appeals to you, or Chicago's rich history reflected in brick and greystone buildings for a touch of character. Chicago's superior walkability and urban lifestyle score indicate a bustling city life, ideal for those who thrive in vibrant, densely populated areas. However, those prioritizing energy efficiency and community features might find Irvine more appealing. Regardless, both cities offer unique lifestyles and housing options, making them worthy contenders for your next move.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Irvine vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Irvine, CA to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand how the weather will shift from one climate to another. This comparison aims to highlight the differences you should expect and prepare for, making your transition as smooth as possible. Get ready to embrace the varied temperatures and weather patterns that Irvine and Chicago have to offer.
Irvine, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Irvine, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Irvine | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving to Chicago from Irvine will introduce you to a range of weather changes, notably in winter temperatures and snowfall. Chicago experiences harsh winters with significant snow, a stark contrast to Irvine's mild, wet winters. The summer temperatures might feel surprisingly similar, but Chicago's higher humidity levels can make the heat feel more oppressive. Moreover, the dramatic difference in annual sunshine days could impact your daily lifestyle, potentially necessitating a shift in your routine and hobbies. Being aware of and preparing for these differences will help ease your transition and allow you to enjoy the unique climates of your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Irvine to Chicago
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding how the cost of living in Irvine, CA compares with Chicago, IL is crucial. It affects everything from your day-to-day expenses to your overall financial well-being. This comparison will help you grasp the economic shifts you might experience.
| Comparison | Irvine | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $105,774 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.72 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Health Services | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Higher |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
Highlighting differences between Irvine and Chicago, you'll find Irvine has a significantly higher average household income, which is reflective of its cost of living index. Although the state income tax is markedly higher in California compared to Illinois, Irvine's property tax rates are much lower than Chicago's. However, sales tax in Chicago is considerably higher, which can affect daily spending. Industrywise, Irvine leans towards technology and education, suggesting a vibrant job market in these sectors. Meanwhile, Chicago's diverse economy includes finance and manufacturing. Notably, both cities exhibit contrasting levels of affluence, poverty, and homelessness, directly impacting the social and economic landscape you'll be moving into.
Irvine vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick snapshot to help you understand the comparison of the politics between Irvine & Chicago , alongside a look at the religious landscape of both cities. This overview will give you a better sense of the community you're moving into.
| Irvine | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately liberal | Strongly liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive on global warming, tech, and healthcare | Progressive with an emphasis on social justice, housing, and education |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Mariners Church | Diverse; significant Catholic presence with iconic Holy Name Cathedral |
When you're transitioning from Irvine to Chicago, you'll find that both cities embrace progressive values, though the local issues and priorities might slightly differ. Irvine's focus leans towards global warming, technology advancements, and healthcare policies, reflecting its prominence in these sectors. On the other hand, Chicago's political landscape is deeply engaged with social justice, housing, and education, issues that resonate deeply within this historically rich urban environment. Religion in both cities is diverse, with Irvine hosting thriving communities like Mariners Church and Chicago boasting landmarks like the Holy Name Cathedral, reflecting the city's significant Catholic presence.
Irvine vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Irvine, CA to Chicago, IL means adapting to new traffic patterns and transit options. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Irvine & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like.
| Comparison | Irvine | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Irvine, your commute might generally be shorter, but the city's public transit options are limited, making a car almost essential for daily travel. On the other hand, Chicago offers a more robust public transit system, thanks to the extensive Chicago Transit Authority network, including buses and the 'L' train system, making it much easier to navigate the city without a vehicle. Furthermore, Chicago's higher traffic congestion score reflects its population density and urban structure, which can affect your daily commute time. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your expectations and plan your move more effectively.
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