Best Los Angeles to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the glitzy sprawl of Los Angeles, where palm trees and movie stars paint the picture of the Californian dream, to the architectural grandeur and deep-dish heart of Chicago is not just a change of scenery—it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. While you swap the "City of Angels" for the "Windy City", you leave behind endless summers for snowy winters, and laid-back vibes for Midwestern hustle. In this journey of over two thousand miles, the importance of entrusting your belongings to professional movers cannot be overstated. That’s where we come in, providing you with the most reliable and trusted movers to ensure that your transition is as smooth and worry-free as possible.
Best Los Angeles to Chicago Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best California Movers | 9.52 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Prodigy Moving & Storage | 9.41 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Redline moving | 9.24 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Los Angeles guide.
5 Best Los Angeles to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry. Th...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
About Prodigy Moving & Storage
Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a locally-...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3983945 / 1492541
MC-430697 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
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 Redline moving
Redline Moving is a professional moving company that specializes in providing high-quality service with a focus on customer satisfaction. Th...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.
Los Angeles vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL can be daunting, but finding familiar surroundings doesn't have to be. This guide compares the local neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & Chicago, IL to help you feel at home in your new city.
| Los Angeles | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Lake | Wicker Park | Hip, artsy vibe with eclectic boutiques and cafes |
| West Hollywood | Boystown | Vibrant nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly |
| Santa Monica | Lakeview | Lakeside views and active beach community |
| Downtown LA | The Loop | Urban core with skyscrapers and cultural hubs |
| Venice | Logan Square | Trendy restaurants and artistic community |
| Brentwood | Lincoln Park | Upscale residential area with exquisite parks |
| Echo Park | Ukrainian Village | Hip and historic with a neighborhood feel |
| Beverly Hills | Gold Coast | High-end shopping and luxury living |
| Century City | River North | Business district with upscale dining |
| Hollywood Hills | Lincoln Square | Scenic views and beautiful homes |
If you enjoy the hip, artsy atmosphere of Silver Lake, you'll feel right at home in Chicago's Wicker Park with its eclectic mix of boutiques and cafes. In Lakeview, you'll find lakeside views and an active beach community reminiscent of Santa Monica. Downtown LA's urban core with its skyscrapers and cultural hubs lines up well with The Loop in Chicago. If you're a fan of the lively nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly vibe of West Hollywood, you'll love Boystown with its vibrant scene featuring various clubs and bars like Club Escape. Meanwhile, the upscale, scenic neighborhoods of Brentwood and Lincoln Park both offer beautiful parks and high-end living, with notable spots like Lincoln Park Conservatory and Brentwood Country Mart.
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Los Angeles to Chicago
Moving from one city to another can be a complex decision laden with various factors to consider. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL relocation by weighing the good against the bad. Through these charts, we aspire to offer you insight into how the quality of life, cost, and cultural experiences compare between these two vibrant cities.
Los Angeles, CA- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Limited water access
- Wildfire risks
Chicago, IL- More affordable rent
- Better public transit
- Lake Michigan beaches
- Seasonal weather
Chicago, IL- Colder winters
- No ocean beaches
- Smaller food scene
- Fewer industry events
Los Angeles, CA- Sunny weather
- Beach access
- Diverse cuisine
- Entertainment hub
While Los Angeles boasts an enviable sunny climate and a vast array of entertainment and dining options, Chicago offers its own set of charms. Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park are bustling with unique restaurants, such as Au Cheval for those craving a top-tier burger experience. Moreover, Chicago's lakefront offers a plethora of activities from the beaches along Lake Michigan to the scenic trails of Millennium Park. However, one cannot overlook the stark difference in weather conditions—Chicago's winters are notoriously frigid compared to Los Angeles's mild, year-round climate. Despite this, the lower cost of living and comprehensive public transit system in Chicago can offer a desirable trade-off for those willing to brave the colder months.
Los Angeles vs. Chicago Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & Chicago aims to enlighten you about the distinct food scenes in these cities. Understanding local cuisine is crucial, as it reflects the cultural vibe and lifestyle. Here’s how the two stack up.
| Los Angeles | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Tacos | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Food Trucks Various Cuisines | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | 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 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In the heart of Los Angeles, neighborhoods like Koreatown and Silver Lake offer an exciting variety of culinary experiences, from authentic Korean BBQ to trendy vegan eateries. The food truck scene is vast and varied, providing everything from gourmet tacos to innovative plant-based dishes. Conversely, Chicago's food scene is deeply rooted in its history and cultural diversity. Neighborhoods such as the West Loop and Lincoln Park are culinary hubs where you can indulge in the city's famous deep-dish pizza, among other local and international cuisines. Chicago's vegan scene is also growing, with several restaurants offering plant-based versions of the city's iconic dishes. Whether you're a foodie or just looking to enjoy your local eats, each city offers a unique taste of its culture.
Los Angeles vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food is essential in making a place feel like home. This comparison guides you in finding Los Angeles and Chicago's top restaurants to discover your next favorite diner.
| Los Angeles | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bestia | Alinea | Pioneering in creative cuisine. |
| Republique | Giant | Offers a cozy, intimate dining experience similar to Republique. |
| Spago | Everest | Both are high-end spots known for exceptional service and cuisine. |
| Guerrilla Tacos | Big Star | Known for creative tacos in a vibrant, laid-back setting. |
| Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles | Luella’s Southern Kitchen | Comfort food that brings the South to your mouth. |
| Philippe the Original | Al’s #1 Italian Beef | Iconic sandwiches that define local culinary traditions. |
| Din Tai Fung | Shanghai Terrace | Offers exquisite dumplings and Chinese cuisine. |
| In-N-Out Burger | Portillo's | A fast-food cult favorite for burgers and more. |
| N/naka | Goosefoot | Both provide a unique fine dining experience with multi-course meals. |
| The Apple Pan | Au Cheval | Highly rated for their burgers, showcasing classic American cuisine. |
For those moving from Los Angeles to Chicago, locating a restaurant that resonates with the flavors and ambiance of your favorite LA spots is a comforting transition. Alinea in Chicago, akin to Bestia in LA, leads the forefront in culinary innovation, creating unforgettable dining experiences with cutting-edge techniques. Meanwhile, fans of Guerilla Tacos will find solace in Big Star's vibrant atmosphere and inventive taco offerings, encapsulating the essence of laid-back, yet flavor-packed dining. Lastly, diners devoted to the iconic sandwiches of Philippe the Original might find a new favorite in Al’s #1 Italian Beef, an establishment that honors Chicago’s rich culinary heritage with its mouth-watering sandwiches. Embracing these equivalent spots can make Chicago feel a little more like home.
Ready to start your move?
Los Angeles vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Los Angeles and Chicago focuses on various housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to inform your relocation decisions.
| Comparison | Los Angeles | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Spanish | Modern, Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Outdoor spaces, Views | Location, Historic charm |
In Los Angeles, the higher median home price reflects the city's allure and competitiveness in real estate markets. Architects often incorporate modern designs with touches of Spanish influence, catering to those seeking a blend of tradition and contemporary living. Outdoor spaces and scenic views are highly prized, underscoring the city's emphasis on connecting with nature and luxurious living. On the other hand, Chicago's more affordable housing opens doors to iconic Greystone buildings and a robust urban lifestyle. The emphasis on historic charm and strategic location in real estate listings points to a community that values cultural depth and convenience. With better walkability and bikeability scores, Chicago offers a more accessible urban experience. Whether you're drawn to Los Angeles' sunny appeal or Chicago's rich heritage, each city boasts a unique housing landscape to explore.
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.
Los Angeles vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of what to expect in terms of climate and environmental conditions in your new home. Discover how these two cities differ in aspects like sunshine days, humidity, and more to better prepare for your relocation.
Los Angeles, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Los Angeles, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Los Angeles, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Los Angeles, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Los Angeles | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Los Angeles and Chicago share the same average summer highs, the winter temperatures and conditions they offer are markedly different. Chicago’s winters are significantly colder with regular snowfall, averaging 36 inches annually, a stark contrast to Los Angeles's milder winters. Furthermore, Los Angeles boasts about 284 days of sunshine each year, significantly more than Chicago's 189, impacting activities and mood. Another notable difference is in the natural disaster risks: Los Angeles is prone to earthquakes and wildfires, whereas Chicago faces blizzards and tornadoes. This information is essential for preparing for changes in lifestyle, from wardrobe adjustments to emergency planning.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles to Chicago
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living and other financial metrics compare between Los Angeles and Chicago. This comparison will equip you with the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding your relocation.
| Comparison | Los Angeles | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,372 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.5 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Entertainment, Technology, Manufacturing | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Significant |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When comparing the financial landscapes of Los Angeles and Chicago, there are significant differences to consider. Los Angeles generally offers higher average household incomes, but its cost of living and state income tax rates are much greater compared to Chicago. Despite the higher expense of living in Los Angeles, it boasts a high affluence level, partly due to the thriving entertainment and technology industries. On the other hand, Chicago, with its lower cost of living, still maintains moderate affluence supported by strong finance and manufacturing sectors. However, it's important to note that both cities face challenges related to poverty and homelessness, with Los Angeles exhibiting particularly high levels of homelessness.
Los Angeles vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the residents of Los Angeles & Chicago . Understand the community you're moving from and moving into at a glance.
| Los Angeles | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Majority Democratic | Majority Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive with a focus on environmental and social issues | Historically Democratic with strong union influence |
| Religion | Diverse: Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism | Diverse: Christianity (majority), Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism |
In both Los Angeles and Chicago, you'll find that the political atmosphere leans heavily Democratic, although each city approaches local governance and issues with its own unique flavor. Los Angeles is known for its progressive stance on environmental and social matters, mirroring the diverse and forward-thinking population it hosts. Chicago, while also Democratic, has a political landscape shaped significantly by its history with labor unions and a strong tradition of community activism. When it comes to religion, both cities boast a rich tapestry of faiths, offering places of worship and cultural institutions for a multitude of beliefs. This diversity highlights the vibrant, multifaceted communities you'll encounter, regardless of whether you're in Los Angeles or Chicago.
Los Angeles vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL involves adapting to different traffic and transportation options. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Los Angeles & Chicago, preparing you for the changes in your journey to and from work or school.
| Comparison | Los Angeles | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
Although both Los Angeles and Chicago have their traffic woes, the experience of commuting in them can vary significantly. Los Angeles is notorious for its car dependence and freeway traffic, making it challenging to get by without a car. On the other hand, Chicago offers a more robust public transit system, anchored by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and the 'L' trains, which makes it easier to live without a personal vehicle. The availability and efficiency of Chicago's public transit contribute to a slightly longer average commute time but with less reliance on a car. Understanding these differences can greatly smooth your transition between these two bustling cities.
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