Best Los Angeles to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Los Angeles to Chicago Movers

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.

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Best Los Angeles to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Best California Movers9.52A+Authorized For HHGContact
Prodigy Moving & Storage9.41NRAuthorized For HHGContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
Redline moving9.24NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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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)

Best California Movers Logo
Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.41/10
based on 11,757+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3983945 / 1492541 MC-430697

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
2
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers26
Total Annual Miles Moved86,474 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Redline moving Logo
Exceptional9.24/10
based on 932+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3046389 / 116393

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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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 AngelesChicagoHow They're Similar
Silver LakeWicker ParkHip, artsy vibe with eclectic boutiques and cafes
West HollywoodBoystownVibrant nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly
Santa MonicaLakeviewLakeside views and active beach community
Downtown LAThe LoopUrban core with skyscrapers and cultural hubs
VeniceLogan SquareTrendy restaurants and artistic community
BrentwoodLincoln ParkUpscale residential area with exquisite parks
Echo ParkUkrainian VillageHip and historic with a neighborhood feel
Beverly HillsGold CoastHigh-end shopping and luxury living
Century CityRiver NorthBusiness district with upscale dining
Hollywood HillsLincoln SquareScenic 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.

CONs
PROs
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited water access
  • Wildfire risks
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • More affordable rent
  • Better public transit
  • Lake Michigan beaches
  • Seasonal weather
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Colder winters
  • No ocean beaches
  • Smaller food scene
  • Fewer industry events
Los Angeles, CA iconLos 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 AngelesChicago
Most iconic local food itemTacosDeep-dish pizza
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemFood Trucks Various CuisinesHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastVegan Deep-dish pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pizzeria Mozza
  • The Ivy
  • Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles
  • Alinea
  • Girl & The Goat
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
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 AngelesChicagoWhat You'll Love
BestiaAlineaPioneering in creative cuisine.
RepubliqueGiantOffers a cozy, intimate dining experience similar to Republique.
SpagoEverestBoth are high-end spots known for exceptional service and cuisine.
Guerrilla TacosBig StarKnown for creative tacos in a vibrant, laid-back setting.
Roscoe’s House of Chicken and WafflesLuella’s Southern KitchenComfort food that brings the South to your mouth.
Philippe the OriginalAl’s #1 Italian BeefIconic sandwiches that define local culinary traditions.
Din Tai FungShanghai TerraceOffers exquisite dumplings and Chinese cuisine.
In-N-Out BurgerPortillo'sA fast-food cult favorite for burgers and more.
N/nakaGoosefootBoth provide a unique fine dining experience with multi-course meals.
The Apple PanAu ChevalHighly 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.

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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.

ComparisonLos AngelesChicago
Typical Architecture StyleModern, SpanishModern, Greystone
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOutdoor spaces, ViewsLocation, 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 background image

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.

Summer icon
84°F / 64°F

Los Angeles, CA

84°F / 68°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 48°F

Los Angeles, CA

35°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15.2

Los Angeles, CA

36.89

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Los Angeles, CA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLos AngelesChicago
Air QualityModerateModerate to Unhealthy
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresBlizzards, 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.

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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.

ComparisonLos AngelesChicago
Avg. Household Income$70,372$66,576
Cost of Living Index136.4116.9
State Income Tax13.34.95
Avg. Property Tax0.732.16
Avg. Sales Tax9.510.25
Top 3 IndustriesEntertainment, Technology, ManufacturingFinance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyNoticeableSignificant
HomelessnessHighModerate

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 AngelesChicago
Political Make-upMajority DemocraticMajority Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive with a focus on environmental and social issuesHistorically Democratic with strong union influence
ReligionDiverse: Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, JudaismDiverse: 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.

ComparisonLos AngelesChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3035
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingEasier

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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