Best Oakland to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Oakland to Chicago Movers

Moving from Oakland to Chicago marks the beginning of an exhilarating journey, offering a fresh canvas in the bustling City of Big Shoulders. Trading in the sunny, relaxed vibes of The Town for Chicago's architecturally rich streets, legendary deep-dish pizza, and spirited winters can be an adventure of a lifetime. It's crucial, however, to ensure this significant leap is as smooth as possible by enlisting trusted, reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we leverage an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best movers, making your transition from coast to heartland both safe and stress-free.

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Best Oakland to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
Rock 'n Roll Moving9.03NRActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Oakland guide.

5 Best Oakland to Chicago Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
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
Rock 'n Roll Moving Logo
Superb9.03/10
based on 304+ data points

About Rock 'n Roll Moving

Rock 'n Roll Moving is a young company comprised of musicians and artists with years of experience in residential and local moving services....Read More >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Packing and unpacking service
  • Dismantling and reassembling service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/28/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277673 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
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.

Relocating from Oakland to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that leverages your familiarity with Oakland, CA, to help you find a comparable neighborhood in Chicago, IL. This approach aims to make you feel right at home by comparing Oakland, CA & Chicago, IL local neighborhoods. From the artsy to the upscale, understand where your tastes and lifestyle would fit best in the Windy City.

OaklandChicago
RockridgeAndersonville

Diverse, vibrant community

Piedmont AvenueLincoln Square

Charming, walkable shopping district

MontclairRoscoe Village

Family-friendly, laid back vibe

TemescalWicker Park

Trendy, bustling nightlife

Jack London SquareRiver North

Entertainment hub, waterfront dining

Grand LakeUptown

Historic theaters, diverse culture

West OaklandPilsen

Rich in art and culture, vibrant murals

Lake MerrittLincoln Park

Scenic parks, cultural attractions

North OaklandLogan Square

Booming culinary scene, historic boulevards

Downtown OaklandThe Loop

Urban center, iconic architecture

Exploring neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Andersonville in Chicago can evoke the familiar vibes of Temescal and Rockridge with their bustling streets lined with unique eateries and shops. For instance, Wicker Park aligns with the stimulating energy of Temescal, hosting lively bars and indie music venues, an essence mirrored in Oakland's artsy and food-centric atmosphere. Family-oriented individuals who appreciate Montclair's serene environment might find a similar comfort in Roscoe Village, where quaint boutiques and casual dining spots create a welcoming community feel. Meanwhile, the vibrant art and culture scene that defines West Oakland finds its counterpart in Chicago's Pilsen, celebrated for its rich Hispanic heritage, stunning street murals, and thriving artistic community. These comparable neighborhoods ensure that no matter where you move, there's a slice of home waiting to be discovered, from Lake Merritt's scenic beauty and cultural spots, echoing in Lincoln Park's verdant spaces and museums, to the urban energy of Downtown Oakland reflected in The Loop's iconic skyline and dynamic streets.

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Things to Do in Chicago

  • Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
  • Watch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field
  • Visit Shedd Aquarium
  • Enjoy Millennium Park concerts
  • Take the Chicago Architecture River Cruise
  • Discover the Field Museum

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Chicago

Moving from one city to another can be a monumental decision, filled with both excitement and hesitation. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL , outlining both the challenges and rewards that come with such a relocation. By examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision regarding this significant change in your life.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Frequent earthquakes
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less seasonal weather
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • More affordable living
  • Stable ground
  • Efficient public transit
  • Distinct seasons
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Different vibe
  • Fewer options
  • Less accessible nature
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Vibrant culture
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Outdoor activities

Moving from Oakland to Chicago introduces you to a city with a vibrant blend of cultures, reflected in its neighborhoods and culinary scene. Chicago's restaurants, like the famed deep-dish pizza spots, offer a distinct flavor not found in Oakland. However, you might miss Oakland's milder winters and its proximity to nature, which allows for year-round outdoor activities. Chicago makes up with its beautiful lakefront, expansive parks like Millennium Park, and a calendar packed with cultural events. Both cities boast strong cultural venues, but Chicago's rich history in jazz and blues, alongside landmarks like the Art Institute of Chicago, offers a different cultural palette to explore. While the transition may come with its set of challenges, embracing Chicago's unique charms could make it feel like home.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Oakland to Chicago

Understanding the culinary landscape is a vital part of getting to know your new home, spotlighting how food is an integral aspect of local culture. In this guide, we're making a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Chicago to help you dive into the flavors awaiting you in your new city.

OaklandChicago

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough bread
Deep-dish pizza

Most popular meat dish

Barbecue brisket
Italian beef sandwich

Most popular street food item

Tacos
Hot dog

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit tacos
Seitan wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Chez Panisse
  • ShakeWell
  • Commis
  • Al's Beef
  • Lou Malnati's
  • Aurelio's Pizza

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
6

Abundance of Food Trucks

9
7

Foodie Scene

9
8

Vegan Friendly

9
8

In Oakland, the culinary scene is vibrant and heavily influenced by its diverse communities, leading to a rich blend of flavors and dishes. Neighborhoods like Temescal are known for their taco trucks, showcasing the city's love for Mexican cuisine. On the other hand, Chicago's food landscape is deeply rooted in its history and multicultural population. The Loop and River North areas are food havens where you can indulge in the city's famous deep-dish pizza or an Italian beef sandwich. Both cities boast a dynamic foodie scene with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that no matter your dietary preference or palate, you'll find something to love.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Oakland to Chicago

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering where to eat. Food is a universal language of comfort and community. This guide aims to bridge the gap between Oakland, CA, and Chicago, IL, by comparing local favorite eateries. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite spot in Chicago, based on your Oakland preferences.

CommisAlinea

Both offer an exquisite fine-dining experience with multi-course meals

ShakewellCafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Both are loved for their Mediterranean-inspired tapas and vibrant atmosphere

Grand Lake KitchenLula Cafe

Both serve eclectic, farm-to-table meals in a casual, welcoming setting

Brown Sugar KitchenVirtue

Both specialize in soulful, Southern comfort food with a modern twist

PizzaioloSpacca Napoli

Both are renowned for their authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas

MuaGirl & The Goat

Both offer a funky, industrial-chic vibe with a menu of eclectic, globally-inspired dishes

Dona TomasFrontera Grill

Both celebrate robust, traditional Mexican flavors in an upscale setting

HopscotchLongman & Eagle

Both have a gastropub feel with a focus on innovative American cuisine and a stellar whiskey selection

Belotti Ristorante e BottegaOsteria Langhe

Both are recognized for their dedication to authentic Italian cuisine, particularly from the Piedmont region

Tacos OscarBig Star

Both offer a trendy, laid-back setting for creative tacos and strong margaritas

In the heart of Chicago, you'll discover that Osteria Langhe brings a slice of Piedmont, Italy, to your plate, masterfully mirroring the authentic Italian dining experience of Belotti Ristorante e Bottega in Oakland. Similarly, if it's the soul-warming comfort of Southern cuisine you're after, Virtue in Chicago serves up dishes with heart and finesse, a culinary echo to what you cherished at Brown Sugar Kitchen. And for a taste of home, Spacca Napoli’s Neapolitan pizzas promise an artisanal approach that harks back to Pizzaiolo’s cherished pies, ensuring your move does not mean leaving behind the flavors you love.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Oakland to Chicago

When planning your move, comparing real estate in your current and future cities is essential. Whether you prioritize affordability, lifestyle, or commuting options, understanding how Oakland and Chicago stack up is key to making an informed decision. This guide focuses on the vital aspects of housing to help you weigh your options.

In comparing Oakland and Chicago, you'll find significant differences, especially in terms of housing affordability. Chicago offers a more diverse architectural landscape, with an emphasis on the Prairie and Chicago School styles, reflecting its ric, urban history. On the other hand, Oakland showcases beautiful Victorian and Craftsman homes, often with sought-after bay views mentioned in listings. Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores align with its urban lifestyle rating, indicating a slightly more conducive environment for those who prefer to navigate the city without a car. Both cities boast unique features mentioned in real estate listings, such as Oakland's green spaces and Chicago's proximity to Lake Michigan and its historic districts.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Chicago

When planning your move from Oakland, CA, to Chicago, IL, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will highlight how the climate in Oakland and Chicago varies, aiding in your preparation for the change.

Summer icon
72°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

83°F / 63°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23"

Oakland, CA

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Oakland, CA

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

If you're moving from Oakland to Chicago, brace yourself for a significant climate change, particularly during winter. Chicago experiences harsh winters with average lows of 18°F and substantial snowfall, contrasting sharply with Oakland's mild winters. While both cities enjoy a vibrant summer, Chicago's is warmer. Additionally, preparedness for natural disasters shifts from earthquakes and wildfires to blizzards and tornadoes. Adapting to these conditions will be an important part of your relocation journey.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Chicago

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in cost of living, income, and taxes between Oakland and Chicago is crucial for financial preparedness. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.

In moving from Oakland to Chicago, you'll find a significant variation in the cost of living and average incomes, with Oakland presenting a higher cost of living index and average household income. Yet, moving to Chicago could mean lower state income tax due to Illinois' flat tax system but beware of the higher property tax rates. The top industries in each city indicate local economic strengths—technology and healthcare in Oakland versus finance and manufacturing in Chicago—which could influence your job search or career growth in your new city.

Political & Religious Comparison between Oakland, CA and Chicago, IL

Embarking on a move from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL invites an exploration into the unique characteristics that define each city. This comparison specifically shines a light on the politics and religious landscapes between Oakland & Chicago, offering a quick glance at what you might expect when transitioning from one vibrant community to the other.

OaklandChicago

Political Make-up

Heavily DemocraticHeavily Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive with strong social activismDiverse, with a historical emphasis on Democratic machine politics

Religion

Pluralistic, with a significant non-religious populationPluralistic, but with a notable Catholic presence

When you move from Oakland to Chicago, you'll find that both cities share a predominantly Democratic political orientation, reflecting their urban constituency's preferences. However, Oakland's local political scene is markedly shaped by a heritage of social activism and progressivism, illustrating the city's commitment to social justice causes. In contrast, Chicago's politics are characterized by a blend of progressive ideals and traditional Democratic machine politics—a legacy of its complex political history. Religion in both cities showcases diversity, but Chicago distinguishes itself with a stronger presence of Catholic institutions and influence, mirroring its historical immigrant roots. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate to your new surroundings and appreciate the rich cultural tapestry of your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Chicago

This comparison between the traffic and transportation options in Oakland & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, assisting in a smooth transition between these two vibrant cities.

OaklandChicago
3235

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

78

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingEasier than in Oakland

Can you get by without a car?

In Oakland, relying solely on public transit can be feasible yet demanding due to its moderate availability. However, exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and attractions, like the Oakland Museum of California, becomes a unique experience when navigating the Bay Area's transit options. In contrast, Chicago boasts a more expansive and efficient public transit system, making it easier for residents to commute without a car. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers extensive bus and train services, connecting the city's iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago, and contributes to a slightly higher average commute time due to its sprawling nature.

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