Best Sacramento to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Sacramento to Chicago Movers

Moving from the City of Trees to the Windy City marks not just a change in scenery but a thrilling chapter in your life. You’re swapping the laid-back vibe of Sacramento and its sun-kissed afternoons for Chicago’s majestic skyline, bustling streets, and deep-dish pizza. Considering the distance and the life you’re packing up, it’s crucial to have trusted and reliable professional movers by your side, ensuring your journey to Chicago is as smooth as the lakefront breeze.

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Best Sacramento to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
Rickey's Gold Country Moving9.22NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Workhorse Moving Co.8.48NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
House to Home Moving8.44A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Sacramento guide.

5 Best Sacramento to Chicago Moving Companies

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

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
1
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
2
Rickey's Gold Country Moving Logo
Exceptional9.22/10
based on 375+ data points

About Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Rickey's Gold Country Moving is a moving company based in Grass Valley, CA. They have received positive customer reviews for their efficient...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3065202 / 1398360

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Workhorse Moving Co. Logo
Fabulous8.48/10
based on 297+ data points

About Workhorse Moving Co.

Workhorse Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company in Calaveras County that has been serving the Gold Country since 2012. I...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3369346 / 1080028

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2023)
View Full Review
4
House to Home Moving Logo
Fabulous8.44/10
based on 1,825+ data points

About House to Home Moving

Family-owned since 2010, House to Home Moving has been helping residents with its high-quality relocation services for a decade. This compan...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long distance moving services
  • Specialized senior relocation (white glove)
  • Packing and Unpacking, including materials

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2395707 / 823800

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
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.

Sacramento vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Looking to move from Sacramento, CA, to Chicago, IL? It can be daunting to familiarize yourself with a new city, but comparing your old neighborhood to a new one can help. We've done the legwork for you with a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Sacramento, CA & Chicago, IL . Find out which Chicago neighborhood mirrors yours in Sacramento to start feeling at home right away.

SacramentoChicagoHow They're Similar
MidtownWicker ParkVibrant nightlife and arts scene
East SacramentoLincoln ParkHistoric homes and green spaces
Land ParkRoscoe VillageFamily-friendly with a quaint vibe
NatomasWest LoopModern lofts and proximity to downtown
Elk GroveEdison ParkSuburban feel with tight-knit community
Oak ParkHyde ParkRich in culture and diversity
Tahoe ParkLogan SquareTrendy with lots of green space
DowntownThe LoopUrban center with cultural institutions
Curtis ParkOld TownCharming architecture and local history
Del Paso HeightsPilsenArtistic community with vibrant murals

If you're drawn to the vibrant nightlife and arts scene of Midtown Sacramento, you'll find a kindred spirit in Chicago's Wicker Park, known for its bustling bars, music venues, and art galleries. Lovers of East Sacramento's historic homes and expansive green spaces will appreciate Lincoln Park's stately architecture and the natural beauty of its namesake park. For those accustomed to the suburban charms of Elk Grove, Edison Park offers a similarly tight-knit community atmosphere, complete with residential homes and local eateries. Hyde Park in Chicago mirrors Oak Park's rich cultural tapestry and academic environment, boasting landmarks like the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. Meanwhile, urban adventurers from Downtown Sacramento will find the cultural institutions and skyscrapers of The Loop a seamless transition into city life.

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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 Sacramento to Chicago

Moving cities is a big step that merits an honest reflection on what you'll gain and lose. This comparison will give you a clear picture of transitioning from Sacramento, CA to Chicago, IL by highlighting both sides of the coin. Here, you'll find the pros and cons stacked up to help you weigh your decision carefully.

CONs
PROs
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fewer cultural attractions
  • Less public transit options
  • Hotter summers
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Lower cost of living
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Extensive public transportation
  • More temperate summers
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Cold, snowy winters
  • Urban environment
  • More densely populated
  • Fewer outdoor options
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Proximity to nature
  • Less crowded
  • Outdoor activities

Moving from Sacramento to Chicago, you'll transition from the Californian climate to experiencing the four distinct seasons in Illinois. Sacramento offers the allure of nature with places like the American River Parkway, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Chicago, however, boasts an unparalleled cultural scene, with institutions like The Art Institute of Chicago and vibrant neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, offering a plethora of dining options, including the renowned Alinea for gastronomical adventures. While Sacramento has its scenic beauty and less crowded spaces, Chicago's urban landscape offers extensive public transit options and a rich tapestry of cultural attractions, potentially making the move a refreshing change for those seeking a vibrant city life balanced with the availability of green spaces like Millennium Park.

Sacramento vs. Chicago Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Sacramento & Chicago explores the unique food scene of each city, providing insight for those relocating to envision what culinary delights await them. Food, being a significant part of local culture, offers a taste of what life is like in a new city. Let's delve into the foodie scenes of both locations to help you better understand where you're moving to.

SacramentoChicago
Most iconic local food itemFarm-to-Fork CuisineDeep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishGrass-fed BeefItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemTacosChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastPlant-based Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Kitchen
  • Tower Café
  • Selland's Market-Café
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Sacramento, the farm-to-fork movement dominates the food scene, where restaurants like The Kitchen and Selland's Market-Café highlight local, sustainable ingredients in their dishes. Meanwhile, Chicago's culinary identity shines through its iconic deep dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches, with places like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria serving up quintessential Chicago flavors. The vibrant street food scene in both cities reflects their diverse cultures, from Sacramento's farm-fresh tacos to Chicago's legendary hot dogs. Both cities cater well to health-conscious and vegan diners, though Sacramento slightly edges out with its focus on fresh, local produce. Moving to either city will immerse you in a rich food culture where traditional and innovative cuisines meet.

Sacramento vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Discovering your next culinary favorite is a delicious way to make a new city feel like home. This comparison is designed to ease the transition from Sacramento to Chicago, using food as a flagship guide in connecting Sacramento's top restaurants with their Chicago counterparts. Whether you're craving high-end dining or casual eats, this guide aims to match your taste from one city to the next.

SacramentoChicagoWhat You'll Love
The Kitchen RestaurantAlineaInnovative tasting menus and a high-end dining experience
Mulvaney's B&LGirl & The GoatCreative American cuisine in a stylish, bustling setting
Frank Fat'sDuck Duck GoatHigh-quality Chinese plates in an upscale atmosphere
Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi BarYuzu Sushi & Robata GrillA diverse range of sushi and Japanese dishes
Bacon & ButterLula CaféFarm-to-table brunch and dinner with a creative twist
Ella Dining Room & BarThe Purple PigOffers Mediterranean shared plates in a chic, casual setting
FirehouseNorth PondSeasonally focused American cuisine in a historic setting
Tower CaféBig JonesSouthern cooking with an emphasis on sustainability and tradition
Grange Restaurant & BaravecA cozy spot for Mediterranean and Midwestern inspired dishes
LocalisElizabeth RestaurantFine dining with locally sourced ingredients and an intimate atmosphere

While Sacramento and Chicago offer distinct culinary landscapes, certain restaurants provide similar dining experiences that bridge the gap between the two cities. Fans of the inventive, seasonal menus at Mulvaney's B&L in Sacramento will find solace in the creative American dishes served at Girl & The Goat in Chicago. When craving exquisite sushi, Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar's counterparts in Chicago, like Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill, promise an extensive selection of sushi and Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients. For those who appreciate a farm-to-table approach, Sacramento's Bacon & Butter compares favorably with Chicago's Lula Café, where the ever-changing menu reflects the best of local farms' produce, setting the scene for a memorable dining experience in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Sacramento vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience, making it crucial to understand how Sacramento and Chicago fare in this aspect. This comparison highlights key housing factors, including costs, architecture, and lifestyle, to aid in your move decision.

ComparisonSacramentoChicago
Typical Architecture StyleRanchPrairie-style
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingBackyards, PoolsLake Views, Rooftop Decks

When comparing Sacramento and Chicago in terms of housing, several factors stand out. Chicago's higher median monthly rent reflects the city's vibrant urban lifestyle, scoring higher than Sacramento in walkability, bikeability, and urban living. The architecture aligns with each city's character; Sacramento's Ranch styles cater to preferences for spacious living, whereas Chicago's Prairie-style and skyscrapers echo its historical and innovative skyline. For those keen on an active social scene and diverse cultural experiences, Chicago's amenities, including lake views and rooftop decks mentioned in listings, might appeal more than Sacramento's suburban comforts.

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.

Sacramento vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Sacramento, CA to Chicago, IL, understanding the climatic differences is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp what to expect weather-wise and how it will impact your lifestyle. The purpose of the charts is to highlight the weather differences between Sacramento and Chicago to prepare you for the transition effectively.

Summer icon
91°F / 58°F

Sacramento, CA

84°F / 68°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
54°F / 39°F

Sacramento, CA

35°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
18

Sacramento, CA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Sacramento, CA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSacramentoChicago
Air QualityGood to ModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersFloods, WildfiresBlizzards, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Sacramento to Chicago, prepare to embrace a significant weather shift. Chicago experiences a wider temperature range throughout the year, notably colder winters with substantial snowfall, which Sacramento residents are unaccustomed to. Moreover, Chicago's higher average humidity levels contribute to colder feeling winters and warmer summers. The increased number of days with sunshine in Sacramento, combined with its lower annual rainfall, contrasts sharply with Chicago's cloudier skies and higher precipitation, including snow. This information not only aids in preparing your wardrobe but also in anticipating possible changes in outdoor activity levels and health considerations.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, comparing Sacramento to Chicago in terms of finance can provide invaluable insight. Understanding differences in costs, taxes, and the economic environment helps set realistic expectations for your financial wellbeing post-move.

ComparisonSacramentoChicago
Avg. Household Income$75,311$66,576
Cost of Living Index116.2116.9
State Income Tax13.3 (max rate)4.95 (flat rate)
Avg. Property Tax0.812.10
Avg. Sales Tax8.7510.25
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Health Care, TechnologyFinance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyHigher than national averageHigher than national average
HomelessnessSignificantNotable

The financial landscape you'll encounter moving from Sacramento to Chicago offers both challenges and opportunities. While the average household income is slightly higher in Sacramento, Chicago's lower cost of living could offset this difference. Additionally, Illinois' flat-state income tax rate may be more favorable for some, compared to California's progressive tax system. However, Chicago's higher average property and sales taxes necessitate careful budget planning. The economic environments also differ significantly, with each city having strengths in unique industries—knowledge that could be pivotal in your career planning.

Sacramento vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Sacramento, CA to Chicago, IL, understanding the comparison of the politics between Sacramento & Chicago and the religious landscape can offer invaluable insights into your potential new home. This quick overview aims to provide a glimpse at what to expect from the residents in these two cities.

SacramentoChicago
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive with focus on social issuesLiberal, with a long history of Democratic governance
ReligionDiverse; Christian majority with significant non-religious populationReligious diversity; Predominantly Christian, with a significant presence of other faiths

While both Sacramento and Chicago tilt towards the Democratic side politically, you'll find Chicago's political scene to be more intensely liberal, with a deep-rooted Democratic legacy shaping local policies and governance. This vibrant political landscape reflects the city's complex history and its role as a hub for social and economic progressivism. Religious diversity is a shared characteristic, welcoming a rich tapestry of faiths and beliefs. However, Chicago's larger size fosters a wider array of religious communities and institutions, from the majestic Fourth Presbyterian Church to the historic DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, offering newcomers numerous avenues to explore spirituality and community. Understanding these facets of your future home can help smooth the transition and enrich your experience in a new city.

Sacramento vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

As you consider moving from Sacramento, CA to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand how this is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Sacramento & Chicago can impact your daily commute. This guide aims to provide a clear overview of what to expect when navigating each city, whether you're behind the wheel or opting for public transportation.

ComparisonSacramentoChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2634
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingYes, especially in the city

When it comes to commuting times, you'll find that Chicago has a slightly longer average commute than Sacramento. This is due, in part, to both the city's larger size and higher traffic congestion levels. However, Chicago's robust public transit system, which includes buses, trains, and the famous 'L' trains, makes it easier to get around the city without a car. This contrasts with Sacramento, where public transit options are more limited and residents often rely more heavily on cars for daily transportation. The choice between these cities may come down to your preferences on commute time, the convenience of public transit, and your willingness to navigate through traffic congestion.

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