Best Chicago to Fresno Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Chicago to Fresno Movers

Moving from the bustling streets of the Windy City to the sunny expanses of Fresno offers an adventure filled with new opportunities and lifestyle changes. Leaving behind Chicago's iconic skyscrapers and diverse culinary scene for Fresno’s agricultural heartland and close-knit communities provides a unique transition that calls for careful planning. To ensure your journey from one beloved city to another is smooth, hiring trusted professionals like our team at Great Guys Moving is crucial for navigating this long-distance move with ease and reliability.

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Best Chicago to Fresno Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
H2H Movers Inc9.24AAuthorized For HHGContact
All In A Day Moving Services8.75NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Pete's Moving Services LLC8.44A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Fresno 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
H2H Movers Inc Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.24/10
based on 8,231+ data points

About H2H Movers Inc

Are you looking to move places but are worried about the cost? Then, H2H Movers might be the best choice for you. This moving company provid...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2428328 / 836885

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved359,681 (2024)
View Full Review
3
All In A Day Moving Services Logo
Superb
claimed company icon
8.75/10
based on 914+ data points

About All In A Day Moving Services

All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving company that ser...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving
  • Piano moving
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3861667 / 1410881

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Pete's Moving Services LLC Logo
Fabulous8.44/10
based on 2,685+ data points

About Pete's Moving Services LLC

Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commerci...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3314910 / 1177987

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2020)
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.

Chicago vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can feel like stepping into a different world, but comparing familiar neighborhoods from your current city to those in your new city can ease the transition. In this guide, we explore a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Fresno, CA to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.

ChicagoFresnoHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkWoodward ParkLush green spaces, family-friendly
Wicker ParkTower DistrictArtsy with vibrant nightlife
The LoopDowntown FresnoUrban core, cultural attractions
Gold CoastFig GardenUpscale, historic
LakeviewNortheast FresnoResidential, close to nature
Logan SquareSunnysideDiverse, community-focused
River NorthNorth FresnoTrendy, dining options
West LoopOld Fig GardenUnique food scene, charming
AndersonvilleClovisClose-knit community, local shops
PilsenTower District (again)Cultural diversity, art scene

Each neighborhood has its unique charm and attractions that make it special. For example, if you've enjoyed the lush landscapes and community vibe of Lincoln Park, you'll find a similar experience in Woodward Park, known for its extensive parklands and family-friendly atmosphere. Wicker Park's counterpart, the Tower District, offers a similarly vibrant arts scene and bustling nightlife, with landmarks such as the historic Tower Theatre anchoring the area. On the other hand, those drawn to the upscale and historic allure of Gold Coast might appreciate Fig Garden's refined charm, with its array of boutiques and elegant dining options nestled within a serene, tree-lined setting. These comparisons not only illustrate the physical similarities between neighborhoods but also hint at the kind of lifestyle and community you can expect to find in your new home city.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Fresno

Moving from one city to another is always a mix of excitement and concern. This side-by-side comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Fresno, CA . By looking at the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer picture of what to expect and how your lifestyle might change for the better or worse.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher cost of living
  • Dense traffic
  • Higher crime rates
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Milder winters
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Lower crime rates
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Car-dependent
  • Fewer job sectors
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Extensive public transit
  • Greater job opportunities

While Chicago's harsh winters and dense traffic may push you towards Fresno's milder climate and smoother commutes, consider what you're leaving behind. Chicago's lively neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park offer an unbeatable mix of restaurants, bars, and cultural venues such as the Art Institute of Chicago (Artic). In contrast, Fresno boasts a more laid-back lifestyle with its own attractions like the beautiful Woodward Park and the unique Forestiere Underground Gardens (Underground Gardens). The move from a bustling cityscape to a quieter, more affordable setting in Fresno can be a positive change, but it's also a shift to a slower-paced, less diverse job market and cultural scene.

Chicago vs. Fresno Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Fresno is designed to enlighten you about the distinct food scenes awaiting in your new city. Understanding the culinary culture is pivotal to experiencing the essence of where you’re relocating to.

ChicagoFresno
Most iconic local food itemDeep-dish pizzaTri-tip steak
Most popular meat dishItalian beef sandwichChicken shawarma
Most popular street food itemChicago-style hot dogTacos
Most popular vegan foodSeitan wingsTempeh tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Chicago, the deep-dish pizza, a revered local delicacy, is best experienced in neighborhoods like The Loop, where establishments such as Lou Malnati's offer a taste of this iconic dish. The Italian beef sandwich and Chicago-style hot dog further symbolize the city's rich culinary tradition, found in places like Portillo's. Meanwhile, Fresno introduces you to a different palate with its tri-tip steak, a regional specialty that’s a must-try for any newcomer. The city's taco scene, highlighted by a variety of food trucks and local eateries, reflects Fresno's vibrant street food culture, with places like The Bulldog Grill serving as prime spots for tasting the local flavors.

Chicago vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite spot to dine can make a new city feel like home. This comparison of top Chicago restaurants to their Fresno counterparts is designed to ease your transition by identifying where you can enjoy similar culinary delights in your new hometown.

ChicagoFresnoWhat You'll Love
AlineaThe Lime LiteInnovative American cuisine in an upscale setting.
Giordano’sMe-n-Ed's Brick Oven Baked PizzeriaFamous for deep-dish pizzas.
Girl & The GoatThe Annex KitchenItalian-inspired eatery with a creative twist.
The Purple PigCracked Pepper BistroA fusion of flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Portillo’sDog House GrillRenowned for its roadside-style sandwiches and BBQ.
Joe's SeafoodPismo's Coastal GrillFresh seafood selections in a casual setting.
PublicanThe StandardLocal and organic ingredients used in a lively venue.
Smoque BBQWestwoods BBQ & Spice Co.A go-to for smoked meats and southern sides.
The BerghoffThe Elbow RoomA place with history offering German-inspired dishes.
RPM ItalianOggi Cosi Si MangiaAuthentic Italian cuisine with a modern flair.

As you settle into Fresno, you'll discover places like The Lime Lite, which offers an upscale dining experience akin to Chicago's Alinea, though with its own unique California twist on American cuisine. For those who cherished the deep-dish pizzas at Giordano’s, Me-n-Ed's Pizzeria will become your new go-to with its authentic, brick-oven-baked pizzas. Lovers of creative, upscale dining like that found at Girl & The Goat in Chicago will find solace in The Annex Kitchen in Fresno, which brings Italian inspiration to its dishes, crafted with a hint of Californian flair. These transitions show how even when moving states, you don't have to leave behind the flavors you love—you just need to know where to find them.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Fresno, CA, evaluating the real estate landscape is crucial. Understanding differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle ratings can help you make an informed decision. Let's delve into how these cities compare in essential real estate aspects.

ComparisonChicagoFresno
Typical Architecture StyleModern and Historical MixSpanish and Ranch Style
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLake views, hardwood floorsLarge yards, swimming pools

While housing costs in Chicago and Fresno reflect the varying market demands, each city offers unique appeals in lifestyle and architecture. Chicago's blend of modern and historical architecture is captivating for those who admire urban diversity, while Fresno's predilection for Spanish and Ranch style homes suits those seeking a more suburban feel. Notably, Chicago's higher urban lifestyle score contrasts with Fresno's emphasis on spacious yards and pools, indicative of the different living environments each city provides. Whether your preference leans towards the bustling streets of Chicago or Fresno's relaxed pace, these cities cater to a broad spectrum of homeowners and renters alike.

Chicago vs. Fresno Weather Considerations

When moving from one city to another, understanding the weather differences can greatly aid your transition. This comparison between Chicago, IL, and Fresno, CA , highlights the key climatic variations to anticipate. By examining aspects such as average temperatures, humidity, sunshine days, and natural disaster tendencies , you'll be better prepared for what lies ahead in your new locale.

Summer icon
84°F / 68°F

Chicago, IL

97°F / 74°F

Fresno, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

55°F / 38°F

Fresno, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

11

Fresno, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

0

Fresno, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonChicagoFresno
Air QualityGood to ModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersBlizzards, FloodsDroughts, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Chicago to Fresno, you'll experience a significant decrease in humidity and an increase in sunshine days, which can impact daily living and health positively. Expect warmer summers and milder winters in Fresno, necessitating a change in your wardrobe and possibly your home's heating and cooling needs. The air quality and natural disaster risks also differ, with Fresno facing challenges such as droughts and higher UV index levels, requiring increased awareness and preventative measures for health and home safety.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial aspects in Chicago, IL stack up against those in Fresno, CA. This comparison aims to shed light on various money and finance-related factors that could influence your decision and budgeting for the move.

ComparisonChicagoFresno
Avg. Household Income$66,576$61,250
Cost of Living Index116.9117.3
State Income Tax4.951-13.3
Avg. Property Tax2.160.73
Avg. Sales Tax10.257.98
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Manufacturing, Information TechnologyAgriculture, Health Care, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateLower Moderate
PovertyHighModerate
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from Chicago to Fresno, you'll encounter differences in living costs, taxes, and economic environments. For instance, despite Fresno having a higher Cost of Living Index, Chicago residents face steeper property and sales taxes. Income also varies, with Chicago households generally earning more. This gap mirrors the distinct economic landscapes of each city, influenced heavily by local industries. Chicago's finance and tech sectors contribute to its higher average income, whereas Fresno's agriculture-based economy presents different financial dynamics. Understanding these distinctions is key to managing your finances effectively during and after your move.

Chicago vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison

As you plan your move from Chicago, IL, to Fresno, CA, understanding the subtle yet impactful differences in the community profiles is crucial. This brief comparison is designed to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting how these aspects contribute to the unique cultural fabrics of each city. This is a comparison of the politics between Chicago & Fresno, aimed at easing your transition by familiarizing you with the local values and beliefs in your new city.

ChicagoFresno
Political Make-upStrongly DemocraticModerately Democratic
Local PoliticsLiberal, with a focus on progressive policiesMixed political views, with both progressive and conservative policies
ReligionDiverse, with a strong Catholic presence. Local Catholic ChurchDiverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities. Local Catholic Diocese

While both cities lean Democratic, Chicago is known for its strong Democratic ties and progressive agenda, a contrast to Fresno's more balanced political landscape that entertains a mixture of both progressive and conservative values. This dichotomy extends into local politics, where you might find various policies reflecting the diverse political ideologies present in Fresno. Religion plays a dynamic role in both communities, each hosting a rich tapestry of faiths, though the Catholic Church remains significantly influential in both. Understanding these facets of your new home will help you navigate local conversations and community involvement more seamlessly.

Chicago vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chicago, IL to Fresno, CA offers a unique opportunity to compare service quality in daily commute and traffic, particularly focusing on the differences between driving/transiting in Chicago & Fresno. This comparison aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two cities.

ComparisonChicagoFresno
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with effortNo, not easily

Transitioning from Chicago to Fresno will significantly affect how you navigate daily commutes. Chicago, with its robust public transit system, including the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), offers ample options for getting around without a car. On average, Chicagoans may face longer commute times and higher traffic congestion due to the denser urban landscape. In contrast, Fresno, with its shorter average commute times and lighter traffic congestion, relies more on personal vehicles for transportation. The availability and efficiency of public transit in Fresno do not compare to Chicago, making car-dependency much higher. Understanding these key differences can help you prepare for the lifestyle changes ahead.

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