Moving from Chicago to Fresno?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate 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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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Fresno Movers

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

#1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

Chicago, IL
Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3476069 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
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#2
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional

based on 10,649+ data points

Chicago, IL
Full Moves, Truck Loading and Unloading, Interstate Moving Assistance See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1906350 Verify

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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#3
H2H Movers Inc Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 8,231+ data points

Chicago, IL
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2428328 Verify

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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
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#4
All In A Day Moving Services Logo
Superb
claimed company icon

based on 914+ data points

Merced, CA
Local and long-distance moving, Piano moving, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3861667 Verify

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 >>

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top 3 ranked movers in merced 2023 all in a day moving services image
top 3 ranked movers in merced 2022 all in a day moving services image
#5
Pete's Moving Services LLC Logo
Fabulous

based on 2,685+ data points

Modesto, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Office Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/3/2024)

USDOT: 3314910 Verify

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 >>

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top ranked movers in stockton 2022 petes moving services llc image

Relocating from Chicago to Fresno Neighborhood Guide

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.

ChicagoFresno
Lincoln ParkWoodward Park

Lush green spaces, family-friendly

Wicker ParkTower District

Artsy with vibrant nightlife

The LoopDowntown Fresno

Urban core, cultural attractions

Gold CoastFig Garden

Upscale, historic

LakeviewNortheast Fresno

Residential, close to nature

Logan SquareSunnyside

Diverse, community-focused

River NorthNorth Fresno

Trendy, dining options

West LoopOld Fig Garden

Unique food scene, charming

AndersonvilleClovis

Close-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.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Fresno

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 item

Deep-dish pizzaTri-tip steak

Most popular meat dish

Italian beef sandwichChicken shawarma

Most popular street food item

Chicago-style hot dogTacos

Most popular vegan food

Seitan wingsTempeh tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
    2. Alinea
    3. Portillo's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

87

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.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Fresno

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.

AlineaThe Lime Lite

Innovative American cuisine in an upscale setting.

Giordano’sMe-n-Ed's Brick Oven Baked Pizzeria

Famous for deep-dish pizzas.

Girl & The GoatThe Annex Kitchen

Italian-inspired eatery with a creative twist.

The Purple PigCracked Pepper Bistro

A fusion of flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

Portillo’sDog House Grill

Renowned for its roadside-style sandwiches and BBQ.

Joe's SeafoodPismo's Coastal Grill

Fresh seafood selections in a casual setting.

PublicanThe Standard

Local 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 Room

A place with history offering German-inspired dishes.

RPM ItalianOggi Cosi Si Mangia

Authentic 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?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Fresno

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.

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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Fresno

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)

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.

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.

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

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-up

Strongly DemocraticModerately Democratic

Local Politics

Liberal, with a focus on progressive policiesMixed political views, with both progressive and conservative policies

Religion

Diverse, 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.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Fresno

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.

ChicagoFresno
3422

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

83

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with effortNo, not easily

Can you get by without car?

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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