Best Chicago to Oakland Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Chicago to Oakland Movers

Moving from the Windy City to the Bay Area marks an exciting chapter in your life, laden with new adventures and opportunities. Trading Chicago's historic architecture and bustling city vibes for Oakland's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes is a journey worth embarking on. However, the key to a smooth transition lies in entrusting your move to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your belongings navigate the long distance with care. At Great Guys Moving, we take pride in linking you with the best movers in the country, making your relocation as seamless as possible.

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Best Chicago to Oakland 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
H2H Movers Inc9.24AAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Oakland 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
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
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 Chicago to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you’re not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease your transition, we’ve created a comparison that identifies the most similar neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Oakland, CA . This guide is designed to help you find a new home that feels like your old one, by highlighting comparable lifestyles, amenities, and vibes in Oakland to what you loved back in Chicago.

ChicagoOakland
Lincoln ParkRockridge

Family-friendly, vibrant shopping

Wicker ParkTemescal

Hip, artsy with eclectic dining

The LoopDowntown Oakland

Urban center, cultural attractions

Gold CoastPiedmont Avenue

Upscale, historic charm

Old TownGrand Lake

Quaint, with a strong community feel

LakeviewAdams Point

Diverse, with waterfront views

Hyde ParkDimond District

Rich history, tight-knit community

Logan SquareOakland Ave/Harrison St

Creative, with a bohemian vibe

River NorthUptown Oakland

Vibrant nightlife, arts scene

West LoopJack London District

Trendy, with a rich industrial history

When diving deeper into what makes these neighborhoods similar, you might be intrigued to learn that Rockridge, much like Lincoln Park, is known for its bustling streets lined with cafes, bookstores, and family-friendly activities, making it a warm, inviting place to live. For example, Rockridge's College Avenue shares the same lively ambiance as Lincoln Avenue, sprinkled with local favorites like Zachary’s Chicago Pizza, which could easily rival Chicago’s own deep-dish institutions. Temescal’s Telegraph Avenue, akin to Wicker Park's Milwaukee Avenue, boasts an impressive array of boutique shops, outdoor murals, and eateries like Cholita Linda, drawing in a creative and eclectic crowd eager to explore Oakland's vibrant culture. The parallel between Oakland’s Uptown district and Chicago’s River North is apparent in their thriving nightlife and the prominence of arts, with venues like Fox Theater hosting a variety of live performances that contribute to the dynamic and spirited atmosphere of Oakland.

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Things to Do in Oakland

  • Explore Chabot Space & Science Center
  • Stroll through Oakland Zoo
  • Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
  • Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
  • Visit Oakland Museum of California
  • Sample at Jack London Square eateries
  • Hike in Redwood Regional Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Oakland

Moving from one city to another brings about significant changes, both good and bad. This detailed comparison offers an honest reflection on relocating from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA, helping you weigh your options wisely. By contrasting the cons with the pros, you can make an informed decision on whether this move aligns with your expectations and lifestyle preferences.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Cold winters
  • Higher crime rates
  • Limited outdoor activities
  • State income tax
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Lower crime rates
  • Rich outdoor culture
  • No state income tax
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Less nightlife
  • More expensive
  • Smaller city feel
  • Less public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Rich cultural history
  • Expansive public transit

Moving from Chicago, with its iconic deep-dish pizza, to Oakland introduces you to a vibrant, diverse culinary scene along the bustling streets of Temescal and the scenic waterfront Jack London Square. Though Oakland may have less nightlife compared to Chicago's buzzing scene in neighborhoods like Wrigleyville and Logan Square, it boasts an impressive array of parks and outdoor spaces such as Joaquin Miller Park, perfect for those seeking a connection with nature. Oakland's weather is significantly milder, offering an extended season to enjoy its abundant outdoor activities and beautiful regions like Lake Merritt, a popular area for jogging, picnicking, and sailing. Despite the higher cost of living, moving to Oakland means embracing a lifestyle rich in cultural experiences, from the annual Art + Soul Festival to the historic Fox Theater, ensuring there's always something new to explore.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Oakland

Food plays a crucial role in reflecting the local culture and lifestyle of a city. To help you transition smoothly, we're offering a comparison of the culinary landscapes; comparing the local cuisine between Chicago & Oakland ensures you're well-acquainted with the food scene of your new home.

ChicagoOakland

Most iconic local food item

Deep-Dish Pizza
Sourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

Italian Beef Sandwich
Korean BBQ

Most popular street food item

Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Seitan-based Dishes
Jackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Alinea
  • Girl & The Goat
  • Giordano's
  • Chez Panisse
  • The Fat Lady
  • Shakewell

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
9

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

9
10

Vegan Friendly

8
9

Comparing Chicago and Oakland's food scenes reveals distinct culinary identities shaped by local culture and preferences. In Chicago, the hearty and iconic deep-dish pizza at places like Giordano's tells the story of a city that loves its rich, indulgent flavors. In contrast, Oakland introduces you to a more health-conscious, diverse culinary experience, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients showcased at Chez Panisse. Both cities celebrate their unique food scenes, from street food like the Chicago-style hot dog to Oakland's diverse taco trucks often found in vibrant neighborhoods like Fruitvale. Each city offers a distinct taste of local and international cuisines, making them exciting places for foodies to explore.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Oakland

When relocating, finding that perfect dining spot where you can feel right at home is crucial. This comparison of Chicago to Oakland restaurants aims to seamlessly transition your palate, guiding you to discover new culinary delights that echo your old favorites. Let's make Oakland feel like home, one meal at a time.

AlineaCommis

High-end dining with inventive tasting menus

Portillo'sBelly

Casual spot known for flavorful sandwiches and hot dogs

Giordano'sZachary's Chicago Pizza

Famous for their deep-dish pizza

The Purple PigWood Tavern

Rustic, foodie haven offering New American dishes

Rick Bayless's Frontera GrillCalavera

Authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist

Girl & The GoatDona Tomas

Vibrant atmosphere with innovative dishes

Smoque BBQEverett & Jones Barbeque

Classic BBQ place with a soulful vibe

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabRockridge Oyster Bar

Seafood-focused fare with high-quality ingredients

Lou Malnati's PizzeriaPizzaiolo

Offers delicious thin-crust pizzas and Italian dishes

The Berghoff RestaurantSuppenküche

German cuisine with a cozy, traditional feel

Discovering Oakland's culinary scene through the lens of Chicago's diverse dining can be an exciting journey. For instance, akin to the legendary deep-dish pizzas of Giordano's in Chicago, Zachary's Chicago Pizza in Oakland brings a slice of the Windy City to the West Coast, with its award-winning pies bringing comfort to any homesick Chicagoan. If your penchant leans towards high-end dining, swapping Alinea's innovative experience for Commis's equally remarkable tasting menus ensures that exceptional culinary adventures await you in Oakland. Both cities offer rich, foodie-driven experiences that cater to a broad range of tastes and preferences, from the rustic and cozy ambiance of The Purple Pig against Oakland’s Wood Tavern to the soulful BBQ flavors of Smoque BBQ mirrored by Everett & Jones Barbeque. Engaging with these parallel dining establishments will not only satisfy your cravings but also help weave your narrative into the fabric of Oakland's vibrant community.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Oakland

When considering a move, it's crucial to explore the real estate landscape. Understanding how Chicago, IL and Oakland, CA compare in housing costs, architectural styles, and urban lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. Let’s dive into the specifics.

Comparing Chicago and Oakland, it's evident that housing costs, particularly median home prices and rent, are significantly higher in Oakland. However, Oakland offers an edge with its unique blend of Craftsman and Victorian homes, catering to those seeking architectural variety and historical charm. Both cities score equally on walkability and bikeability, indicating an urban environment conducive to exploring neighborhoods without a car. Chicago's lake views and Oakland's bay views are highly sought after, reflecting each city's unique geographic appeal. For those with sustainability in mind, Oakland stands out with listings frequently highlighting eco-friendly features. Understanding these distinctions will help you navigate the housing market in your prospective city.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rockridge offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a local pet shop, ensuring your furry friends are always pampered.

2. Lake Merritt: This area surrounds a picturesque lake with a 3.4-mile walking path that's perfect for dog-walking, alongside veterinary services easily accessible for your pets' health needs.

3. Montclair Village: Nestled in the hills, Montclair Village is not only scenic but also boasts a pet-friendly environment with holistic pet care, and numerous trails for adventurous walks with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Oakland

Moving from one location to another requires adapting to a new climate. Understanding the weather differences between your current and future home is essential. This comparison aims to highlight how Chicago's and Oakland's climates differ, helping you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
85/65

Chicago, IL

72/56

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32/18

Chicago, IL

58/44

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

23

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both cities experience their own sets of natural disasters, with Chicago facing snowstorms and tornadoes, and Oakland contending with earthquakes and wildfires, it's important to note the drastic difference in sunshine and temperature. Oakland offers a more temperate climate with mild winters and fewer days of extreme heat or cold, compared to Chicago's icy winters and warm summers. This makes outdoor activities more accessible year-round in Oakland. Additionally, the significantly fewer inches of annual snowfall in Oakland means less winter maintenance and more consistent commutes during the colder months.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and the broader financial landscape in your new city compare to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will shed light on various economic aspects, including average income levels and living costs, providing a comprehensive view of what to expect in Chicago versus Oakland.

Moving from Chicago to Oakland, you'll encounter significant differences in your financial landscape, notably in the average household income and cost of living. While the average income in Oakland is notably higher, this advantage can be offset by a higher cost of living index and the state's maximum income tax rate. The substantial difference in average property tax rates between the two cities could impact your decision if you plan to buy a home. Additionally, understanding the leading industries can offer insights into job market dynamics in each city, crucial for career planning. This overview highlights key financial considerations, setting the stage for a smoother transition to your new home.

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

In making the move from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA, it's not just a change of scenery you're signing up for. This quick overview aims to give you a glimpse into how the political and religious makeup of the residents compares between Chicago & Oakland . Understanding these facets will help you gauge the cultural atmosphere and community priorities in your new city.

ChicagoOakland

Political Make-up

Primarily DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Major focus on social equity and health careEmphasizes police reform, housing, and community programs

Religion

Varied, with a significant Catholic presence. Archdiocese of ChicagoDiverse, notable for its progressive religious communities. Diocese of Oakland

Chicago and Oakland share Democratic leanings, but your new home in Oakland tends to take a more progressive stance in local politics, focusing heavily on police reform and affordable housing. While both cities enjoy religious diversity, Oakland is known for its forward-thinking religious communities that often engage in social justice initiatives. You might find Oakland's approach to social issues and community support aligns closely with or differs significantly from Chicago's, offering you a fresh perspective on civic engagement and community building.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Oakland

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Oakland will help you gauge what to expect as you transition to your new city.

ChicagoOakland
3429

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

76

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

87

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with difficultyYes, more easily

Can you get by without car?

In both cities, having a car is beneficial but not absolutely necessary, offering different experiences in terms of commuting. Chicago's extensive public transit network, comprising buses, trains (the L), and commuter rails, closely integrates daily life with the city's vast geography. Conversely, Oakland, while having strong public transit options with BART and buses, allows for a slightly more car-optional lifestyle due to its smaller size and bike-friendly infrastructure. This difference in public transit availability and the necessity of a car affects how one would plan their daily commute and leisure outings. Overall, you'll find Oakland a bit more forgiving if you prefer to travel without a car, but in Chicago, while possible, expect a bit more planning and time to navigate the city.

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