Best Chicago to San Jose Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Windy City to the Capital of Silicon Valley is undoubtedly an exciting chapter in your life, offering a blend of adventure and significant change. You’re trading Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza and bustling Magnificent Mile for San Jose’s tech-driven landscapes and sunny, Mediterranean climate. To ensure this long distance transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. With our unbiased ranking algorithm, we confidently recommend the best movers to meet your unique needs, making us your go-to guide in navigating this substantial life move.
Best Chicago to San Jose Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to San Jose Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
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
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and busin...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company offers ...Read More >>
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, a...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
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.
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help you bridge the gap, this guide offers a direct comparison between the popular neighborhoods of Chicago, IL and San Jose, CA. By understanding how your favorite Chicago neighborhood aligns with one in San Jose, you can start feeling at home even before you arrive. Let's explore how Chicago, IL & San Jose, CA neighborhoods compare .
| Chicago | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Willow Glen | Charming homes, vibrant main street |
| Wicker Park | Downtown San Jose | Artsy, active nightlife scene |
| Gold Coast | Almaden Valley | Affluent, suburban feel |
| Loop | Downtown San Jose | Urban core, cultural hub |
| River North | Santana Row | Trendy shops, upscale dining |
| Old Town | Los Gatos | Historic, boutique shopping |
| Lakeview | Cambrian Park | Residential, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Bucktown | Willow Glen | Eclectic, walkable neighborhoods |
| Andersonville | Campbell | Strong sense of community, local shops |
| Hyde Park | Silver Creek Valley | Educational institutions, diverse community |
Moving from the bustling streets of Chicago to the tech-savvy city of San Jose means finding new local favorites and community spaces. If you're enamored with Lincoln Park's mix of beautiful parks and lively dining scene, you'll find Willow Glen's Lincoln Avenue equally inviting with its quaint boutiques and family-owned restaurants, like the Willow Street Pizza. Similarly, lovers of Wicker Park's musical venues and eclectic nightlife might find Downtown San Jose's San Pedro Square Market a new hub for entertainment and dining. For those drawn to the luxurious allure of the Gold Coast, the serene suburbs of Almaden Valley offer a peaceful retreat without sacrificing San Jose's convenience and connectivity. Each San Jose neighborhood presents a unique blend of community and character, ready to welcome newcomers with open arms.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to San Jose
Moving across states is a significant life change that merits a close examination of what you're leaving behind and what awaits. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to San Jose, CA . By contrasting the pros and cons, this guide intends to help you make an informed decision about your move.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- Higher crime rates
- Lower tech job availability
- Dense urban living
San Jose, CA- Mild climate
- Lower crime rates
- High tech job market
- More suburban feel
San Jose, CA- Quieter nightlife
- Car-dependent areas
- Less diverse
- Higher cost of living
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Extensive public transit
- Cultural diversity
- Affordable housing
While the move from Chicago, IL to San Jose, CA means exchanging harsh winters for a milder climate, it's essential to consider other lifestyle factors. Chicago's vibrant nightlife, with spots like The Violet Hour and Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, contrasts with the quieter, more laid-back atmosphere in San Jose's downtown. The trade-off includes moving from a city with a rich cultural tapestry and an extensive public transit system to a location where a car is almost a necessity but offers a booming tech job market. San Jose's suburban feel, with neighborhood parks like Almaden Lake Park, provides a different living experience compared to Chicago's dense urban environment. Weighing these pros and cons will help you align your decision with your lifestyle preferences and career aspirations.
Chicago vs. San Jose Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & San Jose is crucial for understanding both the diversity and richness of the food scene in these cities. Food plays a significant role in the local culture and living experience, and this guide will help you get a better sense of what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Chicago | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-dish pizza | Pho |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian beef | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style hot dog | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, the deep-dish pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience, with places like Giordano’s leading the way. The Chicago-style hot dog, found in virtually every neighborhood, epitomizes the city's love for street food, while Italian beef sandwiches are a testament to Chicago's rich cultural history. Meanwhile, in San Jose, the food scene is heavily influenced by its diverse population, offering a wide range of cuisines. Pho and tacos are everyday staples, reflecting the city’s large Vietnamese and Mexican communities, respectively. Health-conscious eateries and vegan options are more prevalent in San Jose, such as the trendy avocado toast. For a true taste of San Jose, places like Falafel's Drive-In and Adega are must-visits, showcasing the city's blend of tradition and innovation in its culinary offerings.
Chicago vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding a new go-to dining spot is crucial for feeling at home. This guide compares top restaurants in Chicago to their counterparts in San Jose , helping you discover new favorite eateries based on your current Chicago loves. Let's dive into the culinary journey from Chicago to San Jose.
| Chicago | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Le Papillon | Fine dining, innovative courses |
| Girl & The Goat | Orchard City Kitchen | Creative, shareable plates |
| Portillo's | Smoking Pig BBQ | Beloved for comfort food |
| Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria | Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria | Authentic deep-dish pizza |
| Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | Mezcal | Traditional Mexican with a modern twist |
| The Purple Pig | Black Sheep Brasserie | French-inspired, nose-to-tail eats |
| Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Alexander's Steakhouse | High-end steak and innovation |
| Big Star | Tacos El Compadre | A hub for tacos and street food vibes |
| Publican Anker | San Pedro Square Market | Diverse dining options, communal atmosphere |
| Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Scott's Seafood | Premium seafood and steak selections |
Moving from Chicago's diverse food scene to San Jose's culinary landscape doesn't mean leaving behind your foodie favorites. For instance, if Alinea's cutting-edge dishes captivated your palate, Le Papillon in San Jose offers a similar fine dining experience with innovative courses that are sure to impress. Fans of the lively and creative atmosphere at Girl & The Goat will find a kindred spirit in Orchard City Kitchen, where the shareable plates spark conversation and delight. And for those who can't imagine a week without their deep-dish fix, Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria stands ready with authentic pies that echo the heartiness of Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. It’s not just about finding a new place to eat; it's about rediscovering the flavors and experiences that make a city feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating, making it essential to understand how housing in Chicago, IL and San Jose, CA compare. This comparison will give you a clearer image of what to expect in terms of cost, style, and lifestyle in these distinct urban environments.
| Comparison | Chicago | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Chicago School, Greystones | Spanish Revival, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to public transit | Proximity to tech companies, solar panels |
While comparing housing between Chicago and San Jose, it's evident that there is a significant disparity in cost, with San Jose's median home price and rent far exceeding those in Chicago. This difference reflects the higher cost of living associated with California's tech hub. However, Chicago compensates with its rich architectural heritage and higher urban lifestyle score, emphasizing the city's vibrant community, cultural diversity, and accessibility. Notably, Chicago homes often boast lake views and are celebrated for their proximity to public transit, enhancing urban convenience. Meanwhile, San Jose homes frequently highlight their proximity to Silicon Valley's tech giants and eco-friendly features like solar panels, catering to a tech-savvy and environmentally conscious demographic.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Chicago vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares. This guide will help compare the climate between the two cities , ensuring you're well-prepared for weather differences. From average temperatures to air quality, knowing what to expect can make your transition smoother.
Chicago, IL
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Flooding | Earthquakes, Droughts |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Chicago and San Jose offer distinct seasons, the nature of these seasons varies significantly. Chicago's winters are notably harsh and cold, with significant snowfall, while San Jose enjoys mild winters, with zero snowfall and more sunny days throughout the year. The difference in annual sunshine, with San Jose having nearly 70 more days of sunshine than Chicago, highlights a major lifestyle change, potentially impacting outdoor activities and mood. Additionally, while Chicago battles with blizzards and flooding, San Jose residents are more likely to experience earthquakes and droughts, indicating a shift in disaster preparedness. Understanding these differences can aid in adjusting to your new home more comfortably.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to San Jose
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of such a transition. This guide will help you compare the cost of living, income, and taxes between these two cities, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new life in San Jose or Chicago.
| Comparison | Chicago | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 0.78 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Concerning |
Moving from Chicago to San Jose, you'll encounter significant cost-of-living changes. For example, while the average household income is substantially higher in San Jose, the cost of living index is more than double that of Chicago. This discrepancy highlights the importance of comprehending how your lifestyle might adapt given the economic dynamics of your new city. San Jose’s tech-driven economy ensures high affluence levels but also juxtaposes against concerning homelessness and lower but noticeable poverty rates, challenging new residents to navigate these socio-economic landscapes thoughtfully.
Chicago vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of scenery. It's about adapting to a new cultural and social environment. To help you get a clearer picture of what to expect, we've crafted a quick comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Chicago & San Jose . This summary gives you an at-a-glance snapshot of the typical resident profiles in each city.
| Chicago | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratically leaning | Democratically leaning |
| Local Politics | Strong mayoral system, city council influence | Mayor-council government system |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic population | Diverse, strong presence of Catholic, Buddhist, and Hindu communities |
Chicago and San Jose, though both Democratically leaning, have unique local governance styles that influence daily city operations and policies. While Chicago operates under a system where the mayor and the city council share significant influence, San Jose uses a mayor-council government system, which might affect how local initiatives are pushed forward. Moreover, the religious landscape in both cities is quite diverse. However, San Jose stands out with its notably strong presence of Buddhist and Hindu communities besides the predominant Catholic population. Understanding these aspects can provide you with valuable insights into the cultural diversity and political ethos in your new city.
Chicago vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to San Jose, CA, it’s important to understand the key differences in traffic and transportation options between these two dynamic cities. This comparison aims to give you a better insight into what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like.
| Comparison | Chicago | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Challenging |
In Chicago, public transit, including buses and the famous "L" train system, is robust, making it easier to get around the city without a car. This contributes to the slightly higher traffic congestion score compared to San Jose. San Jose, while having public transit options like VTA buses and light rail, often requires a car for more convenient access across its sprawling layout. Although the average commute time in San Jose is slightly less, the city's car-centric design can make it challenging for those relying solely on public transportation.
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