($781 to $3,335 ) Chicago to San Francisco Movers
Quick answer: The average cost of moving from Chicago to San Francisco ranges from $3,335 to $9,468 but can be as low as $781 . The cost will vary according to the amount of stuff you are moving, your moving date, and the services you get from the movers.
For an immediate price estimate, you can request a moving cost estimate.
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The Best Chicago to San Francisco Full-Service Movers
Moving your entire home from Chicago to San Francisco takes a lot of work. The distance between the two cities is more than 2,127 miles. Hiring a moving company streamlines the whole moving process.
You won't have to worry about packing, loading, and safely transporting your belongings. We have listed the top licensed interstate moving companies based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.
Taking the opposite route? Just check out our San Francisco to Chicago guide and get everything sorted without the stress.
Explore More Moving Companies from Chicago to San Francisco
If you're looking to explore additional moving companies from Chicago to San Francisco, check out our extended list below. These options will help you find the perfect mover for your needs.
Here are the moving companies serving Chicago to San Francisco.
How Much Does It Cost To Move From Chicago to San Francisco?
We have calculated the average cost of moving from Chicago to San Francisco by reviewing this route's moving reviews. The moving cost from Chicago to San Francisco ranges from $3,335 to $9,468. This is a rough estimate for an average distance of 2,127 miles between both cities.
| Move Size | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $2,400 - $3,800 |
| 2-3 Bedrooms | $4,780 - $7,960 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $6,600 - $10,860 |
Note: These price ranges are general estimates based on a distance of 2,127 miles and past averages. Your final cost may vary depending on the size of your move, any extra services needed, parking access for the truck, market conditions, and overall availability.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Moving From Chicago to San Francisco
There are many factors that influence the final moving costs.. The cost to move from Chicago to San Francisco will depend on these factors:
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Distance: The moving cost is directly proportional to the distance movers are required to cover, considering the fuel and labor costs.
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Timeline: The date and time of your move affect the moving cost. Movers charge more for moving on weekends and summers.
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Move size and weight: The weight and number of items you plan to relocate influence the final cost. Moving a four-bedroom house and heavy items like a pool table will cost more.
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Extra Services: Extra services like vehicle transport, packing, unpacking, furniture assembly and disassembly increase the moving cost.
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Transport Method: Your mode of transport will affect the final cost. You can transport your belongings by road or by air. Air freight will cost more than road transport.
Who Regulates Movers from Chicago to San Francisco?
Interstate moving companies must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to obtain a valid DOT license. You can check for a mover's license on the FMCSA website.
Agency: United States Department of Transportation (USDOT)
Website: www.fmcsa.dot.gov/
What to Know Before Moving from Chicago to San Francisco
Going on a move from Chicago to San Francisco? Here's a detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and make an informed decision.
Cost of Living: Chicago vs. San Francisco
| Category | Chicago | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Average Rent (1BR) | $1,949/month | $3,010/month |
| Average Home Value | $309,809 | $1,310,207 |
| Per Capita Income | $37,103 | $90,175 |
| Cost of Living Index | 115 | 167 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.6% | 4.0% |
| Sales Tax | 10.25% | 8.625% |
| State Income Tax | 4.95% | 13.3% |
Key Takeaways:
-
Housing Costs: Rent and home prices can vary significantly between cities. Always compare housing expenses before relocating.
-
Income: Differences in per capita income may help offset cost of living changes, but it's important to assess your earning potential in the new city.
-
Taxes: Sales and income tax rates can affect your overall cost of living. Consider how tax structures might impact your budget.
Lifestyle Differences: Chicago vs. San Francisco
| Aspect | Chicago | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 842,000 |
| Political Leaning | Strongly Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Summer High (Avg.) | 84°F | 67°F |
| Winter Low (Avg.) | 19°F | 46°F |
| Annual Rainfall | 36 inches | 23 inches |
| Annual Snowfall | 36 inches | 0 inches |
| Crime Index | 35 | 42 |
Key Takeaways:
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Climate: Seasonal temperatures and weather patterns can vary between cities. Check how differences in summer heat or winter cold might affect your lifestyle.
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Precipitation: Rainfall and snowfall levels may impact transportation, outdoor activities, and housing choices.
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Safety: Crime rates are an important factor in evaluating overall quality of life. Always compare safety data to make informed decisions.
Pros and Cons:
Chicago vs.
San Francisco
Pros of Living in
Chicago
Cons of Living in
Chicago
Lower housing costs
Harsh winters with significant snowfall
Diverse cultural and culinary scene
Higher crime rates in certain areas
Central location with access to various U.S. regions
Higher sales tax rate
Robust public transportation system
-
Pros of Living in
San Francisco
Cons of Living in
San Francisco
Milder climate with minimal snowfall
High cost of living, particularly housing
Strong job market
Notable income inequality
Scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities
Higher state income tax rates
No state tax on Social Security benefits
-
Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)
The drive from
Chicago to San Francisco covers
approximately 2,127
miles. Travel time can vary
depending on factors like traffic, weather, and time of day. Refer
to the route map below for a detailed overview of the drive.
Generally, the most cost-effective travel options from
Chicago to San Francisco are buses
or trains. Intercity bus services and rail providers offer
competitive fares. Booking in advance and traveling during off-peak
times can help save even more.
Direct public transportation varies by route. In many cases,
travelers may need to make transfers via regional rail, bus
networks, or local transit systems to reach their destination
efficiently.
Toll costs depend on the highways and bridges/tunnels used. Expect to
encounter tolls on major interstates or turnpikes. Using an
electronic toll pass (like E-Z Pass) can streamline the process and
may offer discounted rates.
Parking can be limited and expensive in densely populated or urban
areas. Some neighborhoods require residential parking permits. If
you're relocating, check local parking regulations ahead of time and
consider garage rentals or public transportation as alternatives.
| Pros of Living in Chicago | Cons of Living in Chicago |
|---|---|
| Lower housing costs | Harsh winters with significant snowfall |
| Diverse cultural and culinary scene | Higher crime rates in certain areas |
| Central location with access to various U.S. regions | Higher sales tax rate |
| Robust public transportation system | - |
| Pros of Living in San Francisco | Cons of Living in San Francisco |
|---|---|
| Milder climate with minimal snowfall | High cost of living, particularly housing |
| Strong job market | Notable income inequality |
| Scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities | Higher state income tax rates |
| No state tax on Social Security benefits | - |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The drive from Chicago to San Francisco covers approximately 2,127 miles. Travel time can vary depending on factors like traffic, weather, and time of day. Refer to the route map below for a detailed overview of the drive.
Generally, the most cost-effective travel options from Chicago to San Francisco are buses or trains. Intercity bus services and rail providers offer competitive fares. Booking in advance and traveling during off-peak times can help save even more.
Direct public transportation varies by route. In many cases, travelers may need to make transfers via regional rail, bus networks, or local transit systems to reach their destination efficiently.
Toll costs depend on the highways and bridges/tunnels used. Expect to encounter tolls on major interstates or turnpikes. Using an electronic toll pass (like E-Z Pass) can streamline the process and may offer discounted rates.
Parking can be limited and expensive in densely populated or urban areas. Some neighborhoods require residential parking permits. If you're relocating, check local parking regulations ahead of time and consider garage rentals or public transportation as alternatives.
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