Moving from Chicago to Los Angeles typically costs between $1,600 and $6,507, with delivery times ranging from 1 to 14 business days. Your final cost and timeline will depend on factors like the volume of belongings, your chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or tackle the 2,014-mile journey yourself.

Hiring a long-distance moving company offers convenience but comes at a premium price. For a more budget-friendly option, you might consider renting a truck or using a moving container, though these choices require more hands-on involvement from you.

Cost of Moving from Chicago to Los Angeles

Chicago moving companies generally charge around $150 per hour. Here’s what you can expect to pay when moving over 2,014 miles, whether you choose a full-service moving company, a moving container service, or a rental truck. Keep in mind that these prices fluctuate based on your move size, any additional services needed, parking availability at both locations, current market rates, and seasonal availability.

Move Size

 Moving Company Moving Container Rental Truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,1600- $3,000 $1,073 – $2,904

$1,072 – $2,174

2 – 3 Bedrooms

 $3,000 – $5,000 $2,069 – $4,094 $1,172 – $2,588
4+ Bedrooms $6,000 – $10,000 $2,617 – $5,579

$1,585 – $2,980

Note

These are rough estimates based on historical averages and are subject to change.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Moving from Chicago to Los Angeles

The cost of Chicago movers depends on several key factors:

Size of Your Move

The amount of belongings you’re moving plays a big role. For example:

  • Moving a one-bedroom apartment can cost as little as $1,600.
  • Moving a four-bedroom home can go up to $9,288.

Time of Year

Moving during peak season (like summer) is typically more expensive because of high demand for movers in Chicago.

DIY vs. Hiring Professionals

Renting a truck or using a moving container is often cheaper, with truck rentals ranging between $1,072 and $2,978.

However, these options require more effort, such as driving the truck yourself or loading and unloading. Hiring professional movers costs more but saves you time and energy.

Cost of Professional Moving Companies from Chicago to Los Angeles

The cost of hiring professional movers depends on the size of your home:

  • Studio or 1-Bedroom Home: Costs range from $1,600 to $3,000.
  • 2- to 3-Bedroom Home: Costs range from $3,000 to $5,000.
  • 4-Bedroom Home or Larger: Costs range from $5,000 to $10,000.

These estimates cover long-distance moves between Chicago and Los Angeles and can vary based on additional factors like services required or seasonal demand.

Cost of Moving Containers from Chicago to Los Angeles

Using moving containers is a flexible option and the costs depend on the size of your move:

  • Studio or 1-Bedroom Home: Costs range from $1,073 to $2,904.
  • 2- to 3-Bedroom Home: Costs range from $2,069 to $4,094.
  • 4-Bedroom Home or Larger: Costs range from $2,617 to $5,579.

Moving containers are a cost-effective alternative to hiring full-service movers but still require some effort for loading and unloading.

Cost of Renting a Moving Truck from Chicago to Los Angeles

Renting a moving truck from Chicago to Los Angeles is usually the most affordable option but it requires you to handle all the driving and labor yourself. For a studio or one-bedroom apartment, the cost ranges between $1,072 and $2,174. If you’re moving a two- to three-bedroom home, the price increases to around $1,172 to $2,588. For larger homes, such as a four-bedroom house, the cost can range from $1,585 to $2,980. These estimates include the fuel expenses but can vary depending on the size of the truck, the rental company and the specific route taken.

Pros & Cons of Moving from Chicago to Los Angeles

Cost of Living – Chicago vs. Los Angeles

Category

 Chicago Los Angeles
Average Rent Cost $1,595

$2,850

Average Home Value

 $306,098 $2,245,337
Average Income (Per Capita) $65,601

$73,027

Cost of Living (Single Person)

 $1,001 $6,742
Cost of Living (Family of 4) $3,584

$5,567

Unemployment Rate

 9.0% 10.6%
Sales Tax 10.25%

9.5%

State Income Tax

 4.95%

13.3%
  • Rent Prices: Los Angeles rents are 79% higher than Chicago’s.
  • Home Prices: Homes in Los Angeles are a staggering 633.5% more expensive than in Chicago.
  • Income: Average income in Los Angeles is 11.3% higher than in Chicago.
  • Cost of Living (Single Person): Living costs for a single person in Los Angeles are 573.5% higher.
  • Cost of Living (Family): For a family, living costs in Los Angeles are 55.3% higher than in Chicago.
  • Unemployment Rate: Los Angeles has a 17.78% higher unemployment rate compared to Chicago.
  • Sales Tax: Sales tax in Los Angeles is 7.32% lower than in Chicago.
  • State Income Tax: State income tax in Los Angeles is 168.69% higher than in Chicago.
  • Cost Perspective: To enjoy the same standard of living, you’d need around $20,205.79 in Los Angeles versus $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How Life Differs Between Chicago & Los Angeles

Category

 Los Angeles Chicago
Population 9,787,747

2,746,388

Public Transportation Score

 8 9
Walkability 69

77

Bike Friendliness

 59 72
Crime Index 52.86

35.19

Safety Index

 47.14 33.87
Air Quality Moderate

Good

Source

Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout & AirNow

Los Angeles has a population that is about 256% larger than Chicago’s. When it comes to public transportation, Chicago scores 9 out of 10, slightly better than Los Angeles which scores 8 out of 10.

Chicago is more walkable, with a score of 77 out of 100, compared to Los Angeles’s 69 out of 100. Similarly, Chicago is also more bike-friendly, scoring 72 out of 100, while Los Angeles scores 59 out of 100.

In terms of crime, Los Angeles has a higher crime rate than Chicago, with neighborhoods in Los Angeles being safer than 52.86% of U.S. neighborhoods, while Chicago’s neighborhoods are safer than only 35.19%. However, Los Angeles still has a higher safety index at 47.14, compared to Chicago’s 33.87.

When it comes to air quality, Los Angeles is rated as moderate, whereas Chicago has good air quality, making it a healthier option in this aspect.

Things to Consider Before Moving to Los Angeles

  • Weather: Los Angeles has a pleasant climate but the temperatures can vary due to microclimates in different areas. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before your moving day.
  • HOA Rules: If you’re moving into a neighborhood or community with a homeowners association (HOA), check their rules about moving. This can help you avoid any issues on the day of your move.
  • Elevator Reservations: If your new building has an elevator, find out if you need to reserve it for your moving day to make things easier.
  • Truck Parking Permits: Some areas in Los Angeles require parking permits for large moving trucks. Check ahead to see if you’ll need one to avoid any last-minute problems.
  • State Licensing: When getting quotes from local moving companies in California, make sure they have a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). This number confirms the company meets state requirements for insurance, safety and financial stability, and has passed background checks by the California Department of Justice. Always check for a valid license before hiring.
  • State Regulator: You can verify a moving company’s license and status through the California Public Utilities Commission to ensure they are authorized to operate.
  • Moving Permits: California does not require specific moving permits. However, it’s a good idea to check local parking rules and restrictions at your new location to avoid any issues during the move.
  • Change of Address: Submit your change of address form with USPS at least a week before your move. You can set your official moving date on the form to ensure all your mail is forwarded to your new address in Los Angeles without any issues.
  • Moving Company Insurance: Moving companies are required to carry insurance, but the coverage varies by state. One option is Released Value Protection, which is free but offers minimal coverage. It only reimburses 60 cents per pound per item. For example, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is damaged or lost, you’d only get $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For better coverage, talk to your moving company about full-value protection or explore third-party insurance options.

Where to Live in Los Angeles

Now that you’ve decided to move to the “City of Angels,” here are the best neighborhoods to consider:

The 5 Best Neighborhoods in or Near Los Angeles

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is known for its beautiful beaches and welcoming community. It’s a popular area for homebuyers and renters, with over 70% of residents renting. The neighborhood also boasts top-rated public schools and has a population of under 100,000, making it a peaceful yet vibrant place to live.

Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach offers the perfect blend of a beach-town vibe and modern conveniences. The area has excellent weather, a low crime rate and a friendly atmosphere. No matter where you live in Hermosa Beach, you’re always close to the ocean, making it ideal for beach lovers.

South Pasadena

With breathtaking views, affordable rent and excellent schools, South Pasadena is an appealing choice. It’s close to neighboring cities like Alhambra, Pasadena, and San Marino, offering plenty of options for shopping and dining. The area has a good selection of condos, so take your time to explore before deciding.

Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach is perfect for families. This suburb has a population of around 35,000 and offers a safe, family-friendly environment. While rent is higher, averaging around $2,500, the benefits of living here, including great schools and quality of life, make it worth the investment.

Seal Beach

Seal Beach, located in Orange County, is a hidden gem. It’s close to airports, nightlife and amazing restaurants. Although it’s not right in downtown Los Angeles, you can get there in under an hour. With rent averaging below $2,000 per month, it’s an affordable option worth checking out.

Neighborhoods for Singles

  • Echo Park
  • Los Feliz
  • Playa Del Rey
  • Silver Lake
  • Westwood

Neighborhoods for Families

  • Brentwood
  • Eagle Rock
  • Mar Vista
  • Playa Vista
  • Studio City

What to Do in Los Angeles

There are endless activities and attractions in your new California home. Some of the best include:

  • Landmarks: Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Park and Observatory.
  • Museums: Getty Center, Natural History Museum, LA County Museum of Art (LACMA), Petersen Automotive Museum, Museum of Death.
  • Entertainment & Fun: Universal Studios, Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Paramount Pictures Studios, Disneyland, LA Arts District.
  • Nature & Outdoor Spots: Runyon Canyon, Angeles National Forest, Venice Beach, Malibu, Descanso Gardens.

Los Angeles Sports Teams

  • Basketball: Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Sparks
  • Baseball: Los Angeles Dodgers
  • Soccer: Los Angeles FC
  • Hockey: Los Angeles Kings
  • Football: Los Angeles Rams

FAQs

When is the best time to move from Chicago to Los Angeles?

The ideal time to move is during spring or fall, as the weather is milder and moving costs are lower compared to the busy summer season.

When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Los Angeles?

Winter is usually the most affordable time to move since fewer people relocate during this season. Many moving companies offer discounts during this time.

How long does it take to move from Chicago to Los Angeles?

The move, which covers 2,014 miles, typically takes 6 to 17 days. Some moving companies may provide faster service if needed. If you require extra time, ask about storage options in Los Angeles.

What is the main factor that affects moving costs?

The two biggest factors are the size of your move and the distance. Moving more items or multiple rooms requires additional movers and time, which increases the overall cost.

Do movers provide supplies and storage options?

Most moving companies offer moving supplies like boxes, including specialty items like mattress boxes. Many also provide short- and long-term storage options. However, these extras usually come with additional charges.

Are there items that movers won’t move?

Yes, movers typically have a list of hazardous items they cannot transport. This includes things like gasoline, oxygen tanks, lighter fluid, matches, propane cylinders, paint and fireworks. Always check with your moving company for a complete list.