You're looking to move from San Francisco to Chicago—a 2,131-mile haul that's no small undertaking. The good news: you've got solid options on both coasts, and I've tracked down five movers in the Bay Area that regularly handle this route and actually deliver on their promises.
Best San Francisco movers for long-distance moves to Chicago
Here's the lineup based on customer feedback, track record, and actual performance on longer routes:
- Gentle Giant Moving Company — 4.58 / 5 stars
- NorthStar Moving Company — 4.52 / 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc. — 4.64 / 5 stars
- Pure Moving Company — 4.48 / 5 stars
- Good Green Moving — 4.44 / 5 stars
Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.
Rating: 4.6 / 5 | 274 Wattis Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080
What stands out: 87% positive reviews across 634 feedback entries. Customers consistently praise efficient service, careful handling, and straightforward communication. The crew moves fast—many reviewers note how quickly items went from one place to the next—without the sloppiness you sometimes see with speed-focused outfits.
The downside: About 12% of reviews mention damaged items or late arrivals, which is worth flagging. If you've got fragile valuables, you'll want to clarify their protection policies upfront.
License #: 0190673 | Years in business: 15 | DOT #: 3670248
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, piano moving, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage
Phone: (415) 404-7400
NorthStar Moving Company
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | One Bush Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94104
What stands out: Over 1,100 customer reviews with 92% positive sentiment. This is the kind of consistency you want for a long-distance move. Clients highlight friendly crews, prompt communication, and responsive handling of claims. They've been in business 30 years, which shows in the professionalism.
The catch: Some customers report difficulty reaching them for status updates, and a handful mention item damage. Nothing out of the ordinary for this distance, but worth verifying their damage protocols before booking.
License #: 0182466 | Years in business: 30 | DOT #: 1836576
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, art, antiques, crating, storage
Phone: (415) 635-3844
Gentle Giant Moving Company
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | 361 Swift Ave, South San Francisco, CA 94080
What stands out: Nearly 95% of 130 customer reviews are positive. Reviewers rave about quick, organized teams that treat belongings with genuine care. The level of attention to detail stands out—people specifically mention how thoroughly their furniture was wrapped.
The reality check: A small percentage report higher costs than expected or unclear estimates. Communication lapses happen occasionally. For a cross-country move, get everything in writing and ask about their binding estimate process.
License #: 0167668 | Years in business: 44 | DOT #: 373544
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crane vans, storage
Phone: (415) 544-7000
Pure Moving Company
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | 401 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94158
What stands out: 98% positive out of 1,008 reviews—some of the cleanest feedback you'll see. Clients consistently mention efficient, organized moves with zero damage. Clear communication before and during the move, transparent pricing, and polite staff are the patterns.
The reality check: A small fraction report slow arrival or inexperienced crews, though management apparently responds quickly to complaints. For a move this far, that responsiveness matters.
License #: 0191103 | Years in business: 11 | DOT #: 3207734
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage
Phone: (415) 919-6497
Good Green Moving
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | 1355 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
What stands out: 89% positive feedback emphasizes courtesy, clear communication, and care. They use reusable eco-friendly bins and offer transparent pricing—both pluses if you care about those things. Crews are described as efficient and stress-free to work with.
The reality check: About 11% of reviews mention damaged items or poor follow-up from management. Some customers report unresolved complaints. Before booking, ask specifically about their claims process and how they handle damage disputes on long-distance moves.
License #: 0191035 | Years in business: 12 | DOT #: 2604063 | Hourly rate: $70/hr
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, storage, fragile-only packing
Phone: (855) 613-4663
How much does it cost to move from San Francisco to Chicago?
Here's what you're actually looking at. California movers average $129 per hour, but distance and size drive the real number. These are ballpark figures for a 2,131-mile San Francisco to Chicago move:
| Move size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 BR | $1,266 – $4,993 | $1,188 – $2,860 | $1,196 – $2,174 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,368 – $6,743 | $1,931 – $4,111 | $1,270 – $2,561 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,946 – $10,457 | $2,649 – $5,897 | $1,571 – $3,106 |
Estimates based on market data as of early 2026. Your actual cost depends on move size, add-on services, fuel, timing, and current demand. Get multiple quotes to lock in real pricing.
Cost to hire movers from San Francisco to Chicago
A studio or one-bedroom runs $1,266–$4,993. Two or three bedrooms: $3,368–$6,743. Four bedrooms or larger: $5,946–$10,457.
The spread depends on how much stuff you're moving, whether they need to pack it, what time of year, and whether you need storage on either end.
Cost of moving containers from San Francisco to Chicago
If you want more control over timing and don't need daily labor, portable storage containers are a middle ground. Figure $1,188–$2,860 for a studio, $1,931–$4,111 for two or three bedrooms, and $2,649–$5,897 for four-plus bedrooms. You load, they transport, you unload (or they help).
Cost of moving truck rentals from San Francisco to Chicago
Rental trucks are the cheapest option if you're willing to handle the heavy lifting yourself. Studio/one-bedroom: $1,196–$2,174. Two to three bedrooms: $1,270–$2,561. Four bedrooms or bigger: $1,571–$3,106. Fuel is factored in. You'll be driving 2,131 miles, managing traffic, dealing with fatigue—so factor that into your decision.
Major factors affecting moving costs from San Francisco to Chicago
Move size matters. A one-bedroom might be $2,397; a four-bedroom could hit $10,442. Every hundred pounds shifts the bottom line.
Season hits hard. Summer is peak moving season in the Bay Area. Prices are 20–30% higher than winter. If you can move November through March, you'll save real money.
DIY versus full-service. Truck rentals ($1,196–$3,106) cost less but you're doing the work. Full-service movers handle packing, loading, driving, unloading—but you pay for that labor.
Specialty items add up. Piano? Antiques? Art? Expect surcharges. Pianos alone can add $500–$2,000 depending on condition and distance.
What to know before moving from San Francisco to Chicago
You need to understand the financial reality of this move, because the cost of living shifts.
Cost of living comparison
Chicago runs about 6% higher for families, slightly lower for singles. Here's the breakdown:
| Metric | San Francisco | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| 1 BR rent | $3,259 | $2,368 |
| 3 BR rent | $5,475 | $4,581 |
| Median home value | $1,241,003 | $295,743 |
| Per capita income | $136,689 | $71,566 |
| Sales tax | 8.63% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.95% |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 9.0% |
Rent is 37% cheaper in Chicago. If you're paying $3,259 for a one-bedroom in San Francisco, expect to pay around $2,368 in Chicago. That's real money back in your pocket every month.
Homes are 76% cheaper. Your $1.2M San Francisco house? Chicago equivalent is under $300K. But if you're renting, this doesn't affect you directly.
Incomes are 48% lower. Don't assume your salary will track with cost of living. Chicago salaries average much less. This matters if you're job hunting.
Income tax is dramatically lower in Illinois. 4.95% versus California's 13.3%. If you're making decent money, this is a genuine financial win—you keep more of your paycheck.
Sales taxes are higher. 10.25% versus 8.63%. Small difference, but it adds up on larger purchases.
Day-to-day expenses
| Item | San Francisco | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.91 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $5.06 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food meal | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Mid-range dinner for 2 | $125.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $99.96 | $78.31 |
Groceries, utilities, dining—all modestly cheaper in Chicago. Nothing dramatic, but it compounds.
How life differs between San Francisco and Chicago
Population: Chicago's got 2.7 million people versus San Francisco's 809,000. It's a real city, not a dense tech town.
Public transit: San Francisco scores a perfect 10 on transit. Chicago's at 9. Both are walkable, but San Francisco is denser.
Walkability: San Francisco is 99 out of 100. Chicago is 77. You'll drive more in Chicago.
Biking: San Francisco: 99. Chicago: 72. Winter kills the bike scene in Chicago.
Crime: Chicago's crime index is 35.19; San Francisco's is 61.41. Chicago neighborhoods are statistically safer. The larger population means more people, more activity—but less crime per capita.
Air quality: Chicago's air is rated "Good." San Francisco's is "Moderate."
Weather: San Francisco doesn't have real winter. Chicago absolutely does. Prepare for January.
Other things to consider for your San Francisco to Chicago move
Building rules: If there's an elevator in your current San Francisco building, reserve it before moving day. Check your lease for HOA or landlord restrictions on moving hours.
Truck parking in Chicago: Research street parking rules and permit requirements in your Chicago neighborhood before the truck arrives. Some areas restrict commercial vehicles.
Illinois moving regulations: The Illinois Commerce Commission oversees intrastate moves. Movers need a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity. Verify your mover has current credentials before signing anything.
Moving permits: Illinois doesn't require a state-level moving permit, but check local Chicago ordinances for any parking or street use restrictions.
Change of address: File your USPS change of address at least one week before you move. Select your official move date to avoid mail delays.
Insurance: California and Illinois have different rules on mover liability. Released Value Protection is basic (60 cents per pound) and usually free. For full-value coverage, ask your mover about third-party insurance options or buy a separate policy.
Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to ensure you're not forgetting anything critical.
Where to live in Chicago
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Lake View — Walkable, young crowd, near the lake
- Lincoln Park — Tree-lined streets, restaurants, nightlife
- The Loop — Downtown energy, short commutes
- Near North Side — Close to everything
- West Town — Trendy, affordable-ish, artistic vibe
Best neighborhoods for families
- Beverly — Quieter, family-focused
- Edison Park — Suburban feel, good schools
- Lincoln Park — Good schools, parks, mixed-income
- North Center — Peaceful, family-oriented
- West Loop — Walkable, younger families, urban amenities
Things to do in Chicago
Arts and culture: The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago History Museum.
Outdoor recreation: Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606 (elevated trail), Lincoln Park. Winter runs deep here, so embrace it.
Sports: Chicago Bears (NFL), Cubs and White Sox (MLB), Blackhawks (NHL), Bulls (NBA), Fire (MLS), Sky (WNBA). Pick a team and commit.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from San Francisco to Chicago?
Spring and fall offer comfortable weather and moderate pricing. Winter (November–February) is cheaper but cold. Summer is expensive and you'll compete with everyone else moving.
When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to Chicago?
Winter. January and February see fewer moves, so movers discount heavily. You'll be moving in the cold, but your budget will thank you.
How long does a move from San Francisco to Chicago take?
Six to 17 days depending on the mover's schedule and route. Some offer faster options (9–10 days). If you need flexibility, ask about storage on either end.
Do San Francisco movers offer discounts?
Some do. Ask about AAA member discounts, military rates, or off-season specials when you call for quotes. Terms change, so confirm before booking.
How many movers in San Francisco handle specialty items?
About 71 movers handle pianos. 64 do antique moves. If you need these services, book early—availability shrinks during peak season.
Next steps
Get quotes from at least three movers on this list. Be specific about your move date, inventory, and any specialty items. Use our moving cost calculator to benchmark pricing before you call.
Compare what each mover offers: some include packing, others charge extra. Some offer storage windows; others don't. The cheapest quote isn't always the best deal if it doesn't fit your timeline.
And if you're leaning toward a portable storage container or truck rental instead, compare those options too. This move is long enough that every option deserves a real look.