MENU
San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL Movers | Trusted Pros
From your old front door to your new one, American Van Lines makes moving from San Francisco, CA, to Chicago, IL, simple. Our team of dedicated professionals brings years of experience, personalized support, and a commitment to making every mile stress-free.
America's Trusted Moving Company Since 1995
How Much Will It Cost To Move From San Francisco to Chicago?
Moving from San Francisco, CA, to Chicago, IL? Your final cost depends on a few key details — how much you're taking with you, how big your home is, and if you want packing services included.
We've got some sample prices to give you a ballpark, but give us a call and we'll help you create a plan that fits your move and your budget.
| Type of Home | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $3,771 - $6,783 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,209 - $7,502 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,675 - $9,321 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,897 - $12,797 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $9,203 - $13,332 |
Let AVL Handle Your San Francisco to Chicago Move
Skilled Movers You Can Rely On
Our full-time, highly trained movers know how to expertly handle all household items, and are specialized in antiques and pianos, giving your most delicate pieces the expert care they deserve.
Transparent Pricing You Can Trust
No surprises, no guesswork - just clear, upfront pricing that lets you plan your move with confidence from the start.
Flexible Storage Solutions
Need a place to keep your things during the move? We offer secure, climate-controlled storage—short-term or long-term—so your belongings stay safe until you're ready.
Expertise You Can Trust
We're committed to protecting what matters most. Our crews stay sharp with ongoing training and certifications, so your belongings are handled with expert care.
Coast-to-Coast Capability
Whether you're heading across state lines or all the way across the country from San Francisco, our team has the experience and reach to get you there smoothly.
Cross-Country Made Easy
Moving from San Francisco to another state? Whether it's a few hours away or clear across the country, we've got the network and know-how to make it a smooth ride.
American Van Lines is more than just a moving company — we're a team dedicated to making your life easier.
We're here to take the stress out of moving. From the moment you get in touch to the final delivery, our team stays focused on making the entire process as smooth and straightforward as possible.
The American Van Lines Difference
-
Trusted and transparent carrier. American Van Lines is a licensed interstate carrier, not a broker. You can verify our credentials anytime: U.S. DOT No. 614506 / MC 294798.
-
A dedicated move coordinator, every time. You'll have one point of contact from quote to delivery, backed by a company that's been family-owned since 1995.
-
Flat-rate pricing backed by a binding estimate. Before your move begins, you'll know exactly what you're paying, and we stand behind that number. No hidden fees, no moving-day surprises.
American Van Lines is a 2026 Newsweek Readers' Choice Best National Moving Company and a 2024 Customer Service Champion, with five consecutive years of America's Best Customer Service recognition from 2019–2023.
Living in Chicago vs. San Francisco
Relocating from San Francisco, CA, to Chicago, IL? You're not just changing scenery — you're stepping into a more affordable lifestyle. Chicago tends to be easier on the wallet, giving you a chance to enjoy more of what you love without stretching your budget.
Check out how the two cities compare in home values and rent prices, as well as salaries and employment rates.
Home Values
Buying a home in Chicago might stretch your budget less. The average value there is $317,509, noticeably lower than the $1,374,773 average in San Francisco.
Rent
Looking to cut monthly expenses? Rents in Chicago average $2,045, making it more affordable than San Francisco, where rent typically runs $3,250.
Employment
Job seekers in Chicago may face more competition, with unemployment at 9.0% versus 5.4% in San Francisco. Still, the area is home to top employers like U.S. Government, Chicago Public Schools, and City of Chicago.
Income
Earning potential in Chicago is typically less than what you'd find in San Francisco. The average salary in Chicago is $75,134, compared to $141,446 in San Francisco.
Cost Of Living
| Monthly Expense | San Francisco | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Inexpensive Meal | $25 | $25 |
| 3-Course Meal for 2 | $125 | $100 |
| One Dozen Eggs | $6 | $5 |
| Milk (One Gallon) | $2 | $1 |
| Loaf of White Bread | $5 | $4 |
| Utilities | $229 | $191 |
| Internet | $67 | $64 |
| Gym Membership | $100 | $78 |
| Preschool | $2,871 | $2,181 |
Moving Services From San Francisco to Chicago
Long-Distance Moving Specialists
From packing to final delivery, our long-distance movers make it simple to relocate safely, efficiently, and with confidence.
Learn MoreFull-Service Packing and Unpacking
We'll pack everything for you — from kitchenware to clothes to fragile keepsakes — so you don't have to lift a finger. Unpacking? We do that too.
Learn MoreFurniture Disassembly and Reassembly
Our movers disassemble and reassemble beds, tables, and more with precision — saving you time and avoiding damage.
Learn MorePianos and Antiques
High-value or fragile? Our team is trained in moving items that require extra care, including art, antiques, and instruments.
Learn MoreSecure Storage Options
Not ready to unload just yet? We offer secure, organized storage that keeps your move stress-free and your belongings protected.
Learn MoreMilitary Moving
Whether it's your first PCS or your fifth, our team brings structure and stability to the moving process during major transitions.
Learn MoreLife in Chicago Compared to San Francisco?
If you're coming to Chicago from San Francisco, here's how the two cities stack up in a few key areas.
Weather
If cooler summers are your thing, San Francisco delivers with highs near 67°F. Chicago, on the other hand, can heat up to around 84°F during the summer months.
Safety & Crime Ratings
Chicago appears to be safer than San Francisco, boasting a higher crime index of 35.19. Top neighborhoods like Beverly, Edison Park, and Lincoln Park offer a particularly secure environment.
Pedestrian Friendliness
You'll likely find yourself driving more in Chicago, where the walkability score of 77 trails behind San Francisco's 99. Fewer nearby amenities means less can be done on foot.
Biking Safety & Access
San Francisco offers better cycling conditions, with a higher bike-friendliness score of 99 compared to Chicago's 72. You'll likely find more bike lanes and safer infrastructure back home.
Things To Do
Chicago has something for everyone — from top attractions like Millennium Park, Crown Fountain, and The Cloud Gate, Navy Pier, and Art Institute of Chicago to great parks like Millennium Park, Grant Park, and The 606 and museum gems including The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Art Institute of Chicago.
Love sports? Check out Chicago's teams like Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Cubs (MLB), and Chicago White Sox (MLB).
FAQ
How long will the move take from San Francisco to Chicago?
Long-distance moves usually run between 3-10 business days, with total time depending on destination, route, and moving plan details.
How much notice do I need to give AVL before booking my move?
We recommend booking at least four weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons like summer.
Can I get help with packing?
Yes! We provide both full-service and partial packing so you can choose exactly the level of help that works for you.
Is storage available if I can't move into my new home right away?
Yes, we've got you covered with flexible short- and long-term storage in clean, climate-controlled environments.
Are my belongings insured during the move?
Yes — your move is covered by basic valuation automatically, and we offer optional full-value insurance plans if desired.