Best Chicago to Huntington Beach Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chicago to Huntington Beach and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,088 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Chicago to Huntington Beach moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is RL Relocation), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Huntington Beach. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Chicago to Huntington Beach Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1RL Relocation9.469.37Authorized For HHG
2606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
3Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
4A1 Movers, Inc9.349.57Authorized For HHG
5Crystal Coast Moving Company Inc.8.818.88Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Chicago to Huntington Beach?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,088 miles from Chicago, IL to Huntington Beach, CA will cost on average $3,557 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Huntington Beach move is roughly $8,585. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,386300 ft³$7.95
1 Bedroom$3,557450 ft³$7.90
2 Bedrooms$5,891750 ft³$7.85
3 Bedrooms$8,5851100 ft³$7.80
4 Bedrooms$12,4071600 ft³$7.75
5+ Bedrooms$13,8671800 ft³$7.70
*Please note: These Illinois to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed IL to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Huntington Beach to Chicago guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Huntington Beach Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

RL Relocation Logo

RL Relocation

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 766+ data points

Cornell Dr

Costa Mesa, CA, 92626

About RL Relocation

RL Relocation is a full-service moving company that has been in business for several years. Based in California, they offer local...

Services

  • Whole Home Moves
  • Local and Long Distance
  • Packing and Organizing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2984580 / 15998

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved159,984 (2022)
View Full Review
1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,042+ data points

159 N Sangamon St Suite 300

Chicago, IL, 60607

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 moving...

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 13,660+ data points

3100 N Tripp Ave

Chicago, IL, 60641

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...

Services

  • Full Moves
  • Truck Loading and Unloading
  • Interstate Moving Assistance

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
3
A1 Movers, Inc Logo

A1 Movers, Inc

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 683+ data points

315 S Harrison St

Geneva, IL, 60134

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...

Services

  • LOCAL MOVES
  • LONG DISTANCE MOVES
  • PACKING SERVICES

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
4
C

Crystal Coast Moving Company Inc.

Superb8.81/10
based on 394+ data points

3480 W Warner Ave suite h

Santa Ana, CA, 92704

About Crystal Coast Moving Company Inc.

Crystal Coast Moving Company Inc. is a family-owned and operated business located in Santa Ana, California, in the heart of Orange...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2721717 / 114564

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved48,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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. Huntington Beach Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that echoes the comfort of home. To ease this transition, we’ve prepared a comparison of local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Huntington Beach, CA. This guide will help you find the Huntington Beach community most reminiscent of your favorite Chicago locale, making your move a little more like coming home.

ChicagoHuntington BeachHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkSeacliffUpscale, family-friendly
Wicker ParkDowntown HBVibrant, artsy scene
Gold CoastHuntington HarbourLuxurious, waterfront living
Logan SquareOld TownHistoric, community-oriented
The LoopPacific CityBustling, shopping and dining hub
Hyde ParkSouth HBDiverse, educational center
River NorthPier PlazaEntertainment, nightlife focus
AndersonvilleYorktownQuaint, local shopping delights
South LoopBeach BlvdCultural, mixed-use spaces
BucktownBolsa ChicaEclectic, outdoor activities

In comparing neighborhoods from Chicago, IL to Huntington Beach, CA, it's interesting to note the unique blend of culture and community each location offers. If you've enjoyed the artsy and vibrant atmosphere of Wicker Park, with its abundance of galleries, boutiques, and trendy eateries like Big Star, you might find a similar vibe in Downtown Huntington Beach, known for its local art scene and places like Pacific City that offer a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Those who appreciate the luxurious, yet historic charm of the Gold Coast may find themselves at home in Huntington Harbour, where waterfront homes provide a serene and upscale living experience. And for the outdoor enthusiasts who love the vast, open spaces of Lincoln Park, Seacliff offers family-friendly parks and beaches that encourage a healthy, active lifestyle, reminiscent of weekends spent at North Avenue Beach or strolling through Lincoln Park Zoo.

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Things to Do in Huntington Beach

  • Surf at Huntington City Beach
  • Stroll down Main Street
  • Shop at Pacific City
  • Join a beach volleyball game
  • Visit the International Surfing Museum
  • Hike at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Huntington Beach

Moving from one city to another is never a simple decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the challenges and rewards that come with relocating from Chicago, IL to Huntington Beach, CA. By considering the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about your next big move.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Cold winters
  • High crime rates
  • Heavy traffic
  • Higher taxes
Huntington Beach, CA iconHuntington Beach, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Lower crime rates
  • More relaxed traffic
  • Lower taxes
Huntington Beach, CA iconHuntington Beach, CA
  • Less cultural venues
  • More expensive dining
  • Dependence on cars
  • Less historical depth
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • Diverse dining options
  • Extensive public transit
  • Rich history

While Chicago's cold winters are replaced by Huntington Beach's mild climate, it's important to note the cultural shift that might come as a surprise. Although Huntington Beach might not boast a vibrant arts scene comparable to Chicago’s renowned theaters like the Chicago Theatre, it offers unique local gems such as Downtown Huntington Beach, known for its Surf City Nights. Despite higher dining costs, you'll find unmatched seafood spots like Simmzy's, offering oceanfront views not found in the Midwest. This transition also encourages exploring the outdoors, with Huntington Central Park and the surfing culture providing a fresh lifestyle perspective. Though the intimacy of established neighborhoods and the ease of getting around in Chicago via its extensive public transit system might be missed, the quality of life and outdoor activities in Huntington Beach present an inviting new chapter.

Chicago vs. Huntington Beach Food Guide

As you prepare for your move, understanding the local food culture is essential. Food is a vibrant expression of an area's identity. That's why we've crafted a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Huntington Beach, equipping you with insights into the culinary scenes of your current and future hometowns.

Chicago
Huntington Beach
Most iconic local food item
Deep Dish Pizza
Surf and Turf
Most popular meat dish
Italian Beef
Fish Tacos
Most popular street food item
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Acai Bowl
Most popular vegan food
Chicago-Style Vegan Pizza
Vegan Poke
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Alinea
  • Girl & The Goat
  • Portillo's Hot Dogs
  • Duke's Huntington Beach
  • Sushi On Fire
  • Watertable
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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In Chicago, the deep dish pizza at spots like Lou Malnati's is a must-try, showcasing the city's rich culinary tradition. Over in Huntington Beach, the emphasis on fresh, ocean-sourced ingredients shines through in local favorites like fish tacos, available at places such as Sancho's Tacos. Chicago’s food scene is robust and diverse, offering everything from world-renowned fine dining at Alinea to classic street food. Meanwhile, Huntington Beach caters to a health-conscious crowd, with an abundance of vegan options and a penchant for fresh, local fare that mirrors the laid-back, beachy vibe of the city.

Chicago vs. Huntington Beach Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your next favorite eatery. This restaurant comparison chart will bridge the flavors from Chicago to Huntington Beach , making the transition as delicious as possible. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, we've got you covered.

ChicagoHuntington BeachWhat You'll Love
AlineaBluegoldOffers innovative and fine dining experiences similar to Alinea's creativity
Giordano'sPerry's PizzaKnown for deep-dish pizzas that rival Giordano’s classic Chicago-style pies
The Purple PigSlapfishA mix of casual and quality seafood dining akin to The Purple Pig's approach
Duck Duck GoatMama's on 39While serving American comfort food, the creativity mirrors Duck Duck Goat's flair
Portillo'sSessions West Coast DeliOffers unique and flavorful sandwiches, akin to Portillo’s famous offerings
Girl & The GoatTanner'sEclectic and upscale menu options that provide a culinary adventure similar to Girl & The Goat
Smoque BBQBeach Pit BBQ- Emphasizes slow-cooked BBQ that can stand up to Smoque BBQ's reputationBeach Pit BBQ- Emphasizes slow-cooked BBQ that can stand up to Smoque BBQ's reputation
Pequod's PizzaBiggie's PizzaOffers a pizza experience reminiscent of Pequod’s caramelized crust and hearty toppings
Au ChevalTK BurgerKnown for burgers that could satisfy an Au Cheval aficionado with their quality and taste
RL RestaurantWatertableBoth provide a fine dining atmosphere with high-quality American cuisine

Exploring the culinary landscape of a new city can be an adventure, and the transition from Chicago's rich dining scene to Huntington Beach's diverse offerings is no exception. For instance, if you're missing the iconic deep-dish pizzas of Giordano's, Perry's Pizza in Huntington Beach brings a slice of Chicago with its hearty, cheese-laden pies. Similarly, the innovative and upscale dining experience of Alinea finds a parallel in Bluegold's creative dishes and fine dining ambiance, ensuring that your sophisticated palate remains well cared for. BBQ aficionados who've enjoyed Smoque BBQ's slow-cooked dishes will find solace in Beach Pit BBQ's dedication to authentic flavors and techniques, showcasing the universal language of good barbecue. These comparisons not only help bridge the culinary gap but also underscore the vibrant food scenes in both cities, inviting you to explore and embrace new dining experiences as you make Huntington Beach your new home.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Huntington Beach Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is essential. This comparison between Chicago, IL, and Huntington Beach, CA, highlights the housing aspects critical for making an informed decision. Knowing differences in costs, architecture, and lifestyle will equip you with the insights needed for a seamless transition.

Chicago
Huntington Beach
Typical Architecture Style
Brick bungalows, Greystones
Spanish, Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
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🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lake views, proximity to transit
Ocean proximity, outdoor living spaces

The housing cost and styles significantly differ between Chicago and Huntington Beach, reflecting the unique characteristics of each city. Chicago's median home price is substantially lower, making it more accessible for a wider range of buyers. The city's architecture, featuring brick bungalows and greystones, offers historical charm. In contrast, Huntington Beach presents a quintessential California lifestyle with its higher median home price, Spanish and modern architecture, emphasizing ocean proximity and outdoor living. While Chicago scores higher in urban lifestyle and walkability, Huntington Beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere with better bikeability, catering to those who prefer a balance between city living and the appeal of nature.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Huntington Beach, CA

1. Downtown Huntington Beach : You'll find plenty of pet-friendly parks and beachfront walkways perfect for a stroll with your furry friend.

2. Seacliff : This neighborhood offers spacious parks and trails where your pets can enjoy the outdoors and socialize with other animals.

3. Pacific City : With numerous pet-friendly restaurants and shops, you and your pet will find plenty of welcoming spots to explore together.

Chicago vs. Huntington Beach Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new climate. Understanding how the weather in Chicago compares with Huntington Beach is crucial for your preparation. This comparison will provide insight into the temperature differences, sunshine days, and other weather-related factors you'll experience in your new home.

Chicago
Huntington Beach
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Blizzards, Tornadoes
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85/65
78/64
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35/22
68/48


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
13
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36
0


When relocating from Chicago to Huntington Beach, you'll swap harsh winters for mild ones and enjoy significantly more sunny days annually. While both cities face natural disaster risks, they differ greatly – with Chicago experiencing blizzards and tornadoes, and Huntington Beach having a higher risk of earthquakes and wildfires. Moreover, moving to Huntington Beach means saying goodbye to the heavy snowfall of Chicago winters. Air quality in Huntington Beach also tends to be better, likely due to its coastal location and lower levels of industrial pollution.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Huntington Beach

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. It's essential to understand how the cost of living and economic factors in Chicago compare to Huntington Beach before making the leap. Whether it's taxes, average income, or the cost of living index, being informed will help you plan your move more effectively.

Chicago
Huntington Beach
Avg. Household Income
$66,576
$107,808
Cost of Living Index
116.9
136.4
State Income Tax
4.95
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
2.10
0.72
Avg. Sales Tax
10.25
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
Manufacturing, Education, Health Services
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Notable
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

While the average household income is significantly higher in Huntington Beach compared to Chicago, the cost of living index also sees a considerable jump. This is reflected not just in the basics but also in how state and sales taxes play out, with California residents facing higher rates. Despite these increases, the affluence level in Huntington Beach is described as high, contrasting with Chicago's moderate level. This also correlates with lower poverty rates in Huntington Beach. Key industries differ as well, with Huntington Beach leaning more towards manufacturing and education, suggestive of the local economy's character.

Chicago vs. Huntington Beach Political & Religious Comparison

In planning your move from Chicago, IL, to Huntington Beach, CA, understanding the community you're about to join is crucial. This quick guide provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Chicago & Huntington Beach , offering insights into the local culture and community values you might soon experience.

Chicago
Huntington Beach
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Lean Conservative/Republican
Local Politics
Liberal Policies
Conservative Policies
Religion
Diverse, with significant Catholic population
Mixed, with notable Protestant and Catholic communities

When relocating from Chicago, a city known for its Democratic-leaning populace and liberal policies, to Huntington Beach, where conservative values and Republican ideologies are more prevalent, the political contrast can be quite stark. This shift might influence your social environment and the local community initiatives you encounter. Moreover, the diverse religious landscape of Chicago, which includes a significant Catholic presence alongside other faiths, contrasts with Huntington Beach's mixed religious makeup, though both cities boast vibrant communities across different denominations. Understanding these nuances can help you better integrate into your new home.

Chicago vs. Huntington Beach Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can significantly affect your daily life, especially when it comes to commuting. This guide aims to compare the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Huntington Beach, helping you understand what to expect from your daily commute and traffic situations after your move.

Chicago
Huntington Beach
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
27
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
5 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
No

In Chicago, the robust public transit system, including buses and the "L" trains, allows residents to efficiently navigate the city without a car. The average commute time is longer due to higher traffic congestion, but the availability of public transit options compensates for this. On the other hand, Huntington Beach offers a more laid-back vibe with less congestion. However, the city's public transit options are not as comprehensive as Chicago's, meaning a car is almost essential for getting around. This contrast in public transit availability and the necessity of owning a car in Huntington Beach vs. Chicago significantly impacts daily life and planning.

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