Best Chicago to Sunnyvale Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chicago to Sunnyvale and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,257 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Chicago to Sunnyvale 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Sunnyvale. 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 Sunnyvale Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
2D&L Movers9.359.36Active
3Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
4A1 Movers, Inc9.349.57Authorized For HHG
5Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Chicago to Sunnyvale?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,257 miles from Chicago, IL to Sunnyvale, CA will cost on average $3,701 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Sunnyvale move is roughly $8,936. 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$2,482300 ft³$8.27
1 Bedroom$3,701450 ft³$8.22
2 Bedrooms$6,130750 ft³$8.17
3 Bedrooms$8,9361100 ft³$8.12
4 Bedrooms$12,9181600 ft³$8.07
5+ Bedrooms$14,4421800 ft³$8.02
*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 Sunnyvale to Chicago guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Sunnyvale Movers

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

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
1
D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,583+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
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
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,143+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (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. Sunnyvale Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but understanding its neighborhoods makes all the difference. This comparison of neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Sunnyvale, CA provides an insightful guide, using Chicago's familiar areas to unlock the charm of Sunnyvale's communities.

ChicagoSunnyvaleHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkCupertinoFamily-friendly with excellent schools
Wicker ParkMountain ViewArtsy vibe with eclectic shops
Gold CoastLos AltosUpscale, luxury living
The LoopSanta ClaraBustling business district
LakeviewSunnyvale EastVibrant, lively community
River NorthStanfordArtistic with galleries and nightspots
Hyde ParkPalo AltoAcademic, prestigious feel
Old TownSaratogaHistoric with a local charm
BucktownFremontTrendy with a young crowd
South LoopMenlo ParkModern amenities and vibrant lifestyle

Exploring Lincoln Park in Chicago, you enjoy scenic strolls in its famous parks and access to the Lincoln Park Zoo. Similarly, Cupertino in Sunnyvale offers family-friendly parks like Rancho San Antonio, ideal for weekend outings. Bucktown's trendiness with hip cafes and art scenes finds its counterpart in Fremont's modern vibe, complete with stylish boutiques and a youthful energy. If the bustling energy and high-rise allure of The Loop captivates you, Santa Clara's business district is equally inviting, with Silicon Valley giants and professional opportunities never far away. Each neighborhood comparison helps you embrace the familiar comforts carved out in a fresh and exciting locale.

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Things to Do in Sunnyvale

  • Explore the Baylands Nature Preserve.
  • Attend a workshop at Sunnyvale Public Library.
  • Shop at Sunnyvale Town Center.
  • Enjoy Central Park activities.
  • Visit the Computer History Museum.
  • Sample local brews at Faultline Brewing Company.
  • Catch a show at Sunnyvale Theatre.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Sunnyvale

Moving across the country is a significant life change that requires thoughtful consideration of both the positive and negative aspects. The following comparison charts aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Sunnyvale, CA . By examining the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about whether this move aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • High crime rates
  • Lower tech job opportunities
  • State income tax
  • Dense urban living
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • Mild climate
  • Safer neighborhoods
  • Silicon Valley jobs
  • No state income tax on Social Security
  • Suburban feel
Sunnyvale, CA iconSunnyvale, CA
  • More expensive
  • Less nightlife options
  • No deep-dish
  • Car-dependent
  • Far from beach
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Cultural diversity
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Deep-dish pizza
  • Extensive public transit
  • Lakefront views

Relocating from Chicago to Sunnyvale introduces you to a contrasting lifestyle, from experiencing the harsh winters in Chicago to enjoying the mild climate of Sunnyvale. Sunnyvale's neighborhoods offer a safer environment and a suburban feel, a change from Chicago's dense urban setting. Silicon Valley's presence means increased tech job opportunities, a significant advantage for anyone in or entering the tech industry. However, transitioning to Sunnyvale also means adapting to a higher cost of living, a factor that might require budget adjustments. While you might miss Chicago's vibrant nightlife and deep-dish pizza, Sunnyvale compensates with a variety of local eateries and parks, like the popular Murphy Park, offering a peaceful and family-friendly environment.

Chicago vs. Sunnyvale Food Guide

Food plays a significant role in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of an area. By comparing the food scenes of Chicago, IL and Sunnyvale, CA , this guide aims to provide insights into what culinary delights await you in your new home.

Chicago
Sunnyvale
Most iconic local food item
Deep-dish pizza
Artisan sourdough
Most popular meat dish
Italian beef sandwich
Korean BBQ
Most popular street food item
Chicago-style hot dog
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan deep-dish pizza
Vegan ramen
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
  • DishDash
  • Muracci's
  • Falafel Stop
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Sunnyvale's culinary scene is a vibrant mix of international influences, reflecting its diverse population. The city takes pride in its artisan sourdough and is home to an array of global cuisines, particularly notable for its Korean BBQ and vegan options like vegan ramen found in the heart of downtown. Local favorites such as DishDash and Falafel Stop offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of flavors that make Sunnyvale unique. The abundance of food trucks and health-conscious eateries reflect Sunnyvale’s modern, dynamic approach to food, making it an exciting place for food lovers.

Chicago vs. Sunnyvale Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in turning a new city into a home, offering comfort, excitement, and a taste of culture. This guide aims to make your transition from Chicago, IL to Sunnyvale, CA easier by comparing your favorite Chicago eateries with Sunnyvale's best . Find your next go-to spot for delicious meals, ensuring a smoother and tastier settling-in process.

ChicagoSunnyvaleWhat You'll Love
AlineaDishdashMiddle Eastern cuisine with a fine dining experience similar to Alinea's unique and upscale offerings.
Portillo’sArmadillo Willy's BBQOffers homely comfort food reminiscent of Portillo's hearty Chicago-style meals.
Girl & The GoatDish N DashFlavorful and diverse menu options echo the innovative dishes at Girl & The Goat.
Lou Malnati’s PizzeriaJake's PizzaA local favorite for deep-dish pizza that rivals the iconic taste of Lou Malnati’s.
The Purple PigOren’s HummusOffers a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a similar cozy, shareable dining vibe as The Purple Pig.
PublicanFaulkner'sA spot that provides a farm-to-table dining experience reminiscent of Publican's ethos and menu.
Joe’s SeafoodSea by Alexander’s SteakhouseA high-end seafood experience that parallels the refined ambiance and premium dishes of Joe’s Seafood.
RPM SteakAlexander’s SteakhouseThis place mirrors RPM Steak in its luxurious steakhouse experience, focusing on quality and service.
Duck Duck GoatROOHWhile offering Indian rather than Chinese cuisine, ROOH provides a similarly creative take on traditional dishes.
Big StarTaqueria La EspuelaCaptures the laid-back, taco-centric atmosphere of Big Star, specializing in Mexican street food.

For those who appreciate the culinary arts, Dishdash and Dish N Dash in Sunnyvale cater to your palate with an array of tantalizing Middle Eastern and diverse menu options, evoking the high-end and innovative experiences of Chicago's Alinea and Girl & The Goat, respectively. Meanwhile, fans of deep-dish pizza who have cherished Lou Malnati’s offerings will find solace in Jake's Pizza, where the essence of Chicago's beloved dish is captured. Dining in Sunnyvale does not merely mimic that of Chicago; instead, it offers an opportunity to explore new flavors while finding comfort in the familiar. Every bite promises a journey that reflects the vibrant and diverse culinary scene you've enjoyed back in Chicago, ensuring that your new home in Sunnyvale becomes just as flavorsome and inviting.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Sunnyvale Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, real estate is a key factor to evaluate. It's crucial to understand how the housing landscapes of Chicago, IL and Sunnyvale, CA compare to make an informed decision. This comparison will illuminate differences in cost, style, and livability.

Chicago
Sunnyvale
Typical Architecture Style
Brick Bungalows, Greystones
Mid Century Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lake views, proximity to public transit
Proximity to tech hubs, eco-friendly features

Exploring the housing differences between Chicago and Sunnyvale sheds light on what you can expect in terms of living conditions and expenses. For instance, the median home price in Sunnyvale is significantly higher than in Chicago, reflecting the premium for living in the heart of Silicon Valley. However, Sunnyvale rates higher for bikeability and emphasizes eco-friendly features in its properties, catering to a modern, sustainable lifestyle. On the other hand, Chicago's architecture boasts historic brick bungalows and greystones with a higher walkability score, reflecting its dense urban landscape and extensive public transit system. Understanding these distinctions helps pinpoint which city aligns better with your lifestyle preferences and budgetary considerations.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sunnyvale, CA

1. Central Sunnyvale : You and your furry friend will love Central Sunnyvale for its abundance of spacious parks and pet-friendly amenities.

2. West Murphy : West Murphy offers neighborhood walking trails and local pet services, making it a welcoming spot for pets and their owners.

3. Ponderosa Park : With its vast open spaces and designated pet areas, Ponderosa Park provides an ideal environment for pets to play and socialize.

Chicago vs. Sunnyvale Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's critical to understand how your day-to-day will change, especially when it comes to the weather. This comparison of the weather differences between Chicago, IL and Sunnyvale, CA is designed to help you gauge what to expect, and how to best prepare for your relocation.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

84°F / 68°F
79°F / 58°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35°F / 22°F
60°F / 39°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
15
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36
0


While both Chicago and Sunnyvale offer their unique climates, you'll notice significant differences upon your move. Sunnyvale’s almost year-round sunshine, with 264 days of sunshine compared to Chicago's 189, promises more outdoor activities and less need for heavy winter gear. However, Sunnyvale’s higher average annual UV index means you'll need to be more diligent with sun protection. Furthermore, adapting from the Chicago winter blizzards to the possibility of earthquakes and wildfires in Sunnyvale will also require some adjustments in your emergency preparedness plans. Lastly, the drastic difference in annual snowfall, with Chicago averaging 36 inches and Sunnyvale none, marks a significant change in winter experiences.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison between Chicago, IL and Sunnyvale, CA offers insight into several key economic factors. It will help you gauge how the cost of living, taxation, and the economic environment differ, allowing for a smoother transition.

Chicago
Sunnyvale
Avg. Household Income
$66,576
$156,059
Cost of Living Index
116.9
136.4
State Income Tax
4.95
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
2.12
0.78
Avg. Sales Tax
10.25
9.0
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Manufacturing, Information
Technology, Retail, Healthcare
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Noticeable
Lower
Homelessness
Concerning
Less prevalent

When evaluating the move from Chicago to Sunnyvale, the stark difference in the cost of living index stands out, with Sunnyvale being significantly higher. This increase is somewhat counterbalanced by the much higher average household income in Sunnyvale. Another aspect to consider is taxation; Sunnyvale has a higher state income tax owing to California's tax brackets, but a considerably lower property tax rate than Chicago. The thriving technological industry in Sunnyvale also denotes a prosperous job market, reflecting its higher affluence and lower levels of poverty and homelessness compared to Chicago. This overview should help in preparing for the financial adjustments required in such a move.

Chicago vs. Sunnyvale Political & Religious Comparison

In planning your move from Chicago, IL to Sunnyvale, CA, it's helpful to understand the communities you're entering and leaving. This quick comparison offers insight into the political and religious makeup of residents in Chicago & Sunnyvale , ensuring you know what kind of environment to expect in your new home compared to your old one.

Chicago
Sunnyvale
Political Make-up
Democratically inclined
Democratically inclined
Local Politics
Liberal, with a focus on social issues
Progressive, with emphasis on tech and innovation policies
Religion
Diverse, with Christianity being predominant
Multicultural religious landscape, Christianity and Asian religions

While both Chicago and Sunnyvale share a democratic inclination in their political makeup, the focal points of their local politics vary, demonstrating the impact of their unique environments on political priorities. In Chicago, social issues take the foreground, influenced by its diverse population and historical challenges. Sunnyvale’s politics, however, tilt more towards progressivism with a keen emphasis on technology and innovation, reflecting its Silicon Valley setting. The religious landscapes in both cities are diverse, yet you'll find Sunnyvale to harbor a broader spectrum of Asian religions alongside Christianity, mirroring its multicultural populace. This blend offers a rich cultural tapestry, likely different from what you're accustomed to in Chicago.

Chicago vs. Sunnyvale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison between Chicago & Sunnyvale is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two cities, aiding in your move and adjustment to a new living environment.

Chicago
Sunnyvale
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
25
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, with effort
Challenging

When comparing the traffic and transportation options of Chicago and Sunnyvale, one can see distinct differences in their commuting landscapes. Chicago, with its robust public transportation system including buses and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) trains, makes it possible, though sometimes challenging, to navigate the city without a car. In contrast, Sunnyvale, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers less comprehensive public transit options, making daily life without a car more difficult. However, Sunnyvale enjoys slightly less traffic congestion and a shorter average commute time, providing a somewhat smoother experience for those driving. Understanding these differences can greatly assist in planning your daily commute and general transportation needs after your move.

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