Moving from San Francisco to Chicago - Benefits, Cost & How To

Are you thinking of moving from San Francisco to Chicago? If so, you’re not alone because Chicago has a way of attracting people. Whether you want to take advantage of the growing market or enjoy Chicago’s great cultural institutions, the Midwestern city offers a lot. While relocating can be an exciting experience, it can also come with many challenges. Fortunately, your move from San Francisco to Chicago can be smooth if you rely on reputable movers like North American Van Lines. Read this guide to learn everything you may want about moving from San Francisco to Chicago.

Benefits of Moving from San Francisco to Chicago

Excellent Educational Institutions

Chicago is an educational center with world-renowned institutions. That said, the city rivals San Francisco in terms of education. According to an evaluation by the U.S. News & World Report, Chicago has several top-ranked universities and colleges. Some of these institutions include Loyola University, Northwestern University, DePaul University, and the University of Chicago.

Chicago and its surroundings boast a broad range of private and public schools, which can be great for anyone considering moving to the city with family. Some of the most recognized schools include Walter Payton College Prep High School and Northside College Preparatory. Also, Chicago has prominent Catholic schools for those looking to educate their children in a religious environment.

Chicago offers an Affordable Lifestyle

When moving to a large city, you would expect the cost of living to be high, but it’s pretty affordable in Chicago. While the city isn’t the cheapest in the United States, it’s cheaper than San Francisco. Chicago has trendy housing, but the cost is more affordable than many metropolitan cities, including San Diego, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Whether you’re a graduate looking for a job or you want to relocate to Chicago for other reasons, you can be sure to find an affordable cost of living.

Job Market is Steady

Chicago has many job opportunities for graduates looking for jobs or anyone else looking for a job. While San Francisco neighbors Silicon Valley, Chicago also has options in various industries such as transportation, food-processing, manufacturing, publishing, printing, and finance.

It’s also a hub for several Fortune 500 companies like Kraft Heinz, Exelon, Allstate, United Airlines, Boeing, and Walgreens Boots Alliance, among many. Other recognized companies in Chicago include Crate & Barrel, Pabst Brewing Company, Trunk Club, and the Oprah Winfrey Network.

Chicago can be your go-to place if you recently finished college and are looking for job opportunities. For the past few years, the city has experienced a growing market for steady jobs.

Excellent Transportation

Excellent transportation is one of the primary reasons you may want to move from San Francisco to Chicago. With one of the most prominent public transportation systems in the United States, you can expect to get around the city with minimal glitches. Whether you prefer bus or rail services, Chicago has you covered. The good news is that public transport in Chicago is effective and you don’t need to drive your car when moving around the city. The city has a bike-sharing system, and you can utilize it if you enjoy biking.

So Much to Do in Chicago

Regardless of what your interests could be, Chicago offers a lot of things for all. You can engage in different exciting activities from the city's downtown, including shows and events. Chicago can offer all these, whether you’re a music enthusiast, the artsy type, a sports nut, or are looking for a wonderful experience.

If you’re an active person, Chicago provides an opportunity for kickboxing, boating, tennis, golf, cycling, and any other activity you would find interesting. The city has many attraction sites such as the Shed Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, Art Institute, and the Field Museum. Ensure you check the many exciting attractions available in Chicago.

Great Neighborhoods

Chicago has 77 diverse neighborhoods whereby each has unique history, tastes, sounds, and sights. You can expect a myriad of exploration and adventure points. Regardless of which neighborhood you choose to visit, you can find a perfect place to enjoy great moments. Here are some Chicago neighborhoods you may want to check out:

Wicker Park

Wicker Park has been one of the most exciting Chicago neighborhoods for decades. It boasts live music venues, nightclubs, and hot joints that improve the area's nightlife. Wicker Park has Double Door, an awe-inspiring concert club, Myopic, an Indie store with multiple new and used books and Reckless Records, an established music store.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park has a lively South Side community, the former residence of Barack Obama before he ascended to become the American President. It’s also the home of the DuSable Museum of African American History and hosts the Museum of Science and Industry. The neighborhood center includes the University of Chicago and the nearby streets, which provide businesses and activities.

Andersonville

Andersonville is renowned for being inhabited by Swedish immigrants in the late 1800s. Today, the neighborhood has high-end restaurants and reputable shopping stores. It’s also the home of the Swedish American Museum. The neighborhood boasts of Midsommarfest, a renowned street festival over North Clark Street.

Bronzeville

Bronzeville, Chicago’s Black culture hub, is the former residence of Richard Wright, Ida B. Wells, Bessie Coleman, Gwendolyn Brooks, and Louis Armstrong. You can visit the Harold Washington Cultural Center, take a tour to Bronzeville Art District or drop by Ida B. Wells- Barnett House for a breathtaking experience.

Lake Michigan

While San Francisco has a fantastic ocean view, Chicago’s Lake Michigan is one of the reasons people move to Chicago. With excellent public beaches, Lake Michigan offers a superb view and relaxation. For example, there’s a unique green space where you can hike, bike, play volleyball, baseball, tennis, and soccer.

Lake Michigan is not only a place for relaxation but also a beautiful area to enjoy nature. Its lakeshore boasts of 26 great public beaches from North Avenue to Montrose. It’s also popular with boating, swimming, walking, and jogging. If you’re not into activities like these, you can enjoy scenic waterfront views and stunning sunsets on the west coast.

Cost of Moving from San Francisco to Chicago

Moving to a different city can be expensive and challenging, especially if you don’t have a proper plan. This is why you need to work with a professional moving company that can evaluate your needs and offers affordable prices. North American Van Lines is the company you can trust to safely move your belongings because of the many years of exceptional service to customers.

While long-distance moving can be expensive, the average line haul cost of relocating from San Francisco to Chicago with North American Van Lines is approximately $3,300. Note that multiple factors will influence the exact amount you should pay. These may include your belongings, the distance you’ll move, and extra services like packing and unpacking.

How to Move from San Francisco to Chicago

It’s no doubt moving a long distance can come with many challenges. Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about this because North American Van Lines understands how stressful long-distance relocation is. That’s why we collaborate with clients to create a personalized moving plan that can cater to their needs.

Throughout your relocation, North American Van Lines will be by your side to handle everything you need. Whether it’s packing material, moving valuable items, or moving furniture and appliances, North American Van Lines has all you may need.

North American Van Lines understands the moving process because it’s been an industry leader for over 85 years. We are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Department of Transportation, so you can be sure your goods are in safe hands. Our experienced agents are qualified and help you with loading, packing, and moving your belongings to your desired destination.