Best Ontario to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sunny expanses of Ontario, CA, to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, marks an adventurous chapter in your life. You’re leaving behind the calm of the "Inland Empire" for the vibrant energy of the "Windy City," swapping palm trees for skyscrapers. Remember, embarking on such a significant journey underscores the necessity of enlisting trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we use an unbiased algorithm at Great Guys Moving to identify the best movers for you.
Best Ontario to Chicago Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Antonio’s Moving Services LLC | 9.04 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Merit Moving Systems, Inc. | 9.03 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Gentlemen's Moving Company | 8.95 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Ontario guide.
5 Best Ontario to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 movi...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
About Antonio’s Moving Services LLC
Established in 2014, Antonio's Moving Services LLC is a professional moving company that offers customizable residential and commercial movi...Read More >>
Services
- Unloading & Loading
- Packing & Unpacking
- On-site Moving
About Merit Moving Systems, Inc.
Since 1958, Merit Moving Systems has been a trusted name in the industry. It is a locally-owned business that has been offering quality relo...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- International moving
About Gentlemen's Moving Company
Looking to move an entire house, just a few pieces, or even just need an extra pair of hands to help with loading a rental truck? Gentlemen'...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moves
- Cross Country Moving
- Commercial Moving
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.
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.
Ontario vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both thrilling and daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new local area. To ease this transition, we've designed a comparison that will help you familiarize yourself with Chicago by relating it to what you know about Ontario, CA & Chicago, IL neighborhoods . This should serve as a baseline to understand the unique qualities of each city’s popular neighborhoods.
| Ontario | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Archibald Ranch | Ravenswood | Family-friendly, quiet residential feel |
| Creekside | Lakeview | Diverse, with a mix of residential and commercial areas |
| Edison | West Town | Rich historical architecture, vibrant arts scene |
| Grapevine | Lincoln Square | Cozy, community-centric with European flair |
| Guasti | Andersonville | Historic, with a strong sense of community and unique local businesses |
| New Haven | Wicker Park | Trendy, with a blend of creative spaces and hip eateries |
| South Ontario | Pilsen | Cultural, rich in murals and Hispanic heritage |
| Kimball | Hyde Park | Intellectual hub, near universities and museums |
| Armstrong | Bridgeport | Diverse, working-class neighborhood with a growing art scene |
| Euclid Avenue | Logan Square | Trendy, with vibrant nightlife and artistic community |
When moving from Ontario, CA to Chicago, IL, you'll find neighborhoods that echo the charm and dynamics of your old stomping grounds, albeit with a Midwestern twist. For instance, if you enjoyed the historic and tight-knit atmosphere of Guasti, Andersonville in Chicago offers a similar vibe, boasting unique local businesses such as the famed Women & Children First bookstore. Upper-scale areas like Archibald Ranch have their counterpart in Ravenswood, where leafy streets and family-friendly parks like Welles Park beckon. Meanwhile, for those drawn to the youthful and vibrant energy of New Haven, Wicker Park in Chicago offers an incomparable blend of creative spaces, trendy eateries like Big Star, and bustling nightlife, ensuring a seamless transition to your new city life.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Ontario to Chicago
Moving cities is a big decision that involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Ontario, CA to Chicago, IL , helping you make a well-informed decision.
Ontario, CA- Higher living costs
- Fewer cultural venues
- Less public transportation
- Smaller job market
Chicago, IL- More affordable
- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive transit system
- Larger job opportunities
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- More urban
- Denser population
- Heavier traffic
Ontario, CA- Mild winters
- Close to nature
- Smaller population
- Less traffic congestion
When considering the move from Ontario, CA, to Chicago, IL, several factors stand out. Chicago's vibrant cultural scene, epitomized by landmarks like the Art Institute of Chicago and bustling neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park, offers an endless array of activities compared to the quieter lifestyle in Ontario. Additionally, Chicago's robust public transit, including the L train and extensive bus system, contrasts sharply with the car-centric lifestyle prevalent in Southern California. However, it's important to consider the colder climate of Chicago, which presents a significant change from Ontario's milder winters. While the adjustment to Chicago's winter might be challenging for some, the city's summer festivals, like the Taste of Chicago, and the beautiful beach along Lake Michigan provide ample outdoor enjoyment during warmer months.
Ontario vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Ontario & Chicago to provide insight into the food culture you may soon experience. Food is a key part of local culture and understanding it can give you a taste of what life will be like in your new home.
| Ontario | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Butter Tart | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Peameal Bacon Sandwich | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Poutine | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Maple Syrup-based dishes | Chicago Diner's Veggie Burger |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Ontario, you can't miss trying a butter tart, a true staple of Canadian cuisine, ideally found at local markets such as the famed St. Lawrence Market. Over in Chicago, the deep-dish pizza reigns supreme, with establishments like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria serving up this heartily layered dish that has become synonymous with the city itself. Chicago's food scene is robust, reflecting its diverse population through a variety of dishes and dining experiences, from the iconic Chicago-style hot dog found at vendors citywide to high-end dining at places like Alinea. Whether you're indulging in Ontario's maple syrup-based vegan dishes or exploring Chicago's vegan scene at places like the Chicago Diner, both cities offer a vibrant array of culinary delights that cater to all tastes.
Ontario vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
When moving from one city to another, finding your new go-to spots for dining can be just as important as unpacking. This comparison between top restaurants in Ontario and their counterparts in Chicago is designed to help you swiftly transition and find local favorites that resonate with your palate.
| Ontario | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Casa Moreno | Topolobampo | Sophisticated Mexican cuisine |
| Vince's Spaghetti | Monteverde | Fresh, artisanal pasta dishes |
| Roscoe's Famous Deli | Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen | Iconic delicatessen experience |
| New York Grill | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | High-end steak and seafood |
| Pomona Valley Mining Co. | The Signature Room | Stunning views with American dining |
| Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar | The Publican | American fare with a unique twist |
| The Hat | Portillo's | Famous for hot dogs and sandwiches |
| Louisiana Fried Chicken | Honey Butter Fried Chicken | Well-loved for comfort food |
| Zeke’s Eatin' Place | Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe | Popular breakfast and brunch spot |
| Kings Brewing Company | Revolution Brewing | Craft beer and hearty pub fare |
For those who relish in the flavors of sophisticated Mexican cuisine, the transition from Casa Moreno in Ontario to Topolobampo in Chicago will feel like a culinary homecoming. Both establishments pride themselves on serving dishes that are deeply rooted in Mexican tradition but presented with a modern flair. Likewise, Vince's Spaghetti's fans will find solace in Monteverde’s artisanal pasta, where the complexity of flavors and the freshness of ingredients mirror the care and craftsmanship of your beloved Ontario spot. Those accustomed to the hearty meals and welcoming ambiance of Roscoe's Famous Deli will find a similar sense of comfort and culinary delight at Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen. For comfort food enthusiasts, the move from Louisiana Fried Chicken to Honey Butter Fried Chicken in Chicago will be seamless, uniting under the banner of succulent, crispy chicken that comforts the soul and delights the taste buds.
Ready to start your move?
Ontario vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape of your potential new home is crucial. In comparing Ontario, CA and Chicago, IL, this guide aims to highlight key aspects of housing to inform your decision-making process, ensuring you make the best choice for your needs.
| Comparison | Ontario | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Contemporary | Brick Bungalows, Greystones |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to public transport, vibrant neighborhoods |
In comparing Ontario, CA to Chicago, IL, it's evident that each city offers a distinct living experience marked by their respective real estate features. Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more urban lifestyle, supported by the city's dense, vibrant neighborhoods and extensive public transportation options like the Chicago Transit Authority. Conversely, Ontario favors those looking for more tranquil living spaces with spacious yards, highlighted in many real estate listings, reflecting a less urban but potentially more private lifestyle. The architecture in Chicago, with its iconic Brick Bungalows and Greystones, provides a stark contrast to Ontario's preference for Ranch and Contemporary styles, highlighting the cultural and historical differences between the two cities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Ontario vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather compares between your current residence and your new home is essential when planning a move. This guide offers a comprehensive weather comparison between Ontario, CA, and Chicago, IL , providing insight into what you can expect in terms of climate changes. Use this information to better prepare for your relocation.
Ontario, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Ontario, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Ontario, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Ontario, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Ontario | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 280 days | 189 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Ontario, CA to Chicago, IL, means transitioning from a warm, arid climate to a city with four distinct seasons and a wide range of weather conditions. You'll exchange California's mild winters and hot summers for Chicago's cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Understanding this stark contrast can help you prepare for the different lifestyle adjustments, particularly in terms of clothing, heating, and cooling needs. Additionally, the significantly higher annual snowfall and winter temperatures in Chicago require readiness for snow-related activities and potential commuting challenges during the winter months.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Ontario to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. Ontario, CA and Chicago, IL present distinct economic landscapes. This comparison delves into various aspects of the money and finance realms, aiming to arm you with a better understanding of how the cost of living, tax rates, and other financial metrics compare. Making an informed decision can significantly impact your budget and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Ontario | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $73,872 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3% | 4.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.8% | 2.1% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8% | 10.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
While the average household income in Ontario, CA, slightly surpasses that of Chicago, IL, the cost of living and state income tax in Ontario are higher. However, Chicago counters with a notably higher property tax and sales tax, potentially affecting your long-term financial planning. The diversity in top industries between the cities suggests varied job market landscapes, which could influence employment opportunities in your field. Understanding these nuances will ensure a more seamless transition and help you anticipate adjustments in your budgeting and lifestyle choices upon relocating.
Ontario vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Ontario, CA to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This brief overview aims to provide a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Ontario & Chicago , giving you a snapshot of the cultural and social landscape you're entering.
| Ontario | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Focus on Business Growth | Emphasis on Social Programs |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population | Predominantly Christian, with a vibrant mix of other faiths |
In both Ontario and Chicago, the religious scene is predominantly Christian, but Chicago offers a more vibrant mix of faiths, reflecting its larger and more diverse population. While Ontario's political environment leans more conservative with a strong emphasis on business and growth, Chicago's political makeup is distinctly more liberal, with a focus on social programs and initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of its residents. This shift in political and social climate could mean a different approach to community engagement and participation for you.
Ontario vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Ontario, CA to Chicago, IL, it's essential to understand the stark differences in daily commuting and traffic you'll encounter. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Ontario & Chicago will prepare you for your new urban environment.
| Comparison | Ontario | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
In Ontario, while the average commute time might be shorter than in Chicago, the reliance on a vehicle is significantly higher due to less available and efficient public transit options. This makes living without a car in Ontario more challenging. On the other hand, Chicago boasts a more robust public transportation system, rated highly for its availability and coverage, including buses and the extensive 'L' train network. It allows residents to navigate the city with ease, reducing the necessity to own a car. Furthermore, Chicago’s slightly higher traffic congestion emphasizes the convenience and efficiency of using public transit for daily commutes. Transitioning to Chicago, you'll appreciate the ease of getting around, making it possible to explore the vibrant city life without the need for personal transportation.
Popular Ontario, CA to Illinois Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
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