Moving from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Your Complete Guide
Cost of Living Comparison
Best Stops Along the Way
Breaking up a 2,130-mile drive? Here are great places to stop between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA.
Salt Lake City, UT
Utah's capital nestled against the Wasatch Mountains with world-class skiing nearby. A growing tech hub known as the Silicon Slopes.
World-class skiing, Temple Square, and outdoor recreation
Denver, CO
The Mile High City at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, known for its outdoor lifestyle and booming economy. Over 300 days of sunshine per year.
Rocky Mountain access, craft beer scene, and Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Omaha, NE
A Midwestern gem on the Missouri River, home to Warren Buffett and a surprising food scene. Known for its steaks and the Henry Doorly Zoo.
Henry Doorly Zoo, steakhouses, and Berkshire Hathaway headquarters
Des Moines, IA
Iowa's capital and a rising star among Midwestern cities with a thriving downtown. Known for insurance industry and the Iowa State Fair.
Iowa State Fair, insurance industry, and East Village district
Reno, NV
The Biggest Little City in the World, a gateway to Lake Tahoe and Sierra Nevada adventures. A growing tech hub beyond its casino roots.
Casino culture, Lake Tahoe access, and Burning Man gateway
State Transition Guide: Illinois → California
Moving from Illinois to California? Here's what you need to know about updating your documents.
Driver's License
Vehicle Registration
Things to Know About California
- Smog certification required for vehicle registration
- Proposition 13 limits property tax increases
- Lane splitting on motorcycles is legal