Taxes
California's top rate of 13.30% is the highest of any state, and rates climb with income. Illinois charges a flat 4.95%. People with moderate incomes may see a smaller difference, so use your actual numbers. Property tax rules are also different, because California limits how much assessed value rises each year.
Housing
Expect less space for your money, especially near the coast. Many homes have no basement and limited storage, so a Chicago-area household often needs to shrink. Measure before you ship. Cost to move across the country can help you decide what's worth bringing.
Deadlines
California is commonly cited as giving new residents 10 days to get a driver's license and 20 days to register a vehicle. Those are short windows, so confirm them with the California DMV right away. Out-of-state vehicles may need a smog check and can face fees if you register late.
Natural hazards
- Earthquakes. Standard home insurance doesn't typically include them. Secure tall furniture.
- Wildfire. Insurance can be costly or harder to find in some areas, so get a quote before you make an offer.
Winters are mild, so you can leave behind a lot of what you own for Chicago's cold. Heavy coats add up on a weight-priced move.
Getting around
Los Angeles and San Diego depend heavily on cars, while the Bay Area has more options through BART and Caltrain. Check commute times at the actual hours you'll travel.
What to leave behind
California inspects plants at the border, and many household plants are best rehomed. Check any firearms or other regulated items against California's rules before moving, as they differ considerably from Illinois's.
Your move
See Chicago to California movers, or city pages for Los Angeles and San Diego.