Moving from Los Angeles to Chicago: Your Relocation Guide + Apartment Spotlights

Considering a move from the sunny West Coast to the heart of the Midwest? You’re not alone. While Los Angeles is known for its iconic beaches, Hollywood allure, and year-round warm weather, many people are making the trek eastward to one of America’s most iconic cities: Chicago. With its vibrant cultural scene, thriving job market, and significantly more affordable cost of living, the Windy City offers a lifestyle that’s both exciting and more budget-friendly. But if you’re one of those planning on moving from Los Angeles to Chicago, there are a few things to be aware of before you take the leap.

To help you out, we’ve put together this comprehensive relocation guide, complete with expert insights, practical tips, and apartment spotlights to make the transition seamless. Welcome to your next adventure in Chicago!

Moving from Los Angeles to Chicago: LA’s Laid-Back Vibes vs. an Urban Pulse

When most people think of Los Angeles, they think of laid-back beach days, palm-lined streets, and bougie West Coast style probably comes to mind. But if you’re moving from Los Angeles to Chicago, you might be looking for something different — and Chicago delivers in spades. 

With an urban pulse that’s equal parts inviting and exciting, the city offers a dynamic city culture, where bustling streets, iconic architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods are balanced by our signature Midwest friendliness. It’s the kind of place where you can catch an exhilarating sports game at Wrigley Field, explore world-class museums, and then enjoy a casual conversation with your friends at a local coffee shop.

Property Spotlight: The Leo

Located in River North, one of Chicago’s premier hubs for shopping and entertainment, The Leo embodies the city’s lively urban vibes. Residents of the Leo enjoy sleek modern interiors, great proximity to public transit, and luxury amenities that include a co-working space, dog spa, EV charging stations, and state of the art fitness center. Each of its pet-friendly 1-bedroom apartments are open concept and come with hardwood floors throughout, full-size appliances, and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Weather: LA Sunshine vs. Chicago’s Four Seasons

Los Angeles is famous for its year-round sunshine and mild climate, but moving to Chicago means experiencing the full spectrum of seasons. From the blooming beauty of spring to the golden hues of fall, and yes, even the snowy charm of winter, Chicago’s weather brings plenty of variety.

Adjusting to colder temperatures can be an adventure of its own, especially when you’re moving from Los Angeles to Chicago. Investing in a quality winter coat and sturdy boots is a great start. On the flip side, summer in Chicago is something to savor, with lakefront activities, outdoor festivals, and rooftop dining that boasts spectacular views. 

Property Spotlight: Saint Grand

For those seeking a welcoming community amidst Chicago’s seasonal shifts, The Saint Grand is a great place to call home. This luxury mixed-use development in Streeterville offers not just top-tier amenities but also a sense of connection. Residents can gather in beautifully designed common spaces, enjoy a workout in the fitness center, or relax in the cozy resident lounge. Or, if you’re planning a day out, be sure to take advantage of the nearby Magnificent Mile or check out the Navy Pier.

Available units in The Saint Grand include convertible, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom floorplans. 

Moving from Los Angeles to Chicago: The Cost of Living

One of the biggest perks of trading Los Angeles for Chicago is the significant difference in the cost of living. While LA is renowned for its sky-high housing market and everyday expenses, Chicago offers a much more accessible luxury lifestyle without sacrificing quality. For instance, the average rent in LA is $600 higher than in Chicago. And, with its walkable neighborhoods and superior public transit system, you can get almost anywhere you need to go without the expense of a Los Angeles-style commute.

Property Spotlight: Aurelien

Nestled in Chicago’s refined Gold Coast, Aurelien redefines luxury living with thoughtfully curated interiors, resort-style amenities, and an unbeatable location. Residents of the Aurelien enjoy access to the building’s on-site arcade, business center, private dog run, and rooftop deck—all at a fraction of what you’d pay for similar accommodations in Los Angeles. Plus, living in the Gold Coast puts you in close proximity to some of the most upscale shopping and dining destinations that Chicago has to offer.

Units at the Aurelien range from studios and convertibles all the way up to 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom penthouses.

Moving from Los Angeles to Chicago: West Coast Traffic vs. Efficient Public Transit

If there’s one downside to LA that almost everyone can agree on, it’s the city’s reputation for bumper-to-bumper traffic. Luckily, if you’re moving from Los Angeles to Chicago, you’ll find things are refreshingly different. Chicago has a robust public transit system, including the iconic CTA trains and buses, that provides easy and reliable transportation for residents. No more sitting in gridlock; in Chicago, you’ll spend less time commuting and more time enjoying all the city has to offer.

Property Spotlight: Foundry

Located in the heart of the vibrant West Loop, FOUNDRY puts you just steps away from some of the best restaurants in the Midwest. Its prime location near multiple CTA lines and Union Station also offers seamless access to the entire city. With upscale amenities like on-site coffee service, dry cleaner, golf simulator, and heated outdoor pool, life at FOUNDRY is the perfect complement to Chicago’s walkable lifestyle.

Available units include convertible and studio apartments as well as 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom floorplans.

Neighborhood Comparison: LA Districts vs. Chicago Areas

Any time you relocate, a little homesickness is unavoidable. Fortunately, if you’re moving from Los Angeles to Chicago, you can ease the transition by finding a neighborhood that feels like home. Each Chicago neighborhood offers its own distinct energy, mirroring many aspects of LA’s iconic districts. Here’s how a few of them stack up:

If you’re from Santa Monica and you want to stick with the laid back atmosphere and access to the beach, you’ll feel right at home in Lakeview. While there’s no ocean, Lake Michigan’s expansive shoreline offers gorgeous views, bike paths, and sandy beaches. Add in Lakeview’s tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and lively dining scene, and you’ve got the perfect Santa Monica replacement.

On the other side of the spectrum, Angelenos who want the feel of Downtown LA will find what they’re looking for in The Loop. The Loops is Chicago’s bustling center for business, arts, and entertainment. Characterized by towering skyscrapers, this neighborhood has plenty to offer when it comes to cultural institutions, theaters, and first-rate restaurants.

If you’re used to the indie vibes and creative spirit of Silver Lake, be sure to check out Logan Square in Chicago. This trendy Chicago neighborhood boasts gorgeous parks, craft cocktail bars, cozy coffee shops, all with an artsy edge. With its mix of historic greystone buildings and modern hotspots, Logan Square is ideal for those who value character and culture.

And finally, those who hail from West Hollywood should definitely look into Chicago’s Old Town. Like West Hollywood, Old Town is brimming with charm and personality. It’s a vibrant neighborhood with no shortage of historical architecture, eclectic shops, and a buzzing nightlife.

Apartment Hunting Tips for LA Transplants

Finding the perfect apartment in Chicago is exciting but it can feel daunting without the right guidance. If you’re moving from Los Angeles to Chicago, start by exploring the neighborhoods, from the vibrant Loop to the creative energy of Logan Square or the lakeside charm of Lakeview, to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

Then, focus on amenities that enhance urban living, such as rooftop decks, fitness centers, coworking spaces, and heated parking—or anything else that might be a priority for you.

And remember that navigating Chicago’s apartment market is much easier with a dedicated team by your side. Luxury Living Chicago offers a complementary concierge-level service to make your transition seamless. Whether you’re searching for a chic studio or a sprawling penthouse, our team is here to guide you every step of the way with:

• Tailored Services: From personalized apartment tours to lease negotiations, we’ll handle the details so you can focus on settling in.
• A Comprehensive Process: We start by understanding your needs and preferences. Then we curate a list of properties that fit your lifestyle and advocate for you from initial inquiry to move-in day and beyond.
• Team: With years of experience and in-depth knowledge of Chicago’s rental market, our team is dedicated to helping you find not just a home, but a neighborhood and lifestyle that feel like a perfect fit.
• Who We Serve: Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or corporate relocation client, we cater to a wide range of renters looking for premium options in Chicago.

Looking to Relocate From LA to Chicago? Luxury Living Can Help

Reach out today to get started with Luxury Living Chicago, the team that knows the city best.