($958) Movers From Iowa to Chicago, IL

1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
2. Action Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. Key City Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.48 out of 5 stars
5. White Glove Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire professional movers from Iowa to Chicago, IL

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Chicago, IL, typically costs between $958 and $2,994. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,580 and $4,772. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Iowa to Chicago, IL, you’re looking at costs ranging from $2,366 up to $6,538.

Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Chicago, IL

When relocating from Iowa to Chicago, IL, you’ll typically spend between $576 and $1,477 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,088 up to $2,070. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,410 and $2,678. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Iowa.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Chicago, IL

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Iowa to Chicago, IL, expect to pay between $324 and $577. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $349 to $644. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $402 and $809.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Rent in Chicago is approximately 124% higher than in Iowa. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
• Home prices are about 34% higher in Chicago than in Iowa. It’s important to factor in increased costs for a down payment, property taxes, and overall homeownership expenses.
• Because income levels in Chicago are comparable to those in Iowa, you can expect a similar financial situation in your new hometown.
• Even though unemployment in Chicago is 200% higher than in Iowa, you’ll still find opportunities if you’re proactive. Start building your network early.
• Income taxes are 12% higher in Illinois than in Iowa. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

• In the last presidential election, Chicago leaned Democrat, while Iowa went Republican.
• Summer temperatures in Chicago typically reach 84ºF, which is about the same as the average 84ºF you’re used to in Iowa. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
• During the coldest months, temperatures in Chicago usually drop to around 19ºF, while in Iowa, they can fall as low as 10ºF. Moving to Chicago means you’ll enjoy milder winters, which makes daily life more comfortable, helps you save on heating costs, and lets you spend more time outdoors.
• You can expect 38 inches of annual rainfall in Chicago, which is just about the same as in Iowa with 35 inches. While you probably won’t see a big change in the total amount of precipitation, shifts in when and how that rain falls could still affect your everyday routine.
• In Chicago, you can expect about 35 inches of snow each year, while Iowa sees around 30 inches annually. Since snowfall is pretty comparable in both places, your winter should feel pretty similar.
• Crime rates in Chicago are higher than in Iowa, with a crime index of 35.19 versus 16.18. This doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to research local safety insights and think about how it might affect your daily life.

• HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
• Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
• Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
• State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
• State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
• Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in Illinois, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
• Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to Illinois on time. Get started here.
• Mover’s insurance: Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
• Moving checklist: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.