Local moving companies in Chicago
Out of 68 Chicago movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Arkansas.
- New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 158051
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 3078026
Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 139020
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1308599
Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 136144
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 3383907
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 184599
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2428328
Alternate Names: H2H Movers, Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 158678
Years in Business: 16
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Hot Tubs
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Chicago, IL
Here’s how many movers in Chicago include specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from Chicago, IL to Arkansas
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Chicago to Arkansas with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,058 – $3,285 | $669 – $1,698 | $463 – $839 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,952 – $5,006 | $1,307 – $2,395 | $490 – $985 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,685 – $7,568 | $1,711 – $3,065 | $618 – $1,251 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 602-mile move from Chicago, IL, to Arkansas using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes them monthly to account for seasonal shifts and market trends. Your actual cost can change based on move size, added services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Arkansas
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Chicago to Arkansas, you can expect prices to land between $1,058 and $3,285. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,952 to $5,006 for the trip from Chicago to AR. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,685 and $7,568.
Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Arkansas
Moving containers from Chicago to Arkansas will cost you $669 to $1,698 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,307 to $2,395. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,711 to $3,065. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Chicago.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Arkansas
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $463 and $839 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Chicago to Arkansas with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $490 to $985. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $618 to $1,251.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to AR
Here’s what shapes the moving costs in Chicago:
- Move size: The number of rooms and volume of belongings directly affect your final bill.
- Time of year: Summer moves in Chicago fall during peak season, which usually means higher prices.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What you should know before moving from Chicago to AR
Making the switch from Chicago to Arkansas might mean adjusting to a new lifestyle while possibly saving money. Since Chicago is known for its higher expenses, this switch could lead to a more affordable living situation.
Take a look at the cost of living breakdown below to see exactly how Chicago and Arkansas stack up so you’ll be ready for what’s ahead.
Compare cost of living: Chicago vs. Arkansas
| Chicago, IL | Arkansas | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,045 | $868 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $208,078 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $56,335 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 2.3% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 2.0% |
Arkansas sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In Arkansas, rent is about 58% lower than in Chicago, making housing easier on your budget.
- Homes in Arkansas are about 30% less expensive than in Chicago, leaving you with a lighter mortgage.
- Expect average incomes to be roughly 21% lower in Arkansas than in Chicago, so financial planning will be important.
- Expect the cost of living in Arkansas to be about 15% below Chicago, giving you more financial flexibility.
- Arkansas has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 74%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- Income tax rates are around 60% lower in Arkansas, so your take-home pay will be higher than in Illinois.
How life is different in Chicago, IL from Arkansas
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in Arkansas stacks up against what you’re used to in Chicago.
| Chicago, IL | Arkansas | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 3,067,732 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 28ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 50″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 4″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 30.97 |
Arkansas Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Arkansas leaned Republican, while Chicago supported Democrat.
- Summertime peak temperatures in Arkansas can reach as high as 91ºF, making the heat noticeably more intense than in Chicago, where summer highs usually hit 84ºF. Prepare for extra sun, lively activities outdoors, and possibly elevated cooling bills as you adapt to the warmer setting.
- Winter lows in Arkansas stay around 28ºF, noticeably warmer than Chicago, where lows drop to 19ºF. This shift means easier winters, lighter routines, and smaller heating bills.
- Get ready for about 50 inches of rain annually in Arkansas, compared to just 38 inches in Chicago. More rainfall means greener scenery and wetter days, so plan ahead with good rain gear and a flexible routine.
- In Arkansas, you’ll get about 4 inches of snow each year, far less than Chicago. That means moving to Arkansas will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
- Arkansas records a lower crime rate (30.97) than Chicago (35.19), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL versus Arkansas:
There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Chicago versus Arkansas side-by-side.
| Pros of living in Chicago, IL | Pros of living in Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Delicious food | Low cost of living |
| Abundant entertainment | Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
| Intense sports culture | Fantastic weather |
| Ample economic opportunity | Natural beauty |
Comparing the cons of Chicago, IL versus Arkansas:
Transitioning from Chicago to Arkansas can present challenges; here’s what you need to keep in mind.
| Cons of living in Chicago, IL | Cons of living in Arkansas |
|---|---|
| High crime rate | High crime rate |
| Temperamental weather | Dangerous wildlife |
| Terrible traffic | Poor education |
| High taxes | Pervasive poverty |
| Pollution | Strange laws |
Other considerations when moving to Arkansas
When you’re moving from Chicago to Arkansas, you’ll want to do more than just pack your boxes and hire movers. Make sure you’re up to speed on local rules, permits, and other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Always check community regulations beforehand so your move-in goes smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve the elevator if your building requires it for move-ins.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: Before providing in-state household goods relocation services, Arkansas moving companies must be issued an Intrastate Authority Permit from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a Arkansas moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in Arkansas, but be sure to look up local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Make sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You can choose your official move date and have your mail forwarded to Arkansas. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Released Value Protection, offered by movers at no extra cost, is the most economical option, albeit with minimal coverage. The mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, the reimbursement would be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure full coverage of your items’ value, explore alternative options with your moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay organized and be sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Arkansas
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, Arkansas has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in Arkansas
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- Ozark Folk Center State Park
- Daisy Airgun Museum
- Mid-America Science Museum
Parks in Arkansas
- Riverfront Park
- Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
- Craighead Forest Park
- Cadron Settlement Park
- Maumelle Park
Sports teams in Arkansas
- Arkansas Razorbacks (NCAA)
- Arkansas State Red Wolves (NCAA)
- Central Arkansas Bears (NCAA)
- Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans (NCAA)
Universities in Arkansas
- University of Arkansas
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Arkansas State University
- University of Central Arkansas
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
FAQ
How long does a move from Chicago to Arkansas take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Chicago, IL, to Arkansas? Most moves on this route usually take one to six days, depending on your service. Just a heads up. Moving during the hectic summer season might leave you open to delays.
To keep your move on track and steer clear of delays, be sure to ask about the delivery timeline before you book your movers.
How many movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 46 movers in Chicago that offer customized crates for a variety of fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces, including artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you will need special crating for any of your items, be sure to confirm with a Chicago moving company that they will be able to accommodate your specific needs.
What is the best way to get a car from Chicago to Arkansas?
Need to get your car from Chicago to Arkansas? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Chicago to Arkansas car shippers.
Why are people moving from Chicago to Arkansas?
Many people are moving to Arkansas because of its bountiful recreational opportunities and low cost of living. On the other hand, people are moving away from Chicago because of the high crime rate and temperamental weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Arkansas.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Chicago?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Chicago.
Can I pay for my move from Chicago, IL, with cash?
There are 29 movers in Chicago that accept cash payments. Even so, cash is not the norm in the moving industry, where traceable payment types are preferred. Plan to pay a deposit to lock in your booking and move date. The rest of the balance is usually due at pickup or after delivery—verify timing and accepted methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
Illinois moving services
Popular Illinois routes
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