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 New York.
- 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 New York
Check the table below for expected cost ranges to move from Chicago to New York with various services, based on your home’s size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,148 – $3,840 | $790 – $1,881 | $565 – $1,034 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,236 – $5,636 | $1,409 – $2,637 | $617 – $1,192 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,750 – $7,210 | $1,908 – $3,403 | $706 – $1,445 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 790-mile move from Chicago, IL, to New York 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 New York
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Chicago to New York, you can expect prices to land between $1,148 and $3,840. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,236 to $5,636 for the trip from Chicago to NY. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,750 and $7,210.
Cost of moving containers from Chicago to New York
Moving containers from Chicago to New York will cost you $790 to $1,881 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,409 to $2,637. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,908 to $3,403. 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 New York
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 $565 and $1,034 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Chicago to New York with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $617 to $1,192. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $706 to $1,445.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to NY
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 NY
Making the switch from Chicago to New York 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 New York stack up so you’ll be ready for what’s ahead.
Compare cost of living: Chicago vs. New York
| Chicago, IL | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,045 | $1,507 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $482,742 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $81,386 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 4.4% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 10.9% |
New York sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- In New York, rent is about 26% lower than in Chicago, making housing easier on your budget.
- Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 63% higher in New York than in Chicago.
- On average, incomes in New York run 14% above Chicago, potentially improving your financial flexibility.
- Expect the cost of living in New York to be about 6% below Chicago, giving you more financial flexibility.
- New York has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 51%, suggesting a stronger job market.
- Expect to pay about 120% more in income taxes in New York compared to Illinois.
How life is different in Chicago, IL from New York
From the weather and population to local politics, here’s how life in New York stacks up against what you’re used to in Chicago.
| Chicago, IL | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 19,571,216 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Democratic 60-40 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 16ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 44″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 62″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 21.51 |
New York Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, New York leaned Democratic, while Chicago supported Democrat.
- Summertime highs settle at approximately 81ºF in New York as well as 84ºF in Chicago, ensuring the climate feels quite familiar. Apart from temperatures, it’s important to think about humidity, weather trends, and energy costs to grasp what summertime will be like in your new area.
- Winter lows are nearly identical, averaging 16ºF in New York and 19ºF in Chicago. With so little difference, your move shouldn’t disrupt your cold-weather lifestyle.
- Get ready for about 44 inches of rain annually in New York, 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.
- Each year, New York gets about 62 inches of snow, while Chicago sees only 35 inches. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
- New York records a lower crime rate (21.51) than Chicago (35.19), meaning you may enjoy more security and peace of mind after your move.
Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL versus New York:
There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Chicago versus New York side-by-side.
| Pros of living in Chicago, IL | Pros of living in New York |
|---|---|
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Natural beauty |
| Delicious food | Arts |
| Abundant entertainment | Ample economic opportunity |
| Intense sports culture | Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities |
| Ample economic opportunity | Distinct seasons |
Comparing the cons of Chicago, IL versus New York:
Transitioning from Chicago to New York can present challenges; here’s what you need to keep in mind.
| Cons of living in Chicago, IL | Cons of living in New York |
|---|---|
| High crime rate | High tax burden |
| Temperamental weather | Rough winter weather |
| Terrible traffic | High cost of living |
| High taxes | Poor quality healthcare |
| Pollution | Populous |
Other considerations when moving to New York
When you’re moving from Chicago to New York, 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: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify a New York moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s site.
- Moving permits: There’s no need for a moving permit in New York, 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 New York. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- 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 New York
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, New York has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in New York
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- The Strong National Museum of Play
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- New York State Museum
- Erie Canal Museum
Parks in New York
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Central Park
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Robert Moses State Park
Sports teams in New York
- Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA)
- Buffalo Bills (NFL)
- Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
- New York City FC (MLS)
- New York Islanders (NHL)
Universities in New York
- Cornell University
- Columbia University in the City of New York
- New York University
- University of Rochester
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York
FAQ
How long does a move from Chicago to New York take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Chicago, IL, to New York? Most moves on this route usually take two to seven 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 New York?
Need to get your car from Chicago to New York? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Chicago to New York car shippers.
Why are people moving from Chicago to New York?
Many people are moving to New York because of its natural beauty and arts. 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 New York.
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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