Chicago, IL to St. Paul, MN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to St. Paul typically costs $2,000–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 407 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to St. Paul
Moving from Chicago, IL to St. Paul, MN typically costs $2,000–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 407-mile move from Chicago to St. Paul, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $1,926 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $1,905 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $5,233 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 17, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 17, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 27, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 03, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 31, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to St. Paul
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Chicago to St. Paul might be as low as $1,300, while a four-bedroom could reach $7,400.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Chicago.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $400 to $1,000 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from St. Paul, MN to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to St. Paul movers by type
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Best professional movers from Chicago to St. Paul
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chicago to St. Paul, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IL→MN movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Chicago to St. Paul
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - St. Paul runs about 0% higher for singles and -54% higher for families than Chicago.
Singles spend around $3,633 in St. Paul versus $3,648 in Chicago; families pay $4,290 compared with $9,266.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Chicago | St. Paul | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $278,221 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $63,483 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $3,633 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $4,290 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 4.9% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 9.88% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 9.85% |
- Good news! When moving to St. Paul from Chicago, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 34% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 6% cheaper in St. Paul, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 11% lower in St. Paul than in Chicago.
- With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between St. Paul and Chicago, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
- Relocating to St. Paul could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 54% lower than in Chicago.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 46% lower than Chicago, St. Paul boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are effectively the same in St. Paul and Chicago (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
- Income taxes are 99% higher in Minnesota than in Illinois. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Chicago and St. Paul, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Chicago | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | |
| Gym membership | $78.31 |
How life is different in Chicago vs. St. Paul
| Chicago | St. Paul | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 303,176 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 60 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 64 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 50.86 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 49.14 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- St. Paul's population is about 89% less than Chicago.
- St. Paul's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- St. Paul is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 60 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- St. Paul has a bike-friendliness score of 64 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- St. Paul's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 50.86 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that St. Paul neighborhoods are safer than 50.86% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- St. Paul is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 49.14 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in St. Paul is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to St. Paul move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Minnesota moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Minnesota, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to St. Paul without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in St. Paul
Ready to relocate to Pigs Eye? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in St. Paul.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- St. Anthony Park
- Summit Hill
- Summit-University
- Union Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Macalester-Groveland
- Summit Hill
- Highland
- Union Park
- St. Anthony Park
Things to do in St. Paul
Now that you've made the move to Minnesota, it's the perfect time to explore St. Paul. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in St. Paul include museums and art centers like the Science Museum of Minnesota, Minnesota History Center, Historic Fort Snelling, and James J. Hill House.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Rice Park, Mears Park, Harriet Island Regional Park, and Indian Mounds Regional Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Minnesota Wild (NHL)St. Paul Saints (MiLB)St. Paul Twin Stars (NPSL)Minnesota United FC (MLS)Minnesota Whitecaps (PHF)Minnesota Wind Chill (AUDL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to St. Paul?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to St. Paul. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to St. Paul?
With many people choosing to move from Chicago to St. Paul in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Chicago to St. Paul take?
Covering 407 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to St. Paul, MN typically takes one to four days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in St. Paul can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Chicago offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Chicago can handle specialty items for my move to St. Paul?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Chicago, 54 movers can handle pianos. 40 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IL, there are 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
