Top-rated movers to make your Albany to Chicago move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Albany that offers long-distance services to Chicago can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed eight top local movers in Albany who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Albany to Chicago.
- Mabey’s Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Clark Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Don’s Moving & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
- Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- All-Ways Moving & Storage Co: 4.36 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 623
Years in Business: 68
DOT #: 125550
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 37553
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 125563
Alternate Names: Clark Moving and Storage , Clark Moving and Storage of Albany
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1462
Years in Business: 75
DOT #: 134890
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 35196
Years in Business: 99
DOT #: 1566123
Alternate Names: Arnoff Moving & Storage (poughkeepsie, Ny)
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 48
DOT #: 55254
Alternate Names: All-Ways Moving & Storage Co.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Albany to Chicago?
In New York, moving services typically cost around per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,035 – $3,708 | $776 – $1,938 | $551 – $1,017 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,135 – $4,760 | $1,423 – $2,749 | $588 – $1,184 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,289 – $7,107 | $1,763 – $3,553 | $714 – $1,511 |
Cost to hire movers from Albany to Chicago
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chicago from Albany, you can expect prices to land between $1,035 and $3,708. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,135 to $4,760 for the trip from Albany to Chicago. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,289 and $7,107.
Cost of moving containers from Albany to Chicago
Moving containers from Albany to Chicago will cost you $776 to $1,938 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,423 to $2,749. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,763 to $3,553. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of New York.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Albany to Chicago
Renting a moving truck from Albany to Chicago typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $551 and $1,017 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $588 to $1,184. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $714 to $1,511.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Albany to Chicago move
The cost of Albany movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,763 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,747 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Albany.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $551 to $1,357, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Albany to Chicago
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 103% higher for singles and 120% higher for families than Albany.
Singles spend around $3,648 in Albany versus $1,801 in Albany; families pay $9,266 compared with $4,205.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Albany | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,426 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,900 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $281,584 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,546 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,801 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,205 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 4.95% |
- Planning a move to Chicago? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 41% higher than in Albany, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Chicago and Albany, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 8% higher in Chicago compared to Albany, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Chicago, as living costs for a single person are 103% higher than in Albany. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Chicago, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 120% higher than in Albany.
- Chicago shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Albany by around 27%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Chicago are 28% more than in Albany, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Illinois are 55% below those in New York. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Albany and Chicago:
| Living Expense | Albany | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $203.15 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $57.53 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.71 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.93 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $79.50 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $31.25 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Albany than in Chicago.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Albany than in Chicago.
- Eggs cost more in Albany than in Chicago.
- Bread costs less in Albany than in Chicago.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Albany than in Chicago.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Albany than in Chicago.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Albany than in Chicago.
How life is different in Albany vs. Chicago
| Albany | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 99,224 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 65 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 55 | 72 |
| Crime index | 10.0 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 49.65 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago’s population is about 2668% greater than Albany.
- Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Albany’s score of 8.
- Chicago is more walkable than Albany with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Albany’s 65 out of 100.
- With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Albany, which has a score of 55 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Chicago’s crime rate is higher than Albany with a score of 35.19 compared to Albany’s 10.0. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0%.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Albany with a score of 33.87 vs Albany’s 49.65.
- Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Albany it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Albany to Chicago move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Illinois’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Chicago. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Chicago
Planning your move to Chi-Town? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Chicago.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Lake View
- Lincoln Park
- The Loop
- Near North Side
- West Town
Best neighborhoods for families
- Beverly
- Edison Park
- Lincoln Park
- North Center
- West Loop
Things to do in Chicago
After settling into your new Illinois home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chicago has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Chicago features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Albany to Chicago?
Planning your move from Albany to Chicago? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Albany.
When is the cheapest time to move from Albany to Chicago?
Because most people are moving from Albany to Chicago in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Albany to Chicago take?
The 817-mile journey from Albany, NY to Chicago, , typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Albany offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chicago.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Albany?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Albany, 4 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, New York has 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
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