Top local movers for Newark to Chicago moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Newark that also provides long-distance services to Chicago can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 158 local movers in Newark who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Newark to Chicago.
- White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Flatrate Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Molloy Bros Moving and Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Alpha Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- NYC Great Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 648262
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 648262
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 1748105
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 488466
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 125563
Years in Business: 46
DOT #: 125563
Alternate Names: Molloy Brothers Moving & Storage , Molloy Bros. Mayflower , Advance Relocation and Storage of NJ
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 2047066
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 2047066
Alternate Names: Alpha Movers , Alpha Relocation Services , Alpha Transportation, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 39493
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2180117
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Newark to Chicago?
Movers in New Jersey generally charge an average of per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,069 – $3,685 | $723 – $1,826 | $565 – $1,075 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,040 – $5,306 | $1,422 – $2,557 | $576 – $1,240 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,817 – $7,427 | $1,853 – $3,507 | $713 – $1,416 |
Cost to hire movers from Newark to Chicago
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Newark to Chicago typically costs between $1,069 and $3,685. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,040 and $5,306 when moving from Newark to Chicago. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Newark to Chicago, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,817 up to $7,427.
Cost of moving containers from Newark to Chicago
If you’re relocating from Newark to Chicago, you’ll typically spend between $723 and $1,826 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,422 up to $2,557. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,853 and $3,507. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from New Jersey.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Newark to Chicago
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Newark to Chicago move, 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, expect to pay between $565 and $1,075. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $576 to $1,240. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $713 and $1,416.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Newark to Chicago
The cost of Newark movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Newark to Chicago might be as low as $1,899, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,062.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Newark.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $565 to $1,406 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Newark to Chicago
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 42% higher for singles and 65% higher for families than Newark.
Singles spend around $3,648 in Newark versus $2,575 in Newark; families pay $9,266 compared with $5,617.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Newark | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,333 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,300 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $475,797 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $41,335 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,575 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,617 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 13.0% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.63% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 10.7% | 4.95% |
- Good news! When moving to Chicago from Newark, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 11% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 38% cheaper in Chicago, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 73% higher in Chicago than in Newark, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Chicago, as the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 42% greater than in Newark. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Chicago, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 65% more than it is in Newark.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 31% lower than Newark, Chicago boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Chicago exceed those in Newark by 55%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 54% lower in Illinois than in New Jersey. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Newark and Chicago, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Newark | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $211.42 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $57.98 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.74 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.40 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $79.50 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $30.00 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Newark than in Chicago.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Newark than in Chicago.
- Eggs cost more in Newark than in Chicago.
- Bread is more expensive in Newark than in Chicago.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Newark than in Chicago.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Newark than in Chicago.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Newark than in Chicago.
How life is different in Newark vs. Chicago
| Newark | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 304,960 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 76 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 51 | 72 |
| Crime index | 75.24 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 24.76 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago’s population is about 801% greater than Newark.
- Chicago’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Newark, making them very similar.
- Chicago and Newark are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Newark, which has a score of 51 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Chicago’s crime rate is lower than Newark with a score of 35.19 compared to Newark’s 75.24. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Newark neighborhoods are safer than 75.24%.
- Chicago is considered to be safer than Newark with a safety index of 33.87 vs Newark’s 24.76.
- Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Newark it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Newark to Chicago 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: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Illinois moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Illinois, 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 Chicago 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. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Chicago
Ready to relocate to Chi-Town? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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
Now that you’ve made the move to Illinois, it’s the perfect time to explore Chicago. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chicago include museums and art centers like the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln 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 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 Newark to Chicago?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Newark to Chicago. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Newark.
When is the cheapest time to move from Newark to Chicago?
With many people choosing to move from Newark to Chicago 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 Newark to Chicago take?
Covering 780 miles, the move from Newark, NJ to Chicago, typically takes two to seven days. Some Newark movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chicago can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Newark offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in Newark offer AAA member savings. 8 movers provide military discounts. 9 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 Newark can handle specialty items for my move to Chicago?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Newark, 139 movers can handle pianos. 111 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NJ, there are 78 piano movers and 60 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
Helpful moving resources
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