Chicago, IL to Garland, TX Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Garland typically costs $2,800–$6,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 917 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Garland
Moving from Chicago, IL to Garland, TX typically costs $2,800–$6,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 917-mile move from Chicago to Garland, 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
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,657 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $3,456 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $2,331 for a 4 bedroom using a moving container.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 13, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 09, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 29, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 25, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 10, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 16, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 07, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to Garland
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 Garland might be as low as $2,100, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,200.
- 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 $700 to $1,800 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Garland, TX to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Garland movers by type
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Garland
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chicago to Garland, 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→TX 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 Garland
Many movers find Garland easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 23% less for singles and 16% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,827 for one person in Garland versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $7,793 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Garland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $2,000 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $3,600 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $294,156 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $68,107 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,827 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $7,793 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 6.5% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 0.0% |
- Good news! When moving to Garland from Chicago, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 21% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- The home prices in Garland and Chicago differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Garland and Chicago, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Garland. The cost of living for a single person is 23% less compared to Chicago.
- Relocating to Garland could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 16% lower than in Chicago.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 28% lower than Chicago, Garland boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 20% lower in Garland than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Texas has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Chicago and Garland, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Garland |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $175.31 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $48.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.94 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $2.75 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $12.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $35.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $30.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chicago than in Garland.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in Garland.
- Eggs are less expensive in Chicago than in Garland.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Garland.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Garland.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Garland.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Garland.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Garland
| Chicago | Garland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 239,928 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 40 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 41 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 37.13 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 62.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Garland's population is about 91% less than Chicago.
- Garland's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Garland is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 40 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- Garland has a bike-friendliness score of 41 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Garland's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 37.13 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Garland neighborhoods are safer than 37.13% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Garland is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 62.87 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Garland is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Garland 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-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Texas moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Texas, 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 Garland 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 Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Garland
Ready to relocate to Cowboy Hat Capital of Texas? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Garland.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Wood Glen
- Valley Creek North
- Buckingham North
- The Enclave
- Picket Place
Best neighborhoods for families
- Wood Glen
- Valley Creek North
- Meadowcreek Village
- Arbor Creek
- Las Mariposas
Things to do in Garland
Now that you've made the move to Texas, it's the perfect time to explore Garland. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Garland include museums and art centers like the Garland Landmark Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Rowlett Creek Preserve, Spring Creek Park, and Lake Ray Hubbard, 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 Garland Independent School District (IISD) high schools game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Garland?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to Garland. 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 Garland?
With many people choosing to move from Chicago to Garland 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 Garland take?
Covering 917 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to Garland, TX typically takes two to seven days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Garland 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 Garland?
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.
