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($1,091) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 926 miles from Chicago to New Orleans typically costs between $666 and $5,639. The trip is expected to last from two–seven days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Chicago to New Orleans

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Chicago to New Orleans

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Chicago to New Orleans much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Chicago, there are 49 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to New Orleans.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Chicago to New Orleans

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 926-mile move from Chicago to New Orleans using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,894 – $4,585
  • Moving Container $1,174 – $2,053
  • Rental Truck $642 – $1,215
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,375 – $5,639
  • Moving Container $1,410 – $2,794
  • Rental Truck $666 – $1,362
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,983 – $7,677
  • Moving Container $1,878 – $3,777
  • Rental Truck $845 – $1,671
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Allied Van Lines
Schiller Park, IL Westwego, LA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 17, 2025
North American Van Lines
Evanston, IL Slidell, LA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 17, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Tinley Park, IL Terrytown, LA
Studio apartment
Oct 11, 2025
PODS
Sleepy Hollow, IL Lockport, LA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 23, 2025
United Van Lines
Palos Hills, IL Pleasure Bend, LA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
Roadway Moving
Park Forest, IL Mandeville, LA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
BLVD Moving
Riverside, IL Jean Lafitte, LA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 29, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
New Lenox, IL Raceland, LA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 23, 2025
Safeway Moving
Willow Springs, IL Belle Chasse, LA
Studio apartment
Aug 16, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Downers Grove, IL Estelle, LA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from New Orleans, LA to Chicago, IL guide.

Top-rated movers to make your Chicago to New Orleans move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Chicago that offers long-distance services to New Orleans can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 68 top local movers in Chicago 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 Chicago to New Orleans.

  1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
  3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.4% of all reviews were positive
5.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move. While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.4% of all reviews were positive
28.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings. Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI’s organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.5% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication. People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.0% of all reviews were positive
9.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier for H2H customers. Out of 640 real customer reviews analyzed, a remarkable 88% delivered positive feedback, placing H2H Movers above most competitors in the moving industry. Clients most frequently highlighted the company’s efficient service, careful handling of possessions, professional and polite staff, great communication, and a quick moving process. People appreciated teams who arrived on time, completed moves ahead of schedule, and made stressful relocations feel manageable, often noting that quoted prices were accurate or even lower than expected. On the other hand, the most common complaints were unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, and delays in arrival or delivery. A few customers reported being billed more than their estimates due to extra fees or poor packing, and some faced slow resolution for claims or communication gaps after their move. While some neutral reviews cited problems with lost items or payment methods, these were far less frequent than the praise received. H2H Movers stands out with efficient, reliable, and friendly crews—a reputation that exceeds the service level of many moving companies, though attention to transparent billing and timeliness could make experiences even better.
Get a Quote (773) 236-8797

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.2% of all reviews were positive
7.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move-tastic moves customers with speed, skill, and care that set the standard for Chicago moving companies. After reviewing 1,169 pieces of feedback, 91% praised their efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moves, and friendly staff—qualities mentioned far more than in most moving company reviews. Customers frequently highlight how the moving teams are not only fast and organized, but also protect homes and belongings with diligence and respect, often completing jobs ahead of schedule and below the original estimate. The booking process and communication draw special mention for ease and transparency. Conversely, 7% of customers cite issues such as damage to items, unexpected costs, or delayed arrival, reflecting the main patterns among negative input. Some report furniture scratches or losses, with a few noting the claims process or repair follow-up as challenging; a handful mentioned bills far exceeding quoted rates or frustration over slow moves. Neutral feedback—just under 2%—pointed to sporadic minor mishaps, price increases, or items misplaced and later returned. Move-tastic’s positive feedback dominates, and problems are less common than with most regional competitors, though the risk of damage or extra fees still exists. When compared to others, it’s the combination of outstanding efficiency, careful work, and friendly attitude that keeps so many customers recommending Move-tastic again and again.
Get a Quote (773) 715-3227

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

How much does it cost to move from Chicago to New Orleans?

In Illinois, moving services typically cost around $113 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 $1,091 – $4,360 $761 – $2,027 $593 – $1,215
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,375 – $5,639 $1,410 – $2,794 $666 – $1,362
4+ bedrooms $3,983 – $7,677 $1,878 – $3,777 $845 – $1,671
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 926-mile move from Chicago to New Orleans, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to New Orleans

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to New Orleans from Chicago, you can expect prices to land between $1,091 and $4,360. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,375 to $5,639 for the trip from Chicago to New Orleans. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,983 and $7,677.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to New Orleans

Moving containers from Chicago to New Orleans will cost you $761 to $2,027 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,410 to $2,794. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,878 to $3,777. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to New Orleans

Renting a moving truck from Chicago to New Orleans typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $593 and $1,215 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $666 to $1,362. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $845 to $1,671.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to New Orleans move

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,182 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,602 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Chicago.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $593 to $1,485, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Chicago to New Orleans

Many movers find New Orleans easier on the wallet than Chicago – roughly 14% less for singles and 15% less for families.

Monthly basics average $3,134 for one person in New Orleans versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it’s $7,905 compared with $9,266.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Chicago New Orleans
Average 1 BR rent $2,368 $1,813
Average 3 BR rent $4,581 $3,150
Average home value $295,743 $231,649
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $51,116
Cost of living (single) $3,648 $3,134
Cost of living (family of four) $9,266 $7,905
Unemployment rate 9.0% 11.0%
Sales tax 10.25% 10.0%
State income tax 4.95% 4.25%
  • When relocating from Chicago to New Orleans, expect to find rent about 14% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 22% more affordable in New Orleans compared to Chicago.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 29% lower in New Orleans compared to Chicago.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in New Orleans, as the cost of living for a single person is 14% lower compared to Chicago.
  • A move to New Orleans can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 15% less than what it costs in Chicago.
  • New Orleans shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Chicago by around 22%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes hold steady between New Orleans and Chicago (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
  • Income taxes in Louisiana are 14% below those in Illinois. 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 Chicago and New Orleans:

Living Expense Chicago New Orleans
Basic utilities $191.26 $244.46
Cell phone plan $61.10 $58.50
Dozen eggs $4.52 $4.35
Loaf of bread $4.15 $4.03
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $25.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $124.00
Gym membership $78.31 $61.75
  • Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in New Orleans, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in New Orleans.
  • Eggs cost more in Chicago than in New Orleans.
  • Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in New Orleans.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Chicago than in New Orleans.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Chicago than in New Orleans.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in New Orleans.

How life is different in Chicago vs. New Orleans

Chicago New Orleans
Population 2,746,388 383,997
Transportation score 9 7
Walkability score 77 58
Bike friendliness score 72 66
Crime index 35.19 67.31
Safety index 33.87 32.69
Air quality Good Good
  • New Orleans’s population is about 86% less than Chicago.
  • New Orleans’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
  • New Orleans is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 58 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
  • New Orleans has a bike-friendliness score of 66 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
  • New Orleans’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 67.31 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that New Orleans neighborhoods are safer than 67.31% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
  • New Orleans and Chicago have a similar safety level, with scores of 32.69 and 33.87.
  • Air quality in New Orleans is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago to New Orleans 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: If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Louisiana’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Louisiana 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 New Orleans. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company 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 New Orleans

Planning your move to The Crescent City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in New Orleans.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central Business District
  • Freret
  • Gentilly Terrace
  • Old Aurora
  • West End

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Algiers Point
  • Bayou St. John
  • East Carrollton
  • Fillmore
  • West End

Things to do in New Orleans

After settling into your new Louisiana home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, New Orleans has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: New Orleans features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The National WWII Museum, Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World, New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, and The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s New Orleans City Park, Audubon Park, New Orleans Musical Legends Park, and Louis Armstrong 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 New Orleans Saints (NFL)New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)New Orleans Jesters (NPSL)Big Easy Rollergirls (WFTDA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chicago to New Orleans?

Planning your move from Chicago to New Orleans? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Chicago.

When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to New Orleans?

Because most people are moving from Chicago to New Orleans 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 Chicago to New Orleans take?

The 926-mile journey from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, , typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Chicago offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in New Orleans.

Are there special savings available from movers in Chicago?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 2 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Chicago?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Chicago, 54 movers can manage piano relocations. 40 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Illinois has 70 piano movers and 48 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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