Arlington, VA to Chicago, IL Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Arlington to Chicago typically costs $2,400–$5,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 701 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Arlington to Chicago
Moving from Arlington, VA to Chicago, IL typically costs $2,400–$5,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 701-mile move from Arlington to Chicago, 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
- PODS recently quoted $2,632 for a 3 bedroom using a moving container.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $2,005 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $4,750 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
3 Bedrooms
Feb 13, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 26, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 21, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 20, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 17, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 05, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 09, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 29, 2025
Studio apartment
Nov 28, 2025
Factors that affect moving costs from Arlington to Chicago
Your total cost will depend on:
- How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Arlington to Chicago may only cost $1,700, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $8,600.
- The season you're moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Arlington.
- Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($600–$1,500), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Arlington, VA guide.
Best Arlington to Chicago movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Arlington to Chicago
Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Arlington to Chicago. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.
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 VA→IL movers
moveBuddha's dedicated analysts have scrutinized moving rates across 103 Virginia moving firms, selecting the top providers by assessing customer approval, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The team ensures timely service delivery, engages in effective communication, and adheres to the projected costs.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Moving isn’t perfect, and mistakes will happen. We highlight movers that handle those situations honestly and put effort into resolving them fairly.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): This mover keeps its website up to date and provides timely, professional replies to questions or concerns raised online.
- Service options (10%): Companies stand out when they provide comprehensive options such as full-service packing, safe storage, handling of specialty items, and expedited shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Arlington to Chicago
Many movers find Chicago easier on the wallet than Arlington - roughly 47% less for singles and 23% less for families.
Monthly basics average $3,648 for one person in Chicago versus $6,867 in Arlington. For a family of four, it's $9,266 compared with $11,970.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Arlington | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,475 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,350 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $810,670 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $128,145 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $6,867 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,970 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 4.95% |
- Rent is about 25% less expensive in Chicago than in Arlington, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 64% cheaper in Chicago than in Arlington.
- You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 44% less in Chicago than in Arlington.
- Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Chicago. The cost of living for a single person there is 47% below that of Arlington.
- A move to Chicago can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 23% lower compared to Arlington.
- Chicago has a higher unemployment rate than Arlington by about 125%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
- Sales taxes in Chicago surpass those in Arlington by 71%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
- Income taxes are 14% less in Illinois compared to Virginia, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.
Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Arlington versus Chicago:
| Living Expense | Arlington | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $208.70 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $59.67 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.26 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.18 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $24.50 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $90.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $77.25 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Arlington than in Chicago.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Arlington than in Chicago.
- Eggs are less expensive in Arlington than in Chicago.
- Bread is more expensive in Arlington than in Chicago.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Arlington than in Chicago.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Arlington than in Chicago.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Arlington than in Chicago.
How life is different in Arlington vs. Chicago
| Arlington | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 238,643 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 71 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 72 |
| Crime index | 15.67 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 79.15 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago's population is about 1051% greater than Arlington.
- Chicago's public transportation score is within about 5% of Arlington, making them very similar.
- Chicago is more walkable than Arlington with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Arlington's 71 out of 100.
- Both Chicago and Arlington have similar bike-friendliness scores (72 vs 72), meaning Chicago is about as safe for cyclists as Arlington. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Chicago's crime rate is higher than Arlington with a score of 35.19 compared to Arlington's 15.67. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67%.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Arlington with a score of 33.87 vs Arlington's 79.15.
- Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Arlington it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Arlington to Chicago move
- HOA rules: Plan time to look into your HOA or community rules and regulations before moving day arrives, to avoid any delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Illinois, visit the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Illinois, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
- Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Chicago. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Chicago
With your sights set on Chi-Town, these are some of the most popular 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
With your move to Illinois complete, you can dive right into experiencing Chicago. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you'll never run out of things to do:
- Arts and culture: Chicago is home to museums and cultural arts centers like 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 — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back 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 Arlington to Chicago?
If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Arlington to Chicago. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Arlington.
When is the cheapest time to move from Arlington to Chicago?
Want to save on your move from Arlington to Chicago? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.
How long does a move from Arlington to Chicago take?
The 701-mile move from Arlington, VA, to Chicago, IL, takes one to six days. Some Arlington movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Chicago.
What kinds of discounts do Arlington movers offer?
Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 7 movers offer special pricing for military members. 14 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.
Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.
Need help moving a piano or antiques in Arlington?
These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 57 movers in Arlington provide piano moving services. 44 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 79 piano movers and 49 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,296 and 1,463.
Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.
