($1,159) Cost to Move From Houston, TX to Chicago, IL

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Cost to hire movers from Houston to Chicago

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Houston to Chicago typically costs between $1,159 and $4,601. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,610 and $6,023 when moving from Houston to Chicago. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Houston to Chicago, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,337 up to $8,394.

Cost of moving containers from Houston to Chicago

If you’re relocating from Houston to Chicago, you’ll typically spend between $807 and $2,155 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,461 up to $2,917. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,159 and $3,848. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Texas.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Houston to Chicago

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Houston 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 $664 and $1,366. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $769 to $1,500. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $900 and $1,901.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 32% higher in Chicago than in Houston, which may impact your monthly finances.
• A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 12% higher in Chicago than in Houston.
• Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Chicago and Houston, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
• Anticipate increased living expenses in Chicago, as the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 32% greater than in Houston. 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 29% more than it is in Houston.
• The unemployment rate in Chicago exceeds that of Houston by about 120%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
• Sales taxes in Chicago exceed those in Houston by 24%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
• Illinois has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

• Chicago’s population is about 19% greater than Houston.
• Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Houston’s score of 5.
• Chicago is more walkable than Houston with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Houston’s 47 out of 100.
• With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Houston, which has a score of 49 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 Houston with a score of 35.19 compared to Houston’s 63.5. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5%.
• Chicago is considered to be less safe than Houston with a score of 33.87 vs Houston’s 36.5.
• Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Houston it’s Good.

• 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.

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.