Washington DC, MD to Chicago, IL Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Washington DC to Chicago typically costs $2,400–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 699 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Washington DC to Chicago
Moving from Washington DC, MD to Chicago, IL typically costs $2,400–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 699-mile move from Washington DC 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
- American Van Lines recently quoted $3,254 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,333 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $2,350 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 09, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 06, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 03, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 27, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 26, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 11, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 03, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 25, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Washington DC to Chicago move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,700 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,300 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Washington DC.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $600 to $1,600, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Washington DC, MD guide.
Best Washington DC to Chicago movers by type
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Local
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Container
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Washington DC to Chicago
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Washington DC to Chicago 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.
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 MD→IL movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 51 Maryland movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Chicago
Many movers find Chicago easier on the wallet than Washington DC - roughly 8% less for singles and 16% less for families.
Monthly basics average $3,648 for one person in Chicago versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it's $9,266 compared with $11,093.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Washington DC | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 4.95% |
- When relocating from Washington DC to Chicago, expect to find rent about 15% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 50% more affordable in Chicago compared to Washington DC.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 30% lower in Chicago compared to Washington DC.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Chicago, as the cost of living for a single person is 8% lower compared to Washington DC.
- A move to Chicago 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 16% less than what it costs in Washington DC.
- Chicago shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Washington DC by around 29%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Chicago are 71% more than in Washington DC, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Illinois are 14% below those in Maryland. 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 Washington DC and Chicago:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Washington DC than in Chicago.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Chicago.
- Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Chicago.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Chicago.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Chicago.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Chicago.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Chicago
| Washington DC | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 72 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago's population is about 309% greater than Washington DC.
- Chicago's public transportation score is within about 5% of Washington DC, making them very similar.
- Chicago and Washington DC are similarly walkable.
- Both Chicago and Washington DC have similar bike-friendliness scores (70 vs 72), meaning Chicago is about as safe for cyclists as Washington DC. 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 lower than Washington DC with a score of 35.19 compared to Washington DC's 60.37. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Washington DC with a score of 33.87 vs Washington DC's 39.63.
- Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Washington DC it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Chicago 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Illinois’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Illinois 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 Chicago. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Chicago
Planning your move to Chi-Town? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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
After settling into your new Illinois home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chicago has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Chicago features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — 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 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 Washington DC to Chicago?
Planning your move from Washington DC to Chicago? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Chicago?
Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Chicago 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 Washington DC to Chicago take?
The 699-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Chicago, IL, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Washington DC offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chicago.
Are there special savings available from movers in Washington DC?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 7 have discounts for military personnel. 14 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 Washington DC?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Washington DC, 59 movers can manage piano relocations. 44 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Maryland has 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
