($1,186) Cost to Move From Washington DC, MD to Chicago, IL

1. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
2. Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.66 out of 5 stars
3. Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.56 out of 5 stars
5. BoxStar Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Washington DC to Chicago

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chicago from Washington DC, you can expect prices to land between $1,186 and $3,740. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,188 to $5,594 for the trip from Washington DC to Chicago. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,784 and $7,425.

Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Chicago

Moving containers from Washington DC to Chicago will cost you $736 to $1,830 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,272 to $2,437. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,737 to $3,195. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to Chicago

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

Expect to pay between $520 and $973 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $556 to $1,101. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $687 to $1,307.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.