Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Seattle typically costs $3,800–$8,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,069 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Seattle
Moving from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA typically costs $3,800–$8,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,069-mile move from Chicago to Seattle, 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
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $8,152 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- AB Moving recently quoted $6,949 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $4,204 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 12, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 03, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 27, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 24, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 12, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 04, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 30, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 24, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 02, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to Seattle
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Chicago to Seattle might be as low as $2,500, while a four-bedroom could reach $12,400.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Chicago.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,400 to $3,900 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Seattle movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Seattle
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chicago to Seattle, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 IL→WA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Chicago to Seattle
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Seattle runs about 3% higher for singles and 6% higher for families than Chicago.
Singles spend around $3,740 in Seattle versus $3,648 in Chicago; families pay $9,801 compared with $9,266.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Chicago | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $2,306 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $4,655 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $842,068 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $77,845 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $3,740 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $9,801 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 4.8% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 10.35% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 0.0% |
- Switching from Chicago to Seattle won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 185% higher in Seattle than in Chicago.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 9% higher in Seattle than in Chicago, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Seattle and Chicago, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
- As you plan your move to Seattle, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 6% more than it is in Chicago.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 47% lower than Chicago, Seattle boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are effectively the same in Seattle and Chicago (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
- Washington has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Chicago and Seattle, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $250.22 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $60.15 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $6.07 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.84 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $78.35 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Seattle, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in Seattle.
- Eggs are less expensive in Chicago than in Seattle.
- Bread costs less in Chicago than in Seattle.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Chicago than in Seattle.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Seattle
| Chicago | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 737,015 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 74 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 71 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 58.88 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 49.23 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Seattle's population is about 73% less than Chicago.
- Seattle's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Seattle and Chicago are similarly walkable.
- Both Seattle and Chicago have similar bike-friendliness scores (72 vs 71), meaning Seattle is about as safe for cyclists as Chicago. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Seattle's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 58.88 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Seattle is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 49.23 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Seattle is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Seattle move
- 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: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Washington moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Washington, 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 Seattle 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. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers' insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Seattle
Ready to relocate to Emerald City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Seattle.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Ballard
- Capitol Hill
- Fremont
- Lower Queen Anne
- South Lake Union
Best neighborhoods for families
- Greenwood
- Laurelhurst
- Magnolia
- Upper Queen Anne
- West Seattle
Things to do in Seattle
Now that you've made the move to Washington, it's the perfect time to explore Seattle. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Seattle include museums and art centers like the Museum of Popular Culture (MoPOP), Olympic Sculpture Park, National Nordic Museum, and Chihuly Garden and Glass.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Discovery Park, Olympic Sculpture Park, Green Lake Park, and Carkeek 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 Seattle Seahawks (NFL)Seattle Mariners (MLB)Seattle Kraken (NHL)Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)Seattle Seawolves (MLR)Seattle Dragons (XFL)Seattle Storm (WNBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Seattle?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to Seattle. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Seattle?
With many people choosing to move from Chicago to Seattle in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Chicago to Seattle take?
Covering 2,069 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA typically takes six to 17 days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Seattle can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Chicago offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Chicago can handle specialty items for my move to Seattle?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Chicago, 54 movers can handle pianos. 40 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IL, there are 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
