Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to San Antonio typically costs $2,900–$6,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,198 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to San Antonio
Moving from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX typically costs $2,900–$6,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,198-mile move from Chicago to San Antonio, 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 $2,459 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a moving container.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,719 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $4,704 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 15, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 08, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 26, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 22, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 21, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 30, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 20, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 15, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 14, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to San Antonio
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 San Antonio might be as low as $2,400, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,800.
- 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 $800 to $2,400 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to San Antonio movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to San Antonio
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chicago to San Antonio, 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→TX 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 San Antonio
Many movers find San Antonio easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 40% less for singles and 47% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,194 for one person in San Antonio versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $4,931 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | San Antonio | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,471 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,533 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $249,398 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $62,451 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,194 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $4,931 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 3.8% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 0.0% |
- Good news! When moving to San Antonio from Chicago, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 27% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 16% cheaper in San Antonio, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 13% lower in San Antonio than in Chicago.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in San Antonio. The cost of living for a single person is 40% less compared to Chicago.
- Relocating to San Antonio could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 47% lower than in Chicago.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 58% lower than Chicago, San Antonio boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 20% lower in San Antonio than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Texas 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 San Antonio, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Chicago | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $208.99 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $58.64 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $3.65 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $3.01 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $19.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $70.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $42.93 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in San Antonio, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in San Antonio.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in San Antonio.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in San Antonio.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in San Antonio.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in San Antonio.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in San Antonio.
How life is different in Chicago vs. San Antonio
| Chicago | San Antonio | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 1,434,625 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 45 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 48.06 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 51.94 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- San Antonio's population is about 48% less than Chicago.
- San Antonio's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- San Antonio is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- San Antonio has a bike-friendliness score of 45 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- San Antonio's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 48.06 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that San Antonio neighborhoods are safer than 48.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- San Antonio is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 51.94 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in San Antonio is Moderate, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to San Antonio 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: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Texas moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Texas, 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 San Antonio 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. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in San Antonio
Ready to relocate to Alamo City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in San Antonio.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Alamo Heights
- Downtown
- Tobin Hill
- Monte Vista
Best neighborhoods for families
- Alamo Heights
- Great Northwest
- Northwest Crossing
- Oak Park-Northwood
- Terrell Hills
Things to do in San Antonio
Now that you've made the move to Texas, it's the perfect time to explore San Antonio. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in San Antonio include museums and art centers like the The Alamo, Witte Museum, The DoSeum - San Antonio's Museum for Kids, and Briscoe Western Art Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Brackenridge Park, Phil Hardberger park, Japanese Tea Garden, and Mercado O'liva, 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 UTSA Roadrunners American footballSan Antonio Spurs BasketballSan Antonio MissionsSan Antonio FC game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to San Antonio?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to San Antonio. 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 San Antonio?
With many people choosing to move from Chicago to San Antonio 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 San Antonio take?
Covering 1,198 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX typically takes two to eight days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in San Antonio 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 San Antonio?
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.
