Chicago, IL to McAllen, TX Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to McAllen typically costs $3,100–$7,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,432 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to McAllen
Moving from Chicago, IL to McAllen, TX typically costs $3,100–$7,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,432-mile move from Chicago to McAllen, 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 $2,820 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $4,188 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $3,150 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 03, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 21, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 17, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 22, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 08, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 04, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to McAllen move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,400 for a one-bedroom, or up to $10,000 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Chicago.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,000 to $2,700, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from McAllen, TX to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to McAllen movers by type
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Local
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to McAllen
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Chicago to McAllen 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 IL→TX movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 100 Illinois 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 Chicago to McAllen
Many movers find McAllen easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 60% less for singles and 62% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,457 for one person in McAllen versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $3,557 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | McAllen | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $813 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $1,360 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $221,244 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $57,439 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $1,457 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $3,557 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 7.9% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 0.0% |
- When relocating from Chicago to McAllen, expect to find rent about 34% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 25% more affordable in McAllen compared to Chicago.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 20% lower in McAllen compared to Chicago.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in McAllen, as the cost of living for a single person is 60% lower compared to Chicago.
- A move to McAllen 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 62% less than what it costs in Chicago.
- The unemployment rate in McAllen is about 12% lower than in Chicago. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 20% less in McAllen relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- 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.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Chicago and McAllen:
| Living Expense | Chicago | McAllen |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $169.85 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $39.43 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $3.23 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $2.95 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $12.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $62.50 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $45.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chicago than in McAllen.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in McAllen.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in McAllen.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in McAllen.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in McAllen.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in McAllen.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in McAllen.
How life is different in Chicago vs. McAllen
| Chicago | McAllen | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 142,210 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 41 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 46 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 36.26 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 63.74 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- McAllen's population is about 95% less than Chicago.
- McAllen's public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- McAllen is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 41 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- McAllen has a bike-friendliness score of 46 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- McAllen and Chicago have a similar crime rate with scores of 36.26 and 35.19, respectively.
- McAllen is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 63.74 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in McAllen is Moderate, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to McAllen 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-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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Texas’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Texas 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 McAllen. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in McAllen
Planning your move to The City of Palms? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in McAllen.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown McAllen
- South McAllen
- La Vista
- Dove Landing
- The Village of Westlakes
Best neighborhoods for families
- North McAllen
- Sharyland Plantation
- Tres Lagos
- Royal Oak Estates
- Tuscan Estates
Things to do in McAllen
After settling into your new Texas home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, McAllen has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: McAllen features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), The McAllen Heritage Center, and Nuevo Santadar Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's McAllen Nature Center, Town Lake at Firemen's Park, and McAllen's New Park & Spray Ground — 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 game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to McAllen?
Planning your move from Chicago to McAllen? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to McAllen?
Because most people are moving from Chicago to McAllen 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 Chicago to McAllen take?
The 1,432-mile journey from Chicago, IL to McAllen, TX, typically takes three to eight days. Some movers in Chicago offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in McAllen.
Are there special savings available from movers in Chicago?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 2 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 Chicago?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Chicago, 54 movers can manage piano relocations. 40 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Illinois has 70 piano movers and 48 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.
