Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Columbus typically costs $1,800–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 355 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Columbus
Moving from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH typically costs $1,800–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 355-mile move from Chicago to Columbus, 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
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $2,300 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $2,047 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $1,251 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 14, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 21, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 16, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 14, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 16, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 12, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 10, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 01, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Nov 27, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to Columbus move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,100 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,200 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 $400 to $1,000, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Columbus movers by type
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Columbus
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Chicago to Columbus 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→OH 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 Columbus
Many movers find Columbus easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 24% less for singles and 22% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,784 for one person in Columbus versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $7,249 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,567 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,957 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $238,832 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $65,075 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,784 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $7,249 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 5.7% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 3.5% |
- When relocating from Chicago to Columbus, expect to find rent about 30% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 19% more affordable in Columbus compared to Chicago.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 9% lower in Columbus compared to Chicago.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Columbus, as the cost of living for a single person is 24% lower compared to Chicago.
- A move to Columbus 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 22% less than what it costs in Chicago.
- The unemployment rate in Columbus is about 37% 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 27% less in Columbus relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Ohio are 29% below those in Illinois. 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 Chicago and Columbus:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $263.89 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $60.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $3.21 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $2.98 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $46.25 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Columbus, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in Columbus.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Columbus.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Columbus.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Columbus.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Columbus.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Columbus.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Columbus
| Chicago | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 905,748 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 41 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 48 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 49.65 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 50.35 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Columbus's population is about 67% less than Chicago.
- Columbus's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Columbus is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 41 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- Columbus has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Columbus's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 49.65 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Columbus is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 50.35 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Columbus is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Columbus 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: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Ohio’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Ohio 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 Columbus. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company 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 Columbus
Planning your move to The Arch City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Columbus.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Short North
- Victorian Village
- Clintonville
- Grandview Heights
- Ashville
- Dublin
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bexley
- Clintonville
- Gahanna
- Hilliard
- Upper Arlington
Things to do in Columbus
After settling into your new Ohio home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbus has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Columbus features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Beeler Gallery, Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, Central Ohio Fire Museum, and Columbus Historical Society.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Scioto Mile, Topiary Garden, and Schiller 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 Columbus Crew (MLS)Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA)Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)Columbus Clippers (AAAE) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Columbus?
Planning your move from Chicago to Columbus? 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 Columbus?
Because most people are moving from Chicago to Columbus 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 Columbus take?
The 355-mile journey from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH, typically takes one to four 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 Columbus.
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.
