($975) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH

1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Columbus

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbus from Chicago, you can expect prices to land between $975 and $2,973. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,566 to $4,482 for the trip from Chicago to Columbus. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,589 and $5,999.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Columbus

Moving containers from Chicago to Columbus will cost you $635 to $1,490 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,061 to $2,196. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,493 to $2,578. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Columbus

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

Expect to pay between $336 and $590 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $351 to $743. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $457 to $872.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.