Local moving companies in Arkansas
When you are heading from Arkansas to Chicago, IL, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free.
Out of 19 Arkansas movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Chicago, IL.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Elite Movers Inc: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Admiral Movers Little Rock: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Phoenix Moving LLC: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: TMT Arkansas
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: College Hunks Moving , Central Arkansas Moving Guide
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1345746
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 93
Alternate Names: Admiral Mayflower
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Pricing: $125/hr
Years in Business: 4
DOT #: 4094186
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Arkansas to Chicago, IL
See the table below for average move cost ranges from Arkansas to Chicago, IL, organized by service type and the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,141 – $3,402 | $686 – $1,575 | $443 – $877 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,148 – $5,559 | $1,251 – $2,338 | $497 – $1,011 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,892 – $7,915 | $1,719 – $2,960 | $591 – $1,161 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 602-mile move from Arkansas to Chicago, IL using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha refreshes thousands of verified pricing entries from moving companies around the country to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Final costs may shift with the scale of your move, selected add-ons, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re seeing accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Arkansas to Chicago, IL
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Arkansas to Chicago, IL, will cost between $1,141 and $3,402. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $2,148 to $5,559, and a large move will cost from $3,892 to $7,915.
Cost of moving containers from Arkansas to Chicago, IL
If you’re moving from Arkansas to Chicago, IL, expect to pay between $686 and $1,575 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,251 up to $2,338. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,719 and $2,960. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Arkansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arkansas to Chicago, IL
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Arkansas to Chicago, IL, with a rental truck, expect to spend between $443 and $877. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $497 and $1,011. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $591 up to $1,161 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Arkansas to Chicago, IL
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Elite Movers Inc | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Admiral Movers Little Rock | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Phoenix Moving LLC | ✓ | × | × | × |
From our review of 3,180 movers, see how Arkansas movers match up to the nationwide percentage of movers offering these services and discounts:
| Arkansas | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 91% | 96% |
| Antiques | 33% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 4% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 4% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Arkansas to Chicago, IL
Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in Chicago, IL to what you’re used to in Arkansas. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.
Cost of living: Arkansas vs. Chicago, IL
| Arkansas | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $868 | $2,045 |
| Average home cost | $208,078 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $56,335 | $71,566 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90 | 106 |
| Unemployment rate | 2.3% | 9.0% |
| State Income Tax | 2.0% | 4.95% |
Chicago sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Chicago is about 136% higher than in Arkansas, so make sure to budget extra for your monthly rent.
- In Chicago, expect home prices to be about 42% higher than in Arkansas. Get ready for a bigger down payment, increased property taxes, and higher overall homeownership expenses.
- Salaries in Chicago are typically 27% higher than in Arkansas. That extra income can make it easier to manage your living costs or boost your savings.
- Unemployment in Chicago is about 291% higher than in Arkansas, so the job market may be more competitive. Be strategic in your job hunt and consider networking early.
- Income taxes in Illinois come in about 148% higher than in Arkansas, which can reduce how much of your earnings you actually keep.
How life is different in Chicago from Arkansas
| Chicago | Arkansas | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 3,067,732 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 28ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 50″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 4″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 30.97 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Chicago voted Democrat, while Arkansas voted Republican.
- Summer highs in Chicago average around 84ºF, while Arkansas often sees temperatures soar to 91ºF. Relocating to a cooler area means escaping the intense heat, cutting down on energy costs, and enjoying more time outside.
- Winter in Chicago packs a colder punch, often dipping to lows of 19ºF, which is quite a bit chillier than the 28ºF winters you’re used to in Arkansas. Be prepared for those frosty months with potentially higher heating costs and a few changes to your daily routine. On the bright side, Chicago offers crisp air, stunning winter scenery, and plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy.
- In Chicago, you’ll enjoy just 38 inches of rain each year, significantly less than the 50 inches you’re used to back in Arkansas. With more sunny days ahead, you’ll have plenty of chances to get out, discover your new neighborhood, and make yourself at home. A sunnier climate is a great way to kick off your new adventure.
- Each year, Chicago sees about 35 inches of snowfall, while Arkansas averages just 4 inches. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
- Crime rates in Chicago are higher than in Arkansas, with a crime index of 35.19 compared to 30.97. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good idea to look into local crime data and consider how it could impact your everyday life.
Things to do in Chicago
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Chicago truly offers something for everyone.
Museums in Chicago
- The Field Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago History Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art
Parks in Chicago
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- The 606
- Lincoln Park
- Garfield Park
Sports teams in Chicago
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
Universities in Chicago
- Chicago State University
- Governors State University
- Northeastern Illinois University
- Northern Illinois University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
Other considerations when moving to Chicago, IL
- HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
- Parking permits: In some cities, you’ll need a parking permit for your moving truck, so be sure to look up your new area’s rules before moving day.
- State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Be sure to confirm your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: Verify your Illinois moving license on the state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to Illinois right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind matters. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
FAQ
How long does a move from Arkansas to Chicago take?
How long it takes to move from Arkansas to Chicago, IL depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
Planning a move from northern Arkansas to Chicago? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.
With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Chicago from Arkansas can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Arkansas to Chicago?
With a 602-mile move from Arkansas to Chicago, it’s smart to lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. For the best availability and pricing, try to book your move two to three months in advance.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Chicago, IL?
Summer highs in Chicago can hit 84°F, while winter lows drop to 19°F. That’s why most people moving from Arkansas to Chicago choose the milder spring or fall months. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and maybe save some money, try planning your move for the summer or winter instead, even if it means braving a little extra heat or cold. Check out more tips on peak moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
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