Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Chicago, IL: Movers and Cost
Quick Answer: The cost to move from Phoenix, AZ to Chicago, IL averages from $1,161 to $7,183 depending on how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself. Hiring movers will be on the more expensive side. Renting a truck or renting a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.
In this article, we’ll lay out everything you need to know for your upcoming move to Chicago, IL. But first, here are a few resources if you need immediate answers:
Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Moving from Chicago to Phoenix guide.
- Best Phoenix to Chicago movers: We’ve handpicked the best moving companies from Phoenix to Chicago.
- How much will your move cost?: Use our moving calculator to get a more accurate estimate on moving costs.
- Consider moving containers: Need a more budget-friendly option? With these companies, you load and they drive! These are the best moving container companies.
- Phoenix to Chicago car shippers: Moving your car? Here's a list of our top car shipping companies.
Moving 1,752 miles is no joke. Here's what you need to know.
How much does it cost to move from Phoenix to Chicago?
Here are average prices to hire a moving company, rent a moving container, or rent a moving truck:
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,278 - $4,981 | $1,119 - $2,761 | $1,073 - $2,063 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $3,237 - $7,183 | $1,995 - $4,078 | $1,161 - $2,455 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,913 - $10,434 | $2,724 - $5,476 | $1,464 - $3,004 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,752 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.
The cost to move from Phoenix to Chicago will depend on:
- Move size: 5 bedroom homes are more expensive to move than 1 bedroom apartments.
- Time of year: Summer is busy season so moving companies charge more.
- Do-it-yourself vs Professional Mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress.
How Much do Movers Cost?
Get instant ballpark pricing. No email or phone required. It's fast, free, and easy.
Who Are The Best Phoenix to Chicago Movers?
Hiring a moving company is a big deal.
We’ve researched over 500 interstate moving companies, cross-referencing verified customer reviews, license data, insurance data, and federal complaint records to find you the best long distance moving companies in the industry.
If you’re moving a 1 bedroom apartment worth of stuff or more, these are the best full service moving companies.
| Company | Quote | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Safeway Moving
Best Overall Value
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Get A Quote
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American Van Lines
Best industry reputation
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Get A Quote
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International Van Lines
Best customer service
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Get A Quote
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If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Phoenix to Chicago?
To ship furniture from Phoenix to Chicago with a mover will cost between $1,278 to $4,981. The cost to move a 2 to 3 bedroom home will range from $3,237 to $7,183, and a 4-bedroom move or bigger move from Phoenix to Chicago will cost from $5,913 to $10,434.
How much are moving container companies from Phoenix to Chicago?
Moving containers from Phoenix to Chicago will cost you $1,119 to $2,761 for a studio or one-bedroom home. For a 2 to 3 bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,995 to $4,078. A larger home will cost $2,724 to $5,476.
How much is a moving truck from Phoenix to Chicago?
Renting a moving truck is usually the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor; these estimates include the estimated fuel cost:
Moving a studio or 1-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,073 to $2,063. A larger move will cost $1,161 to $2,455, and a 4+ bedroom move from Phoenix to Chicago costs from $1,464 to $3,004.
How to ship a car from Phoenix to Chicago?
If you're moving from Phoenix to Chicago and need to transport your car, finding a reliable car shipping company is crucial. Look for top-rated Phoenix to Chicago car shippers and compare quotes and services to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Keep in mind that the type of transport you choose and the size of your vehicle will affect the cost.
Is moving from Phoenix, AZ to Chicago, IL a good idea?
Cost of Living: Phoenix vs Chicago
| Phoenix | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,300 | $1,595 |
| Average home value | $396,063 | $306,098 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,455 | $65,601 |
| Cost of Living (single person) | $928 | $1,001 |
| Cost of Living (family of 4) | $3,262 | $3,584 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.6% | 9.0% |
| Sales Tax | 8.6% | 10.25% |
| State Income Tax | 4.5% | 4.95% |
- Rent Prices in Chicago, IL are 23% higher than in Phoenix, AZ.
- Home Prices in Chicago, IL are 22.7% lower than in Phoenix, AZ.
- Income in Chicago, IL is 10.3% higher than in Phoenix, AZ.
- Cost of Living for a single person in Chicago, IL is 7.9% higher than in Phoenix, AZ.
- Cost of Living for a family in Chicago, IL is 9.9% higher than in Phoenix, AZ.
- Unemployment rate in Chicago, IL is 36.36% higher than in Phoenix, AZ.
- Sales Taxes in Chicago, IL are 19.19% higher than in Phoenix, AZ.
- State Income Taxes in Chicago, IL are 10.00% higher than in Phoenix, AZ.
To put this into perspective, you would need around $2,764.0 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Phoenix.
How is life different in Phoenix, AZ to Chicago, IL?
| Chicago | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 1,608,139 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 9 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 41 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 56 |
| Crime Index | 35.19 | 40.25 |
| Safety Index | 33.87 | 48.11 |
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
- Chicago’s population is about 71% greater than Phoenix.
- Chicago’s public transportation is not as good as Phoenix with a score of 9 vs 6.
- Chicago is more walkable than Phoenix with a score of 77 vs 41.
- Chicago is more bike-friendly than Phoenix with a score of 72 vs 56.
- Chicago's crime rate is lower than Phoenix with a score of 35.19 compared to 40.25.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Phoenix with a score of 33.87 vs 48.11.
- Air Quality in Chicago is Good, and in Phoenix it’s Moderate.
Considerations for moving to Chicago, IL
- Weather: Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime..
- 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 you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck Parking Permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State Regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving Permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of Address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forward to Chicago. Get started here.
- Moving Company Insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you're hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving Checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Local Phoenix Movers
| Company | Quote | Rating | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellhop | Get A Quote |
1415 North 7th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85007 (480) 470-7839 |
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| Just-In Time Moving & Storage | Get A Quote |
4627 E Ivy St, Mesa, AZ, 85205 (480) 213-0395 |
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| Camelback Moving | Get A Quote |
2330 North 31st Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85009 (602) 564-6683 |
Visit our Best Movers in Phoenix page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.
Where to live in Chicago, IL
Now that you've decided to make the move to "Chi-Town", these are the best neighborhoods in Chicago to move to.
Best neighborhoods for singles:
- Lake View
- Lincoln Park
- The Loop
- Near North Side
- West Town
Best neighborhoods for families:
- Beverly
- Edison Park
- Lincoln Park
- North Center
- West Loop
What to do in Chicago
Moving to The “Chi-Town”? These are some of the best things to do in your new Illinois home.
- Millennium Park, Crown Fountain, and The Cloud Gate
- Navy Pier
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Buckingham Fountain
- Chicago Riverwalk and Lakefront Trail
- 360 Chicago and the John Hancock Center
- Museum of Science and Industry
- Lincoln Park Zoo
- Field Museum
- The Magnificent Mile
- Willis Tower SkyDeck
- Garfield Park Conservatory
- Chicago Cultural Center
- Wrigley Field
- Chicago Pizza Tours
- Oz Park
- Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise
- Maggie Daley Park
- Woolly Mammoth Antiques and Oddities
- Shedd Aquarium
- Museum of Contemporary Art
- Green Mill Jazz Club
- The Richard H. Driehaus Museum
- The Chicago Theatre
- The Second City
Get your sports on!
Chicago is a great sports town, these are the local teams to support:- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Fire (MLS)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
Related articles to your move
Movers and cost
- Los Angeles to Chicago
- New York City to Chicago
- Houston to Chicago
- Philadelphia to Chicago
- San Antonio to Chicago
- San Diego to Chicago
- Dallas to Chicago
- San Jose to Chicago
- Austin to Chicago
- Jacksonville to Chicago
Learn more about Chicago
- What Is The Cost To Move In Chicago?
- What Is The Cost To Move To Illinois?
- Who’s Moving Into and Out of Chicago?
- Chicago Nightlife: Living it Up in the Windy City
- Chicago, IL: Surrounding Suburbs Guide
- What’s the cost of living in Chicago, IL?
- Chicago, IL: Surrounding Neighborhood Guide
- Best Moving Companies in Chicago, IL
- Best Moving Companies in Illinois