Irvine, CA to Chicago, IL Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Irvine to Chicago typically costs $4,000–$8,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,011 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Irvine to Chicago
Moving from Irvine, CA to Chicago, IL typically costs $4,000–$8,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,011-mile move from Irvine to Chicago, 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
- PODS recently quoted $3,166 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a moving container.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $5,738 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $4,362 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 22, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 16, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 12, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 07, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 04, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 04, 2025
Studio apartment
Nov 29, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 28, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Irvine to Chicago
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Irvine to Chicago might be as low as $2,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $12,100.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Irvine.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,300 to $3,600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Irvine, CA guide.
Best Irvine to Chicago movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Irvine to Chicago
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Irvine to Chicago, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 CA→IL movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 372 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Irvine to Chicago
Many movers find Chicago easier on the wallet than Irvine - roughly 60% less for singles and 49% less for families.
Monthly basics average $3,648 for one person in Chicago versus $9,167 in Irvine. For a family of four, it's $9,266 compared with $18,000.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Irvine | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,719 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,575 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $1,561,760 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $114,027 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $9,167 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $18,000 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 7.75% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.95% |
- Good news! When moving to Chicago from Irvine, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 49% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 81% cheaper in Chicago, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 37% lower in Chicago than in Irvine.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Chicago. The cost of living for a single person is 60% less compared to Irvine.
- Relocating to Chicago could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 49% lower than in Irvine.
- The unemployment rate in Chicago exceeds that of Irvine by about 67%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Chicago exceed those in Irvine by 32%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 63% lower in Illinois than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Irvine and Chicago, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Irvine | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $200.96 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.33 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.50 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.59 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $54.17 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Irvine than in Chicago.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Irvine than in Chicago.
- Eggs are less expensive in Irvine than in Chicago.
- Bread is more expensive in Irvine than in Chicago.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Irvine than in Chicago.
How life is different in Irvine vs. Chicago
| Irvine | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 307,670 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 43 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 69 | 72 |
| Crime index | 31.01 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 68.99 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago's population is about 793% greater than Irvine.
- Chicago's public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Irvine's score of 4.
- Chicago is more walkable than Irvine with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Irvine's 43 out of 100.
- Both Chicago and Irvine have similar bike-friendliness scores (69 vs 72), meaning Chicago is about as safe for cyclists as Irvine. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Chicago's crime rate is higher than Irvine with a score of 35.19 compared to Irvine's 31.01. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Irvine neighborhoods are safer than 31.01%.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Irvine with a score of 33.87 vs Irvine's 68.99.
- Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Irvine it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Irvine to Chicago move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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 check the status of a Illinois moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Illinois, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Chicago without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Chicago
Ready to relocate to Chi-Town? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Chicago.
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
Things to do in Chicago
Now that you've made the move to Illinois, it's the perfect time to explore Chicago. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chicago include museums and art centers like the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Irvine to Chicago?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Irvine to Chicago. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Irvine.
When is the cheapest time to move from Irvine to Chicago?
With many people choosing to move from Irvine to Chicago in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Irvine to Chicago take?
Covering 2,011 miles, the move from Irvine, CA to Chicago, IL typically takes six to 17 days. Some Irvine movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chicago can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Irvine offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 3 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Irvine can handle specialty items for my move to Chicago?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Irvine, 67 movers can handle pianos. 56 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
