Quick answer: For a 981-mile move from Fort Collins to Chicago, expect to spend around $869–$7,901 and two to seven days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Chicago to Fort Collins guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Fort Collins to Chicago

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Fort Collins to Chicago isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your CO to IL movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 62 Colorado movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

Local moving companies in Fort Collins

  1. Exodus Moving and Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. American Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Square Cow: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. Little Guys Movers : 4.76 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/ExodusMoving/, https://twitter.com/exodusmoving?lang=en
89% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer experiences with Exodus Moving and Storage stand out for consistently efficient service and careful handling of belongings. Reviewers often mention friendly, professional staff and fast moves, with crew members going the extra mile to protect both property and possessions. Communication remains strong and reliable for most, helping ease the stress of relocation.
Only a small portion of feedback indicates issues such as damages to items, some lost belongings, or costs higher than estimated. Compared to typical moving companies, Exodus ranks highly for work ethic, professionalism, and attention to customer needs, though customers should pay close attention to insurance options and double-check inventory to avoid potential losses or surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (970) 484-1488

Company Info

Years in Business: 26

Alternate Names: AAA Exodus Moving and Storage Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/AllMySonsFortCollins/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
85% of all reviews were positive
14% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with All My Sons Moving & Storage means fast, organized help from a polite crew ready for tough lifts. After going through 252 reviews, 85% praised skilled employees, careful handling, and responsive service that made relocation easier. Many customers mention jobs completed ahead of schedule and movers who take extra steps to keep belongings protected.
Staff friendliness, professional communication, and problem-solving stand out—particularly compared to experiences with less reliable moving companies. On the downside, some feedback highlights surprising final bills and material charges that exceeded quotes, with a few customers reporting damages or issues dealing with insurance. While most were satisfied with the speed, careful work, and attitude of the teams, it's clear that clarity in pricing and insurance handling could be better. For efficient moving and courteous professionals, many say AMS sets a higher bar—just be sure to get everything about costs in writing before your move.
Show more
Get a Quote (970) 446-5513

Company Info

State license #: 00544

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 902281

Alternate Names: All My Sons of Loveland, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057441798393,
92% of all reviews were positive
7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Stress-free moves start here: American Moving & Storage stands out with 357 reviews, and more than 92% of the customer feedback is positive. Most clients praise the efficient crews, careful handling of items, clear communication, professionalism, and quick move times. Feedback highlights that movers wrap and protect property thoroughly, respond promptly, and maintain a friendly manner—even under challenging conditions.
On the downside, some customers experienced delays in delivery, damage to furniture or homes, and slow, unhelpful responses to insurance claims or lost items. Compared to other movers, American Moving & Storage earns more consistent recommendations for reliability and diligence, though resolving issues lags behind peers. Customers regularly choose this company for its speed, respect, and care with belongings, but should be aware of potential delays and laborious claims experiences.
Show more
Get a Quote (303) 469-6683

Company Info

State license #: 00612

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 1253812

Alternate Names: AmericanMoving.com, American Moving, Man & A Van Moving, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/SquareCowMovers, https://twitter.com/squarecowmoover
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers consistently rave about Square Cow’s professionalism, efficiency, and the friendly attitude of their movers. In 231 feedback entries, 94.8% reported positive experiences. Clients often highlight careful handling of belongings, respectful staff, and prompt, organized moves.
Many say their moving day felt stress-free and noted how employees went above and beyond compared to other companies. Negative comments—4.3%—focus on damaged items, inaccurate estimates leading to higher costs, and rare instances of unprofessional behavior. A small number mention poor claim resolution or communication on complex jobs. Positive input far outweighs complaints, marking Square Cow as one of the most reliably recommended moving services in the region. Neutral feedback is limited, usually mentioning minor issues but still acknowledging polite service and furniture care.
Show more
Get a Quote (720) 575-7976

Company Info

State license #: HHG-00479

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1748594


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/LittleGuysFortCollins/,
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy, that's what customers say about Little Guys Movers. After analyzing 277 pieces of customer feedback, 96% praised fast, careful service, polite crews, prompt communication, and true professionalism. Reviewers often highlighted how efficiently teams worked and how cautiously possessions were handled—even during stressful or complex moves.
The staff’s friendly, helpful approach and clear communication built trust, and many customers reported paying less due to accurate estimates or quick work. Typical concerns in less favorable feedback revolved around damaged furniture, unprofessional behavior by management, or cost discrepancies. Compared to similar moving companies, Little Guys Movers stands out for reliable, courteous crews and careful handling, but a few clients did note the need for better quality control and accurate final billings.
Show more
Get a Quote (970) 416-9800

Company Info

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 1931566


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Fort Collins to Chicago?

Fort Collins movers charge $120 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,440 - $5,710 $1,034 - $2,544 $764 - $1,555
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,313 - $7,901 $1,801 - $3,650 $869 - $1,740
4+ bedrooms $5,454 - $9,915 $2,600 - $4,800 $1,123 - $2,095
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 981 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.

Cost to hire movers from Colorado to Illinois

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Colorado to Illinois typically costs between $1,440 and $5,710. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,313 and $7,901 when moving from CO to IL. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Colorado to Illinois, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,454 up to $9,915.

Cost of moving containers from Colorado to Illinois

Moving from Colorado to Illinois? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,034 and $2,544. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,801 to $3,650. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,600 up to $4,800. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Colorado.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Colorado to Illinois

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $764 and $1,555. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $869 to $1,740. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,123 and $2,095.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Fort Collins to Chicago movetoggle

The cost of Fort Collins movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Fort Collins to Chicago might cost just $1,440 for a one-bedroom, but up to $8,792 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Fort Collins, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $764 and $1,899, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Fort Collins to Chicago

Moving from Fort Collins to Chicago comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Chicago is generally more expensive than Fort Collins, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Fort Collins Chicago
Average rent cost $1,750 $2,045
Average home value $543,093 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $64,728 $71,566
Cost of living (single person) $2,140 $3,648
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,795 $9,266
Unemployment rate 5.6% 9.0%
Sales tax 7.55% 10.25%
State income tax 5.49% 4.95%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Chicago, since prices are typically 17% higher than in Fort Collins.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Chicago.
    Home prices in Chicago are 45.5% lower than in Fort Collins.
  • You’re likely to make a higher income living in Chicago, where incomes are, on average, 10.6% higher than in Fort Collins. Major employers in Chicago include U.S. Government, Chicago Public Schools, and City of Chicago.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Chicago, since the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 70.5% higher than in Fort Collins. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Chicago, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 93.2% higher than in Fort Collins.
  • The unemployment rate in Chicago is 60.71% higher than in Fort Collins.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Chicago, since its sales taxes are 35.76% higher than what you are paying in Fort Collins.
  • One perk of moving to Chicago is paying less in state income taxes, which are 9.84% lower than in Fort Collins.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $5,114.02 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Fort Collins.

How life is different in Fort Collins vs. Chicago

Chicago Fort Collins
Population 2,746,388 169,810
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 4
Walkability score 77 37
Bike friendliness score 72 78
Crime Index 35.19 17.0
Safety Index 33.87 72.86
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of Chicago is about 1,517% greater than Fort Collins, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Chicago offers better access to buses and trains than Fort Collins, based on public transportation ratings. Chicago has a transit score of 9 out of 10 compared to 4 in Fort Collins. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Chicago means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Fort Collins. Chicago is considered more walkable than Fort Collins, with a score of 77 out of 100 versus 37 out of 100 in Fort Collins. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Chicago, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Fort Collins. While Fort Collins has a bike-friendliness score of 78 out of 100, Chicago earned a 72. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • The crime rate in Chicago is higher than in Fort Collins, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 35.19 in Chicago, it is 17.0 in Fort Collins. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Chicago. With a crime index of 33.87, Chicago ranks lower in overall safety than Fort Collins, whose index is 72.86. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in Chicago and Fort Collins is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Fort Collins vs. Chicago move

  • 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 through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Illinois 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Chicago. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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

With your sights set on Chi-Town, these are some of the most popular 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: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Chicago, such as the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago History Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Cubs (MLB), Chicago White Sox (MLB), or Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Fort Collins to Chicago?

The best time to move from Fort Collins to Chicago is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Fort Collins.

When is the cheapest time to move from Fort Collins to Chicago?

With many people choosing to move from Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins to Chicago take?

The 981-mile move from Fort Collins, CO, to Chicago, IL, takes two to seven days. Some Fort Collins movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Chicago.

Helpful moving resources