Quick answer: A typical 1,048-mile move from Gainesville to Chicago runs $894–$6,919 and takes two to eight days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

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

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

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Gainesville to Chicago

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Gainesville 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 FL to IL movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 155 Florida 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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Gainesville to Chicago journey

Organizing a move from Gainesville to Chicago can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Gainesville known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Gainesville to Chicago.

  1. Stewart Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. MoveBright Moving and Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Baymeadows Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Hughes Relocation Services: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/StewartMSJacksonville/, https://twitter.com/stewartmstweets
97% of all reviews were positive
3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Glowing client input makes Stewart Moving & Storage stand out above typical moving companies. Analyzing 234 pieces of feedback, 96.6% were positive, indicating an exceptional track record. Most clients praised the crew’s professionalism, efficiency, and careful handling of items.
Many described quick, stress-free moves, complimenting staff for open communication and a courteous attitude. Movers routinely listened to instructions, moved fast, and treated belongings as if they were their own. Critical feedback was rare but notable: a handful of people reported significant damage to possessions, missing items, or unprofessional conduct during their move. Some negative accounts highlighted trouble resolving claims and difficulties with insurance—issues not often seen among reputable industry peers. Despite these isolated cases, Stewart Moving & Storage delivers friendly, fast-moving crews and careful service more reliably than most, making them a top recommendation according to nearly every reviewer.
Show more
Get a Quote (904) 783-0715

Company Info

State license #: 1355

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1194537

Alternate Names: Academy Moving & Storage Inc., Arpin of Jacksonville


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/MoveBright/,
98% of all reviews were positive
2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for MoveBright Moving and Storage stands out for unwavering reliability and professionalism. Analyzing 246 pieces of input, 98% highlight a seamless, efficient, and friendly moving process. Customers praise the crew's diligence, skillful handling, strong communication, and ability to keep belongings safe from damage, noting jobs are completed quickly and with care.
Teams are respectful, thorough, and keep clients updated at every stage. Compared to other movers, MoveBright regularly exceeds expectations with expert service and a stress-free approach. Some critical feedback, though rare, centers on damaged goods, insurance limitations, or isolated professionalism concerns. Negative experiences are infrequent and less severe than those seen with many competitors. Customers widely recommend MoveBright for smooth, worry-free moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (904) 474-3457

Company Info

State license #: 3252

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3379394

Alternate Names: Blunt Enterprise, Inc., Move Bright Moving & Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BaymeadowsMovers/, https://twitter.com/movingyay
81% of all reviews were positive
16% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day doesn’t need to be stressful, and Baymeadows Movers proves why. With 239 feedback entries reviewed, most customers—over 80%—describe their experience as professional and worry-free. The company earns top marks for having a courteous team, protecting customers’ belongings, working efficiently, and delivering prompt communication.
Clients regularly praise the movers’ attention to detail and friendly service, often noting efficient packing and a quick moving process. The team’s commitment to care stands out well above what’s common in the moving industry. In contrast, 16% of customer input reports frustrations, mainly focused on damaged items, late arrivals or deliveries, and unexpected charges that exceeded initial quotes. Some clients also share stories of lost belongings or communication lapses with scheduling and claims. Compared with typical movers, Baymeadows Movers’ strong record of professionalism and service consistency is clear, although room remains for improvement with better claims handling and delivery time reliability. For those prioritizing careful handling, organization, and positive attitudes in their movers, Baymeadows often delivers what others promise but don’t provide.
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Get a Quote (904) 737-3530

Company Info

State license #: 469

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 1040023

Alternate Names: Baymeadows Movers, Mandarin Moving and Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/HughesRelocationLansdale/, https://twitter.com/hughesrelo
90% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Trustworthy service and attentive staff stand out in feedback for Hughes Relocation Services. Out of 152 customer reviews analyzed, 90% praise the company for its professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, and prompt, helpful team members. Movers frequently arrive on schedule, safeguard personal property, and communicate consistently, helping customers through stressful relocations.
Many singled out employees by name, indicating memorable, attentive service. A small number of customers cited negative experiences involving damaged or lost items, reporting incidents where belongings arrived broken or failed to arrive at all, and several described delayed delivery times. Neutral feedback includes issues like wet items but compliments the staff’s professionalism. Compared to many moving firms, Hughes Relocation Services receives more consistent recommendations and fewer complaints, offering dependable, friendly support that reassures clients through important transitions.
Show more
Get a Quote (352) 237-7100

Company Info

State license #: 077949

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 110502


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Home-Mover/Two-Men-And-A-Truck-of-Gainesville-Florida-193146440710340/,
92% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves and courteous teams get customers talking. Out of 25 feedback entries, 92% praise TWO MEN AND A TRUCK for efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, straightforward pricing, and quick moves. Many describe stress-free relocations and appreciate the teams’ punctuality and transparency on costs.
Positive comments highlight responsible handling of fragile items and a smooth, friendly booking process, which stands out from competitors known for hidden fees or slow service. The few negative comments focus on unexpectedly high costs, delayed scheduling, and extra charges. People who express dissatisfaction cite billing errors and lack of upfront clarity, issues less common than in other moving companies. The strongly positive trend in customer input signals reliable, high-value moving experiences, with only rare complaints about price and timing. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK delivers quality moves that exceed expectations for most clients.
Show more
Get a Quote (352) 577-0078

Company Info

State license #: 1531

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Golden Moving Systems, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Gainesville to Chicago?

Gainesville movers charge $156 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 $1,277 - $5,507 $1,012 - $2,443 $793 - $1,664
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,891 - $6,919 $1,797 - $3,841 $894 - $1,980
4+ bedrooms $4,396 - $8,404 $2,450 - $4,862 $1,076 - $2,179
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,048 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 Florida to Illinois

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Florida to Illinois will cost between $1,277 and $5,507. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from FL to IL will range from $2,891 to $6,919, and a large move from Florida to Illinois will cost from $4,396 to $8,404.

Cost of moving containers from Florida to Illinois

If you're relocating from Florida to Illinois, you'll typically spend between $1,012 and $2,443 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,797 up to $3,841. If you're moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,450 and $4,862. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Florida.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Florida to Illinois

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $793 to $1,664. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $894 to $1,980, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Florida to Illinois costs around $1,076 to $2,179.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Gainesville to Chicagotoggle

The cost of Gainesville movers will depend on:

  • Size of your move: The more items you have, the more your move will cost. A smaller move from Gainesville to Chicago (like a one-bedroom) could be as low as $1,277, while larger moves may reach $7,418 for a four-bedroom home.
  • Seasonal demand: Moving in the summer? Expect to pay more — it's the busiest time of year for movers in Gainesville,
  • DIY vs. hiring pros: You can cut costs by renting a truck (typically $793 to $2,017), but it requires more effort than hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Gainesville to Chicago

Moving from Gainesville to Chicago comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Chicago is generally more expensive than Gainesville, 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:

Gainesville Chicago
Average rent cost $1,600 $2,045
Average home value $288,002 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $59,013 $71,566
Cost of living (single person) $1,727 $3,648
Cost of living (family of 4) $3,491 $9,266
Unemployment rate 4.4% 9.0%
Sales tax 7.0% 10.25%
State income tax 0.0% 4.95%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Chicago, since prices are typically 28% higher than in Gainesville.
  • The home prices in Chicago are 2.7% higher than in Gainesville, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Chicago, where incomes are, on average, 21.3% higher than in Gainesville. 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 111.2% higher than in Gainesville. 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 165.4% higher than in Gainesville.
  • The unemployment rate in Chicago is 104.55% higher than in Gainesville.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Chicago, since its sales taxes are 46.43% higher than what you are paying in Gainesville.
  • State income taxes in Chicago are 4.95% higher than in Gainesville.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $6,337.00 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Gainesville.

How life is different in Gainesville vs. Chicago

Chicago Gainesville
Population 2,746,388 141,085
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 6
Walkability score 77 37
Bike friendliness score 72 69
Crime Index 35.19 8.0
Safety Index 33.87 52.61
Air Quality Good Good
  • Chicago's population is about 1,847% greater than Gainesville.
  • Chicago's public transportation has a score of 9 out of 10 versus Gainesville's lower score of 6.
  • Chicago is more walkable than Gainesville with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Gainesville's 37 out of 100.
  • Both Chicago and Gainesville have the same bike-friendliness score of 69 out of 100, meaning Chicago is about as safe for cyclists as Gainesville. Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
  • Chicago's crime rate is higher than Gainesville with a score of 35.19 compared to Gainesville's 8.0. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Gainesville neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
  • Chicago is considered to be less safe than Gainesville with a score of 33.87 vs Gainesville's 52.61.
  • Air quality in Chicago is good, and in Gainesville it's good.

Other things to consider for your Gainesville 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: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Illinois, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Illinois doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • 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: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Chicago

Now that you've chosen Chi-Town as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Chicago to check out.

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

After settling into your new Illinois home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chicago has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chicago include museums and art centers like 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 — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on 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 Gainesville to Chicago?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Gainesville to Chicago You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Gainesville.

When is the cheapest time to move from Gainesville to Chicago?

Because spring and fall moves from Gainesville to Chicago are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Gainesville to Chicago take?

The 1,048-mile journey from Gainesville, FL to Chicago, IL, typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Gainesville offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chicago.

Helpful moving resources