Top local movers for Jacksonville to Chicago moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Jacksonville that also provides long-distance services to Chicago can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 28 local movers in Jacksonville who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Jacksonville to Chicago.
- Baymeadows Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Royal Moving and Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Stewart Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Helping Hands Express Moving & Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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
Company Info
State license #: 426
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 1472849
Alternate Names: A & R Moving, Inc. , Apple Moving& Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
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
Company Info
State license #: 3243
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3392506
Alternate Names: Helping Hands Express Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Jacksonville to Chicago?
Movers in Florida generally charge an average of $172 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,093 – $4,185 | $858 – $2,155 | $645 – $1,315 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,305 – $5,499 | $1,522 – $2,977 | $704 – $1,472 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,740 – $6,842 | $1,975 – $3,845 | $875 – $1,866 |
Cost to hire movers from Jacksonville to Chicago
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Jacksonville to Chicago typically costs between $1,093 and $4,185. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,305 and $5,499 when moving from Jacksonville to Chicago. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Jacksonville to Chicago, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,740 up to $6,842.
Cost of moving containers from Jacksonville to Chicago
If you’re relocating from Jacksonville to Chicago, you’ll typically spend between $858 and $2,155 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,522 up to $2,977. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,975 and $3,845. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Florida.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Jacksonville to Chicago
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Jacksonville to Chicago move, 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 $645 and $1,315. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $704 to $1,472. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $875 and $1,866.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Jacksonville to Chicago
The cost of Jacksonville movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Jacksonville to Chicago might be as low as $2,122, while a four-bedroom could reach $5,817.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Jacksonville.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $645 to $1,758 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Jacksonville to Chicago
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 35% higher for singles and 40% higher for families than Jacksonville.
Singles spend around $3,648 in Jacksonville versus $2,696 in Jacksonville; families pay $9,266 compared with $6,605.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Jacksonville | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,596 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,680 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $287,628 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,138 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,696 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,605 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.95% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 35% higher in Chicago than in Jacksonville, which may impact your monthly finances.
- The home prices in Chicago and Jacksonville differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 12% higher in Chicago than in Jacksonville, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Chicago, as the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 35% greater than in Jacksonville. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Chicago, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 40% more than it is in Jacksonville.
- The unemployment rate in Chicago exceeds that of Jacksonville by about 84%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Chicago exceed those in Jacksonville by 37%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Illinois has a state income tax, while Florida does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Jacksonville and Chicago, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Jacksonville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $188.34 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $42.92 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.82 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $86.50 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $38.68 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Jacksonville than in Chicago, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Jacksonville than in Chicago.
- Eggs are priced about the same in both cities.
- Bread costs less in Jacksonville than in Chicago.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Jacksonville than in Chicago.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Jacksonville than in Chicago.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Jacksonville than in Chicago.
How life is different in Jacksonville vs. Chicago
| Jacksonville | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 971,319 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 26 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 41 | 72 |
| Crime index | 56.38 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 43.62 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago’s population is about 183% greater than Jacksonville.
- Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Jacksonville’s score of 4.
- Chicago is more walkable than Jacksonville with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Jacksonville’s 26 out of 100.
- With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Jacksonville, which has a score of 41 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Chicago’s crime rate is lower than Jacksonville with a score of 35.19 compared to Jacksonville’s 56.38. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Jacksonville neighborhoods are safer than 56.38%.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Jacksonville with a score of 33.87 vs Jacksonville’s 43.62.
- Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Jacksonville it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville to Chicago?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Jacksonville to Chicago. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Jacksonville.
When is the cheapest time to move from Jacksonville to Chicago?
With many people choosing to move from Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville to Chicago take?
Covering 1,062 miles, the move from Jacksonville, FL to Chicago, typically takes two to eight days. Some Jacksonville movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chicago can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Jacksonville offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 3 movers provide military discounts. 2 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 Jacksonville can handle specialty items for my move to Chicago?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Jacksonville, 19 movers can handle pianos. 6 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of FL, there are 174 piano movers and 105 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
Helpful moving resources
Jacksonville moving services
Popular Florida routes
- Florida to Illinois car shippers
- Florida to California movers
- Florida to Georgia movers
- Florida to Illinois movers
- Florida to Michigan movers
- Florida to New York movers
- Florida to North Carolina movers
- Florida to Ohio movers
- Florida to Pennsylvania movers
- Florida to Texas movers
- See All Moving Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!