Local moving companies in Chicago
Out of 68 Chicago movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Alabama.
- New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 158051
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 3078026
Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 139020
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1308599
Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 136144
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 3383907
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 184599
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2428328
Alternate Names: H2H Movers, Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 158678
Years in Business: 16
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Hot Tubs
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Chicago, IL
A quick snapshot of how many Chicago movers provide add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Chicago, IL to Alabama
The following table outlines average prices to move from Chicago to Alabama, organized by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,168 – $3,837 | $752 – $1,732 | $553 – $1,030 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,148 – $5,651 | $1,340 – $2,501 | $591 – $1,223 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,544 – $7,584 | $1,779 – $3,359 | $683 – $1,368 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 758-mile move from Chicago, IL, to Alabama using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Alabama
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Chicago to Alabama, you’ll likely pay between $1,168 and $3,837. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,148 and $5,651 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,544 to $7,584.
Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Alabama
When you’re heading from Chicago to Alabama, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $752 and $1,732. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,340 and $2,501. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,779 to $3,359. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Chicago easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Alabama
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 from Chicago to Alabama in a rental truck will cost around $553 to $1,030. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $591 to $1,223, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $683 to $1,368.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to AL
Several factors influence the cost of movers in Chicago:
- Move size: A studio move is far less expensive than relocating a large household.
- Time of year: Higher demand in the summer season pushes up moving company rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY options are budget-friendly but labor-intensive; hiring movers costs more but makes the process easier.
What you should know before moving from Chicago to AL
Transitioning from Chicago to Alabama can bring a different lifestyle and may ease financial pressures. With Chicago often being expensive, living in Alabama could be a more cost-effective option.
Browse through the cost of living data below to find out how Chicago stacks against Alabama, ensuring you’re equipped for the road ahead.
Compare cost of living: Chicago vs. Alabama
| Chicago, IL | Alabama | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,045 | $925 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $227,508 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $59,609 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 88 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 2.9% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 5.0% |
Alabama sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Alabama runs roughly 55% less than in Chicago, which means monthly savings.
- Your mortgage costs should go down, since homes in Alabama are about 23% cheaper than in Chicago.
- Salaries in Alabama are about 17% lower than in Chicago, which could mean less flexibility in your budget.
- In Alabama, the cost of living is around 17% cheaper than in Chicago, offering potential savings each month.
- Job seekers may have an advantage in Alabama, where the unemployment rate is 68% lower than in Chicago.
- Income taxes are similar in Alabama and Illinois, so your paycheck deductions should stay consistent, offering financial predictability as you transition.
How life is different in Chicago, IL from Alabama
If you’re moving from Chicago to Alabama, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Let’s break down what life in Alabama is like compared to Chicago.
| Chicago, IL | Alabama | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 5,108,468 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Republican 65-35 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 91ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 33ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 56″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 1″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 21.48 |
Alabama Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Alabama leaned Republican, while Chicago supported Democrat.
- High summer temperatures in Alabama can climb to 91ºF, making it significantly hotter than Chicago, where summer highs max out at 84ºF. Prepare yourself for more sunshine, vibrant outdoor gatherings, and potentially higher air conditioning costs as you adjust to this sunnier place.
- Milder winters in Alabama average 33ºF, compared with Chicago, which dips to 19ºF. This can mean fewer weather hassles, reduced heating costs, and easier living.
- Prepare for around 56 inches of rainfall annually in Alabama, compared with just 38 inches in Chicago. With more rain comes greener scenery and a few more wet days, so plan for that adjustment.
- In Alabama, you’ll only get about 1 inch of snow each year, much less than Chicago. That means moving to Alabama brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
- With a lower crime index of 21.48, Alabama offers a safer environment compared to Chicago, which posts a higher index of 35.19.
Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL versus Alabama:
Starting anew in a different place is an invitation to adventure. Let’s dive into why Chicago might be more appealing than Alabama.
| Pros of living in Chicago, IL | Pros of living in Alabama |
|---|---|
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Low cost of living |
| Delicious food | Tasty southern comfort food |
| Abundant entertainment | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Intense sports culture | Top-notch college football |
| Ample economic opportunity | Rich history |
Comparing the cons of Chicago, IL versus Alabama:
Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Chicago for Alabama.
| Cons of living in Chicago, IL | Cons of living in Alabama |
|---|---|
| High crime rate | Poor quality of life |
| Temperamental weather | Severe weather |
| Terrible traffic | Restrictive alcohol laws |
| High taxes | Poor healthcare |
| Pollution | Cockroaches |
Other considerations when moving to Alabama
When moving from Chicago to Alabama, think beyond just hiring movers and boxing up your stuff to keep things running smoothly. Don’t forget to check local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods have specific rules for move-in days — verify with your HOA before moving.
- Elevator reservation: Many buildings require advance booking of elevators for moves — check before your moving date.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit if you’re using a moving truck or larger vehicle. Be sure to check ahead of time to see if you’ll need one for your move.
- State licensing: To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Alabama moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Alabama, but it’s a good idea to check the local parking regulations ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can set your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Alabama without any hiccups. Start here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules differ from state to state, so your specific needs will depend on your location. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Alabama
No matter what you’re into—parks, museums, sports, or universities—you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy in Alabama.
Museums in Alabama
- Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
- U.S. Space and Rocket Center
- Battleship USS ALABAMA
- Legacy Museum
- Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Parks in Alabama
- Gulf State Park
- Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
- Sipsey Wilderness
- The Wharf
- Orange Beach Waterfront Park
Sports teams in Alabama
- Auburn Tigers (NCAA)
- Alabama Crimson Tide (NCAA)
- AFC Mobile (NPSL)
- Dixie Derby Girls (WFTDA)
- Birmingham Squadron (NBA G League)
Universities in Alabama
- The University of Alabama
- Auburn University
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham
- The University of Alabama in Huntsville
- Samford University
FAQ
How long does a move from Chicago to Alabama take?
Wondering how long your move from Chicago, IL to Alabama will take? Timing depends on the service you choose, but it typically takes two to seven days. Keep in mind, if you’re moving during the busy summer months, your move might take a little longer.
If you want your move to go smoothly and avoid delays, make sure to ask about the delivery timeframe before booking your moving company.
Can I find movers that build custom crates in Chicago?
Yes—46 movers in Chicago offer custom crating, ideal for protecting artwork, antiques, and other fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask a Chicago mover about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What is the best way to get a car from Chicago to Alabama?
Need to ship your car from Chicago to Alabama? Trust professionals who’ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Illinois to Alabama.
Why are people moving from Chicago to Alabama?
Many people are moving to Alabama because of its low cost of living and tasty southern comfort food. On the other hand, people are moving away from Chicago because of the high crime rate and temperamental weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Alabama.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Chicago?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Chicago.
Can I pay for my move from Chicago, IL, with cash?
There are 29 movers in Chicago that accept cash payments. That said, cash is not common in the moving industry—most companies prefer card, ACH, or cashier’s check for traceability and receipts. Typically, you’ll pay a deposit to secure your booking and move date, with the remaining balance collected at pickup or after delivery (policy varies by mover). Always confirm accepted payment types and the timing of each payment before you book.
Helpful moving resources
Illinois moving services
Popular Illinois routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!