Moving from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ: Movers and Cost

Sergio Ocampo

Last Updated: Mar 1, 2023 · 5 min read

Quick Answer: The cost to move from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ averages from $1,161 to $7,183 depending on how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself. Hiring movers will be on the more expensive side. Renting a truck or renting a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.

In this article, we’ll lay out everything you need to know for your upcoming move to Phoenix, AZ. But first, here are a few resources if you need immediate answers:

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

• Best Chicago to Phoenix movers: We’ve handpicked the best moving companies from Chicago to Phoenix.
• How much will your move cost?: Use our moving calculator to get a more accurate estimate on moving costs.
• Consider moving containers: Need a more budget-friendly option? With these companies, you load and they drive! These are the best moving container companies.
• Chicago to Phoenix car shippers: Moving your car? Here's a list of our top car shipping companies.

Moving 1,752 miles is no joke. Here's what you need to know.

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

Here are average prices to hire a moving company, rent a moving container, or rent a moving truck:

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,752 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.

The cost to move from Chicago to Phoenix will depend on:

• Move size: 5 bedroom homes are more expensive to move than 1 bedroom apartments.
• Time of year: Summer is busy season so moving companies charge more.
• Do-it-yourself vs Professional Mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress.

Who Are The Best Chicago to Phoenix Movers?

Hiring a moving company is a big deal.

We’ve researched over 500 interstate moving companies, cross-referencing verified customer reviews, license data, insurance data, and federal complaint records to find you the best long distance moving companies in the industry.

If you’re moving a 1 bedroom apartment worth of stuff or more, these are the best full service moving companies.

Company	Quote	Rating	Price
Safeway Moving Best Overall Value	Get A Quote	4.5 overall rating
American Van Lines Best industry reputation	Get A Quote	4.5 overall rating
International Van Lines Best customer service	Get A Quote	4.45 overall rating

If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Chicago to Phoenix?

To ship furniture from Chicago to Phoenix with a mover will cost between $1,278 to $4,981. The cost to move a 2 to 3 bedroom home will range from $3,237 to $7,183, and a 4-bedroom move or bigger move from Chicago to Phoenix will cost from $5,913 to $10,434.

How much are moving container companies from Chicago to Phoenix?

Moving containers from Chicago to Phoenix will cost you $1,119 to $2,761 for a studio or one-bedroom home. For a 2 to 3 bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,995 to $4,078. A larger home will cost $2,724 to $5,476.

How much is a moving truck from Chicago to Phoenix?

Renting a moving truck is usually the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor; these estimates include the estimated fuel cost:

Moving a studio or 1-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,073 to $2,063. A larger move will cost $1,161 to $2,455, and a 4+ bedroom move from Chicago to Phoenix costs from $1,464 to $3,004.

How to ship a car from Chicago to Phoenix?

If you're moving from Chicago to Phoenix and need to transport your car, finding a reliable car shipping company is crucial. Look for top-rated Chicago to Phoenix car shippers and compare quotes and services to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Keep in mind that the type of transport you choose and the size of your vehicle will affect the cost.

Is moving from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ a good idea?

Cost of Living: Chicago vs Phoenix

• Rent Prices in Phoenix, AZ are 19% lower than in Chicago, IL.
• Home Prices in Phoenix, AZ are 29.4% higher than in Chicago, IL.
• Income in Phoenix, AZ is 9.4% lower than in Chicago, IL.
• Cost of Living for a single person in Phoenix, AZ is 7.3% lower than in Chicago, IL.
• Cost of Living for a family in Phoenix, AZ is 9.0% lower than in Chicago, IL.
• Unemployment rate in Phoenix, AZ is 26.67% lower than in Chicago, IL.
• Sales Taxes in Phoenix, AZ are 16.10% lower than in Chicago, IL.
• State Income Taxes in Phoenix, AZ are 9.09% lower than in Chicago, IL.

To put this into perspective, you would need around $2,781.2 in Phoenix to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How is life different in Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ?

• Phoenix’s population is about 41% less than Chicago.
• Phoenix’s public transportation is better than Chicago with a score of 6 vs 9.
• Phoenix is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 41 vs 77.
• Phoenix is less bike-friendly than Chicago with a score of 56 vs 72.
• Phoenix's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 40.25 compared to 35.19.
• Phoenix is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 48.11 vs 33.87.
• Air Quality in Phoenix is Moderate, and in Chicago it’s Good.

Considerations for moving to Phoenix, AZ

• Weather: The climate is unlikely to affect your move but summers in Phoenix are unsurprisingly very hot with daily averages over 100° F. You should take this into consideration because moving often requires spending many hours outdoors. You should also be sure that air conditioning is set up in your new home before move day, especially if you're moving in the summer. .
• 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: Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State Regulator: You can verify a Arizona moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
• Moving Permits: Arizona does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
• Change of Address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forward to Phoenix. Get started here.
• Moving Company Insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you're hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
• Moving Checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Local Chicago Movers

Visit our Best Movers in Chicago page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.

Where to live in Phoenix, AZ

Now that you've decided to make the move to "Arizona's Urban Heart", these are the best neighborhoods in Phoenix to move to.

Best neighborhoods for singles:

• Camelback East
• Encanto
• Estrella Village
• North Gateway
• South Mountain

Best neighborhoods for families:

• Arcadia/Biltmore
• Ahwatukee
• Coronado
• Gilbert
• Paradise Valley
• Scottsdale

What to do in Phoenix

Moving to The “Arizona's Urban Heart”? These are some of the best things to do in your new Arizona home.

• Musical Instrument Museum
• Desert Botanical Garden
• Camelback Mountain
• Heard Museum
• South Mountain Park
• Piestewa Peak
• Hole in the Rock
• Papago Park
• Chase Field
• Wrigley Mansion
• Phoenix Art Museum
• Echo Canyon Trail and Recreation Area
• Phoenix Zoo
• Children’s Museum of Phoenix
• Dobbins Lookout

Get your sports on!

• Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
• Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
• Phoenix Suns(NBA)
• Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
• Phoenix Mercury (WNBA)
• Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
• Phoenix Rising FC (USLC)

Related articles to your move

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• Houston to Phoenix
• Philadelphia to Phoenix
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• San Diego to Phoenix
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• Austin to Phoenix
• Jacksonville to Phoenix

Learn more about Phoenix

• What Is The Cost To Move In Phoenix?
• What Is The Cost To Move To Arizona?
• 10 Best Cities for Remote Workers
• Tips on Moving to Phoenix, AZ: Ultimate Relocation Guide
• Best Moving Companies in Phoenix, AZ
• Best Moving Companies in Arizona