Chicago, IL to Tucson, AZ Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Tucson typically costs $3,400–$7,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,749 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Tucson
Moving from Chicago, IL to Tucson, AZ typically costs $3,400–$7,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,749-mile move from Chicago to Tucson, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $7,041 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $2,857 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $3,884 for a 5+ bedroom using a moving container.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 13, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 30, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 07, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 07, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 01, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 20, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 17, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 17, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 09, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to Tucson move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,500 for a one-bedroom, or up to $11,100 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Chicago.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,100 to $3,300, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Tucson, AZ to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Tucson movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Tucson
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Chicago to Tucson much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IL→AZ movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- 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%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Chicago to Tucson
Many movers find Tucson easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 34% less for singles and 35% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,390 for one person in Tucson versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $6,043 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Tucson | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,265 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,177 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $327,203 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $61,749 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,390 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $6,043 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 7.4% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.7% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 2.5% |
- When relocating from Chicago to Tucson, expect to find rent about 37% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Tucson are about 11% higher than those in Chicago.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 14% lower in Tucson compared to Chicago.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Tucson, as the cost of living for a single person is 34% lower compared to Chicago.
- A move to Tucson can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 35% less than what it costs in Chicago.
- The unemployment rate in Tucson is about 18% lower than in Chicago. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 15% less in Tucson relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Arizona are 49% below those in Illinois. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Chicago and Tucson:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $271.98 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $70.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.22 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $3.33 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $35.28 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Tucson, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Chicago than in Tucson.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Tucson.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Tucson.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Tucson.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Tucson.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Tucson.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Tucson
| Chicago | Tucson | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 542,629 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 43 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 66 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 54.43 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 45.57 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Tucson's population is about 80% less than Chicago.
- Tucson's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Tucson is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- Tucson has a bike-friendliness score of 66 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Tucson's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 54.43 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Tucson neighborhoods are safer than 54.43% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Tucson is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 45.57 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Tucson is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Tucson move
- 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, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Arizona’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Arizona 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: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Tucson. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Tucson
Planning your move to The Old Pueblo? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Tucson.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Armory Park
- Dunbar Spring
- Old Fort Lowell
- El Presidio
- Sam Hughes
Best neighborhoods for families
- Armory Park
- Broadmoor-Broadway
- Catalina Foothills
- Dunbar Spring
- Sam Hughes
Things to do in Tucson
After settling into your new Arizona home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Tucson has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Tucson features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Pima Air and Space Museum, DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum, and The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Agua Caliente Park, Himmel Park, Rillito River Park, and Brandi Fenton Memorial Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an University of Arizona Wildcats (NCAA)Tucson Saguaros (Pecos League)Tucson Roadrunners (AHL)FC Tucson (USL)Tucson Monsoon (IWFL)Tucson Sugar Skulls (IFL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Tucson?
Planning your move from Chicago to Tucson? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Tucson?
Because most people are moving from Chicago to Tucson in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Chicago to Tucson take?
The 1,749-mile journey from Chicago, IL to Tucson, AZ, typically takes four to 15 days. Some movers in Chicago offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Tucson.
Are there special savings available from movers in Chicago?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 2 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Chicago?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Chicago, 54 movers can manage piano relocations. 40 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Illinois has 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
