Top-rated movers to make your Chicago to Tucson move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Chicago that offers long-distance services to Tucson can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 68 top local movers in Chicago who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Chicago to Tucson.
- 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
How much does it cost to move from Chicago to Tucson?
In Illinois, moving services typically cost around $113 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,154 – $4,507 | $1,004 – $2,712 | $959 – $2,038 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,118 – $6,670 | $1,791 – $4,044 | $1,124 – $2,332 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,519 – $10,145 | $2,651 – $5,168 | $1,445 – $2,768 |
Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Tucson
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Tucson from Chicago, you can expect prices to land between $1,154 and $4,507. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,118 to $6,670 for the trip from Chicago to Tucson. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,519 and $10,145.
Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Tucson
Moving containers from Chicago to Tucson will cost you $1,004 to $2,712 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,791 to $4,044. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,651 to $5,168. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Tucson
Renting a moving truck from Chicago to Tucson typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $959 and $2,038 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,124 to $2,332. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,445 to $2,768.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to Tucson move
The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,386 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,223 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 $959 to $2,452, but require more effort than hiring movers.
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, , 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 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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