Quick answer: The cost to move from Chicago to Tucson ranges from $1,353 to $8,522 and the journey will take approximately four to 15 days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 1,748-mile move on your own.

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

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Chicago to Tucson

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from Chicago to Tucson isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to AZ movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 63 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Find trusted moving companies for your Chicago to Tucson journey

Organizing a move from Chicago to Tucson can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Chicago known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Chicago to Tucson.

  1. New City Moving: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. H2H Movers Inc: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/NewCityMoving, https://twitter.com/newcitymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move.
While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Show more
Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

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
https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoMover, https://twitter.com/TheProMove1
93% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication.
People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Show more
Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

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
https://www.facebook.com/h2hmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/h2hmoving
88% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier for H2H customers. Out of 640 real customer reviews analyzed, a remarkable 88% delivered positive feedback, placing H2H Movers above most competitors in the moving industry. Clients most frequently highlighted the company’s efficient service, careful handling of possessions, professional and polite staff, great communication, and a quick moving process.
People appreciated teams who arrived on time, completed moves ahead of schedule, and made stressful relocations feel manageable, often noting that quoted prices were accurate or even lower than expected. On the other hand, the most common complaints were unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, and delays in arrival or delivery. A few customers reported being billed more than their estimates due to extra fees or poor packing, and some faced slow resolution for claims or communication gaps after their move. While some neutral reviews cited problems with lost items or payment methods, these were far less frequent than the praise received. H2H Movers stands out with efficient, reliable, and friendly crews—a reputation that exceeds the service level of many moving companies, though attention to transparent billing and timeliness could make experiences even better.
Show more
Get a Quote (773) 236-8797

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
https://www.facebook.com/stimovingandstorage, https://twitter.com/stimovers?lang=en
68% of all reviews were positive
29% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings.
Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI's organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Show more
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

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
https://www.facebook.com/AllianceMovingTeam/, https://twitter.com/alliance_moving
96% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Alliance Moving & Storage feels like a breath of fresh air: 247 customer feedback entries were analyzed, with a remarkable 95.5% being positive. Most people describe the company as efficient, careful with belongings, highly professional, and quick. Customers consistently mention respectful staff and clear, reliable communication throughout the process.
Affordable, transparent pricing and rapid scheduling compared favorably versus rival companies. On the downside, a minority report unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, or trouble reaching someone after problems arose. Issues like last-minute price increases or lack of follow-up were sometimes cited by dissatisfied customers. Negative experiences remain much less common than positive ones. Compared with typical moving companies, Alliance stands out for speed, professionalism, and care, though some customers recommend confirming all charges up front to prevent misunderstandings.
Show more
Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Company Info

State license #: 214845

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2882675

Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

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

Chicago movers charge $100 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,536 - $5,701 $1,377 - $3,332 $1,226 - $2,455
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,603 - $8,522 $2,338 - $4,921 $1,353 - $3,067
4+ bedrooms $6,636 - $11,734 $3,093 - $6,473 $1,654 - $3,466
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,748 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.

Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Arizona

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Arizona typically costs between $1,536 and $5,701. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,603 and $8,522 when moving from IL to AZ. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Illinois to Arizona, you're looking at costs ranging from $6,636 up to $11,734.

Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Arizona

When you're heading from Illinois to Arizona, and you're only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,377 and $3,332. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,338 and $4,921. If you're packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,093 to $6,473. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Illinois easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Arizona

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, 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 $1,226 and $2,455. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,353 to $3,067. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,654 and $3,466.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors that influence moving costs from Chicago to Tucsontoggle

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Chicago to Tucson might cost just $1,536 for a one-bedroom, but up to $10,761 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $1,226 and $3,134, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Chicago to Tucson

Moving from Chicago to Tucson means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Chicago than in Tucson, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Chicago compares to Tucson so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Chicago Tucson
Average rent cost $2,045 $1,295
Average home value $295,743 $327,203
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $61,749
Cost of living (single person) $3,648 $2,390
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,266 $6,043
Unemployment rate 9.0% 7.4%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.7%
State income tax 4.95% 2.5%
  • Rent prices in Tucson are 37% lower than in Chicago, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • The home prices in Tucson are 10.6% higher than in Chicago, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • Income in Tucson is 13.7% lower than in Chicago, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Tucson — including University of Arizona, Raytheon Technologies, and State of Arizona — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Tucson. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 34.5% lower than in 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 34.8% less than what it costs in Chicago.
  • The unemployment rate in Tucson is 17.78% lower than in Chicago.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Tucson, since the city's sales taxes in Tucson are 15.12% lower than in Chicago.
  • One perk of moving to Tucson is paying less in state income taxes, which are 49.49% lower than in Chicago.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,965.46 in Tucson to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago vs. Tucson

Tucson Chicago
Population 542,629 2,746,388
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 9
Walkability score 43 77
Bike friendliness score 66 72
Crime Index 54.43 35.19
Safety Index 45.57 33.87
Air Quality Good Good
  • Tucson's population is about 80% less than Chicago.
  • Tucson's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Chicago's higher 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 66 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
  • 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 vs. Tucson move

  • Weather: Extreme heat may cause discomfort if you choose to move in the summer. Pay close attention to heat sensitive household items such as instruments, antique furniture, and electronics.
  • 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 through the state's public utilities commission.
  • 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: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Tucson. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you\'ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Tucson

Now that you've decided to make the move to Old Pueblo, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

Now that you've made the move to Arizona it's the perfect time to explore Tucson From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Tucson, such as the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Pima Air and Space Museum, DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum, The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, and Franklin Auto Museum.
  • 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: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an University of Arizona Wildcats (NCAA), Tucson Saguaros (Pecos League), Tucson Roadrunners (AHL), or FC Tucson (USL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chicago to Tucson?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Chicago to Tucson are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Chicago. are lower.

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?

Moving from Chicago, IL to Tucson, AZ covers 1,748 miles and usually takes four to 15 days Need to move faster? Some Chicago movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Tucson.

Helpful moving resources