Chicago, IL to Denver, CO Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Denver typically costs $2,900–$6,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,002 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Denver
Moving from Chicago, IL to Denver, CO typically costs $2,900–$6,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,002-mile move from Chicago to Denver, 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
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $4,277 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $1,898 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a moving container.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $5,708 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
3 Bedrooms
Feb 06, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 27, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 06, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 12, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 10, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 01, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 29, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to Denver
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Chicago to Denver might be as low as $2,400, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,200.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Chicago.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $700 to $2,100 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Denver movers by type
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Local
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Container
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Denver
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chicago to Denver, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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→CO movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Chicago to Denver
Many movers find Denver easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 7% less for singles and 11% less for families.
Monthly basics average $3,392 for one person in Denver versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $8,201 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Denver | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $2,108 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $3,529 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $544,237 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $85,853 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $3,392 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $8,201 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 7.1% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 9.15% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 5.49% |
- Good news! When moving to Denver from Chicago, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 7% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 84% higher in Denver than in Chicago.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 20% higher in Denver than in Chicago, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Denver. The cost of living for a single person is 7% less compared to Chicago.
- Relocating to Denver could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 11% lower than in Chicago.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 21% lower than Chicago, Denver boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 11% lower in Denver than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 11% higher in Colorado than in Illinois. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Chicago and Denver, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Denver |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $173.96 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $72.24 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.94 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $85.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $64.43 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chicago than in Denver.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Chicago than in Denver.
- Eggs are less expensive in Chicago than in Denver.
- Bread costs are about the same in both places.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Denver.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Denver.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Denver.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Denver
| Chicago | Denver | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 715,522 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 95 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 96 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 47.84 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 52.16 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Denver's population is about 74% less than Chicago.
- Denver's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Denver is more walkable than Chicago with a score of 95 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- With a score of 96 out of 100, Denver is more bike-friendly than Chicago, which has a score of 72 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Denver's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 47.84 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Denver neighborhoods are safer than 47.84% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Denver is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 52.16 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Denver is Moderate, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Denver move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) regulates local and intrastate moving service providers in Colorado. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Colorado moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Colorado, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Denver without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-free advantage, provided by movers with minimal coverage. Under this option, the mover's responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable item, you would only receive compensation based on this limited valuation. If you seek comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, discuss alternative options with the moving company you're hiring or explore 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 Denver
Ready to relocate to The Mile-High City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Denver.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Capitol Hill
- Five Points
- Highland
- LoDo
- Washington Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Berkeley
- Fort Logan
- Hilltop
- Park Hill
- Washington Park
Things to do in Denver
Now that you've made the move to Colorado, it's the perfect time to explore Denver. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Denver include museums and art centers like the Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Denver Art Museum, and Molly Brown House Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Washington Park, Denver Mountain Parks, City Park - Denver, and Cheesman Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Denver Broncos (NFL)Colorado Rockies (MLB)Colorado Avalance (NHL)Colorado Rapids (MLS)Denver Nuggets (NBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Denver?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to Denver. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Denver?
With many people choosing to move from Chicago to Denver in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Chicago to Denver take?
Covering 1,002 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to Denver, CO typically takes two to eight days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Denver can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Chicago offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Chicago can handle specialty items for my move to Denver?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Chicago, 54 movers can handle pianos. 40 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IL, there are 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
