Chicago, IL to Columbus, GA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Columbus typically costs $2,500–$6,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 818 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Columbus
Moving from Chicago, IL to Columbus, GA typically costs $2,500–$6,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 818-mile move from Chicago to Columbus, 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
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $2,847 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,350 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $4,632 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 09, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 09, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 05, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 04, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 26, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 04, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 16, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 27, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to Columbus move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,900 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,900 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 $600 to $1,700, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbus, GA to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Columbus movers by type
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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 Columbus
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Chicago to Columbus 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→GA 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 Columbus
Many movers find Columbus easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 44% less for singles and 59% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,041 for one person in Columbus versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $3,834 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,250 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $1,400 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $157,861 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $50,542 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,041 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $3,834 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 5.3% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 9.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 5.49% |
- When relocating from Chicago to Columbus, expect to find rent about 46% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 47% more affordable in Columbus compared to Chicago.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 29% lower in Columbus compared to Chicago.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Columbus, as the cost of living for a single person is 44% lower compared to Chicago.
- A move to Columbus 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 59% less than what it costs in Chicago.
- The unemployment rate in Columbus is about 41% 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 12% less in Columbus relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Georgia are 11% above those in Illinois. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Chicago and Columbus:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $211.40 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $40.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $2.24 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $3.52 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $50.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $10.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Columbus, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in Columbus.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Columbus.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Columbus.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Columbus.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Columbus.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Columbus.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Columbus
| Chicago | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 206,922 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 2 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 25 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 31 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 72.18 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 27.82 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Columbus's population is about 92% less than Chicago.
- Columbus's public transportation score of 2 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Columbus is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 25 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- Columbus has a bike-friendliness score of 31 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Columbus's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 72.18 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 72.18% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Columbus is considered to be less safe than Chicago with a score of 27.82 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Columbus is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Columbus 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: Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Georgia’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Georgia 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 Columbus. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover's responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Columbus
Planning your move to The Lowell of the South[? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Columbus.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- MidTown
- Uptown
- Downtown Columbus
- Overlook
- Lakebottom
Best neighborhoods for families
- North Columbus
- Brookstone
- Green Island Hills
- MidTown
- Ivy Park
Things to do in Columbus
After settling into your new Georgia home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbus has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Columbus features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, National Civil War Naval Museum, Columbus Museum, and Coca-Cola Space Science Center.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Flat Rock 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 Columbus Lions (NAL)Columbus River Dragons (FPHL)Columbus Chatt-a-Hoots (SBL)Columbus Rapids (NISL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Columbus?
Planning your move from Chicago to Columbus? 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 Columbus?
Because most people are moving from Chicago to Columbus 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 Columbus take?
The 818-mile journey from Chicago, IL to Columbus, GA, typically takes two to seven 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 Columbus.
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.
