Chicago, IL to Lexington, KY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Lexington typically costs $2,000–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 372 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Lexington
Moving from Chicago, IL to Lexington, KY typically costs $2,000–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 372-mile move from Chicago to Lexington, 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 $2,272 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $5,651 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $2,812 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 16, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 30, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 21, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 31, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 29, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 01, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Nov 29, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 28, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to Lexington
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 Lexington might be as low as $1,200, while a four-bedroom could reach $7,000.
- 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 $400 to $1,000 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Lexington, KY to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Lexington movers by type
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Lexington
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chicago to Lexington, 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→KY 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 Lexington
Many movers find Lexington easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 15% less for singles and 55% less for families.
Monthly basics average $3,100 for one person in Lexington versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $4,170 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Lexington | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,175 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,110 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $309,021 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $61,526 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $3,100 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $4,170 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 4.3% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 4.0% |
- Good news! When moving to Lexington from Chicago, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 34% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- The home prices in Lexington and Chicago differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 14% lower in Lexington than in Chicago.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Lexington. The cost of living for a single person is 15% less compared to Chicago.
- Relocating to Lexington could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 55% lower than in Chicago.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 52% lower than Chicago, Lexington boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 41% lower in Lexington than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 19% lower in Kentucky than in Illinois. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Chicago and Lexington, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Lexington |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $206.92 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $71.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $2.98 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $2.90 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $14.25 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $37.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Lexington, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Chicago than in Lexington.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Lexington.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Lexington.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Lexington.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Lexington.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Lexington.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Lexington
| Chicago | Lexington | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 320,347 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 90 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 85 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 50.88 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 49.12 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Lexington's population is about 88% less than Chicago.
- Lexington's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Lexington is more walkable than Chicago with a score of 90 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- With a score of 85 out of 100, Lexington 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.
- Lexington's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 50.88 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Lexington neighborhoods are safer than 50.88% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Lexington is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 49.12 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Lexington is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Lexington 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: Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers. Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each. The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Kentucky moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Kentucky, 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 Lexington 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 free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Lexington
Ready to relocate to Horse Capital of the World? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lexington.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Chevy Chase-Ashland Park
- Downtown Lexington
- Fairway-Liberty Heights
- Georgetown
- Mount Vernon-Hollywood-Montclair
Best neighborhoods for families
- Chevy Chase-Ashland Park
- Fairway-Liberty Heights
- Georgetown
- Paris
- Southland-Deerfield-Open Gates
Things to do in Lexington
Now that you've made the move to Kentucky, it's the perfect time to explore Lexington. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lexington include museums and art centers like the Kentucky Horse Park, Mary Todd Lincoln House, Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate, and The Aviation Museum of Kentucky.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate The Arboretum, Thoroughbred Park, Jacobson Park, and Masterson Station 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 Lexington Legends (ALPB)Lexington SC (USL League One) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Lexington?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to Lexington. 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 Lexington?
With many people choosing to move from Chicago to Lexington 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 Lexington take?
Covering 372 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to Lexington, KY typically takes one to four days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lexington 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 Lexington?
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.
