Top local movers for Chicago to Baton Rouge moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Chicago that also provides long-distance services to Baton Rouge can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 68 local movers in Chicago who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Chicago to Baton Rouge.
- 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 Baton Rouge?
Movers in Illinois generally charge an average of $113 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,179 – $4,065 | $762 – $2,024 | $575 – $1,156 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,420 – $5,659 | $1,453 – $2,764 | $621 – $1,292 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,655 – $7,825 | $1,916 – $3,659 | $787 – $1,570 |
Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Baton Rouge
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Baton Rouge typically costs between $1,179 and $4,065. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,420 and $5,659 when moving from Chicago to Baton Rouge. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Chicago to Baton Rouge, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,655 up to $7,825.
Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Baton Rouge
If you’re relocating from Chicago to Baton Rouge, you’ll typically spend between $762 and $2,024 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,453 up to $2,764. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,916 and $3,659. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Baton Rouge
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Chicago to Baton Rouge move, 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 $575 and $1,156. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $621 to $1,292. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $787 and $1,570.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to Baton Rouge
The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Chicago to Baton Rouge might be as low as $1,959, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,597.
- 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 $575 to $1,544 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Chicago to Baton Rouge
Many movers find Baton Rouge easier on the wallet than Chicago – roughly 55% less for singles and 57% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,638 for one person in Baton Rouge versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it’s $3,941 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Baton Rouge | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,326 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,033 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $213,584 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $60,369 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $1,638 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $3,941 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 7.5% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 9.5% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 4.25% |
- Good news! When moving to Baton Rouge from Chicago, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 39% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 28% cheaper in Baton Rouge, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 16% lower in Baton Rouge than in Chicago.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Baton Rouge. The cost of living for a single person is 55% less compared to Chicago.
- Relocating to Baton Rouge could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 57% lower than in Chicago.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 17% lower than Chicago, Baton Rouge boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 7% lower in Baton Rouge than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 14% lower in Louisiana 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 Baton Rouge, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Baton Rouge |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $138.12 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $44.20 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $3.07 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $3.01 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $52.33 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chicago than in Baton Rouge.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in Baton Rouge.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Baton Rouge.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Baton Rouge.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Baton Rouge.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Baton Rouge.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Baton Rouge.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Baton Rouge
| Chicago | Baton Rouge | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 222,191 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 39 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 44 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 2.0 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 30.74 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Baton Rouge’s population is about 92% less than Chicago.
- Baton Rouge’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
- Baton Rouge is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 39 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
- Baton Rouge has a bike-friendliness score of 44 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Baton Rouge’s crime rate is lower than Chicago with a score of 2.0 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Baton Rouge neighborhoods are safer than 2.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Baton Rouge is considered to be less safe than Chicago with a score of 30.74 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
- Air quality in Baton Rouge is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Baton Rouge 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: If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Louisiana moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Louisiana, 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 Baton Rouge 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 coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company 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 Baton Rouge
Ready to relocate to Red Stick? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Baton Rouge.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Highlands/Perkins
- South Baton Rouge
- Airline/Jefferson
- Broadmoor/Sherwood Forest
- Mid City North
Best neighborhoods for families
- Prairieville
- Zachary
- Shenandoah
- Baker/Zachary
- AddisVillage St. George
- Brusly
Things to do in Baton Rouge
Now that you’ve made the move to Louisiana, it’s the perfect time to explore Baton Rouge. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Baton Rouge include museums and art centers like the LSU Rural Life Museum, Capitol Park Museum – Louisiana State Museum, Knock Knock Children’s Museum, and Louisiana Art & Science Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Mike the Tiger’s Habitat, Baton Rouge Zoo, Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, and Riverfront Plaza, 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 LSU Tigers (SEC)Southern Jaguars (SWAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Baton Rouge?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to Baton Rouge. 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 Baton Rouge?
With many people choosing to move from Chicago to Baton Rouge 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 Baton Rouge take?
Covering 915 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to Baton Rouge, typically takes two to seven days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Baton Rouge 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 Baton Rouge?
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 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
Helpful moving resources
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