Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

How we chose the best IL→LA 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 New Orleans

Many movers find New Orleans easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 14% less for singles and 15% less for families.

Monthly basics average $3,134 for one person in New Orleans versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $7,905 compared with $9,266.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

	Chicago	New Orleans
Average 1 BR rent	$2,368	$1,813
Average 3 BR rent	$4,581	$3,150
Average home value	$295,743	$231,649
Average income (per capita)	$71,566	$51,116
Cost of living (single)	$3,648	$3,134
Cost of living (family of four)	$9,266	$7,905
Unemployment rate	9.0%	11.0%
Sales tax	10.25%	10.0%
State income tax	4.95%	4.25%

source: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation

When relocating from Chicago to New Orleans, expect to find rent about 14% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 22% more affordable in New Orleans compared to Chicago.
Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 29% lower in New Orleans compared to Chicago.
You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in New Orleans, as the cost of living for a single person is 14% lower compared to Chicago.
A move to New Orleans 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 15% less than what it costs in Chicago.
New Orleans shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Chicago by around 22%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
Sales taxes hold steady between New Orleans and Chicago (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
Income taxes in Louisiana are 14% below those in Illinois. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Chicago and New Orleans:

Living Expense	Chicago	New Orleans
Basic utilities	$191.26	$244.46
Cell phone plan	$61.10	$58.50
Dozen eggs	$4.52	$4.35
Loaf of bread	$4.15	$4.03
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal)	$25.00	$25.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant)	$100.00	$124.00
Gym membership	$78.31	$61.75

Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in New Orleans, helping trim your monthly bills.
Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in New Orleans.
Eggs cost more in Chicago than in New Orleans.
Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in New Orleans.
A quick meal is cheaper in Chicago than in New Orleans.
A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Chicago than in New Orleans.
Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in New Orleans.

How life is different in Chicago vs. New Orleans

	Chicago	New Orleans
Population	2,746,388	383,997
Transportation score	9	7
Walkability score	77	58
Bike friendliness score	72	66
Crime index	35.19	67.31
Safety index	33.87	32.69
Air quality	Good	Good

source: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow

New Orleans's population is about 86% less than Chicago.
New Orleans's public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
New Orleans is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 58 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
New Orleans has a bike-friendliness score of 66 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
New Orleans's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 67.31 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that New Orleans neighborhoods are safer than 67.31% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
New Orleans and Chicago have a similar safety level, with scores of 32.69 and 33.87.
Air quality in New Orleans is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago to New Orleans 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
State regulator: Louisiana’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
Moving Permits: Louisiana 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 New Orleans. Start the process here.
Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in New Orleans

Planning your move to The Crescent City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in New Orleans.

Best neighborhoods for singles

Central Business District
Freret
Gentilly Terrace
Old Aurora
West End

Best neighborhoods for families

Algiers Point
Bayou St. John
East Carrollton
Fillmore
West End

Things to do in New Orleans

After settling into your new Louisiana home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, New Orleans has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

Arts and culture: New Orleans features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The National WWII Museum, Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World, New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, and The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA.
Outdoor recreation: The city's New Orleans City Park, Audubon Park, New Orleans Musical Legends Park, and Louis Armstrong 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 New Orleans Saints (NFL)New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)New Orleans Jesters (NPSL)Big Easy Rollergirls (WFTDA) game.

source: AttractionsofAmerica

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chicago to New Orleans?

Planning your move from Chicago to New Orleans? 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 New Orleans?

Because most people are moving from Chicago to New Orleans 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 New Orleans take?

The 926-mile journey from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA, 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 New Orleans.

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.