($1,085) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Washington DC, MD

1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Washington DC

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Washington DC from Chicago, you can expect prices to land between $1,085 and $3,381. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,123 to $5,166 for the trip from Chicago to Washington DC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,488 and $7,426.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Washington DC

Moving containers from Chicago to Washington DC will cost you $700 to $1,760 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,350 to $2,615. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,737 to $3,426. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Washington DC

Renting a moving truck from Chicago to Washington DC typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $471 and $918 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $529 to $1,079. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $647 to $1,294.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Planning a move to Washington DC? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 17% higher than in Chicago, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Washington DC are about 101% higher than those in Chicago.
• Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 42% higher in Washington DC compared to Chicago, which might allow for more savings or investments.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Washington DC, as living costs for a single person are 9% higher than in Chicago. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
• If you’re moving your family to Washington DC, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Washington DC is 20% higher than in Chicago.
• The unemployment rate in Washington DC is about 22% 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 41% less in Washington DC relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
• Income taxes in Maryland are 16% above those in Illinois. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• Washington DC’s population is about 76% less than Chicago.
• Washington DC’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Chicago, making them very similar.
• Washington DC and Chicago are similarly walkable.
• Both Washington DC and Chicago have similar bike-friendliness scores (72 vs 70), meaning Washington DC is about as safe for cyclists as Chicago. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
• Washington DC’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 60.37 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Washington DC is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 39.63 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
• Air quality in Washington DC is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• 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: Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: Maryland’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: Maryland 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 Washington DC. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Adams Morgan
• Capitol Hill
• Cleveland Park
• Foggy Bottom
• Logan Circle

Best neighborhoods for families

• AU-Tenleytown
• Chevy Chase
• Cleveland Park
• Georgetown
• The Palisades

Things to do in Washington DC

After settling into your new Maryland home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Washington DC has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: Washington DC features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Gallery of Art, and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s National Mall, National Gallery of Art – Sculpture Garden, Rock Creek Park, and Theodore Roosevelt Island 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 Washington Wizards (NBA)Washington Capitals (NHL)Washington Mystics (WNBA)D.C. Untied (MLS)Washington Commanders (NFL)DC Defenders (XFL)Old Glory DC (MLR) game.