Chicago, IL to Washington DC, MD Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Washington DC typically costs $2,500–$6,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 697 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Washington DC
Moving from Chicago, IL to Washington DC, MD typically costs $2,500–$6,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 697-mile move from Chicago to Washington DC, 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
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $5,536 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $4,078 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $1,858 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 30, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 09, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 07, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 06, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 03, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 31, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 29, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
Studio apartment
Nov 29, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to Washington DC move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,600 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 $500 to $1,500, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Washington DC, MD to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Washington DC movers by type
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Washington DC
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Chicago to Washington DC 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→MD 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 Washington DC
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Washington DC runs about 9% higher for singles and 20% higher for families than Chicago.
Singles spend around $3,963 in Washington DC versus $3,648 in Chicago; families pay $11,093 compared with $9,266.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Chicago | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $2,568 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $5,417 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $594,337 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $101,722 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $3,963 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $11,093 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 7.0% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 5.75% |
- 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.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Chicago and Washington DC:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $191.62 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $65.80 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.67 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.43 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $103.76 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Washington DC, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Chicago than in Washington DC.
- Eggs are less expensive in Chicago than in Washington DC.
- Bread costs less in Chicago than in Washington DC.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Chicago than in Washington DC.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Chicago than in Washington DC.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Washington DC
| Chicago | Washington DC | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 672,079 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 70 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 60.37 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 39.63 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- 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.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Washington DC 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: 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.
Where to live in Washington DC
Planning your move to DC? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Washington DC.
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.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Washington DC?
Planning your move from Chicago to Washington DC? 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 Washington DC?
Because most people are moving from Chicago to Washington DC 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 Washington DC take?
The 697-mile journey from Chicago, IL to Washington DC, MD, typically takes one to six 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 Washington DC.
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.
