Local moving companies in Chicago
Out of 68 Chicago movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Michigan.
- 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
Local moving services in Chicago, IL
Here is a quick look at how many movers in Chicago offer add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Chicago, IL to Michigan
The table below shows typical price ranges to move from Chicago to Michigan, with service options tailored to your home size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $850 – $2,944 | $604 – $1,470 | $312 – $531 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,456 – $4,456 | $1,096 – $2,100 | $338 – $642 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,032 – $5,444 | $1,390 – $2,683 | $406 – $765 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 281-mile move from Chicago, IL, to Michigan using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified rates from moving companies around the country, refreshed monthly for seasonality and market movement. Final charges can fluctuate based on the scope of your move, add-ons, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing multiple estimates for accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Michigan
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Michigan, you can expect to spend between $850 and $2,944. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,456 to $4,456 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home typically runs between $2,032 and $5,444.
Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Michigan
When moving from Chicago to Michigan, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $604 and $1,470. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,096 to $2,100. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,390 up to $2,683. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Chicago.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Michigan
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom in Chicago to relocate to Michigan and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $312 and $531. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $338 and $642. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $406 and $765.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to MI
The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:
- Move size: Larger homes and more belongings increase the total moving cost.
- Time of year: Moving during busy summer months in Chicago can drive up rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY can cut costs, but professional movers provide convenience and peace of mind.
What you should know before moving from Chicago to MI
Switching from life in Chicago to settling in Michigan offers a fresh lifestyle and potential savings. Since living costs in Chicago are usually greater, this move might allow for a more economical way of life.
Have a look at the cost of living figures below to see the comparison between Chicago and Michigan, allowing you to get ready for upcoming changes.
Compare cost of living: Chicago vs. Michigan
| Chicago, IL | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,045 | $1,037 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $68,505 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 92 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 4.7% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 4.25% |
Michigan sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Expect rent in Michigan to be about 49% cheaper than in Chicago, leaving you with more money each month.
- Expect home values to be about 17% lower in Michigan than in Chicago, giving you extra room in your budget.
- The average income in Michigan is about the same as in Chicago, so your finances should feel stable after the move.
- The cost of living is about 13% lower in Michigan compared to Chicago, which could leave you with extra breathing room in your budget.
- With unemployment about 48% lower in Michigan than in Chicago, you may find it easier to secure work.
- Moving to Michigan means income taxes about 14% lower than in Illinois, so you’ll enjoy extra take-home pay.
How life is different in Chicago, IL from Michigan
If you’re considering a move from Chicago to Michigan, there are some notable lifestyle differences to keep in mind. From climate and population size to political leanings, here’s how life in Michigan compares to life in Chicago.
| Chicago, IL | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 10,037,261 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 34″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 64″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 19.98 |
Michigan Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Michigan leaned Republican, while Chicago supported Democrat.
- Summer highs generally reach around 81ºF in both Michigan and Chicago, meaning the climate will feel quite familiar. Don’t forget to factor in humidity, prevailing weather patterns, and energy costs to gain a full picture of what summer life will be like in your new location.
- Winter lows in Michigan and Chicago are close — 14ºF vs 19ºF. With little difference, you’ll likely notice only minimal changes to your day-to-day life in winter.
- Michigan gets about 34 inches of rain per year, nearly the same as the 38 inches you’re accustomed to in Chicago. With totals this close, changes in daily life will come more from weather timing than total rainfall.
- In Michigan, it snows about 64 inches annually while Chicago gets only about 35 inches. With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
- Crime is lower in Michigan, with an index of 19.98 compared to Chicago at 35.19. This generally points to safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of security.
Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL versus Michigan:
Embarking on a move offers thrilling opportunities. Let’s explore what sets Chicago apart when compared with Michigan.
| Pros of living in Chicago, IL | Pros of living in Michigan |
|---|---|
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Scenic beauty |
| Delicious food | Good higher education |
| Abundant entertainment | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Intense sports culture | Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity | Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of Chicago, IL versus Michigan:
Relocating from Chicago to Michigan has its drawbacks, so it’s wise to be prepared.
| Cons of living in Chicago, IL | Cons of living in Michigan |
|---|---|
| High crime rate | Cold snowy winters |
| Temperamental weather | Spotty economic opportunity |
| Terrible traffic | Poor transportation infrastructure |
| High taxes | Expensive education |
| Pollution | Thick accents |
Other considerations when moving to Michigan
When relocating from Chicago to Michigan, a few details are worth keeping in mind to avoid last-minute hiccups. Beyond choosing a mover and packing your belongings, it’s helpful to consider local rules, permit requirements, and other practical factors that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Make sure to check your neighborhood or community’s moving rules ahead of time to avoid any surprises on moving day.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator ahead of time if one is available for moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities ask for parking permits when you’re using a moving truck or large vehicle. Check in advance to see if you’ll need a permit for your move.
- State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Make sure your moving company has all the proper licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit for Michigan, but it’s smart to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before you move. You’ll be able to choose your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Michigan seamlessly. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary by state, so be sure to review the regulations where you live. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Simplify your move using our moving checklist. It keeps everything organized and takes care of the details, so you can relax and enjoy making your new place home.
Things to do in Michigan
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Michigan.
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQ
How long does a move from Chicago to Michigan take?
How long will your move from Chicago, IL to Michigan take? It depends on the type of service you pick, but you can usually expect it to take one to four days. Just keep in mind that moves during the busy summer season may take a bit longer.
To get your move done as quickly as possible, ask for a delivery timeframe before you book your moving company.
What’s the availability of custom crating among movers in Chicago?
We track 46 movers in Chicago that can build custom crates for items such as art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Be sure to confirm with a Chicago moving company that the materials and dimensions match your item requirements.
What is the best way to get a car from Chicago to Michigan?
Looking to ship your car from Chicago to Michigan? Choose experts who know how to treat your vehicle right and handle every detail with professionalism. Check out our top picks for car shipping from Illinois to Michigan.
Why are people moving from Chicago to Michigan?
Many people are moving to Michigan because of its scenic beauty and good higher education. On the other hand, people are moving away from Chicago because of the high crime rate and temperamental weather.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Michigan.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Chicago?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Chicago.
Can I use cash to pay a mover in Chicago, IL?
Currently, 29 movers in Chicago accept cash as a payment option. Still, cash isn’t widely used in the moving industry, which favors traceable methods and clear receipts. Expect to pay a deposit first to secure your move date. The rest is due either at pickup or once delivery is complete—check with your mover on the exact payment schedule and accepted types.
Helpful moving resources
Illinois moving services
Popular Illinois routes
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