Chicago, IL to Minneapolis, MN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Minneapolis typically costs $2,100–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 414 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Minneapolis
Moving from Chicago, IL to Minneapolis, MN typically costs $2,100–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 414-mile move from Chicago to Minneapolis, 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
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $4,141 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $4,233 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $1,851 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 16, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 07, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 16, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 12, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 10, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 16, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 15, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 10, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to Minneapolis move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,300 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,600 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 $400 to $1,100, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Minneapolis, MN to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Minneapolis movers by type
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Local
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Minneapolis
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Chicago to Minneapolis 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→MN 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 Minneapolis
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Minneapolis runs about 7% higher for singles and -49% higher for families than Chicago.
Singles spend around $3,900 in Minneapolis versus $3,648 in Chicago; families pay $4,710 compared with $9,266.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Chicago | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,688 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,707 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $312,602 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $70,099 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $3,900 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $4,710 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 4.5% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 9.03% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 9.85% |
- When relocating from Chicago to Minneapolis, expect to find rent about 27% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Minneapolis are about 6% higher than those in Chicago.
- In terms of average income, Minneapolis and Chicago are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Minneapolis, as living costs for a single person are 7% higher than in Chicago. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- A move to Minneapolis 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 49% less than what it costs in Chicago.
- The unemployment rate in Minneapolis is about 50% 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 12% less in Minneapolis relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Minnesota are 99% 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 Minneapolis:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $164.65 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $50.68 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.15 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $3.75 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $55.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chicago than in Minneapolis.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in Minneapolis.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Minneapolis.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Minneapolis.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Minneapolis.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Minneapolis.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Minneapolis.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Minneapolis
| Chicago | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 425,115 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 71 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 83 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 56.06 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 43.94 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Minneapolis's population is about 85% less than Chicago.
- Minneapolis's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Minneapolis is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 71 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- With a score of 83 out of 100, Minneapolis is more bike-friendly than Chicago, which has a score of 72 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Minneapolis's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 56.06 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Minneapolis neighborhoods are safer than 56.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Minneapolis is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 43.94 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Minneapolis is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Minneapolis 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: To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Minnesota’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Minnesota 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 Minneapolis. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives 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 Minneapolis
Planning your move to City of Lakes? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Minneapolis.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Linden Hills
- Loring Park
- Northeast Minneapolis
- North Loop (Warehouse District)
- Uptown
- Whittier
Best neighborhoods for families
- Diamond Lake
- Fulton
- Kenny
- Linden Hills
- Minnehaha
Things to do in Minneapolis
After settling into your new Minnesota home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Minneapolis has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Minneapolis features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Mill City Museum, American Swedish Institute, and The Museum of Russian Art.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Minnehaha Park, Mill Ruins Park, Loring Park, and Gold Medal 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 Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)Minnesota Twins (MLB)Minnesota Vikings (NFL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Minneapolis?
Planning your move from Chicago to Minneapolis? 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 Minneapolis?
Because most people are moving from Chicago to Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis take?
The 414-mile journey from Chicago, IL to Minneapolis, MN, typically takes one to four 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 Minneapolis.
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.
