($1,060) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Albany, NY

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 Albany

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Albany from Chicago, you can expect prices to land between $1,060 and $3,840. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,303 to $5,346 for the trip from Chicago to Albany. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,845 and $7,288.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Albany

Moving containers from Chicago to Albany will cost you $738 to $1,754 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,369 to $2,560. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,929 to $3,588. 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 Albany

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

Expect to pay between $562 and $1,059 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $618 to $1,233. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $775 to $1,511.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• When relocating from Chicago to Albany, expect to find rent about 29% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
• Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Albany and Chicago, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
• Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 7% lower in Albany compared to Chicago.
• You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Albany, as the cost of living for a single person is 51% lower compared to Chicago.
• A move to Albany 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 55% less than what it costs in Chicago.
• The unemployment rate in Albany is about 21% 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 22% less in Albany relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
• Income taxes in New York are 120% above those in Illinois. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• Albany’s population is about 96% less than Chicago.
• Albany’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Albany is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 65 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
• Albany has a bike-friendliness score of 55 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Albany’s crime rate is lower than Chicago with a score of 10.0 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Albany is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 49.65 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
• Air quality in Albany 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: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: New York’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: New York 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 Albany. 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 no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your 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.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Center Square
• Hudson Park
• Park South
• Washington Park
• Mansion
• Downtown
• Historic Pastures
• Sheridan Hollow
• Melrose
• North Albany/Shaker Park

Best neighborhoods for families

• Center Square
• Helderberg
• Melrose
• Park South
• Hudson Park
• New Scotland/Woodlawn
• Northside
• Union Street
• Buckingham Pond/Crestwood

Things to do in Albany

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

• Arts and culture: Albany features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the New York State Museum, USS Slater DE-766, Albany Institute of History & Art, and The Irish American Heritage Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Washington Park and Albany Pine Bush Preserve — 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 Albany Great Danes (America East)Saint Rose Golden Knights (NE-10) game.