Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

Chicago, IL to Dallas, TX Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

Ryan Carrigan
Ryan Carrigan
 • 5 min read
checkmarkFact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Dallas (about 926 miles) typically costs $2,665–$6,519 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.

Estimates based on moveBuddha pricing data as of March 2026. Prices can change based on how much you're moving, demand, add-on services like packing, and how flexible your move dates are.

Cost to move from Chicago to Dallas

Moving from Chicago, IL to Dallas, TX typically costs $2,665–$6,519 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.

The price ranges below are estimates for a 926-mile move from Chicago to Dallas, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of March 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.

On average, moveBuddha users save 30% by comparing options with our moving cost calculator.

Estimated moving costs from Chicago, IL to Dallas, TX

Move size Professional movers Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $2,189–$5,146 $1,292–$2,302 $686–$1,284
2–3 bedrooms $2,665–$6,519 $1,729–$3,198 $770–$1,606
4+ bedrooms $4,382–$9,045 $2,283–$4,495 $929–$1,952

Recent moving quotes for similar moves

These are real moving quotes similar to your Chicago to Dallas move using our proprietary live pricing feed. Exact pricing can vary, but the examples below show what movers have actually charged for similar move sizes and service types.

  • PODS recently quoted $1,484 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
  • Roadway Moving recently quoted $3,025 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
  • BLVD Moving recently quoted $3,303 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
PODS
New Lenox, IL › Colleyville, TX
Icon of a house Studio apartment
Icon of a calendar Feb 14, 2026
$1,484
Get a Quote
Roadway Moving
Beecher, IL › Seagoville, TX
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Feb 12, 2026
$3,025
Get a Quote
BLVD Moving
Stone Park, IL › Caddo Mills, TX
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 31, 2026
$3,303
Get a Quote
Mayflower Transit
Winfield, IL › Rosser, TX
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (small)
Icon of a calendar Jan 30, 2026
$3,515
Get a Quote
Allied Van Lines
Stickney, IL › Ovilla, TX
Icon of a house 5+ Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 21, 2026
$6,149
Get a Quote
Mayzlin Relocation
Wood Dale, IL › Carrollton, TX
Icon of a house 1 Bedroom (large)
Icon of a calendar Jan 17, 2026
$2,726
Get a Quote
North American Van Lines
Green Oaks, IL › Flower Mound, TX
Icon of a house 3 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 11, 2026
$5,371
Get a Quote
Safeway Moving
Hawthorn Woods, IL › Providence Village, TX
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Jan 06, 2026
$3,790
Get a Quote
AB Moving
Lemont, IL › Parker, TX
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Dec 31, 2025
$3,453
Get a Quote
Budget Truck Rental
Gages Lake, IL › DeSoto, TX
Icon of a house 2 Bedrooms
Icon of a calendar Nov 29, 2025
$1,094
Get a Quote

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Dallas, TX to Chicago, IL guide.

Best Chicago to Dallas movers by type

moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Veteran owned
  • Portion to charity
Get A Quote
(855) 650-0657
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
Get A Quote
(866) 835-2392
moveBuddha logo iconrating star star star star star 4.2 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience
Get A Quote
(866) 825-0554

Most people moving from Chicago to Dallas choose between professional movers, moving containers, or a rental truck. The right choice depends on your budget, timeline, and how much of the move you want to handle yourself.

  • Professional movers: Best if you want a hands-off move and professionals handling the logistics.
  • Moving containers: A middle ground where you pack and load, while the company transports the container.
  • Rental trucks: Usually the lowest base price, but you handle driving and most of the work.
  • Local movers: Some city-based movers can handle interstate moves, especially shorter routes.
  • Labor-only: Hire help for loading or unloading while you manage theNeed flexibility on moving day? Opt for a truck or container. This choice lets you pack at your own pace and manage your belongings the way you want.
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Local Movers Icon
Local

Best professional movers from Chicago to Dallas

The average cost of professional movers is $2,665–$6,519 for a typical 2–3 bedroom move from Chicago, IL to Dallas, TX. Professional interstate movers are the best choice if you want a hands-off move with packing, loading, transportation, and unloading handled by experts.

To compare top-rated companies, see our guide to the best interstate moving companies.

Safeway Moving
Get Quote
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
American Van Lines
Get Quote
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.9
Allied Van Lines
Get Quote
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years' experience
4.2

Key factors that influence Chicago to Dallas moving costs

The price of a move between Chicago and Dallas depends on several logistical factors.

  • Shipment size and weight: Interstate movers primarily price moves based on shipment weight and the amount of space your items take up in the truck. Smaller moves can start around $2,189, while larger homes may reach $9,045 or more depending on inventory.
  • Distance and route logistics: The move from Chicago to Dallas covers about 926 miles. Longer routes increase transportation costs and may require additional fuel, driver time, and coordination.
  • Move date and demand: Moving companies charge more during busy periods like summer and month-end weekends. Flexible scheduling, such as moving mid-week or mid-month, can sometimes lower your quote.
  • Service level you choose: Full-service movers handle packing, loading, transport, and unloading, which raises the price. Containers and rental trucks are often cheaper because you handle more of the work yourself.
  • Inventory accuracy: Your quote is based on the inventory list provided during the estimate. Adding items later can increase the final price, especially on long-distance moves where shipment weight matters.

Other factors to consider for your Chicago to Dallas move

  • HOA rules: Check any neighborhood or community rules on moving to avoid delays on move day.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, find out how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require permits for large vehicles and moving trucks, check local rules ahead of time.
  • State licensing: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use is properly licensed before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Texas moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Texas does not typically require moving permits, but it’s still smart to check local parking restrictions before move-in day.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Dallas smoothly. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: State rules differ on mover insurance. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized.

What to know before moving from Chicago to Dallas

Many movers find Dallas easier on the wallet than Chicago, the average cost of living is about 22% less for singles and 16% less for families.

Monthly basics average $3,648 for one person in Chicago versus $2,828 in Dallas. For a family of four, it’s $9,266 compared with $7,793.

See the breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings may add up:

Chicago Dallas
Average 1 bedroom rent $2,368 $1,616
Average 3 bedroom rent $4,581 $3,504
Average home value $295,743 $303,900
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $68,291
Cost of living (single) $3,648 $2,828
Cost of living (family of four) $9,266 $7,793
Unemployment rate 9.0% 3.6%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.25%
State income tax 4.95% 0.0%
source: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation
  • Rent is about 13% lower in Dallas than in Chicago.
  • Home prices are within about 5% of each other in Chicago and Dallas.
  • Average income is within about 5% of the same in Chicago and Dallas.
  • Dallas has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 60%.
  • Sales tax is lower in Dallas than in Chicago.
  • Texas has no state income tax, while Illinois does.

How common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Chicago and Dallas

Here's a breakdown of typical everyday costs in both cities:

Living expense Chicago Dallas
Basic utilities $191 $227
Cell phone plan $61 $76
Dozen eggs $5 $4
Loaf of bread $4 $4
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25 $20
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100 $80
Gym membership $78 $42
  • Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Dallas.
  • A quick meal costs more in Chicago than in Dallas.
  • Gym memberships are more expensive in Chicago than in Dallas.

How life is different in Chicago vs. Dallas

Here are some ways life is different between Chicago and Dallas:

Chicago Dallas
Population 2,746,388 1,304,379
Transportation score 9 6
Walkability score 77 46
Bike friendliness score 72 49
Crime index 35.19 51.4
Safety index 33.87 48.6
Air quality Good Good
source: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
  • Dallas's population is about 53% less than Chicago.
  • Dallas has a lower public transportation score (6 out of 10) than Chicago (9).
  • Dallas is less walkable (46 out of 100) than Chicago (77).
  • Dallas is less bike friendly (49 out of 100) than Chicago (72).
  • Dallas has a higher crime index than Chicago (51.4 vs 35.19).
  • Dallas has a higher safety index than Chicago (48.6 vs 33.87).
  • Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Dallas it’s Good.

Where to live in Dallas

Now that you've decided to make the move to Big D, these are the best neighborhoods to consider in Dallas.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Bishop Arts District
  • Deep Ellum
  • Design District
  • Knox-Henderson
  • Uptown

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Preston Hollow
  • Lake Highlands
  • Uptown
  • Preston Highlands
  • Lakewood
  • Richardson
  • University Park

Things to do in Dallas

After settling into your new home in Texas, you can start exploring what Dallas has to offer:

  • Arts and culture:Dallas is home to museums and cultural attractions like the The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and Dallas Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation:The city’s Klyde Warren Park, White Rock Lake Park, Main Street Garden Park, and Fair Park are great places for walks, trails, and time outside.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Texas Rangers (MLB)Dallas Cowboys (NFL)Dallas Stars (NHL)Dallas Mavericks (NBA)FC Dallas (MLS)Dallas Wings (WNBA)Dallas Rattlers (MLL)Frisco Fighters (IFL)Dallas Jackals (MLR) game.
source: AttractionsofAmerica

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chicago to Dallas?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Chicago to Dallas. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Chicago.

When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Dallas?

Want to save on your move from Chicago to Dallas? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Chicago to Dallas take?

The 926-mile move from Chicago, IL, to Dallas, TX, takes two to seven days. Some Chicago movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Dallas.

What kinds of discounts do Chicago movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 2 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Chicago?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 54 movers in Chicago provide piano moving services. 40 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,296 and 1,463.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

Ryan Carrigan
Ryan Carrigan
Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.
triangle triangle