Factors that influence moving costs from Chicago to McKinneytoggle

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Chicago to McKinney might cost as little as $1,337, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,258.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Chicago, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $722 to $1,730. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Chicago to McKinney

Moving from Chicago to McKinney means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Chicago than in McKinney, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Chicago compares to McKinney so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Chicago McKinney
Average rent cost $2,045 $2,300
Average home value $295,743 $506,597
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $66,248
Cost of living (single person) $3,648 $2,232
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,266 $4,876
Unemployment rate 9.0% 6.0%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.25%
State income tax 4.95% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in McKinney are 13% higher than in Chicago, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Chicago.
    Home prices in McKinney are 71.3% higher than in Chicago.
  • Income in McKinney is 7.4% lower than in Chicago, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in McKinney include Globe Life, SRS Distribution, and Banks Group.
  • The cost of living for a single person in McKinney is 38.8% lower than in Chicago. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in McKinney is 47.4% lower than in Chicago.
  • The unemployment rate in McKinney is 33.33% lower than in Chicago.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in McKinney, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in McKinney are 19.51% lower than in Chicago.
  • One perk of moving to McKinney is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Chicago.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,835.53 in McKinney to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago vs. McKinney

McKinney Chicago
Population 195,308 2,746,388
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 1 9
Walkability score 27 77
Bike friendliness score 42 72
Crime Index 21.48 35.19
Safety Index 78.52 33.87
Air Quality Good Good
  • McKinney's population is about 93% less than Chicago.
  • McKinney's public transportation has a score of 1 out of 10 versus Chicago's higher score of 9.
  • McKinney is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 27 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
  • McKinney has a bike-friendliness score 42 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
  • McKinney's crime rate is lower than Chicago with a score of 21.48 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that McKinney neighborhoods are safer than 21.48% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
  • McKinney is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 78.52 vs Chicago's 33.87.
  • Air quality in McKinney is good, and in Chicago it's good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago vs. McKinney move

  • Weather: October, April and May are the most pleasant months in McKinney, while July and August are the least comfortable months as you may experience extreme heat during these months.
  • 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 you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits 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 has a license 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 require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to McKinney. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in McKinney

Now that you've decided to make the move to "", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in McKinney.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Historic Downtown
  • Trinity Falls
  • Adriatic Village
  • Auburn Hills

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Provence
  • Trinity Falls
  • Auburn Hills
  • Hardin Lake
  • Mallard Lakes

Things to do in McKinney

After settling into your new Texas home, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, McKinney has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: McKinney is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, Chestnut Square Historic Village, Heard-Craig Center for the Arts, Collin County History Museum, and LAST Art Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Bonnie Wenk Park, Myers Park and Event Center, Erwin Park Hike & Bike Trail, and Adriatica Village โ€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to McKinney. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chicago.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Chicago to McKinney, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Chicago to McKinney take?

The 893-mile journey from Chicago, IL to McKinney, TX typically takes two to seven 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 McKinney.

Helpful moving resources