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($1,083) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 1,198 miles from Chicago to San Antonio is generally between $796 and $5,828. The trip duration should be approximately two–eight days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Chicago to San Antonio

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Chicago to San Antonio

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chicago to San Antonio, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Chicago, you have a choice of 49 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach San Antonio smoothly and with confidence.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Chicago to San Antonio

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,198-mile move from Chicago to San Antonio using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,930 – $4,793
  • Moving Container $1,159 – $2,172
  • Rental Truck $729 – $1,334
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,480 – $5,828
  • Moving Container $1,463 – $3,056
  • Rental Truck $796 – $1,636
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,984 – $8,247
  • Moving Container $2,126 – $4,209
  • Rental Truck $981 – $2,034
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.
American Van Lines
Green Oaks, IL Castroville, TX
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 21, 2025
United Van Lines
Broadview, IL Lackland AFB, TX
2 Bedrooms
Nov 17, 2025
Roadway Moving
Burnham, IL Boerne, TX
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 16, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Bolingbrook, IL Bulverde, TX
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 01, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Sauk Village, IL Stockdale, TX
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 29, 2025
PODS
Willow Springs, IL Marion, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 16, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Long Grove, IL Poteet, TX
4 Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
Safeway Moving
Itasca, IL Seguin, TX
Studio apartment
Sep 22, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Third Lake, IL Timberwood Park, TX
4 Bedrooms
Sep 21, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Bensenville, IL Randolph AFB, TX
Studio apartment
Sep 20, 2025

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

Top local movers for Chicago to San Antonio moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Chicago that also provides long-distance services to San Antonio can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 68 local movers in Chicago who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Chicago to San Antonio.

  1. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. New City Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  5. Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.5% of all reviews were positive
4.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Alliance Moving & Storage feels like a breath of fresh air: 247 customer feedback entries were analyzed, with a remarkable 95.5% being positive. Most people describe the company as efficient, careful with belongings, highly professional, and quick. Customers consistently mention respectful staff and clear, reliable communication throughout the process. Affordable, transparent pricing and rapid scheduling compared favorably versus rival companies. On the downside, a minority report unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, or trouble reaching someone after problems arose. Issues like last-minute price increases or lack of follow-up were sometimes cited by dissatisfied customers. Negative experiences remain much less common than positive ones. Compared with typical moving companies, Alliance stands out for speed, professionalism, and care, though some customers recommend confirming all charges up front to prevent misunderstandings.
Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Company Info

State license #: 214845

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2882675

Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.4% of all reviews were positive
5.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move. While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.4% of all reviews were positive
28.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings. Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI’s organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.5% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication. People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
69.5% of all reviews were positive
29.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Golan’s is a tale of standout efficiency and careful handling, backed by a team known for their professionalism and great communication. Nearly 70% of the 814 customer experiences highlighted fast moves, respect for customers’ belongings, and crews who made even complex moves feel smooth. People mention polite staff, careful packing, and transparency more often than with other moving companies. On the other hand, almost a third encountered problems such as damaged items, higher-than-expected final bills, or delays on moving day. Some also point out that resolving claims and unexpected charges can be frustrating. Compared to similar companies, Golan’s receives more repeat business for their fast, careful service but also faces more complaints about damages or billing than some direct competitors. Golan’s consistently delivers safe, efficient moves with friendly crews, but be sure to clarify all charges and ask about insurance and delivery timing before booking.
Get a Quote (847) 262-9778

Company Info

State license #: 93712

Years in Business: 34

DOT #: 504435

Alternate Names: Golan’s Moving and Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Chicago to San Antonio?

Movers in Illinois generally charge an average of $113 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,083 – $4,635 $817 – $1,998 $751 – $1,320
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,480 – $5,828 $1,463 – $3,056 $796 – $1,636
4+ bedrooms $3,984 – $8,247 $2,126 – $4,209 $981 – $2,034
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 1,198-mile move from Chicago to San Antonio, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to San Antonio

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to San Antonio typically costs between $1,083 and $4,635. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,480 and $5,828 when moving from Chicago to San Antonio. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Chicago to San Antonio, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,984 up to $8,247.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to San Antonio

If you’re relocating from Chicago to San Antonio, you’ll typically spend between $817 and $1,998 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,463 up to $3,056. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,126 and $4,209. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to San Antonio

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Chicago to San Antonio move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $751 and $1,320. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $796 to $1,636. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $981 and $2,034.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to San Antonio

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Chicago to San Antonio might be as low as $2,253, while a four-bedroom could reach $6,522.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Chicago.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $751 to $1,734 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Chicago to San Antonio

Many movers find San Antonio easier on the wallet than Chicago – roughly 40% less for singles and 47% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,194 for one person in San Antonio versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it’s $4,931 compared with $9,266.

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

Chicago San Antonio
Average 1 BR rent $2,368 $1,471
Average 3 BR rent $4,581 $2,533
Average home value $295,743 $249,398
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $62,451
Cost of living (single) $3,648 $2,194
Cost of living (family of four) $9,266 $4,931
Unemployment rate 9.0% 3.8%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.25%
State income tax 4.95% 0.0%
  • Good news! When moving to San Antonio from Chicago, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 27% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 16% cheaper in San Antonio, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 13% lower in San Antonio than in Chicago.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in San Antonio. The cost of living for a single person is 40% less compared to Chicago.
  • Relocating to San Antonio could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 47% lower than in Chicago.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 58% lower than Chicago, San Antonio boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes are 20% lower in San Antonio than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Texas has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Chicago and San Antonio, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Chicago San Antonio
Basic utilities $191.26 $208.99
Cell phone plan $61.10 $58.64
Dozen eggs $4.52 $3.65
Loaf of bread $4.15 $3.01
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $19.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $70.00
Gym membership $78.31 $42.93
  • Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in San Antonio, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in San Antonio.
  • Eggs cost more in Chicago than in San Antonio.
  • Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in San Antonio.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in San Antonio.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in San Antonio.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in San Antonio.

How life is different in Chicago vs. San Antonio

Chicago San Antonio
Population 2,746,388 1,434,625
Transportation score 9 6
Walkability score 77 37
Bike friendliness score 72 45
Crime index 35.19 48.06
Safety index 33.87 51.94
Air quality Good Moderate
  • San Antonio’s population is about 48% less than Chicago.
  • San Antonio’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
  • San Antonio is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
  • San Antonio has a bike-friendliness score of 45 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
  • San Antonio’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 48.06 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that San Antonio neighborhoods are safer than 48.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
  • San Antonio is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 51.94 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
  • Air quality in San Antonio is Moderate, and in Chicago it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago to San Antonio move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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 check the status of a Texas moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Texas, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to San Antonio without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in San Antonio

Ready to relocate to Alamo City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in San Antonio.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Alamo Heights
  • Downtown
  • Tobin Hill
  • Monte Vista

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Alamo Heights
  • Great Northwest
  • Northwest Crossing
  • Oak Park-Northwood
  • Terrell Hills

Things to do in San Antonio

Now that you’ve made the move to Texas, it’s the perfect time to explore San Antonio. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in San Antonio include museums and art centers like the The Alamo, Witte Museum, The DoSeum – San Antonio’s Museum for Kids, and Briscoe Western Art Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Brackenridge Park, Phil Hardberger park, Japanese Tea Garden, and Mercado O’liva, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an UTSA Roadrunners American footballSan Antonio Spurs BasketballSan Antonio MissionsSan Antonio FC game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chicago to San Antonio?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to San Antonio. You’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 San Antonio?

With many people choosing to move from Chicago to San Antonio in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from Chicago to San Antonio take?

Covering 1,198 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, typically takes two to eight days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in San Antonio can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Chicago offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers extend senior citizen discounts.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in Chicago can handle specialty items for my move to San Antonio?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Chicago, 54 movers can handle pianos. 40 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IL, there are 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,300 and 1,465 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

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