Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Norfolk typically costs $2,700–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 885 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Norfolk
Moving from Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA typically costs $2,700–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 885-mile move from Chicago to Norfolk, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 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
- PODS recently quoted $3,446 for a 4 bedroom using a moving container.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $1,780 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $3,250 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Mar 01, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 28, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 27, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 26, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 12, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 08, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 03, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 23, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 14, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to Norfolk move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,100 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,700 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 $700 to $1,900, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Norfolk, VA to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Norfolk movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Norfolk
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Chicago to Norfolk 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→VA 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 Norfolk
Many movers find Norfolk easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 24% less for singles and 40% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,769 for one person in Norfolk versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $5,552 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Norfolk | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,875 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,492 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $283,890 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $63,484 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,769 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $5,552 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 7.3% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 5.75% |
- When relocating from Chicago to Norfolk, expect to find rent about 27% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Norfolk 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 11% lower in Norfolk compared to Chicago.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Norfolk, as the cost of living for a single person is 24% lower compared to Chicago.
- A move to Norfolk 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 40% less than what it costs in Chicago.
- The unemployment rate in Norfolk is about 19% 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 41% less in Norfolk relative to Chicago. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Virginia are 16% 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 Norfolk:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Norfolk |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $190.88 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $49.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.12 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $18.25 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Chicago than in Norfolk.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Chicago than in Norfolk.
- Eggs are less expensive in Chicago than in Norfolk.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Norfolk.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Norfolk.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Norfolk.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Norfolk.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Norfolk
| Chicago | Norfolk | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 238,005 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 46 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 47 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 58.1 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 41.9 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Norfolk's population is about 91% less than Chicago.
- Norfolk's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Chicago's score of 9.
- Norfolk is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 46 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- Norfolk has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Norfolk's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 58.1 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Norfolk neighborhoods are safer than 58.1% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Norfolk is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 41.9 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Norfolk is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Norfolk 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: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Virginia’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Virginia 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 Norfolk. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Norfolk
Planning your move to Norfolk? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Norfolk.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- East Ghent
- North Ghent
- Ghent
- Downtown
- West Ghent
- Newtown
- Edgewater-Larchmont
- West 21st Street
- Colonial Place
Best neighborhoods for families
- North Ghent
- Ghent
- Virginia Beach
- Edgewater-Larchmont
- West Ghent
- East Ghent
Things to do in Norfolk
After settling into your new Virginia home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Norfolk has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Norfolk features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, Chrysler Museum of Art, Nauticus, and MacArthur Memorial.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Norfolk Botanical Garden, Pagoda & Oriental Garden, Town Point Park, and Lake Drummond — 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 Norfolk Tides (Baseball-International League (AAA))Norfolk Admirals (Ice hockey)Old Dominion University (Football)Old Dominion University (Basketball)Norfolk State University (Football)Norfolk State University (Basketball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Norfolk?
Planning your move from Chicago to Norfolk? 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 Norfolk?
Because most people are moving from Chicago to Norfolk 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 Norfolk take?
The 885-mile journey from Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA, 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 Norfolk.
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 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
