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($964) Cost to Move From Lexington, KY to Chicago, IL

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Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 368 miles from Lexington to Chicago is generally between $365 and $4,754. The trip duration should be approximately one–four 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 Lexington to Chicago

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 Lexington to Chicago

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Lexington to Chicago, 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 Lexington, you have a choice of 7 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Chicago 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 Lexington to Chicago

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 368-mile move from Lexington to Chicago using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 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 $1,077 – $3,829
  • Moving Container $847 – $1,564
  • Rental Truck $319 – $639
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,766 – $4,754
  • Moving Container $1,072 – $2,068
  • Rental Truck $365 – $765
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,774 – $6,765
  • Moving Container $1,493 – $2,796
  • Rental Truck $453 – $880
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
Lexington, KY Sleepy Hollow, IL
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 21, 2025
Safeway Moving
Berry, KY Romeoville, IL
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 07, 2025
American Van Lines
Junction City, KY Summit, IL
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 29, 2025
United Van Lines
Versailles, KY Carpentersville, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 24, 2025
Roadway Moving
Jeffersonville, KY West Dundee, IL
Studio apartment
Sep 23, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Irvine, KY Geneva, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 14, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Cynthiana, KY Burbank, IL
4 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
Lawrenceburg, KY Brookfield, IL
Studio apartment
Aug 18, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Midway, KY Westmont, IL
2 Bedrooms
Aug 13, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Lancaster, KY Gurnee, IL
Studio apartment
Aug 06, 2025

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

Top local movers for Lexington to Chicago moves

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

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

  1. Wildcat Moving LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Vincent Fister Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.0% of all reviews were positive
13.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Wildcat Moving LLC packs a punch in performance, with an impressive 85% of customer input rating them highly out of 321 reviews analyzed. Customers regularly point out reliable efficiency, professional and polite teams, careful handling, a speedy moving process, and clear communication. Movers often go the extra mile with heavy or delicate items while maintaining friendly attitudes, setting Wildcat apart from many competitors. Rates are seen as fair and booking is easy, bolstering the company’s positive reputation. On the flip side, a number of customers report damage to belongings, costs higher than initial quotes, and challenges when filing complaints or seeking compensation. Several reviews detail dissatisfaction about the resolution of claims and hidden fees for insurance or minimums. Compared to other moving companies, Wildcat provides faster and more courteous service but should further improve the consistency of handling claims and communication about final costs.
Get a Quote (859) 948-3553

Company Info

State license #: 3952

Pricing: $140/hr

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2207083

Alternate Names: Wildcat Furniture Repair , Wildcat Pressure Washing , The Wildcat Group

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.0% of all reviews were positive
13.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe moves with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK as effortless and stress-free, noting efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite movers as stand-out features. Most input, 86% of 236 reviews, was positive, highlighting quick moving and helpful staff who ensured items remained undamaged. Some feedback pointed out issues like damaged belongings, jobs feeling rushed, and unexpected charges, especially in larger or complex moves. The company receives much higher marks for punctuality and efficiency than many moving services, but a small group mentioned still feeling frustrated by damage or inconsistent communication. Clients looking for reliable, careful movers and prompt service strongly favor this company, but people needing meticulous item protection or straightforward billing should verify specifics before booking.
Get a Quote (859) 554-4616

Company Info

State license #: 3885

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Beautiful World, LLC. , Two Men And A Truck – Lexington

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
12.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—that’s the message from most customer feedback for Vincent Fister Inc. Out of 232 reviews analyzed, roughly 85% were positive, with people repeatedly noting efficient, professional staff who communicate well and treat belongings with care. Quick moving processes and organized crews stand out. Pricing transparency and knowledgeable movers also set them apart from competitors. On the downside, about 13% of reviews reported substantial item damage, with some users struggling to resolve claims or encountering unresponsive or rude staff. Compared to similar companies, Vincent Fister Inc. delivers better reliability and professionalism, but improvements are needed for handling damage claims and complaint resolution.
Get a Quote (859) 266-2153

Company Info

State license #: 0065

Years in Business: 71

Alternate Names: Fister, Inc. , Vincent Fister Company, Inc. , United Van Lines

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.9% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day magic and standout professionalism define the feedback for Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc. Out of 72 reviews analyzed, 88.9% were positive, highlighting polite, efficient staff, careful handling, and quick, seamless moves. Customers frequently note strong communication and prompt service. Negative experiences, making up 9.7% of feedback, focus on property damage, unprofessional conduct, and difficulty resolving complaints—especially regarding claims for damaged items. Only 1 review was neutral. Compared to similar companies, Saunier stands out for consistency, friendly teams, and reliable execution, yet occasional lapses in handling and customer care can frustrate those needing service resolution.
Get a Quote (859) 233-2383

Company Info

State license #: 1280

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Saunier North American , Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc., A North American Van Lines Agent

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.9% of all reviews were positive
28.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving as fast, courteous, and consistently professional, with the majority praising efficient moves, polite teams, and careful handling of possessions. Of the 45 total feedback submissions, nearly 69% were positive, reflecting satisfaction with helpful staff and rapid service. Most clients point to seamless booking and affordable rates as standouts, setting the company apart from many competitors. Still, issues occur: late arrivals, item damage, and unexpectedly high bills surface in nearly 29% of feedback, sometimes paired with unresolved complaints. Compared to similar services, College Hunks earns high marks for friendliness and speed, but ongoing concerns about reliability and cost accuracy remain a drawback.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 4393

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: College Hunks Moving , MJ, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Lexington to Chicago?

Movers in Kentucky generally charge an average of $105 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 $964 – $2,937 $586 – $1,431 $346 – $596
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,766 – $4,754 $1,072 – $2,068 $365 – $765
4+ bedrooms $2,774 – $6,765 $1,493 – $2,796 $453 – $880
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 368-mile move from Lexington to Chicago, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 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 Lexington to Chicago

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Lexington to Chicago typically costs between $964 and $2,937. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,766 and $4,754 when moving from Lexington to Chicago. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Lexington to Chicago, you’re looking at costs ranging from $2,774 up to $6,765.

Cost of moving containers from Lexington to Chicago

If you’re relocating from Lexington to Chicago, you’ll typically spend between $586 and $1,431 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,072 up to $2,068. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,493 and $2,796. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Lexington to Chicago

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Lexington to Chicago 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 $346 and $596. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $365 to $765. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $453 and $880.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Lexington to Chicago

The cost of Lexington movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Lexington to Chicago might be as low as $1,324, while a four-bedroom could reach $5,694.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Lexington.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $346 to $795 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Lexington to Chicago

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 18% higher for singles and 122% higher for families than Lexington.

Singles spend around $3,648 in Lexington versus $3,100 in Lexington; families pay $9,266 compared with $4,170.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Lexington Chicago
Average 1 BR rent $1,175 $2,368
Average 3 BR rent $2,110 $4,581
Average home value $309,021 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $61,526 $71,566
Cost of living (single) $3,100 $3,648
Cost of living (family of four) $4,170 $9,266
Unemployment rate 4.3% 9.0%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.25%
State income tax 4.0% 4.95%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 52% higher in Chicago than in Lexington, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • The home prices in Chicago and Lexington differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 16% higher in Chicago than in Lexington, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Chicago, as the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 18% greater than in Lexington. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Chicago, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 122% more than it is in Lexington.
  • The unemployment rate in Chicago exceeds that of Lexington by about 109%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
  • Sales taxes in Chicago exceed those in Lexington by 71%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 24% higher in Illinois than in Kentucky. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

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

Living Expense Lexington Chicago
Basic utilities $206.92 $191.26
Cell phone plan $71.33 $61.10
Dozen eggs $2.98 $4.52
Loaf of bread $2.90 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $14.25 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $100.00
Gym membership $37.50 $78.31
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Lexington than in Chicago.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Lexington than in Chicago.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Lexington than in Chicago.
  • Bread costs less in Lexington than in Chicago.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Lexington than in Chicago.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Lexington than in Chicago.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Lexington than in Chicago.

How life is different in Lexington vs. Chicago

Lexington Chicago
Population 320,347 2,746,388
Transportation score 4 9
Walkability score 90 77
Bike friendliness score 85 72
Crime index 50.88 35.19
Safety index 49.12 33.87
Air quality Good Good
  • Chicago’s population is about 757% greater than Lexington.
  • Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Lexington’s score of 4.
  • Chicago is less walkable than Lexington with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Lexington’s 90 out of 100.
  • Chicago has a bike-friendliness score of 72 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Lexington, which has a score of 85.
  • Chicago’s crime rate is lower than Lexington with a score of 35.19 compared to Lexington’s 50.88. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lexington neighborhoods are safer than 50.88%.
  • Chicago is considered to be less safe than Lexington with a score of 33.87 vs Lexington’s 49.12.
  • Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Lexington it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Lexington to Chicago 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 Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Illinois moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Illinois, 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 Chicago 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. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Chicago

Ready to relocate to Chi-Town? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Chicago.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Lake View
  • Lincoln Park
  • The Loop
  • Near North Side
  • West Town

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Beverly
  • Edison Park
  • Lincoln Park
  • North Center
  • West Loop

Things to do in Chicago

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chicago include museums and art centers like the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park, 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 Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Lexington to Chicago. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Lexington.

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

With many people choosing to move from Lexington to Chicago 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 Lexington to Chicago take?

Covering 368 miles, the move from Lexington, KY to Chicago, typically takes one to four days. Some Lexington movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chicago can help bridge the gap.

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

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Lexington, 6 movers can handle pianos. 4 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of KY, there are 21 piano movers and 14 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

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

Helpful moving resources

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