Local moving companies in Boston
- Boston Best Rate Movers: 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Esquire Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Oscar's Moving Company, LLC: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- StairHopper Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Oscar's Moving Company: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Boston Best Rate Movers

DOT #: 1718049
Years in Business: 19
252R Calvary St, Waltham, MA 02453 USBoston Best Rate Movers earns applause for its swift, careful, and professional moving teams. Out of 248 pieces of customer feedback, 96% praised factors like efficiency, attention to detail, professionalism, timely arrivals, and budget-friendly rates. Customers often highlight careful wrapping, fast-paced teams, courteous staff, and straightforward pricing that rarely incurs surprises. Users also welcome the ease of the booking process and the respectful treatment of propertyโqualities that place BBRM ahead of many local competitors. Only a handful of reviewers express frustration with unexpected costs, item damage, or unsatisfactory complaint resolution, noting higher-than-expected bills, difficult claims processes, or unresolved breakage issues. Even so, Boston Best Rate Movers consistently delivers an experience that exceeds expectations for reliability and service quality compared to other movers in the Boston area.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1718049
- State license #: 31391
- DOD certified
Alternative Business Names
- Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.
Esquire Moving & Storage

DOT #: 2820253
Pricing: $115/hr
Years in Business: 10
25 Summer Ave, Waltham, MA 02452 USMoving doesn't have to be stressful, as shown by Esquire Moving & Storageโs customer feedback. Of 16 reviews analyzed, 93.8% praised fast and careful service, courteous movers, efficient scheduling, and clear communication. Clients noted excellent care with breakables, friendly crews, and easy booking every step of the way. Many appreciated timely arrivals and efficient work, reflecting well-planned moves and attentive staff. Some even mentioned repeat positive experiences and highly recommend the company for both local and interstate moves. One customer noted higher costs due to slow progress and perceived inefficiency, expressing dissatisfaction specific to a single event. Compared to other companies, Esquire stands out for consistently professional movers and careful attention to clientsโ property, but those seeking the lowest rates should confirm pricing transparency beforehand.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2820253
Alternative Business Names
- Esquire Moving Inc
Oscar's Moving Company, LLC

DOT #: 1637689
Years in Business: 17
86 Rowe St, Auburndale, MA 02466 USCustomer feedback paints Oscar's Moving Company as a reliable moving choice, with 70% of input rating their experience as positive out of 151 reviews analyzed. Professionalism, attention to careful handling, efficiency, quick service, and affordable pricing stand out as strengths. Many praised the staff for being on time, friendly, and taking great care with fragile or valuable belongingsโtraits that distinguish Oscar's in a crowded industry. Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, surprise charges, or interactions seen as rude or dismissive. Reports of damaged furniture or lost items, as well as unexpected costs, have caused frustration for some. Oscar's scores higher than many local movers on professionalism and reliability, though a smaller portion of customers experienced issues with claims or communication after a problem arose. Most reviews recommend Oscar's for moves that require speed, careful handling, and fair pricing, while those concerned about potential for item damage may want to discuss insurance options or clarify estimates ahead of time.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 1637689
- State license #: 1637689
Alternative Business Names
- Oscar's Moving Company
StairHopper Movers

DOT #: 1696867
Years in Business: 21
20 Harvard Street, Boston, MA 02129 USCustomers call StairHopper Movers a top choice for hassle-free, fast, and professional moving. Out of 831 customer feedback pieces reviewed, 97.5% gave positive marks. Most highlight efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, speed, and strong communication as major reasons for high satisfaction. Movers stand out for punctuality, wrapping and protecting furniture, and working quicklyโoften finishing ahead of schedule. Input often references respectful, friendly crews and transparent scheduling updatesโa rarity among movers. Some feedback shares that costs ran higher than quoted, often due to extra material charges or underestimated packing needs. Customers occasionally noted surprise fees. A small number mention minor damage or billing complaints. Compared to many moving companies, StairHopper receives consistently stronger praise for reliability and organization, though pricing clarity could be improved. Many say it's the best move they've ever had and would recommend StairHopper to friends or use them again.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 1696867
- State license #: 31321
Oscar's Moving Company

DOT #: 1637689
Years in Business: 17
86 Rowe St, Newton, MA 02466 USSmooth moves and attentive staff consistently define Oscar's Moving Company, based on analysis of 339 customer inputs. Nearly 84% of feedback expresses satisfaction, pointing to fast service, careful treatment of belongings, professionalism, speedy moving, and open communication as standout qualities. Teams frequently arrive on time, work efficiently, and ensure property is protected. Many highlight helpful communication and a courteous attitude not always found with other movers in the industry. Yet, about 16% of feedback cites issues like damaged goods, missed time windows, and billing surprises. Reports of lost or broken items and charges exceeding quotes occur more than with top competitors. Despite some lapses, the high rate of repeat business suggests Oscar's consistently outperforms most local options for professionalism and efficiency while keeping prices transparent for the majority of customers.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 1637689
- State license #: 31320
Alternative Business Names
- Oscar's Moving Company
Factors influencing moving costs from Boston to Chicago
What to know before moving from Boston to Chicago
Moving from Boston to Chicago means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Boston than in Chicago, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Boston compares to Chicago so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Boston | Chicago | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $3,400 | $2,045 |
Average home value | $739,121 | $295,743 |
Average income (per capita) | $89,212 | $71,566 |
Cost of living (single person) | $4,820 | $3,648 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $11,304 | $9,266 |
Unemployment rate | 6.2% | 9.0% |
Sales tax | 6.25% | 10.25% |
State income tax | 9.0% | 4.95% |
- Rent prices in Chicago are 40% lower than in Boston, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Chicago.
Home prices in Chicago are 60.0% lower than in Boston. - Income in Chicago is 19.8% lower than in Boston, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Chicago include U.S. Government, Chicago Public Schools, and City of Chicago.
- The cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 24.3% lower than in Boston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 18.0% lower than in Boston.
- The unemployment rate in Chicago is 45.16% higher than in Boston.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Chicago, since the cityโs sales taxes in Chicago are 64.00% higher than in Boston.
- One perk of moving to Chicago is paying less in state income taxes, which are 45.00% lower than in Boston.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,270.54 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Boston.
How life is different in Boston vs. Chicago
Chicago | Boston | |
---|---|---|
Population | 2,746,388 | 675,647 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 9 | 9 |
Walkability score | 77 | 98 |
Bike friendliness score | 72 | 86 |
Crime Index | 35.19 | 39.88 |
Safety Index | 33.87 | 60.12 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago's population is about 306% greater than Boston.
- Chicago's public transportation has a similar score to Boston.
- Chicago is less walkable than Boston with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Boston's 98 out of 100.
- Chicago has a bike-friendliness score 72 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Boston, which has a score of 86 out of 100.
- Chicago's crime rate is lower than Boston with a score of 35.19 compared to Boston's 39.88. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Boston neighborhoods are safer than 39.88%.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Boston with a score of 33.87 vs Boston's 60.12.
- Air quality in Chicago is good, and in Boston it's good.
Other things to consider for your Boston vs. Chicago move
- Weather: Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- 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 youโre considering have one and that itโs current.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Illinois moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Illinois doesn\โt require moving permits, but it\โs still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Chicago. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
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
After settling into your new Illinois home, youโll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chicago has lots to offer, no matter what youโre interested in:
- Arts and culture: Chicago is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago History Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park 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 Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Cubs (MLB), Chicago White Sox (MLB), or Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Boston to Chicago?
The best time to move from Boston to Chicago is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Boston.
When is the cheapest time to move from Boston to Chicago?
Because most people are moving from Boston to Chicago 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 Boston to Chicago take?
The 982-mile move from Boston, MA, to Chicago, IL, takes two to seven days. Some Boston movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Chicago.