Local moving companies in Minnesota
Moving from Minnesota to Chicago, IL calls for the support of experienced and reliable movers who can handle relocations with ease.
Out of 43 Minnesota movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Chicago, IL.
- Matt’s Moving Company : 4.7 out of 5 stars
- AAA Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Ace Moving & Warehousing: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 374236
Years in Business: 15
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 36
DOT #: 1140502
Alternate Names: AAA Movers Inc of Minnesota
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 286311
Years in Business: 73
DOT #: 286311
Alternate Names: Rochester Transfer & Storage Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 125550
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 309905
Years in Business: 25
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Minnesota to Chicago, IL
Check out the table below for average cost ranges to move from Minnesota to Chicago, IL, across different service types and home sizes.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,171 – $3,366 | $658 – $1,681 | $419 – $795 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,140 – $5,640 | $1,187 – $2,348 | $443 – $897 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,621 – $8,220 | $1,662 – $2,877 | $547 – $1,082 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 565-mile move from Minnesota to Chicago, IL using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of confirmed prices from movers nationwide and updates them monthly to account for seasonal patterns and market movement. Actual charges can change depending on load size, optional services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and your dates. Always compare several quotes to get a realistic price range.
Cost to hire professional movers from Minnesota to Chicago, IL
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Minnesota to Chicago, IL, you’ll likely pay between $1,171 and $3,366. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,140 and $5,640 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,621 to $8,220.
Cost of moving containers from Minnesota to Chicago, IL
When you’re heading from Minnesota to Chicago, IL, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $658 and $1,681. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,187 and $2,348. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,662 to $2,877. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Minnesota easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Minnesota to Chicago, IL
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck from Minnesota to Chicago, IL will cost around $419 to $795. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $443 to $897, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $547 to $1,082.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Compare local moving companies from Minnesota to Chicago, IL
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matt’s Moving Company | ✓ | × | × | × |
| AAA Movers | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Ace Moving & Warehousing | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
Among the 3,180 movers we’ve evaluated, here’s where Minnesota movers stand in terms of national service and discount offerings:
| Minnesota | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 98% | 96% |
| Antiques | 34% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 2% | 4% |
| Senior Discount | 4% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Minnesota to Chicago, IL
Before you start packing, let’s explore what life in Chicago, IL has in store compared to Minnesota. We’ll break down everything from the cost of living and local culture to spots you don’t want to miss.
Cost of living: Minnesota vs. Chicago, IL
| Minnesota | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,178 | $2,045 |
| Average home cost | $334,119 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $84,313 | $71,566 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94 | 106 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 9.0% |
| State Income Tax | 9.85% | 4.95% |
Chicago sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Chicago is about 74% higher than in Minnesota. Be sure to factor this into your budget.
- On average, homes in Chicago are 11% cheaper than in Minnesota, making your move easier on your wallet.
- On average, incomes in Chicago are about 15% lower than in Minnesota. Make sure to review your finances and adjust your budget before you move.
- The unemployment rate in Chicago is 165% higher than in Minnesota. It’s a good idea to plan carefully and prepare for a more competitive job market.
- Illinois has income tax rates about 50% lower than Minnesota, so your paycheck will stretch further.
How life is different in Chicago from Minnesota
| Chicago | Minnesota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 5,737,915 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Democratic 51.1-46.9 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 2ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 29″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 47″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 22.47 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Chicago voted Democrat, while Minnesota leaned Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in Chicago is 84ºF and in Minnesota, it’s 81ºF. With summer temperatures being similar, you’ll likely enjoy an easy transition, but don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather trends, and energy costs to truly understand what summer will be like in your new state.
- In the coldest months, Chicago typically dips to 19ºF, while Minnesota can reach lows of 2ºF. By moving to Chicago, you’ll experience milder winters, making everyday life simpler, less expensive, and perfect for enjoying more time outdoors.
- You can expect about 38 inches of rain each year in Chicago, significantly more than the 29 inches you’re used to in Minnesota. That extra rain comes with lusher landscapes and wetter days, so it’s a good idea to grab some quality waterproof gear and embrace the new climate.
- In Chicago, it only snows about 35 inches annually while Minnesota gets 47 inches. Moving to Chicago, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
- Chicago has a higher crime rate than Minnesota, with a crime index of 35.19 compared to 22.47. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good reminder to look into local safety precautions and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Things to do in Chicago
From beautiful parks and fascinating museums to exciting sports and stellar universities, Chicago really has something for everyone.
Museums in Chicago
- The Field Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago History Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art
Parks in Chicago
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- The 606
- Lincoln Park
- Garfield Park
Sports teams in Chicago
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
Universities in Chicago
- Chicago State University
- Governors State University
- Northeastern Illinois University
- Northern Illinois University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
Other considerations when moving to Chicago, IL
- HOA rules: Before moving day, check your neighborhood or community rules so you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Be sure to reserve your building’s elevator in advance and double-check any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- 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. Before you hire a moving company, double-check that they’re properly licensed.
- State regulator: You can verify your Illinois moving license status right on the state regulator’s official website, here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to Illinois, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules before moving day.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. This way, you can select your moving date and ensure your mail is forwarded to Illinois right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
FAQ
How long does a move from Minnesota to Chicago take?
How long it takes to move from Minnesota to Chicago, IL depends on your starting point and the type of move you choose. No matter the method, loading your belongings usually takes a day or less, even if you’re doing it yourself.
If you’re starting from northern Minnesota, it’ll take longer to get to Chicago. When renting a truck, plan for a one- to two-day drive, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Getting your stuff from Minnesota to Chicago can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you choose movers or a moving container. Be sure to request a delivery estimate before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Minnesota to Chicago?
Planning a 565-mile move from Minnesota to Chicago? Once you know your moving date, book your movers right away. Reserving two to three months ahead means better prices and a better shot at your preferred date.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Chicago, IL?
With the summer highs of 84°F and the winter lows of 19°F, most people move to Chicago from Minnesota during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy moving seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Chicago during summer or winter.
Helpful moving resources
Minnesota moving services
Popular Minnesota routes
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