Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Newark to Chicago typically costs $2,500–$6,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 780 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Newark to Chicago
Moving from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL typically costs $2,500–$6,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 780-mile move from Newark to Chicago, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 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
- American Van Lines recently quoted $2,670 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $2,788 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- AB Moving recently quoted $2,860 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 11, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 18, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 29, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 29, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 25, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 23, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 15, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 10, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 07, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Newark to Chicago
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Newark to Chicago might be as low as $1,900, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,500.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Newark.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $600 to $1,700 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Newark, NJ guide.
Best Newark to Chicago movers by type
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Best professional movers from Newark to Chicago
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Newark 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.
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 NJ→IL movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 86 New Jersey movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Newark to Chicago
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Chicago runs about 42% higher for singles and 65% higher for families than Newark.
Singles spend around $3,648 in Chicago versus $2,575 in Newark; families pay $9,266 compared with $5,617.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Newark | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,333 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,300 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $475,797 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $41,335 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,575 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,617 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 13.0% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.63% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 10.7% | 4.95% |
- Good news! When moving to Chicago from Newark, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 11% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 38% cheaper in Chicago, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 73% higher in Chicago than in Newark, 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 42% greater than in Newark. 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 65% more than it is in Newark.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 31% lower than Newark, Chicago boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Chicago exceed those in Newark by 55%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 54% lower in Illinois than in New Jersey. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Newark and Chicago, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Newark | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $211.42 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $57.98 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.74 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.40 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $79.50 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $30.00 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Newark than in Chicago.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Newark than in Chicago.
- Eggs cost more in Newark than in Chicago.
- Bread is more expensive in Newark than in Chicago.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Newark than in Chicago.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Newark than in Chicago.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Newark than in Chicago.
How life is different in Newark vs. Chicago
| Newark | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 304,960 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 76 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 51 | 72 |
| Crime index | 75.24 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 24.76 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago's population is about 801% greater than Newark.
- Chicago's public transportation score is within about 5% of Newark, making them very similar.
- Chicago and Newark are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Newark, which has a score of 51 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Chicago's crime rate is lower than Newark with a score of 35.19 compared to Newark's 75.24. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Newark neighborhoods are safer than 75.24%.
- Chicago is considered to be safer than Newark with a safety index of 33.87 vs Newark's 24.76.
- Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Newark it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Newark 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 Newark to Chicago?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Newark to Chicago. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Newark.
When is the cheapest time to move from Newark to Chicago?
With many people choosing to move from Newark 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 Newark to Chicago take?
Covering 780 miles, the move from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL typically takes two to seven days. Some Newark movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chicago can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Newark offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in Newark offer AAA member savings. 8 movers provide military discounts. 9 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 Newark can handle specialty items for my move to Chicago?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Newark, 138 movers can handle pianos. 111 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NJ, there are 77 piano movers and 60 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
