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($1,035) Cost to Move From Albany, NY to Chicago, IL

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 817 miles from Albany to Chicago typically costs between $588 and $4,760. The trip is expected to last from two–seven days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Albany 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 Albany to Chicago

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Albany to Chicago 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.

In Albany, there are 6 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Chicago.

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 Albany to Chicago

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 817-mile move from Albany to Chicago using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,512 – $3,823
  • Moving Container $1,054 – $1,903
  • Rental Truck $545 – $1,038
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,135 – $4,760
  • Moving Container $1,423 – $2,749
  • Rental Truck $588 – $1,184
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,289 – $7,107
  • Moving Container $1,763 – $3,553
  • Rental Truck $714 – $1,511
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Saratoga Springs, NY Crete, IL
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
American Van Lines
Tannersville, NY Crestwood, IL
2 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Halfmoon, NY East Dundee, IL
2 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Troy, NY Western Springs, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 17, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Loudonville, NY Monee, IL
3 Bedrooms
Aug 23, 2025
North American Van Lines
Philmont, NY Homer Glen, IL
Studio apartment
Aug 21, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Rensselaer, NY Palos Heights, IL
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 19, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Hagaman, NY Algonquin, IL
Studio apartment
Aug 14, 2025
United Van Lines
Green Island, NY Third Lake, IL
4 Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025
PODS
East Greenbush, NY Beecher, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 02, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Albany to Chicago move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Albany that offers long-distance services to Chicago can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed eight top local movers in Albany who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Albany to Chicago.

  1. Mabey’s Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. Clark Moving & Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  3. Don’s Moving & Storage: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  4. Arnoff Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  5. All-Ways Moving & Storage Co: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.5% of all reviews were positive
7.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Mabey’s Moving & Storage stands out with an impressive 92.5% positive feedback from 254 reviews, setting a high bar for moving companies. Customers consistently describe the staff as professional, respectful, and attentive, praising the team’s careful handling of belongings and efficient work ethic. Many highlight smooth communication, quick processes from booking to move day, and successful management of complex or long-distance moves. Most clients recommend Mabey’s without hesitation, citing reliable estimates and stress-free experiences as major strengths. Negative input, making up about 7% of feedback, points to issues like damaged items, discrepancies in final costs versus estimates, and communication shortfalls in rare cases. Complaints sometimes reference insurance limitations or mishandling claims. A single neutral review notes both prompt reimbursements and delays during delivery. Compared to typical industry standards, Mabey’s earns stronger praise for care, politeness, and problem resolution, though accurate cost estimation remains an area for improvement. The company’s reputation for professionalism and reliability is consistently reinforced by customer input.
Get a Quote (518) 283-0017

Company Info

State license #: 623

Years in Business: 68

DOT #: 125550

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.5% of all reviews were positive
17.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Clark Moving & Storage stands out for delivering reliable results and excellent service, supported by feedback from 81 reviews with over 81% positive ratings. Customers consistently praise their professional and polite staff, careful handling, efficiency, and quick moving process. Many highly recommend the company for making stressful moves feel smooth and straightforward. Numerous reviewers note clear communication, organized packing, and affordable pricing compared to other moving companies. Some even highlight the movers’ thorough preparation and respect for customers’ belongings. On the downside, less than one in five reviewers cite problems such as damaged items, unexpected charges, or lack of communication. Negative input describes instances where items were broken or missing, or costs changed without warning. By comparison, Clark Moving & Storage regularly delivers a higher level of care and professionalism than most moving companies in the region, though a few dissatisfied customers experienced avoidable setbacks. Clark is a strong option for quality moving services, with overwhelmingly positive feedback and only minor recurring problems.
Get a Quote (518) 370-4100

Company Info

State license #: 37553

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 125563

Alternate Names: Clark Moving and Storage , Clark Moving and Storage of Albany

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.8% of all reviews were positive
4.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Don’s Moving & Storage scores high marks from customers, with nearly 95% of input expressing satisfaction. Clients single out the team’s efficient service, professionalism, careful handling of items, quick moves, and a positive, friendly staff as defining traits. Movers consistently offer supportive care during stressful transitions and make a point of being courteous and respectful. Negative feedback, in contrast, centers largely on unexpected or high final costs, occasional damage to items, and rare instances of unprofessional or dismissive behavior. Communication around pricing and damage claims draws the most frequent complaints. Compared to competitors, Don’s stands out for reliability, speed, and a personable touch, though clients recommend clarifying terms in advance for the smoothest results. With over 250 positive reviews, most customers consider Don’s a top choice for moving in the region.
Get a Quote (518) 492-1041

Company Info

State license #: 1462

Years in Business: 75

DOT #: 134890

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
64.3% of all reviews were positive
34.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Arnoff Moving & Storage stands out for its consistently professional, courteous staff, efficient moving teams, and excellent care in handling belongings—earning praise in nearly two-thirds of the 238 customer feedback items reviewed. Customers frequently commend their strong communication, punctual crews, and smooth, quick-moving experiences. People highlight Arnoff’s attention to detail, competitive pricing, and a willingness to answer questions or resolve logistical challenges, often noting how their movers made stressful moves less overwhelming. Yet, nearly one in three customers report serious complaints, with the chief frustrations being damaged or lost items, lengthy delivery delays, and poor follow-up when problems arise. Reports include mishandling of valuable furniture, missed scheduling windows, and a lack of responsiveness from support staff. A few critics point to problems with insurance claims for damage or missing property, suggesting performance can be inconsistent, especially for large or high-value moves. Compared to similar moving companies, Arnoff generally exceeds expectations for professionalism and efficiency, but the risk of communication breakdowns and damaged goods appears higher than average. Prospective customers seeking attentive and careful handling will likely be pleased, but those with complex, valuable shipments should confirm all details ahead and document any special requirements.
Get a Quote (518) 463-5525

Company Info

State license #: 35196

Years in Business: 99

DOT #: 1566123

Alternate Names: Arnoff Moving & Storage (poughkeepsie, Ny)

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
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.8% of all reviews were positive
3.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about All-Ways Moving & Storage Co, consistently praising their professionalism, efficient service, and fast-moving crews. Nearly all customer input is positive, with 97% giving glowing feedback out of 62 reviews. Clients highlight good communication, quick moving processes, and highly recommend the staff for moves big and small. The team’s attention to detail, careful handling, and flexible approach set them apart from other moving companies, especially when accommodating date changes or special requests. Some customer input shines a light on billing often coming in below initial estimates and on the team’s respectful handling of property. On the downside, a small portion of feedback points to concerns with inaccurate estimates, occasional communication breakdowns, and isolated incidents of damage to belongings. Unlike many competitors, All-Ways Moving has a reputation for exceeding expectations and building trust, making them a go-to choice for stress-free relocations.
Get a Quote (413) 499-1577

Company Info

Years in Business: 48

DOT #: 55254

Alternate Names: All-Ways Moving & Storage Co.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

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

In New York, moving services typically cost around per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,035 – $3,708 $776 – $1,938 $551 – $1,017
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,135 – $4,760 $1,423 – $2,749 $588 – $1,184
4+ bedrooms $3,289 – $7,107 $1,763 – $3,553 $714 – $1,511
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 817-mile move from Albany to Chicago, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Albany to Chicago

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chicago from Albany, you can expect prices to land between $1,035 and $3,708. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,135 to $4,760 for the trip from Albany to Chicago. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,289 and $7,107.

Cost of moving containers from Albany to Chicago

Moving containers from Albany to Chicago will cost you $776 to $1,938 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,423 to $2,749. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,763 to $3,553. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of New York.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Albany to Chicago

Renting a moving truck from Albany to Chicago typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $551 and $1,017 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $588 to $1,184. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $714 to $1,511.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Albany to Chicago move

The cost of Albany movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,763 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,747 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Albany.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $551 to $1,357, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Albany to Chicago

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 103% higher for singles and 120% higher for families than Albany.

Singles spend around $3,648 in Albany versus $1,801 in Albany; families pay $9,266 compared with $4,205.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Albany Chicago
Average 1 BR rent $1,426 $2,368
Average 3 BR rent $2,900 $4,581
Average home value $281,584 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $66,546 $71,566
Cost of living (single) $1,801 $3,648
Cost of living (family of four) $4,205 $9,266
Unemployment rate 7.1% 9.0%
Sales tax 8.0% 10.25%
State income tax 10.9% 4.95%
  • Planning a move to Chicago? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 41% higher than in Albany, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Chicago and Albany, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
  • Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 8% higher in Chicago compared to Albany, which might allow for more savings or investments.
  • Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Chicago, as living costs for a single person are 103% higher than in Albany. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
  • If you’re moving your family to Chicago, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 120% higher than in Albany.
  • Chicago shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Albany by around 27%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
  • Sales taxes in Chicago are 28% more than in Albany, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
  • Income taxes in Illinois are 55% below those in New York. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Albany and Chicago:

Living Expense Albany Chicago
Basic utilities $203.15 $191.26
Cell phone plan $57.53 $61.10
Dozen eggs $4.71 $4.52
Loaf of bread $3.93 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $79.50 $100.00
Gym membership $31.25 $78.31
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Albany than in Chicago.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Albany than in Chicago.
  • Eggs cost more in Albany than in Chicago.
  • Bread costs less in Albany than in Chicago.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Albany than in Chicago.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Albany than in Chicago.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Albany than in Chicago.

How life is different in Albany vs. Chicago

Albany Chicago
Population 99,224 2,746,388
Transportation score 8 9
Walkability score 65 77
Bike friendliness score 55 72
Crime index 10.0 35.19
Safety index 49.65 33.87
Air quality Good Good
  • Chicago’s population is about 2668% greater than Albany.
  • Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Albany’s score of 8.
  • Chicago is more walkable than Albany with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Albany’s 65 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Albany, which has a score of 55 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Chicago’s crime rate is higher than Albany with a score of 35.19 compared to Albany’s 10.0. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0%.
  • Chicago is considered to be less safe than Albany with a score of 33.87 vs Albany’s 49.65.
  • Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Albany it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Albany to Chicago 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 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 booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Illinois’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Illinois 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 Chicago. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Chicago

Planning your move to Chi-Town? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chicago has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Chicago features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — 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 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 Albany to Chicago?

Planning your move from Albany to Chicago? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Albany.

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

Because most people are moving from Albany 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 Albany to Chicago take?

The 817-mile journey from Albany, NY to Chicago, , typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Albany offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Chicago.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Albany?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Albany, 4 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, New York has 115 piano movers and 82 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

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