($993) Cost to Move From New York City, NY to Chicago, IL

1. NYC Great Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
2. Imperial Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
3. Roadway Moving : 4.64 out of 5 stars
4. Alpha Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
5. White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from New York City to Chicago

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from New York City to Chicago, you can expect to spend between $993 and $3,420. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,013 to $5,126 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from New York City to Chicago typically runs between $3,340 and $6,760.

Cost of moving containers from New York City to Chicago

When moving from New York City to Chicago, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $753 and $1,753. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,422 to $2,610. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,835 up to $3,403. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from New York.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York City to Chicago

Renting a moving truck in New York City is usually your cheapest option to get to Chicago. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $522 and $973. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $605 and $1,155. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $772 and $1,431.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 53% lower in Chicago than in New York City, giving you more disposable income monthly.
• Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 61% lower in Chicago than in New York City.
• It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 8% less in Chicago than in New York City.
• Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Chicago, where the cost of living for a single person is 36% less than in New York City.
• Moving to Chicago could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 39% less than in New York City.
• Chicago experiences an unemployment rate that is about 20% lower than that of New York City. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
• Sales taxes are 28% higher in Chicago than in New York City. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
• Income taxes are 55% lower in Illinois compared to New York. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

• Chicago’s population is about 67% less than New York City.
• Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is lower than New York City’s score of 10.
• Chicago is less walkable than New York City with a score of 77 out of 100 vs New York City’s 88 out of 100.
• Both Chicago and New York City have similar bike-friendliness scores (69 vs 72), meaning Chicago is about as safe for cyclists as New York City. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
• Chicago’s crime rate is lower than New York City with a score of 35.19 compared to New York City’s 50.83. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83%.
• Chicago is considered to be less safe than New York City with a score of 33.87 vs New York City’s 49.17.
• Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in New York City it’s Good.

• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: While Illinois doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Chicago smoothly. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

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 getting comfortable in your new Illinois home, it’s time to see what Chicago is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

• Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Chicago offers cultural landmarks like 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 — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
• Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.