Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Columbus to Chicago typically costs $2,000–$5,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 355 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Columbus to Chicago
Moving from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL typically costs $2,000–$5,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 355-mile move from Columbus 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
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $1,820 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $2,564 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $2,083 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 08, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 29, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 14, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 11, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 26, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 14, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 03, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 03, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 01, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Columbus to Chicago move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,300 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,100 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Columbus.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $400 to $1,000, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH guide.
Best Columbus to Chicago movers by type
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Local
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Columbus to Chicago
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Columbus 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.
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 OH→IL movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 100 Ohio movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Columbus to Chicago
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Chicago runs about 31% higher for singles and 28% higher for families than Columbus.
Singles spend around $3,648 in Chicago versus $2,784 in Columbus; families pay $9,266 compared with $7,249.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Columbus | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,567 | $2,368 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,957 | $4,581 |
| Average home value | $238,832 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,075 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,784 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,249 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 4.95% |
- Planning a move to Chicago? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 42% higher than in Columbus, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Chicago are about 24% higher than those in Columbus.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 10% higher in Chicago compared to Columbus, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Chicago, as living costs for a single person are 31% higher than in Columbus. 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 28% higher than in Columbus.
- Chicago shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Columbus by around 58%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Chicago are 37% more than in Columbus, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Illinois are 41% above those in Ohio. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Columbus and Chicago:
| Living Expense | Columbus | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $263.89 | $191.26 |
| Cell phone plan | $60.77 | $61.10 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.21 | $4.52 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.98 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $46.25 | $78.31 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Columbus than in Chicago.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbus than in Chicago.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbus than in Chicago.
- Bread costs less in Columbus than in Chicago.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Columbus than in Chicago.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Columbus than in Chicago.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbus than in Chicago.
How life is different in Columbus vs. Chicago
| Columbus | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 905,748 | 2,746,388 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 41 | 77 |
| Bike friendliness score | 48 | 72 |
| Crime index | 49.65 | 35.19 |
| Safety index | 50.35 | 33.87 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago's population is about 203% greater than Columbus.
- Chicago's public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Columbus's score of 5.
- Chicago is more walkable than Columbus with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Columbus's 41 out of 100.
- With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Columbus, which has a score of 48 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 Columbus with a score of 35.19 compared to Columbus's 49.65. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65%.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Columbus with a score of 33.87 vs Columbus's 50.35.
- Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Columbus it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbus 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 Columbus to Chicago?
Planning your move from Columbus to Chicago? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Columbus.
When is the cheapest time to move from Columbus to Chicago?
Because most people are moving from Columbus 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 Columbus to Chicago take?
The 355-mile journey from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Columbus 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 there special savings available from movers in Columbus?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 2 provide savings for AAA members. 4 have discounts for military personnel. 6 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Columbus?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Columbus, 16 movers can manage piano relocations. 11 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Ohio has 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
