($964) Cost to Move From Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL

1. MVM Moving & Storage: 4.92 out of 5 stars
2. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. Integrity Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. Black Tie Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
5. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Columbus to Chicago

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Chicago from Columbus, you can expect prices to land between $964 and $3,247. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,695 to $4,948 for the trip from Columbus to Chicago. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,746 and $6,968.

Cost of moving containers from Columbus to Chicago

Moving containers from Columbus to Chicago will cost you $648 to $1,431 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,162 to $2,132. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,523 to $2,578. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Ohio.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbus to Chicago

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

Expect to pay between $346 and $645 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $347 to $743. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $426 to $898.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.