($1,173) Cost to Move From Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL

1. Good Guys Moving & Delivery : 4.64 out of 5 stars
2. 6th Man Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
3. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
4. Bellhop Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
5. Move On: 4.58 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Nashville to Chicago

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Nashville to Chicago typically costs between $1,173 and $3,267. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,036 and $5,043 when moving from Nashville to Chicago. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Nashville to Chicago, you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,278 up to $7,523.

Cost of moving containers from Nashville to Chicago

If you’re relocating from Nashville to Chicago, you’ll typically spend between $630 and $1,496 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,161 up to $2,324. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,636 and $2,777. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Tennessee.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Nashville to Chicago

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Nashville to Chicago move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $377 and $696. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $435 to $877. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $490 and $964.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Switching from Nashville to Chicago won’t strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
• With home prices being nearly 31% cheaper in Chicago, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
• Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 9% lower in Chicago than in Nashville.
• Anticipate increased living expenses in Chicago, as the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 17% greater than in Nashville. 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 10% more than it is in Nashville.
• The unemployment rate in Chicago exceeds that of Nashville by about 100%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
• Sales taxes are effectively the same in Chicago and Nashville (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
• Illinois has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

• Chicago’s population is about 298% greater than Nashville.
• Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Nashville’s score of 4.
• Chicago is less walkable than Nashville with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Nashville’s 96 out of 100.
• Both Chicago and Nashville have similar bike-friendliness scores (72 vs 72), meaning Chicago is about as safe for cyclists as Nashville. 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 Nashville with a score of 35.19 compared to Nashville’s 49.1. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Nashville neighborhoods are safer than 49.1%.
• Chicago is considered to be less safe than Nashville with a score of 33.87 vs Nashville’s 50.9.
• Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Nashville it’s Good.

• 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.

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.