Local moving companies in Texas
When you are heading from Texas to Chicago, IL, you deserve movers who make your transition simple and stress-free.
Out of 221 Texas movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Chicago, IL.
- Element Moving and Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Firefighting’s Finest Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Square Cow: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- InNout Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 006519926C
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2038052
Alternate Names: Element Moving and Wine Storage
Element Moving and Storage has been serving the Dallas, TX area since 2012, offering local residential moving services with an excellent reputation. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 on Google from 746 reviews, and a solid 4.0 average on Yelp, it stands out among nearby moving companies. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, emphasizing their reliability. Besides local moves, they offer packing and unpacking services and are capable of moving specialty items like pianos and antiques, ensuring comprehensive care for clients’ belongings. Accepting various payment methods and requiring no deposit, Element Moving and Storage prioritizes convenience and customer satisfaction.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 006279747C
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 2783472
Firefighting’s Finest Moving & Storage has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around Fort Worth, TX since 2003. With an impressive Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and stellar feedback—averaging 4.8 stars from 639 Google reviews—the company stands out in the competitive moving market. While they also provide comprehensive office and packing services, their specialization in delicate items like pianos, antiques, and art sets them apart from other local movers. Though they require a deposit, Firefighting’s Finest accepts various payment methods and offers full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a seamless and reliable moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 006362543C
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1748594
Square Cow, a local residential moving company serving Cypress Spring, TX, has been in business since 2009 and has built a reputation for reliable and efficient service. Unlike many nearby competitors, Square Cow offers a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and the specialized moving of art and antiques, without requiring a deposit. The company stands out with an impressive Yelp rating of 4.4 based on 104 reviews and a Google rating of 4.7 from 311 reviews. Additionally, their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau reflects a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, making them a trustworthy choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 008906642C
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3398697
InNout Movers has been providing local residential moving services in and around Round Rock, TX since 2019. This reputable company stands out among nearby movers due to their comprehensive service offerings, including office moving, packing and unpacking services, and specialized handling for items like pianos and hot tubs. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 356 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer feedback highlights consistent satisfaction and reliability. InNout Movers also offers flexible payment options, accepting cash, credit cards, and money orders, without requiring a deposit, making them a trusted choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Full-valuation coverage
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 006800424C
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Ten Plus One, Inc. , Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck, serving the Corpus Christi, TX area since 2015, stands out among local residential moving companies with its comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options. Known for their ability to handle specialized items like pianos and safes, they offer a level of expertise that competitors may lack. With a substantial number of positive reviews, including a 4.6 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, clients can trust in their reliability. While their Yelp reviews are more modest, their reputation shines through, making them a reputable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Cost to move from Texas to Chicago, IL
See the table below for average move cost ranges from Texas to Chicago, IL, organized by service type and the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,175 – $4,940 | $874 – $2,072 | $708 – $1,417 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,497 – $5,904 | $1,488 – $3,070 | $780 – $1,668 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,493 – $8,142 | $2,159 – $4,139 | $961 – $1,972 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,126-mile move from Texas to Chicago, IL using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Every month, moveBuddha refreshes thousands of verified pricing entries from moving companies around the country to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Final costs may shift with the scale of your move, selected add-ons, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and schedule. Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re seeing accurate pricing.
Cost to hire professional movers from Texas to Chicago, IL
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Texas to Chicago, IL, will cost between $1,175 and $4,940. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $2,497 to $5,904, and a large move will cost from $4,493 to $8,142.
Cost of moving containers from Texas to Chicago, IL
If you’re moving from Texas to Chicago, IL, expect to pay between $874 and $2,072 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,488 up to $3,070. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,159 and $4,139. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Texas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Texas to Chicago, IL
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Texas to Chicago, IL, with a rental truck, expect to spend between $708 and $1,417. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $780 and $1,668. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $961 up to $1,972 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Compare local moving companies from Texas to Chicago, IL
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Element Moving and Storage | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Firefighting’s Finest Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Square Cow | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| InNout Movers | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | ✓ | × | × | × |
From our review of 3,175 movers, see how Texas movers match up to the nationwide percentage of movers offering these services and discounts:
| Texas | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 93% | 96% |
| Antiques | 42% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 8% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 7% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Texas to Chicago, IL
Before you break out the moving boxes, let’s compare life in Chicago, IL to what you’re used to in Texas. We’ll dive into things like cost of living, local culture, everyday routines, and the area’s most popular spots.
Cost of living: Texas vs. Chicago, IL
| Texas | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,251 | $2,045 |
| Average home cost | $300,267 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,035 | $71,566 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93 | 106 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 9.0% |
| State Income Tax | 0.0% | 4.95% |
Chicago sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Chicago is about 63% higher than in Texas, so make sure to budget extra for your monthly rent.
- Home prices in Chicago are similar to those in Texas, so you should expect a similar housing market. However, be sure to watch local market trends, as they could affect your home budget.
- Since income levels in Chicago are similar to those in Texas, your budget shouldn’t take a hit during your move.
- Unemployment in Chicago is about 120% higher than in Texas, so the job market may be more competitive. Be strategic in your job hunt and consider networking early.
- Illinois has a state income tax, while Texas 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.
How life is different in Chicago from Texas
| Chicago | Texas | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 30,503,301 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74-24 | Republican 56-44 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 94ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 36ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 36″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 2″ |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 27.32 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Chicago voted Democrat, while Texas voted Republican.
- Summer highs in Chicago average around 84ºF, while Texas often sees temperatures soar to 94ºF. Relocating to a cooler area means escaping the intense heat, cutting down on energy costs, and enjoying more time outside.
- Winter in Chicago packs a colder punch, often dipping to lows of 19ºF, which is quite a bit chillier than the 36ºF winters you’re used to in Texas. Be prepared for those frosty months with potentially higher heating costs and a few changes to your daily routine. On the bright side, Chicago offers crisp air, stunning winter scenery, and plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy.
- You’ll get about 38 inches of rain each year in Chicago, which is pretty close to the 36 inches you’re familiar with in Texas. However, even with similar rainfall totals, don’t be surprised if shifts in weather patterns and rainfall timing shake up your daily routine.
- Each year, Chicago sees about 35 inches of snowfall, while Texas averages just 2 inches. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
- Crime rates in Chicago are higher than in Texas, with a crime index of 35.19 compared to 27.32. While this doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, it’s a good idea to look into local crime data and consider how it could impact your everyday life.
Things to do in Chicago
Whether you love scenic parks, world-class museums, thrilling sports, or renowned universities, Chicago truly offers something for everyone.
Museums in Chicago
- The Field Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago History Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art
Parks in Chicago
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- The 606
- Lincoln Park
- Garfield Park
Sports teams in Chicago
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
Universities in Chicago
- Chicago State University
- Governors State University
- Northeastern Illinois University
- Northern Illinois University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
Other considerations when moving to Chicago, IL
- HOA rules: Check into any neighborhood or community rules on moving ahead of time to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: Something you’ll want to sort out early is booking your building’s elevator and checking their rules for moving.
- Parking permits: In some cities, you’ll need a parking permit for your moving truck, so be sure to look up your new area’s rules before moving day.
- 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. Be sure to confirm your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: Verify your Illinois moving license on the state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it’s helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, so your mail will be forwarded to Illinois right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s 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: Peace of mind matters. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
FAQ
How long does a move from Texas to Chicago take?
How long it takes to move from Texas to Chicago, IL depends on your starting point and the type of move you select. Regardless of your choice, packing and loading your belongings usually only takes a day or less, even when you’re doing it yourself.
Planning a move from northern Texas to Chicago? Be prepared for a longer haul. If you’re renting a truck, set aside one to two days for the journey. Your travel time will depend on your route and how many breaks you take.
With professional movers or moving containers, delivery times to Chicago from Texas can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the company’s schedule and transit logistics. You can always ask for a general timeline before booking.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Texas to Chicago?
With a 1,126-mile move from Texas to Chicago, it’s smart to lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. For the best availability and pricing, try to book your move two to three months in advance.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Chicago, IL?
Summer highs in Chicago can hit 84°F, while winter lows drop to 19°F. That’s why most people moving from Texas to Chicago choose the milder spring or fall months. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and maybe save some money, try planning your move for the summer or winter instead, even if it means braving a little extra heat or cold. Check out more tips on peak moving seasons.
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