($1,109) Cost to Move From Arlington, VA to Chicago, IL

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Cost to hire movers from Arlington to Chicago

When planning a move to Chicago from Arlington, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,109 and $3,528. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,039 and $5,461 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,616 to $6,982.

Cost of moving containers from Arlington to Chicago

When you’re heading from Arlington to Chicago, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $743 and $1,676. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,299 and $2,545. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,792 to $3,439. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Virginia easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Arlington to Chicago

A moving rental truck from Arlington to Chicago is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $527 to $933. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $536 to $1,164, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Arlington to Chicago costs around $692 to $1,438.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

• Rent is about 25% less expensive in Chicago than in Arlington, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
• Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 64% cheaper in Chicago than in Arlington.
• You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 44% less in Chicago than in Arlington.
• Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Chicago. The cost of living for a single person there is 47% below that of Arlington.
• A move to Chicago can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 23% lower compared to Arlington.
• Chicago has a higher unemployment rate than Arlington by about 125%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
• Sales taxes in Chicago surpass those in Arlington by 71%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
• Income taxes are 14% less in Illinois compared to Virginia, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

• Chicago’s population is about 1051% greater than Arlington.
• Chicago’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Arlington, making them very similar.
• Chicago is more walkable than Arlington with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Arlington’s 71 out of 100.
• Both Chicago and Arlington have similar bike-friendliness scores (72 vs 72), meaning Chicago is about as safe for cyclists as Arlington. 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 higher than Arlington with a score of 35.19 compared to Arlington’s 15.67. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67%.
• Chicago is considered to be less safe than Arlington with a score of 33.87 vs Arlington’s 79.15.
• Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Arlington it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Costs across Arlington and Chicago are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Illinois, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Illinois, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
• Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Chicago. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

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

With your move to Illinois complete, you can dive right into experiencing Chicago. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

• Arts and culture: Chicago is home to museums and cultural arts centers 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 spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
• Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back 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.