($1,452) Cost to Move From Seattle, WA to Chicago, IL

1. Eco Movers Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
2. On The Go Moving and Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
3. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
4. Seattle Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
5. Hansen Bros Moving and Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Seattle to Chicago

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Seattle to Chicago typically costs between $1,452 and $5,391. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,765 and $8,001 when moving from Seattle to Chicago. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Seattle to Chicago, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,841 up to $12,967.

Cost of moving containers from Seattle to Chicago

If you’re relocating from Seattle to Chicago, you’ll typically spend between $1,176 and $2,884 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,033 up to $4,057. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,813 and $5,419. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Seattle to Chicago

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Seattle 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 $1,109 and $2,118. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,301 to $2,760. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,610 and $3,413.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Switching from Seattle to Chicago won’t strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
• With home prices being nearly 65% 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 8% lower in Chicago than in Seattle.
• With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Chicago and Seattle, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
• The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Chicago and Seattle, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won’t notice a significant change in expenses.
• The unemployment rate in Chicago exceeds that of Seattle by about 88%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
• Sales taxes are effectively the same in Chicago and Seattle (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
• Illinois has a state income tax, while Washington 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 273% greater than Seattle.
• Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Seattle’s score of 8.
• Chicago and Seattle are similarly walkable.
• Both Chicago and Seattle have similar bike-friendliness scores (71 vs 72), meaning Chicago is about as safe for cyclists as Seattle. 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 Seattle with a score of 35.19 compared to Seattle’s 58.88. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88%.
• Chicago is considered to be less safe than Seattle with a score of 33.87 vs Seattle’s 49.23.
• Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Seattle 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.