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($1,088) Cost to Move From Charleston, WV to Chicago, IL

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Estimated cost & time: For a 491 mile move from Charleston to Chicago, costs typically range from $420 to $5,021. Plan for the travel time to be around one–four days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Charleston to Chicago

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Charleston to Chicago

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Charleston to Chicago, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 5 interstate moving companies located in Charleston, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Chicago seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Charleston to Chicago

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 491-mile move from Charleston to Chicago using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,148 – $3,928
  • Moving Container $926 – $1,675
  • Rental Truck $390 – $720
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,110 – $5,021
  • Moving Container $1,234 – $2,311
  • Rental Truck $420 – $837
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,438 – $7,965
  • Moving Container $1,530 – $2,996
  • Rental Truck $533 – $1,018
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
North American Van Lines
West Hamlin, WV University Park, IL
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 18, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Teays Valley, WV Crestwood, IL
Studio apartment
Oct 18, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Chesapeake, WV Homer Glen, IL
3 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
United Van Lines
Hurricane, WV Rockdale, IL
Studio apartment
Sep 30, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Logan, WV Des Plaines, IL
2 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
Safeway Moving
Ansted, WV Beach Park, IL
4 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Poca, WV Kenilworth, IL
4 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
American Van Lines
Barboursville, WV Evergreen Park, IL
Studio apartment
Aug 28, 2025
BLVD Moving
Mount Hope, WV Crete, IL
Studio apartment
Aug 11, 2025
PODS
Milton, WV Berkeley, IL
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 05, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chicago, IL to Charleston, WV guide.

The best local movers for Charleston to Chicago moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Charleston that also handles long-distance moves to Chicago. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated five local movers in Charleston who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Charleston to Chicago.

  1. Central Van & Storage, Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Dunbar Transfer: 4.0 out of 5 stars
  3. Evans Van & Storage: 3.94 out of 5 stars
  4. Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems: 4.14 out of 5 stars
  5. Positive Moves: 3.78 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.0% of all reviews were positive
25.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Central Van & Storage, Inc. stands out for reliable and professional movers, backed by 75% positive customer feedback from 16 reviews. Customers consistently praised friendly staff, careful item handling, strong communication, and efficient moving processes. Helpful movers and organized service frequently set them apart from competitors. Some clients reported major concerns, including damages to homes, missing items, and unexpectedly high final costs. Negative experiences mainly centered on property damage and billing disputes. Central Van & Storage earns strong recommendations for care and professionalism, but those hiring them should pay attention to cost estimates and document all belongings carefully.
Get a Quote (800) 753-1898

Company Info

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 076235

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
100.0% of all reviews were positive
0.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with confidence is what customers experience at Dunbar Transfer. All four feedback entries show complete satisfaction, with clients highlighting the company’s fast moving process, punctuality, and skilled staff. Movers handled tough conditions, like stairs and tight spaces, with efficiency and professionalism. Customers frequently report that jobs were completed quickly and that staff were courteous and prepared. Unlike many moving companies where complaints about delays or damage are common, Dunbar Transfer’s customer input reveals no negative experiences, setting it apart from competitors. This consistently positive input signals reliable, well-executed moves for those seeking trustworthy local movers.
Get a Quote (304) 722-1003

Company Info

DOT #: 1186580

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.1% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy and stress-free—most feedback about Evans Van & Storage points to a high-quality, reliable experience. Out of 130 reviews, 93% reflect satisfied customers, highlighting professional, polite staff, efficient service, careful handling, helpful movers, and clear communication. Movers regularly earn praise for their respectful approach and the care taken with furniture and delicate possessions. Customers describe a well-organized, punctual moving process, frequently noting that nothing arrived scratched or broken. Many cite affordability and flexibility as standout features, with the company frequently able to accommodate changing schedules and specific customer needs. Negative feedback is rare but centers on issues like damaged or missing items, poor communication after problems, and unexpected charges. Compared to other moving companies—often criticized for hidden fees and careless service—Evans Van & Storage appears to set itself apart by consistently delivering professionalism and dependability, making it a recommended choice for local and long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (800) 437-4017

Company Info

DOT #: 070851

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
50.0% of all reviews were positive
50.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback paints a clear divide: Watts Brothers Moving and Storage Systems is praised for having professional, polite staff, handling items with care, working efficiently, offering good rates, and maintaining solid communication. Half of all customer input highlights smooth moves, careful handling, and courteous movers—traits that set them above many local competitors for timely service and affordability. But equally frequent are strong reports of lost valuables, damaged furniture, and unreliable timing. Several customers mention misplacement or theft of personal items and lack of follow-up from management, concerns rarely seen in top-performing moving companies. While many point to a hassle-free, professional experience, others caution against major service and trust issues. Out of 34 reviews, 50% are positive, and 50% negative, making the choice less than straightforward for those considering this company.
Get a Quote (304) 529-2360

Company Info

Years in Business: 35

DOT #: 587135

Alternate Names: Future Enterprises Corporation

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.4% of all reviews were positive
6.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made simple—Positive Moves earns high marks from customers, with 93% of feedback noting prompt, professional, and friendly service. Input consistently highlights the staff’s efficiency, careful handling, and polite demeanor. Customers appreciate fast work, competitive rates, and workers who go the extra mile, even in difficult conditions. Reports of organized crews and effective communication set this company apart from the average mover. On the downside, the small number of negative reviews mention issues such as property damage, late arrivals, and unexpected charges. These problems, while rare, raise concerns about consistency and responsiveness. Compared to others in the industry, Positive Moves receives standout praise for professionalism and care—with a few exceptions where service did not meet expectations.
Get a Quote (304) 590-0840

Company Info

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Fragile-only packing

How much does it cost to move from Charleston to Chicago?

The average hourly rate for movers in West Virginia is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,088 – $3,224 $677 – $1,516 $417 – $727
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,110 – $5,021 $1,234 – $2,311 $420 – $837
4+ bedrooms $3,438 – $7,965 $1,530 – $2,996 $533 – $1,018
*Approximate cost ranges for a 491-mile move from Charleston to Chicago are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Charleston to Chicago

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Charleston to Chicago will cost between $1,088 and $3,224. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Charleston to Charleston will range from $2,110 to $5,021, and a large move from Charleston to Chicago will cost from $3,438 to $7,965.

Cost of moving containers from Charleston to Chicago

If you’re moving from Charleston to Chicago, expect to pay between $677 and $1,516 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,234 up to $2,311. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,530 and $2,996. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from West Virginia.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Charleston to Chicago

Renting a moving truck from Charleston to Chicago 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 with a rental truck, expect to spend between $417 and $727. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $420 and $837. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $533 up to $1,018 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Charleston to Chicago

The cost of Charleston movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,480, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,609.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Charleston, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($417–$917) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Charleston to Chicago

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 136% higher for singles and 140% higher for families than Charleston.

Singles spend around $3,648 in Charleston versus $1,549 in Charleston; families pay $9,266 compared with $3,862.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Charleston Chicago
Average 1 BR rent $933 $2,368
Average 3 BR rent $1,800 $4,581
Average home value $153,672 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $59,354 $71,566
Cost of living (single) $1,549 $3,648
Cost of living (family of four) $3,862 $9,266
Unemployment rate 6.2% 9.0%
Sales tax 7.0% 10.25%
State income tax 6.5% 4.95%
  • Rent is estimated to be 134% higher in Chicago compared to Charleston; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 92% greater in Chicago than in Charleston.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 21% higher in Chicago than in Charleston, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Chicago, since the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 136% higher than in Charleston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Chicago, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 140% greater than in Charleston.
  • In Chicago, the unemployment rate is approximately 45% higher than in Charleston, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 46% in Chicago over Charleston, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 24% less in Illinois than in West Virginia. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Charleston and Chicago:

Living Expense Charleston Chicago
Basic utilities $128.95 $191.26
Cell phone plan $45.33 $61.10
Dozen eggs $3.26 $4.52
Loaf of bread $2.20 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $50.00 $100.00
Gym membership $31.00 $78.31
  • Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Chicago, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Charleston than in Chicago.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Charleston than in Chicago.
  • Bread costs less in Charleston than in Chicago.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in Chicago.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Charleston than in Chicago.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Chicago.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Chicago

Charleston Chicago
Population 48,018 2,746,388
Transportation score 2 9
Walkability score 33 77
Bike friendliness score 28 72
Crime index 53.94 35.19
Safety index 46.06 33.87
Air quality Good Good
  • Chicago’s population is about 5619% greater than Charleston.
  • Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Charleston’s score of 2.
  • Chicago is more walkable than Charleston with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Charleston’s 33 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Charleston, which has a score of 28 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 Charleston with a score of 35.19 compared to Charleston’s 53.94. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 53.94%.
  • Chicago is considered to be less safe than Charleston with a score of 33.87 vs Charleston’s 46.06.
  • Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Charleston it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston to Chicago move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Illinois doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Chicago. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Chicago

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Chi-Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Chicago.

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

Once you’re settled into your new home in Illinois, it’s time to get out and discover what Chicago has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Chicago, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites 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.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Charleston to Chicago?

The best time to move from Charleston to Chicago is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Charleston.

When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to Chicago?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Charleston to Chicago, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Charleston to Chicago take?

Moving from Charleston, WV to Chicago, covers 491 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Charleston movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Chicago.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Charleston?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 3 movers in Charleston advertise piano moving expertise. 2 movers in Charleston provide antique moving services. State totals show 5 piano movers and 4 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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