Average Cost of Movers in Chicago

Based on the price calculation of 17 reviews, we estimate that a move within Chicago should very roughly cost $1765.

That's a very rough estimate. To get real, competitive quotes for your move, please fill in this moving quote form.

223 movers in Chicago

What to know when moving to Chicago, IL

Chicago at a Glance

The Vibe:
A highly educated area where 85.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 73% rent.
The Major Draw:
The median household income is $127,323, providing solid financial footing.
The Reality Check:
Median rent stands at $2,451, which may be a stretch for some budgets.
Commute:
14.4% of residents use public transit to get to work.
Top Tip:
Prepare for 18.7 inches of rain annually, averaging about 45 rainy days a year.

The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?

Chicago's 60601 ZIP code is home to a population of 16,292, characterized by a high level of education and a significant renter presence. With 73% of residents renting, housing options are varied, but the median gross rent of $2,451 might be on the higher side for newcomers. The area's median household income of $127,323 reflects a community with solid financial stability.

Probably not your spot if you are looking for low rent options, as housing costs can be a barrier for many.

Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot

  • Median gross rent is $2,451, indicating a pricey rental market.
  • The median owner-occupied home value is $495,400, showing significant investment in property.
  • 85.6% of residents hold at least a bachelor's degree, contributing to a highly educated community.
  • The poverty rate is 5.7%, suggesting financial stability for most residents.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.

Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say

In Illinois, the crime landscape shows a downward trend in several categories. The state annual rate for violent crime is 245.7 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 24.5% lower than the national average. Property crimes have seen a significant drop of 16.1% since 2022, with a rate of 1,549 per 100,000.

  • Violent crime: 245.7 per 100k vs. national average of 325.3, down 28.7% since 2022.
  • Property crime: 1,549 per 100k vs. national average of 1,546.9, down 16.1% since 2022.
  • Notable trend: Homicide rate decreased by 52.6% since 2022.

Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).

Schools & Higher Ed

Access to education is robust with numerous institutions nearby.

  • Total postsecondary institutions: 74
  • Institutions with College Scorecard data: 67

Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.

Weather & Getting Outside

Cook County experiences about 18.7 inches of precipitation each year, spread across approximately 45 rainy days. This means it's wise to keep an umbrella on hand. The area does not see snow accumulation, making it an easier winter for outdoor activities.

  • Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
    • Millennium Park - 4.8 stars from 91,508 reviews
    • Lincoln Park Zoo - 4.6 stars from 37,890 reviews
    • Griffin Museum of Science and Industry - 4.7 stars from 34,540 reviews
    • Field Museum - 4.7 stars from 29,976 reviews

Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.

Jobs & the Local Economy

Cook County has an employment landscape that reflects a robust job market.

  • Unemployment rate: 4.6% as of December 2025.
  • Total employed: 2,616,332.
  • Labor force: 2,741,497.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.

Where do people move from Chicago?

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Who regulates Chicago interstate movers?

Chicago moving companies are required to be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) if they perform interstate moves. No matter if it is a moving company or a broker, they should have a valid DOT number. You can look up a mover here.

Agency: United States Department of Transportation
Address: 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE, Washington DC 20590
Phone: (855) 368-4200
Website: www.fmcsa.dot.gov

To see if a specific movers complies with regulations, simply select a company from the list.

Moving within vs moving out of Illinois

Let's see how many people move within Illinois versus those who moved from Prairie State to another state.

Moved Within IL
30%
Moved out of IL
70%

From a statistical point of view, the relocation scene in Illinois goes like this: 30% local moves vs. 70% interstate moves. So, more than half of the home movers have decided to move out of the state.

If you also plan to move out of state, remember that interstate moving requires much more careful planning and meticulous organization than moving locally. Do yourself a favor and start the preparation of your long-distance move with a good moving checklist.

Who regulates Illinois local movers

Moving companies engaged in the transportation of household goods must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission.

Agency: Illinois Commerce Commission
Address: 527 East Capitol Avenue, Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: (800) 524-0795
Website: icc.illinois.gov

What do people move within Illinois?

Ever wondered which are the most popular move sizes when people move locally in IL?

Studio (8%)
1 Bedroom (21%)
2 Bedroom (24%)
3 Bedroom (15%)
4 Bedroom (8%)

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Moving to Chicago Guide

This modern metropolis is the most diverse city in the US with people from around the world and colorful and charming neighborhoods. Moreover, if you are coming from New York, Boston or California, Chicago will seem relatively cheaper.

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