Chicago Moving Cost Calculator (2026)
Local moves in Chicago run $100–$155 per hour with two movers. Streets & Sanitation requires $25 moving permits in many neighborhoods 14 days in advance; high-rise buildings on Lake Shore Drive often have 2-hour freight elevator windows.
Pricing
Chicago cost by home size
| Home size | Local move | Interstate move |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $300–$775 | $1,540–$4,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $400–$930 | $2,100–$5,226 |
| 2 Bedroom | $600–$1,395 | $2,800–$6,700 |
| 3 Bedroom | $800–$1,860 | $4,060–$10,385 |
| 4+ Bedroom | $1,100–$2,480 | $5,460–$14,405 |
What raises Chicago prices
- • Building access (elevator reservations, COI requirements, freight windows)
- • Parking and permit lead times
- • Stair carries and long-carry distances
- • Specialty items: pianos, art, oversized appliances
What lowers Chicago prices
- • Mid-week, mid-month booking
- • Off-peak season (outside April–September)
- • Self-packing all boxes; movers handle furniture only
- • Multiple binding quotes from FMCSA-verified carriers
Frequently asked questions
How much do movers cost in Chicago?
Local moves in Chicago typically run $400–$2,400 for a 1–2 bedroom apartment with two movers, while interstate moves from Chicago average $2,500–$7,000 for the same home size. Final price depends on distance, packing services, and date.
Do I need a parking permit to move in Chicago?
Streets & Sanitation requires $25 moving permits in many neighborhoods 14 days in advance; high-rise buildings on Lake Shore Drive often have 2-hour freight elevator windows.
When is the busiest moving season in Chicago?
Late May through August is the peak window in Chicago, with the heaviest volume around month-end weekends. Top-rated companies book out 4–6 weeks in advance during this period.
Should I get an in-home estimate or an online quote?
For local moves under 2,500 lb, an online or phone estimate is usually accurate. For interstate moves out of Chicago or 3+ bedroom households, request a video survey or in-home estimate so the binding price reflects your actual inventory.
What's the most reliable way to verify a Chicago mover?
Check the company's USDOT number on the FMCSA SAFER website, look at their BBB profile and current accreditation, and read recent reviews on Google and Yelp. Avoid any mover unwilling to share a USDOT number on request.
How long does a typical Chicago move take?
A 1-bedroom local move in Chicago usually takes 3–5 hours with two movers. A 3-bedroom local move runs 7–10 hours, and most movers won't book a same-day move past 4 PM start time.