How Much Does a Moving Company Cost in Chicago, IL?
Get a breakdown of typical moving company costs in Chicago, Illinois including regionally-adjusted hourly rates, common job prices, and tips to save money on your next project.
Chicago Avg Hourly Rate
$88 – $165
Per hour, adjusted for IL region
National Avg Hourly Rate
$80 – $150
Before regional adjustment
Regional Multiplier
1.10x
Illinois — Above Average
Common Moving Company Jobs & Prices in Chicago
Prices below are adjusted for the Chicago, IL area using a 1.10x regional multiplier.
| Job Type | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Move (1-bed apartment) | $330 | $880 | $605 |
| Local Move (3-bed house) | $880 | $2,750 | $1,815 |
| Long-Distance Move (3-bed) | $2,200 | $8,800 | $5,500 |
| Packing Services (full home) | $220 | $880 | $550 |
| Piano or Specialty Item Move | $220 | $660 | $440 |
| Storage (per month, 10x10 unit) | $110 | $330 | $220 |
Chicago Regional Cost Context
Chicago, Illinois
Above AverageChicago is located in Illinois, which is classified as a “Above Average” cost area for home services.Moving Company rates in Chicago are approximately 10% above the national average. Beyond the regional cost index, quotes usually move with crew size, stairs or elevators, truck access, packing labor, travel time, and how much bulky furniture is involved. Extreme cold winters (temps can drop below -20°F) and hot humid summers put heavy strain on HVAC systems and increase pipe freeze risk.
What Affects Moving Company Costs in Chicago?
- Distance and number of items
- Time of year (summer moves cost more)
- Stairs, elevators, and long carry distances
- Specialty items (piano, pool table, antiques)
How to Save on Moving Company Services in Chicago
- Move during the week and mid-month for lower rates
- Declutter and donate before the move to reduce weight and time
- Pack your own boxes to save on packing service fees
- Get binding or not-to-exceed estimates from at least 3 movers
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Company Costs in Chicago
How much does a moving company cost in Chicago?
In Chicago, moving company hourly rates typically land between $88 and $165 per hour. That puts the market above the national baseline once regional labor and material costs are factored in.
What drives moving company pricing in Chicago?
Quotes in Chicago usually move with crew size, stairs or elevators, truck access, packing labor, travel time, and how much bulky furniture is involved. Chicago DOB permits required for structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Some neighborhoods require aldermanic sign-off for exterior changes.
How many quotes should I get before hiring a moving company in Chicago?
For planned work, get at least 2 to 3 comparable quotes. Ask each contractor to price the same scope, confirm permit handling where required, and spell out materials, warranty terms, and cleanup so you can compare the bids fairly.
How can I keep moving company costs under control in Chicago?
Move during the week and mid-month for lower rates Declutter and donate before the move to reduce weight and time Pack your own boxes to save on packing service fees Get binding or not-to-exceed estimates from at least 3 movers
Should I choose the cheapest moving company quote in Chicago?
Usually not. The lowest number often leaves out permit handling, material quality, scope details, or follow-up work. Look for the bid that is easiest to compare line by line, not just the one with the smallest total.
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