Understanding Chicago Moving Costs: What You’ll Actually Pay
How much do movers cost in Chicago typically ranges from $300 to $3,283, depending on your home size and moving needs. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect to pay:
| Home Size | Average Cost | Typical Hours | Crew Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $300-$600 | 2-3 hours | 2 movers |
| 1-Bedroom | $400-$800 | 3-4 hours | 2 movers |
| 2-Bedroom | $600-$1,200 | 5-6 hours | 3 movers |
| 3-Bedroom | $800-$1,800 | 7-8 hours | 3-4 movers |
| 4+ Bedroom | $1,200-$3,000+ | 8+ hours | 4+ movers |
Moving can be both exciting and stressful, especially when you’re trying to budget for all the associated costs. With over 54% of Chicago households renting their homes, knowing what to expect for moving expenses is essential for many Windy City residents.
The cost of hiring movers in Chicago depends on several factors: the size of your home, distance of your move, time of year, and additional services you might need. Local moves within Chicago typically cost between $110-$230 per hour depending on crew size, while long-distance moves from Chicago to another state can range from $1,500 to $7,000 or more.
As the owner and president of Bernard Movers, I’ve helped thousands of Chicagoans budget for their moves over my 30 years in the industry, giving me extensive insight into how much do movers cost in Chicago across different neighborhoods and seasons.
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How Much Do Movers Cost in Chicago?
Let’s talk dollars and cents – because when you’re planning a move in the Windy City, your budget matters. Chicago moving companies typically charge by the hour, and the size of your moving crew directly impacts what you’ll pay.
Average Local Pricing – how much do movers cost in chicago per hour
After helping thousands of Chicagoans move over the years, I can tell you the standard hourly rates you’ll encounter:
- 2-person crew: $110-$150 per hour
- 3-person crew: $150-$190 per hour
- 4-person crew: $190-$230 per hour
These rates typically include the moving truck and basic equipment like dollies and furniture blankets. But heads up – they usually don’t cover packing materials or specialty equipment for those tricky items like pianos or pool tables.
I often hear stories like Tom’s, a Chicago resident who recently shared: “I’ve moved too many times, have too much stuff that is too nice and too heavy to get buddies to help for beer and pizza anymore.” Tom ended up paying about $600 plus tip for his one-bedroom apartment move with elevator access – and felt it was worth every penny.
Total Bill Snapshot – how much do movers cost in chicago by home size
While hourly rates are helpful, most folks just want to know the bottom line. Here’s what Chicago residents typically pay for local moves (under 50 miles):
Studio apartment: Average $351 (2 movers for 3 hours at $140/hour)
1-bedroom apartment: Average $491 (2 movers for 4 hours at $150/hour)
2-bedroom apartment/home: Average $799 (3 movers for 5 hours at $196/hour)
3-bedroom home: Average $1,855 (4 movers for 8 hours at $274/hour)
4-bedroom home: Average $2,129 (4-5 movers for 9 hours at $300/hour)
These are averages based on typical Chicago moves. Your actual costs might be higher or lower depending on several factors – how much stuff you have, access challenges like narrow hallways or lots of stairs, and whether you’re moving during the busy summer season.
As another Chicago resident humorously put it: “Once I got a king bed, I knew it was over for me moving on my own with my friends — we’re simply all too old at this point! Professional movers are worth every penny.”
The relief on people’s faces when they realize they don’t have to haul that sectional sofa down three flights of stairs themselves? Priceless. But the actual price? Now you know what to expect.
Cost Breakdown: Studio to 4-Bedroom & Long-Distance
Moving costs vary dramatically based on your home size and distance. Let’s walk through what you can realistically expect to pay whether you’re moving across Chicago or across the country.
Local Chicago Moves (Under 50 Miles)
Studio Apartment
The smallest moves still require professional attention. At $300-$600, studio moves typically take 2-3 hours with a 2-person crew. Your final cost depends on how much stuff you’ve managed to squeeze into your cozy space, whether you’re dealing with elevator access or stairs, and the distance between locations.
1-Bedroom Apartment
Moving up slightly in size, 1-bedroom apartments usually run $400-$800 with 2 movers working 3-4 hours. Those kitchen gadgets you’ve collected and larger furniture pieces add up quickly, especially if you need help packing.
2-Bedroom Apartment/Home
With more rooms comes more stuff. Expect to pay $600-$1,200 for a 2-bedroom move, which typically requires 3 movers and 5-6 hours. The extra bedroom, more furniture, and potential specialty items like artwork or electronics all factor into your final bill.
3-Bedroom Home
Family homes require more hands on deck. A 3-bedroom move typically costs $800-$1,800, requiring 3-4 movers working 7-8 hours. Multiple bedrooms, larger living spaces, and accumulated belongings all contribute to the higher price point.
4+ Bedroom Home
Larger homes mean bigger moves. For 4+ bedrooms, budget $1,200-$3,000+, with 4 or more movers working 8+ hours. These moves involve substantial furniture, often multiple floors, and simply more volume of belongings to transport.
Long-Distance Moves from Chicago
When you’re leaving the Windy City behind, pricing works differently. Rather than paying hourly, how much do movers cost in Chicago for long-distance relocations depends on three key factors:
- The weight or volume of your possessions
- The distance to your new home
- Any additional services you need (like packing or special handling)
Here’s what you might pay for popular routes from Chicago:
Chicago to New York City (Approx. 790 miles)
The Big Apple isn’t cheap to reach. Studio/1-bedroom moves typically cost $1,871-$3,774, while 2-3 bedrooms run $3,272-$5,579. Larger 4+ bedroom homes can reach $4,163-$8,425.
Chicago to Los Angeles (Approx. 2,000 miles)
Coast-to-coast moves come with higher price tags. Expect $2,500-$4,500 for studio/1-bedroom moves, $4,500-$7,000 for 2-3 bedrooms, and $6,193-$10,153 for 4+ bedrooms.
Chicago to Miami (Approx. 1,200 miles)
Heading to warmer weather? Budget $2,000-$4,000 for studio/1-bedroom moves, $3,500-$6,000 for 2-3 bedrooms, and $5,000-$9,000 for 4+ bedrooms.
Good news for sun-seekers: Bernard Movers is currently offering a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. This can significantly reduce your costs if you’re heading south.
Container vs. Full-Service Options
If you’re looking to save money, container services like PODS offer a middle ground. Local Chicago PODS moves typically cost $220-$813, while long-distance container moves range from $2,068-$7,448.
The trade-off? You’ll need to handle loading and unloading yourself. Full-service movers like us take care of everything from start to finish, which explains the price difference.
For a personalized quote custom to your specific situation, I’d recommend using our Moving Estimate tool. Every move is unique, and your quote should reflect your specific needs.
10 Factors That Impact Your Moving Bill
Planning a Chicago move? Understanding what affects your final bill can help you budget more accurately and potentially save some cash. Here are the key factors that influence how much do movers cost in Chicago:
1. Home Size and Volume
The size of your home and how much stuff you own is the biggest factor in your moving costs. More belongings mean more time, more muscle power, and potentially a larger truck. A studio apartment might take just 2-3 hours, while that 4-bedroom Victorian in Lincoln Park could be an all-day affair.
2. Stairs and Elevators
Chicago’s architectural charm comes with a price tag on moving day. Those vintage walk-ups and sleek high-rises both affect your costs:
- Walk-ups: Most companies charge a “stair fee” of approximately $50-$150 depending on how many flights your movers need to tackle. That third-floor Wicker Park apartment might cost you an extra $100.
- Elevators: While easier than stairs, elevators can actually slow down the process if they’re tiny or you’re sharing with other residents. That Gold Coast high-rise might save your movers’ backs, but not necessarily your time.
3. Parking and Access
Let’s face it—parking in Chicago can be a nightmare. If your movers can’t park near your door, you might face a “long-carry fee” of $50-$150. In many neighborhoods, you’ll also need to secure parking permits for the moving truck. According to City Regulations:Parking permit rules, these typically cost $25, or $50 if you’re moving to or from the Central Business District.
4. Seasonal Timing
Chicago moving costs swing dramatically with the seasons:
Peak season (May-September) prices can jump 20-30% higher as everyone tries to avoid moving during snowstorms. The absolute busiest times? June 30th and July 1st can cost you a premium as leases turn over. Meanwhile, off-peak season (October-April) offers better rates and more flexible scheduling. At Bernard Movers, we often see clients save hundreds by choosing a mid-month, mid-week move during winter.
5. Specialty Items
That baby grand piano or pool table isn’t just heavy—it requires special handling and equipment. Expect to pay extra for these challenging items:
Pianos typically add $150-$500 to your bill, pool tables can cost an extra $200-$600 to disassemble, move and reassemble, and large safes might add $150-$400. Valuable antiques or artwork vary based on their worth and handling requirements.
6. Insurance and Valuation
Basic liability coverage (usually $0.60 per pound per item) comes standard with most moves. But let’s be honest—is your 60-pound TV really only worth $36 if something happens? For valuable items, consider additional coverage options:
Released Value Protection costs nothing extra but offers minimal coverage, while Full Value Protection typically runs about $100 per $5,000 of declared value. Worth considering for those family heirlooms!
7. Storage Needs
If your closing dates don’t align or your new place isn’t ready, storage might become necessary:
Short-term storage (up to 30 days) typically costs $150-$500 depending on how much stuff you have, while long-term storage runs about $100-$300 monthly. Many Chicago residents find themselves needing this “bridge” between homes, especially during competitive summer months.
8. Travel Time
Most Chicago movers charge for “travel time”—the time it takes to get from their warehouse to your home and back. This typically equals one hour of labor cost. It’s a standard industry practice, but worth confirming when getting your quote.
9. Gratuity
While not technically required, tipping your Chicago movers is customary when they’ve done a good job:
The standard is about 10-20% of your total bill, divided among the crew. For reference, that’s roughly $10-$20 per mover for a half-day job, or $20-$40 for a full day’s work. These folks are literally carrying your life from one home to another!
10. City Regulations
Chicago has specific rules that can affect your moving costs:
Parking permits are required for moving trucks in many areas, especially in denser neighborhoods. Building restrictions might limit your moving to certain hours or require proof of insurance. And many high-rises require elevator reservations, which might limit your scheduling options.
Understanding these factors helps explain why your cousin’s move cost less than yours—perhaps they had ground-floor access and fewer belongings! At Bernard Movers, we’re always transparent about these potential costs upfront, so you won’t face surprise charges on moving day.
7 Ways to Save on Your Chicago Move
Moving in Chicago doesn’t have to empty your wallet. As someone who’s helped thousands of Chicagoans relocate, I’ve seen how these money-saving strategies can make a real difference:
1. Downsize Before You Move
The equation is simple: less stuff equals lower costs. Before your move, take time to:
Sort through your belongings with a critical eye. That exercise bike that’s become a clothing rack? Time to let it go. According to our data, reducing your belongings by just 25% can lower your moving costs by 10-15%.
“I sold my bulky entertainment center before moving from Lincoln Park to Wicker Park,” shares Chicago resident Maria. “It not only put $200 in my pocket but saved me about $150 on my moving bill.”
For a systematic approach to decluttering, check out these Declutter tips.
2. Pack Yourself
While professional packing is convenient, it typically adds $300-$500 to your moving bill. Save those dollars by starting early – ideally 2-3 weeks before moving day.
Pro tip: Chicago has plenty of free box sources. Check with local liquor stores, bookshops, and neighborhood Facebook groups. Your wallet (and the environment) will thank you.
3. Schedule During Off-Peak Times
Timing is everything when it comes to how much do movers cost in Chicago. By being flexible with your moving date, you can save significantly:
Best months: October through April (10-30% savings)
Best days: Tuesday through Thursday (10-15% savings)
Best timing: Mid-month instead of month-end (10-20% savings)
I’ll never forget the Hyde Park couple who switched their Saturday August move to a Tuesday in November and saved nearly $400 – enough for a nice dinner at Alinea (well, almost).
4. Compare Multiple Quotes
Shopping around isn’t just smart – it’s essential. At Bernard Movers, we actually encourage customers to get multiple quotes because:
It helps you understand the fair market rate for your specific move
It highlights potential red flags (unusually low estimates often hide fees)
It gives you negotiating leverage
Our Affordable Movers Chicago IL service promises competitive rates without sacrificing quality – something worth comparing against other offers.
5. Use Reusable Bins Instead of Cardboard
There’s a growing trend in Chicago toward renting plastic moving bins, and for good reason. These sturdy containers are:
More efficient for movers to carry (faster loading = lower labor costs)
Better protected against Chicago’s unpredictable weather
Easier to stack in moving trucks (potentially reducing your truck size needs)
For $50-$200 depending on quantity and rental duration, these bins can streamline your move while being gentler on the environment.
6. Move Small Items Yourself
If you have early access to your new place, become your own moving company for the small stuff. Books, clothing, kitchen gadgets – these items add up in volume but are relatively easy to transport yourself.
By handling these smaller belongings, you could shave 1-2 hours off your professional moving time, saving $100-$300. Plus, you’ll have better control over your most personal or fragile possessions.
7. Negotiate Insurance Options
Don’t automatically check the box for full-value protection without doing your homework. Many homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies already provide some coverage during moves.
Consider selective coverage – fully insuring only your highest-value items rather than everything. This targeted approach often makes more financial sense than blanket coverage.
One Logan Square client saved $175 by finding her existing renter’s insurance covered her move, allowing her to decline the mover’s more expensive option.
At Bernard Movers, we’re transparent about insurance options because we believe an informed customer is a satisfied customer. And speaking of satisfaction, don’t forget our exclusive 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025!
FAQs: Chicago Mover Costs
What hidden fees catch most people off guard?
When I talk with Chicago residents about their moving experiences, the same complaint comes up repeatedly: “I wish someone had warned me about all these extra charges!”
Stair fees are probably the most common surprise. If you’re moving from a walk-up apartment, expect to pay $50-$150 extra depending on how many flights the movers need to steer. One customer told me, “I completely forgot to mention we were on the third floor with no elevator. That was a $100 surprise on moving day!”
Long-carry fees catch many people unprepared too. In neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or Lakeview where parking is tight, movers might need to park their truck far from your entrance. That extra distance can add $50-$150 to your bill.
Many people also don’t realize that heavy specialty items like pianos or gun safes almost always trigger additional charges. And don’t forget about fuel surcharges, especially for longer moves – these aren’t always included in initial quotes.
Even elevator usage can sometimes incur fees, particularly if the elevator is small and slows down the moving process. And if your new place isn’t ready yet, temporary storage fees can quickly add up.
The best defense against surprise fees? Ask your mover for a detailed written estimate that specifically addresses all potential charges before you commit.
Does the day or month really change the price?
It absolutely does – and understanding this timing game could save you hundreds!
Summer months (May through September) are peak moving season in Chicago, with prices typically 20-30% higher than winter months. As one of our long-time customers jokes, “Moving in July costs a premium because nobody wants to carry a sofa when it’s 90 degrees with 80% humidity!”
Winter moves (November through February) offer the best rates, though you’ll need to watch the weather forecasts. A February move might save you money, but a surprise snowstorm could complicate things.
The day of the week matters just as much as the season. Weekend moves (Friday through Sunday) typically cost 10-15% more than midweek moves. Tuesday through Thursday are your best bets for saving money.
I recently helped a family save nearly $400 by moving on a Wednesday in March rather than a Saturday in June – same apartment size, same distance, dramatically different price.
At Bernard Movers, we’re transparent about these seasonal differences and can help you choose the most cost-effective timing for your move.
How much should I tip movers in Chicago?
Tipping is one of those moving day questions that causes unnecessary stress. Here’s what’s typical in Chicago:
Most people tip 10-20% of the total bill, divided among the crew members. For a $1,000 move with four movers, that’s about $25-$50 per person. If you prefer to think of it per person, $10-$20 per mover for a half-day job or $20-$40 for a full day is standard.
Factors that might influence your tipping decision include the complexity of your move (those three flights of stairs!), weather conditions (moving in February snow deserves extra appreciation), and the overall care and professionalism of the crew.
As Maria in Wicker Park told me after her recent move, “These guys carried my grandmother’s antique dresser down a narrow staircase in pouring rain without a scratch. They definitely earned their tip!”
Cash is always appreciated, as it can be distributed immediately among the crew. And while tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s a meaningful way to acknowledge the physical work that goes into making your transition to a new home smoother.
Conclusion
Planning a move in Chicago doesn’t have to be overwhelming, even with all the unique challenges our city presents. From navigating those famously narrow streets to securing parking permits and dealing with the joys of high-rise elevators (not to mention our, ahem, “interesting” weather patterns), understanding how much do movers cost in Chicago will help you budget properly and avoid any moving day surprises.
Let’s take a moment to recap what we’ve learned together:
For local moves within the Windy City, you’re typically looking at $300 to $3,283, with your home size being the biggest factor in that range. The hourly rates most companies charge fall between $110 and $230, depending on how many people are on your crew.
Thinking of leaving Chicago for warmer shores? Long-distance moves start around $1,500 but can climb beyond $10,000 if you’ve got a large home and are heading coast-to-coast. And here’s a tip that can save you serious money: timing matters! Schedule during off-peak seasons and weekdays to trim 10-30% off your moving costs.
Don’t forget about those additional fees that can sneak up on you – stairs, elevators, bulky items like pianos, and even parking challenges can all impact your final bill. Being aware of these potential costs upfront helps avoid that moving day sticker shock we all dread.
At Bernard Movers, we believe in keeping things straightforward with transparent pricing and service that treats you like family. We’re currently offering something special for folks heading south – a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida when booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. It’s our way of making your transition to sunnier climates a little easier on the wallet.
The best advice I can give after decades in this business? Plan early, compare a few quotes from reputable companies, and make sure you understand all potential fees before signing anything. This approach helps ensure your Chicago move stays on budget while still getting the quality service you and your belongings deserve.
Ready to take the next step? Our team at Movers Chicago is standing by to provide a free, detailed estimate custom specifically to your moving needs. Let’s make your next move your best one yet!