Moving in a city like Chicago is rarely simple. It involves detailed planning, budgeting, lifting, and preparation, and one of the most common questions is: How much does it cost to hire movers in Chicago in 2025? This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of verified 2025 moving costs based on home size, distance, and service type.
Whether you’re moving into a studio in Wicker Park or hauling a family home to Evanston, we’re breaking down the true, verified costs—by home size, distance, and services included—so you’re not caught off guard.
Chicago Moving Costs by Type
Understanding the price for a moving company is key when planning your move in Chicago. Moving service costs vary based on factors like apartment size, distance, and packing needs. You might be wondering, how much does moving cost or how much do movers cost for a 1 bedroom apartment in Chicago? The table below outlines the cost of movers in Chicago, including average full-service moving costs for various apartment sizes and local vs. long-distance moves. Use this to get a clearer picture of what to expect and plan your move accordingly.
| Move Type | Average Cost (Local Move) | Average Cost (Long-Distance Move) | Additional Notes |
| Studio Apartment | $400–$600 (2 movers, 3–4 hours) | N/A | Ideal for smaller, simpler moves. Clutter offers transparent pricing and on-demand services with no surprise fees. |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | $480–$1,000 (2–3 movers, 4–5 hours) | $2,900–$6,100 | Packing or complexity increases cost. Clutter provides customizable quotes for your specific move requirements. |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $850–$1,500 (3–4 movers, 6–7 hours) | $4,000–$7,600 | Storage or specialty items add to the cost. Clutter offers flexible storage solutions if your move requires it. |
| 3-Bedroom Home | $1,680–$2,500 (4–5 movers, 7–9 hours) | $4,700–$8,500 | Surcharges for heavy furniture or complex logistics. Clutter ensures smooth handling with no hidden fees. |
| Rental Trucks | $150–$500+ (DIY, based on size & distance) | N/A | Varies by truck size and mileage. Clutter handles the heavy lifting, eliminating the need for a truck rental. |
| Moving Containers | $500–$5,000+ | N/A | Storage options available, can add $50–$200/month. Clutter offers convenient >moving and storage all in one place. |
| Moving a House (Full) | $850–$2,500 (1–3 movers, 6–9 hours) | $2,900–$8,500 | Includes packing, storage, and insurance. Clutter offers a complete, customizable Solution for your entire move. |
Chicago Moving Costs by Size
We’ve updated this data using real market prices, industry averages, and verified estimates for 2025. Here’s how much you can expect to pay when moving within Chicago, based on the size of your home.
1. Studio Apartment
- Old estimate: $371–$480
- Verified 2025 range: $400–$600
If you’ve got a small space, like a studio, your move will likely involve 2 movers for about 3–4 hours. Basic moves run around $400, while premium services or extra complications (like tight stairwells) can bring the total closer to $600.
Pro tip: Start early and pack smart. Studios may be small, but they can hide a surprising amount of stuff.
2. 1-Bedroom Apartment
- Old estimate: $480–$511
- Verified 2025 range: $480–$1,000
For a standard 1-bedroom, most people use 2–3 movers for 4–5 hours. If everything’s pre-packed and straightforward, you might stick to the lower end. But if you need packing help or live in a building with elevator time restrictions, you could be looking at $1,000 or more.
2. 2-Bedroom Home or Apartment
- Old estimate: $819–$1,080
- Verified 2025 range: $850–$1,500
Larger spaces need more hands and more hours. Most 2-bedroom units require 3–4 movers and 6–7 hours to complete. This is where packing services and storage options can really tip the scale.
Learn more: How Much Does It Cost to Move? Moving Company Expenses Explained
3. 3-Bedroom Home
- Old estimate: $1,680–$1,875
- Verified 2025 range: $1,680–$2,500
These are the big ones. With multiple rooms, heavy furniture, and maybe even kids’ stuff to wrangle, a 3-bedroom move often involves 4–5 movers working 7–9 hours. And if you’re moving out of a walk-up or have large specialty items like a piano, be prepared to pay more.
Comparing Verified Moving Costs (Chicago 2025) Long-Distance Moves: The Bigger Picture
| Home Size | Old Estimate | Verified 2025 Range | Notes |
| Studio | $371–$480 | $400–$600 | Adjusted for accurate market minimums |
| 1-Bedroom | $480–$511 | $480–$1,000 | Accounts for premium service and complexity |
| 2-Bedroom | $819–$1,080 | $850–$1,500 | Includes storage, packing, and service fees |
| 3-Bedroom | $1,680–$1,875 | $1,680–$2,500 | Covers surcharges for heavy or complex moves |
Learn more: How Much Does a Storage Unit Cost?
If you’re crossing state lines or heading out of Illinois, here’s what to expect.
| Distance | 1-Bedroom | 3-Bedroom |
| 500 miles | $1,900–$4,000 | $4,000–$6,700 |
| 1,000 miles | $2,900–$6,100 | $4,700–$7,600 |
These are flat-rate movers Chicago rates, meaning they’re based on distance and volume, not time. Still, complexity and added services (like storage or full-packing) will affect pricing.
Pro tip: Movers often offer discounts for flexible delivery windows on long-distance trips.
What is Included in These Prices?
Let’s break down what you’re paying for—and what might cost extra.
1. Hourly Rates vs. Flat Fees
- Local Moves: Usually charged hourly. In Chicago, that’s typically $150–$230 per hour for a 4-person crew.
- Long-Distance Moves: Priced as flat rates based on mileage and shipment size.
Hourly pricing can be more budget-friendly—but only if your move is fast and efficient.
2. Packing Services
Hate packing? You’re not alone.
- Basic packing help: $25–$40/hour per packer
- Full-packing service for 3BR: $300–$700+
It’s definitely a splurge, but one that saves time, stress, and sometimes even your back.
Learn more: 15 Best and Safest Neighborhoods In Chicago
3. Storage Add-ons
Sometimes, timing doesn’t line up perfectly between old and new homes.
- Free first month: Some movers offer this.
- Monthly rates: $50–$200 depending on unit size
Make sure to ask your mover if they offer on-site storage—it’s often cheaper than self-storage.
4. Insurance & Liability Coverage
- Basic coverage = $0.60/lb/item
- Full replacement = Additional cost (often $150+ for $10,000 of coverage)
Definitely review this in detail—especially if you’re moving valuables.
Seasonal Timing = Big Price Differences
Moving in July? Get ready to pay a premium.
Peak Season (May–September):
- Demand is high
- Movers get booked quickly
- Rates are up to 30% higher
Learn more: How to Pack to Move: A Complete Checklist
Off-Peak (October–April):
- More availability
- Lower rates
- Better chance at discounts
Pro tip: Moving mid-week and mid-month can save you hundreds.
Extra Fees You Might Not Expect
Not all fees are included in the base quote. Watch out for:
- Fuel surcharges (often a fixed fee or per mile)
- Stair fees (especially in 3rd+ floor walk-ups)
- Elevator reservation fees ($75–$150)
- Long-carry fees (when parking is far from the door)
- Heavy item fees (pianos, safes, gym equipment)
Learn more: 21 Essential Moving and Packing Supplies You Need For Your Next Move
Before you sign anything, ask for a full breakdown of fees.
5 Factors that Affect Moving Prices
- Home Size and Volume of Items – Larger homes with more furniture require more movers, time, and equipment, increasing the cost.
- Distance of the Move – Long-distance moves are generally more expensive than local moves, as they involve more time, fuel, and labor.
- Season and Timing – Moving during peak season (May–September) can increase prices by 20–30%. Off-season moves (October–April) are generally cheaper.
- Packing Services – If you opt for professional packing, it will add to the cost, typically $25–$40/hour per packer.
- Special Items and Accessibility – Specialty items (pianos, antiques) or challenging access (elevators, long carries) can result in additional charges.
Learn more: How Much to Tip Movers in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide
8 Tips: How to Save (Without Losing Your Mind)
Let’s be honest—moving is already stressful. Don’t make it harder by overspending. Here are real ways to save:
- Book Early – Lock in lower rates and better time slots.
- Move Off-Peak – Avoid May–September if you can.
- Pack Yourself – Save hundreds by boxing up your own stuff.
- Declutter First – Less to move = less to pay.
- Compare Quotes – Aim for 3–5 movers and compare in detail.
- Negotiate – Especially for mid-week or flexible timing.
- Use Your Own Boxes – Reuse what you have or ask around.
- Go Flat-Rate for Long-Distance – More predictable, less risky.
Experience a Seamless Move—Trust Our Professional Movers!
Conclusion
So, how much do movers cost in Chicago in 2025? It depends on your home size, your timing, your location, and your level of service. But with verified moving company pricing in hand and the right prep, you can budget confidently, avoid surprises, and (maybe) even enjoy the process a little.
To recap:
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Plan ahead, ask good questions, and go in with a strategy—and you’ll get through it just fine.
FAQs for Movers Cost In Chicago in 2025
1. What’s the average cost of movers for a local move in Chicago?
Expect to pay $850–$1,500 depending on your home size and time needed. For a 1-bedroom, the average falls between $480–$1,000.
2. How much does a long-distance move cost from Chicago?
A cross-country move from Chicago can cost anywhere from $2,900 to $8,000, depending on your distance, home size, and service level.
3. Are packing services worth the extra money?
They can be—especially if you’re short on time or energy. You’ll pay $25–$40 per hour per packer, but it might save your sanity.
4. What affects my final moving cost the most?
Your home size, move date (peak vs. off-peak), distance, whether you need packing/storage, and how prepared you are on move day.
5. How can I get the best deal on movers in Chicago?
Start early, avoid weekends, compare multiple quotes, and move during off-peak months (October to April).
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