Moving from Chicago to Arizona? Compare top-rated movers, costs ($1,086–$9,446), and what to expect before you move.
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If you're moving from Chicago to Arizona, you've got options—and not all of them are equal. I've sifted through 68 Chicago movers that handle interstate relocations, and here are the five that actually deliver.
Address: 4250 N Marine Dr Apartment #1136, Chicago, IL 60613
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (412 Yelp reviews | 1,556 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (773) 236-8797
What customers say: Out of 640 reviews, 88% were positive. H2H's crews show up on time, finish ahead of schedule, and handle your stuff with care. The most common praise: accurate quotes and professional, polite staff who communicate clearly. Drawbacks pop up when deposits weren't transparent upfront or when damage occurred and the resolution dragged.
Company details:
Address: 3201 Tollview Drive, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (25 Yelp reviews | 33 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (847) 378-4949
What customers say: I analyzed 247 customer feedback entries. 95.5% were positive. Customers consistently highlight efficiency, transparency, and respect for belongings. Scheduling is faster than competitors, and pricing doesn't surprise you at the end. The minority who left negative reviews cited unexpected charges or poor communication after the move wrapped up.
Company details:
Address: 2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Rating: 4.6 / 5 (1,194 Yelp reviews | 2,393 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (773) 489-0600
What customers say: New City Moving wins on speed and professionalism. Out of 1,451 reviews analyzed, 92.4% were positive. Customers love the efficient crews, careful packing, quick turnarounds, and clear communication. About 6% reported damage or unexpected billing, but the company's response time and crew quality keep it above the industry average.
Company details:
Address: 3918 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618
Rating: 4.6 / 5 (1,064 Yelp reviews | 3,993 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (888) 225-7351
What customers say: 92.5% of 1,349 reviews were positive. The Professionals earn consistent praise for careful handling, quick completion, and professional crews. Damage is rare—a real differentiator versus other movers. The downside: some customers reported higher-than-expected final charges or scratches that weren't covered quickly. Overall, they excel at reliability and peace of mind.
Company details:
Address: 7400 Niles Center Rd, Skokie, IL 60077
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (425 Yelp reviews | 1,080 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (847) 675-1223
What customers say: In 538 reviews, 68% were satisfied. STI shines for speed and organized crews—moves finish faster than expected. The bigger complaints center on damage during long-distance hauls and higher-than-quoted final bills. If you're hauling specialty items or crossing state lines, confirm their damage claims process upfront.
Company details:
Out of 68 movers I tracked in Chicago, here's how many offer specialty services:
| Service | Count | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 49 | 73.5% |
| Small moves | 40 | 58.8% |
| Antiques | 40 | 58.8% |
| Art | 42 | 61.8% |
| Pianos | 54 | 79.4% |
| Fragile-only packing | 20 | 29.4% |
Here's what you can realistically expect to pay for a 1,677-mile move from Chicago to Arizona:
| Move Size | Full-Service Mover | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,086 – $4,654 | $1,054 – $2,474 | $988 – $1,751 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,708 – $6,113 | $1,844 – $3,835 | $985 – $2,191 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,061 – $9,446 | $2,467 – $4,945 | $1,294 – $2,601 |
Estimates based on pricing data as of January 2026. Actual costs vary based on move scope, add-ons, parking constraints, fuel, and timing. Use our calculator to get personalized quotes.
A studio or one-bedroom move typically runs $1,086–$4,654. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect $2,708–$6,113. If you've got a larger household (4+ bedrooms), budget $5,061–$9,446.
Moving containers are a middle ground between DIY and full-service. Small loads cost $1,054–$2,474. Two- to three-bedroom homes typically range from $1,844–$3,835. Larger households should expect $2,467–$4,945.
Renting a truck yourself is the cheapest option—but you do all the lifting. Studio/1-bedroom: $988–$1,751 (fuel included). Two- to three-bedroom: $985–$2,191. Four-plus bedroom: $1,294–$2,601.
A few variables control the final bill:
Arizona and Chicago are more similar than you'd think on the financial side—but the lifestyle shift is real.
| Factor | Chicago | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,045 | $1,308 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 2.5% |
What this means:
| Factor | Chicago | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2.7 million | 7.4 million |
| Political lean | Democrat 74–24 | Democrat 56–44 |
| Summer high | 84°F | 99°F |
| Winter low | 19°F | 34°F |
| Annual rainfall | 38" | 12" |
| Annual snowfall | 35" | 6" |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 24.89 |
What to expect:
Why people move to Arizona from Chicago:
Why people hesitate:
Why people love Chicago:
Why people leave Chicago:
A few logistics matter to avoid last-minute headaches:
HOA & building rules: Check your Arizona community's moving policies and any restrictions on move times.
Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, reserve it for moving day well in advance.
Truck parking permits: Some Arizona cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Verify ahead of time.
State licensing: Arizona is relatively unregulated, but local movers must comply with the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures. Confirm your mover has proper licenses.
Moving permits: You won't need a formal moving permit in Arizona, but check local parking rules to avoid fines.
Change of address: Submit your USPS change-of-address form at least one week before you move. Choose your official move date so mail forwarding starts on schedule.
Moving insurance: Review your state's insurance requirements. Most movers offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge—but it covers only 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV would reimburse just $15 if lost. For full coverage, ask your mover about third-party insurance or additional liability options.
Moving checklist: Keep yourself organized. A solid checklist prevents forgotten details and last-minute panic.
Once you land in Arizona, you won't lack for activities.
Museums:
Parks:
Sports teams:
Universities:
Typically 4–15 days, depending on the service type. Summer moves may take longer due to peak season. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before booking.
I track 46 movers in Chicago with custom crating capabilities for art, antiques, and electronics. Confirm that materials and dimensions match your items.
Check out our car shipping guide for reputable auto transport companies specializing in the Chicago-to-Arizona route.
Economic opportunity and pleasant weather top the list. People leave Chicago primarily because of high crime and harsh winters.
About 29 movers in Chicago accept cash, but credit card and check payments are more common in the industry. Expect a deposit upfront; the balance is due at pickup or delivery.
You've got solid options in Chicago. The five movers above have earned their reputation through efficiency, care, and transparent pricing—not flashy marketing. Get quotes from multiple movers before you commit. Summer moves cost more and take longer. The earlier you book, the better your options.
Compare at least three quotes. Ask about damage policies, deposit terms, and delivery windows. Then pick the one that feels like a genuine fit for your move, not just the cheapest bid.
Your move to Arizona is within reach. Let's make it smooth.
