$1,143 Movers From Chicago, IL to West Virginia

Quick answer: The cost to move from Chicago, IL, to West Virginia averages from $494 to $5,054, and can take anywhere from one-six days, depending on the size, date, and distance of your move and whether you hire professional movers or handle it yourself.

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Moving 580 miles is no joke. Hiring a professional Chicago moving company will be on the more expensive side, while renting a truck or a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our Moving from West Virginia to Chicago, IL guide.

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The best Chicago to West Virginia moving companies

Hiring the right interstate moving company from Chicago to West Virginia is no small task. Luckily, we’re here to make your decision a little easier. We have analyzed 4,400 moving companies across the U.S. — including 40 local movers in Chicago and 267 throughout the Mountain State — and narrowed them down to the best of the best based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.

Here are the best long-distance moving companies serving Chicago to West Virginia.

Use our >moving cost calculator to get a more accurate estimate for your moving needs.

If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here’s a list of our recommended services for small moves.

How much does it cost to move from Chicago, IL, to West Virginia?

Here are the average price ranges for hiring a professional moving company, renting a moving container, or using a moving truck to move from Chicago to West Virginia:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,143 - $3,260 $686 - $1,724 $481 - $854
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,109 - $5,054 $1,225 - $2,430 $494 - $1,055
4+ bedrooms $3,618 - $7,853 $1,720 - $3,363 $611 - $1,261

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 580 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

The cost to move from Chicago, IL, to West Virginia will depend on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have — as well as your home size and layout — will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

How much does it cost to hire movers from Chicago, IL, to West Virginia?

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Chicago to West Virginia will cost between $1,143 to $3,260. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Chicago to WV will range from $2,109 to $5,054. A large move from Chicago to West Virginia will cost anywhere from $3,618 to $7,853.

How much are moving containers like PODS from Chicago, IL, to West Virginia?

Moving pods from Chicago to West Virginia will cost you $686 to $1,724. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,225 to $2,430. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,720 to $3,363. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving containers for your move from Chicago to West Virginia.

How much is a moving truck from Chicago, IL, to West Virginia?

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $481 to $854. A larger move will cost $494 to $1,055, and a four-bedroom or bigger move from Chicago to West Virginia costs from $611 to $1,261.

Is moving from Chicago, IL, to West Virginia a good idea?

If you’re moving to West Virginia from Chicago, IL, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: Chicago, IL, vs West Virginia

Chicago, IL West Virginia
Average rent cost $1,595 $725
Average home cost $306,098 $129,659
Average income (per capita) $65,601 $48,037
Unemployment rate 9.0% 4.1%
State income tax 4.95% 6.5%
  • Rent is about 84% less expensive in West Virginia than in Chicago.
  • Home prices are about 70.8% lower in West Virginia than in Chicago.
  • The average income is about 22.4% lower in West Virginia than in Chicago.
  • West Virginia has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 106.5%.
  • Income taxes are 31.31% higher in West Virginia than in Chicago.

How is life different in Chicago, IL, from West Virginia?

Chicago, IL West Virginia
Population 2,746,388 1,782,959
Political leaning Democrat 74-24 Republican 69-30
Summer high 84ºF 83ºF
Winter low 19ºF 21ºF
Annual rain 38" 45"
Annual snow 35" 33"
Crime index 35.19 17.47
  • The population of West Virginia is approximately 35% lower than the population of Chicago.
  • In the last presidential election, West Virginia voted Republican and Chicago voted Democrat.
  • The average high in the summertime in West Virginia is 83º F and in Chicago, it’s 84º F.
  • During the coldest part of the year, West Virginia reaches the temperature of 21º F and Chicago gets down to 19º F.
  • You can expect about 45 inches of annual rainfall in West Virginia vs. 38 inches of rainfall in Chicago.
  • In West Virginia, it snows about 33 inches annually vs. 35 inches of snow in Chicago.

Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL, vs. West Virginia:

There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Chicago vs West Virginia side-by-side.

Pros of living in Chicago, IL Pros of living in West Virginia
Bountiful arts and recreational activities Low cost of living
Delicious food Abundant outdoor activities
Abundant entertainment 4 distinct seasons of weather
Intense sports culture Immense natural beauty
Ample economic opportunity Relaxed small cities and towns

Comparing the cons of living in Chicago, IL, vs. West Virginia:

Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Chicago for West Virginia.

Cons of living in Chicago, IL Cons of living in West Virginia
High crime rate Dismal economy
Temperamental weather High rates of crime
Terrible traffic High rates of drug abuse
High taxes Shrinking population
Pollution Lack of diversity

Considerations for moving to West Virginia

  • Weather: West Virginia has warm to hot, humid summers and chilly winters. Be sure to check the weather during your move to avoid inclement weather..
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a West Virginia moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: West Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to West Virginia. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers' insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

Looking for local Chicago movers?

Company Quote Rating Contact
New City Moving Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.9 overall rating
2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL, 60618
(773) 489-0600
The Professionals Moving Specialists Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.76 overall rating
3918 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60618
(888) 225-7351

Visit our best movers in Chicago page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.

What to do in West Virginia

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in West Virginia.

Museums in West Virginia

  • West Virginia State Museum
  • The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum
  • Heritage Farm Museum and Village
  • Clay Center
  • Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum
  • Oglebay Institute Glass Museum
  • Oglebay Institute Mansion Museum
  • Huntington Museum of Art
  • Mothman Museum
  • Princeton Railroad Museum
  • Elkins Depot Welcome Center CVB, Inc.
  • Museum of Radio and Technology
  • Wheeling Artisan Center
  • Virtu Art Glass Studio
  • Those Who Served War Museum

Parks in West Virginia

  • Oglebay Park
  • Ritter Park
  • Wheeling Park
  • Haddad Riverfront Park
  • Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park
  • Fort Boreman Park
  • Spruce Knob
  • Harris Riverfront Park
  • Watoga State Park
  • Heritage Port Park & Sculpture Garden
  • Grand Vue Park
  • Palatine Park
  • Lost River State Park
  • Lotito City Park

Sports Teams in West Virginia

  • Wheeling Nailers (ECHL)
  • West Virginia Mountaineers (NCAA)

Universities in West Virginia

  • West Virginia University
  • Marshall University
  • Shepherd University
  • West Virginia State University
  • Fairmont State University
  • Concord University
  • University of Charleston
  • Wheeling University
  • Bethany College
  • West Liberty University
  • Alderson Broaddus University
  • West Virginia University at Parkersburg
  • West Virginia Wesleyan College
  • Bluefield State College
  • Davis and Elkins College

FAQs: Moving from Chicago to West Virginia

What is the best way to get a car from Chicago to West Virginia?

Need to get your car from Chicago to West Virginia? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Chicago to West Virginia car shippers.

Why are people moving from Chicago to West Virginia?

Many people are moving to West Virginia because of its low cost of living and abundant outdoor activities. On the other hand, people are moving away from Chicago because of the high crime rate and temperamental weather.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Chicago?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Chicago.

Related articles to your move

Learn more about West Virginia