Quick answer: A typical 1,120-mile move from Chicago to Austin runs $991–$7,137 and takes two to eight days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Austin to Chicago guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Chicago to Austin

Choosing a long-distance mover for your trip from Chicago to Austin can be tough. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed about who you can truly count on.

Save yourself the hassle of sorting through countless moving companies — we've already narrowed down the best for you. Our favorites earned their spots thanks to rave reviews, budget-friendly prices, and versatile services to suit any type of move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to TX movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 63 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local movers servicing Chicago to Austin moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Chicago that also provides long-distance services to Austin can feel overwhelming. Many companies make similar promises, but not all live up to them.

That's where we come in — we've analyzed local movers in Chicago who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Chicago to Austin.

  1. New City Moving: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. H2H Movers Inc: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/NewCityMoving, https://twitter.com/newcitymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move.
While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Show more
Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

Company Info

State license #: 158051

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 3078026

Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoMover, https://twitter.com/TheProMove1
93% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication.
People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Show more
Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

Company Info

State license #: 136144

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 3383907


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/h2hmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/h2hmoving
88% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier for H2H customers. Out of 640 real customer reviews analyzed, a remarkable 88% delivered positive feedback, placing H2H Movers above most competitors in the moving industry. Clients most frequently highlighted the company’s efficient service, careful handling of possessions, professional and polite staff, great communication, and a quick moving process.
People appreciated teams who arrived on time, completed moves ahead of schedule, and made stressful relocations feel manageable, often noting that quoted prices were accurate or even lower than expected. On the other hand, the most common complaints were unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, and delays in arrival or delivery. A few customers reported being billed more than their estimates due to extra fees or poor packing, and some faced slow resolution for claims or communication gaps after their move. While some neutral reviews cited problems with lost items or payment methods, these were far less frequent than the praise received. H2H Movers stands out with efficient, reliable, and friendly crews—a reputation that exceeds the service level of many moving companies, though attention to transparent billing and timeliness could make experiences even better.
Show more
Get a Quote (773) 236-8797

Company Info

State license #: 184599

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2428328

Alternate Names: H2H Movers, Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/stimovingandstorage, https://twitter.com/stimovers?lang=en
68% of all reviews were positive
29% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings.
Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI's organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Show more
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

Company Info

State license #: 139020

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1308599

Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/AllianceMovingTeam/, https://twitter.com/alliance_moving
96% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Alliance Moving & Storage feels like a breath of fresh air: 247 customer feedback entries were analyzed, with a remarkable 95.5% being positive. Most people describe the company as efficient, careful with belongings, highly professional, and quick. Customers consistently mention respectful staff and clear, reliable communication throughout the process.
Affordable, transparent pricing and rapid scheduling compared favorably versus rival companies. On the downside, a minority report unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, or trouble reaching someone after problems arose. Issues like last-minute price increases or lack of follow-up were sometimes cited by dissatisfied customers. Negative experiences remain much less common than positive ones. Compared with typical moving companies, Alliance stands out for speed, professionalism, and care, though some customers recommend confirming all charges up front to prevent misunderstandings.
Show more
Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Company Info

State license #: 214845

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2882675

Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Chicago to Austin?

Chicago movers charge $100 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,425 - $5,827 $1,074 - $2,595 $863 - $1,608
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,135 - $7,137 $1,866 - $3,690 $991 - $1,951
4+ bedrooms $5,026 - $10,298 $2,652 - $5,076 $1,196 - $2,450
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,120 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.

Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Texas

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Texas, you can expect to spend between $1,425 and $5,827. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,135 to $7,137 on the same route (IL to TX). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Illinois to Texas typically runs between $5,026 and $10,298.

Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Texas

Moving containers from Illinois to Texas will cost you $1,074 to $2,595 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,866 to $3,690. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,652 to $5,076. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Texas

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you'll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $863 and $1,608. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $991 and $1,951. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $1,196 up to $2,450 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Chicago to Austin movetoggle

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Chicago to Austin might cost just $1,425 for a one-bedroom, but up to $8,483 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $863 and $2,131, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Chicago to Austin

Moving from Chicago to Austin means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Chicago than in Austin, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Chicago compares to Austin so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Chicago Austin
Average rent cost $2,045 $1,765
Average home value $295,743 $508,841
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $68,258
Cost of living (single person) $3,648 $3,345
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,266 $7,815
Unemployment rate 9.0% 3.5%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.25%
State income tax 4.95% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Austin are 14% lower than in Chicago, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • The home prices in Austin are 72.1% higher than in Chicago, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • Income in Austin is 4.6% lower than in Chicago, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Austin — including Keller Williams Realty, Whole Foods Market, and Arrow Value Recovery — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Austin. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 8.3% lower than in Chicago.
  • A move to Austin can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 15.7% less than what it costs in Chicago.
  • The unemployment rate in Austin is 61.11% lower than in Chicago.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Austin, since the city's sales taxes in Austin are 19.51% lower than in Chicago.
  • One perk of moving to Austin is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Chicago.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,750.82 in Austin to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago vs. Austin

Austin Chicago
Population 974,447 2,746,388
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 9
Walkability score 42 77
Bike friendliness score 54 72
Crime Index 42.91 35.19
Safety Index 59.87 33.87
Air Quality Good Good
  • Austin's population is about 65% less than Chicago.
  • Austin's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Chicago's higher score of 9.
  • Austin is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
  • Austin has a bike-friendliness score 54 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
  • Austin's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 42.91 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Austin neighborhoods are safer than 42.91% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
  • Austin is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 59.87 vs Chicago's 33.87.
  • Air quality in Austin is good, and in Chicago it's good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago vs. Austin move

  • Weather: Austin has mild winters and hot summers, the rainiest months are typically May, June, and October so your move may be affected in these months.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Texas moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Texas doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Austin. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Austin

Now that you've decided to make the move to ATX, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Austin.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cherrywood
  • North University
  • Old West Austin
  • South Lamar
  • Zilker

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Rollingwood
  • West Lake
  • Brushy Creek
  • Cedar Park
  • Shady Hollow

Things to do in Austin

After settling into your new Texas home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Austin has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Austin features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Texas Memorial Museum, George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, Thinkery, Blanton Museum of Art, and Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Pease Park, Butler Metro Park, Zilker Park, and Sculpture Falls — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Round Rock Express, Austin Spurs, Texas Stars, or Austin Outlaws game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Chicago to Austin?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Chicago to Austin are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Chicago. are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Austin?

Because most people are moving from Chicago to Austin in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Chicago to Austin take?

Moving from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX covers 1,120 miles and usually takes two to eight days Need to move faster? Some Chicago movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Austin.

Helpful moving resources