$614 Movers From Chicago, IL to Wisconsin

Quick answer: The cost to move from Chicago, IL, to Wisconsin averages from $211 to $3,676, and can take anywhere from one-two days, depending on the size, date, and distance of your move and whether you hire professional movers or handle it yourself.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Family owned
  • East coast focus
  • Affordable pricing
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.25 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Family owned & operated
  • Affordable pricing
  • Same-day estimates
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned

Moving 172 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 Wisconsin to Chicago, IL guide.

Our track record

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

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

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best Chicago to Wisconsin moving companies

Hiring the right interstate moving company from Chicago to Wisconsin 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 Badger 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 Wisconsin.

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 Wisconsin?

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 Wisconsin:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $614 - $2,546 $510 - $1,167 $180 - $332
2 - 3 bedrooms $1,269 - $3,676 $921 - $1,757 $211 - $368
4+ bedrooms $1,750 - $4,682 $1,190 - $2,201 $248 - $455

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 172 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Wisconsin will cost between $614 to $2,546. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Chicago to WI will range from $1,269 to $3,676. A large move from Chicago to Wisconsin will cost anywhere from $1,750 to $4,682.

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

Moving pods from Chicago to Wisconsin will cost you $510 to $1,167. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $921 to $1,757. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,190 to $2,201. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

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

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 $180 to $332. A larger move will cost $211 to $368, and a four-bedroom or bigger move from Chicago to Wisconsin costs from $248 to $455.

Is moving from Chicago, IL, to Wisconsin a good idea?

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

Cost of living: Chicago, IL, vs Wisconsin

Chicago, IL Wisconsin
Average rent cost $1,595 $1,100
Average home cost $306,098 $306,566
Average income (per capita) $65,601 $72,458
Unemployment rate 9.0% 2.9%
State income tax 4.95% 7.65%
  • Rent is about 42% less expensive in Wisconsin than in Chicago.
  • Home prices are about the same in Wisconsin and Chicago.
  • The average income is about 8.7% higher in Wisconsin than in Chicago.
  • Wisconsin has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 115.1%.
  • Income taxes are 54.55% higher in Wisconsin than in Chicago.

How is life different in Chicago, IL, from Wisconsin?

Chicago, IL Wisconsin
Population 2,746,388 5,910,955
Political leaning Democrat 74-24 Republican 51-49
Summer high 84ºF 81ºF
Winter low 19ºF 7ºF
Annual rain 38" 34"
Annual snow 35" 48"
Crime index 35.19 16.82
  • The population of Wisconsin is approximately 115% greater than the population of Chicago.
  • In the last presidential election, Wisconsin voted Republican and Chicago voted Democrat.
  • The average high in the summertime in Wisconsin is 81º F and in Chicago, it’s 84º F.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Wisconsin reaches the temperature of 7º F and Chicago gets down to 19º F.
  • You can expect about 34 inches of annual rainfall in Wisconsin vs. 38 inches of rainfall in Chicago.
  • In Wisconsin, it snows about 48 inches annually vs. 35 inches of snow in Chicago.

Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL, vs. Wisconsin:

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

Pros of living in Chicago, IL Pros of living in Wisconsin
Bountiful arts and recreational activities Low cost of living
Delicious food High quality of life
Abundant entertainment Abundant outdoor recreational activities
Intense sports culture Unique tasty food
Ample economic opportunity Borders great lakes

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

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

Cons of living in Chicago, IL Cons of living in Wisconsin
High crime rate High tax burden
Temperamental weather Extreme seasonal weather
Terrible traffic Lack of diversity
High taxes Poor roads
Pollution High rate of alcoholism

Considerations for moving to Wisconsin

  • Weather: Wisconsin has warm-summers humid continental climate while the southern and southwestern portions are classified as hot-summer humid continental climate. Wisconsin also receives a large amount of regular snowfall averaging around 40 inches. Be sure to check your local weather station if you are planning your move for the summer..
  • 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: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Wisconsin moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers' insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
  • 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
H2H Movers Inc Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.9 overall rating
4250 N Marine Dr Aparment #1136, Chicago, IL, 60613
(773) 236-8797
New City Moving Get A Quote starstarstarstarstar
4.86 overall rating
2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL, 60618
(773) 489-0600

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 Wisconsin

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

Museums in Wisconsin

  • Harley-Davidson Museum
  • Milwaukee Art Museum
  • Civil War Museum
  • Hearthstone Historic House Museum
  • Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame
  • EAA Aviation Museum
  • Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum
  • Building for Kids
  • Geneva Lake Museum of History
  • Circus World
  • Chazen Museum of Art
  • Milwaukee Public Museum
  • Wisconsin Maritime Museum
  • The History Museum at the Castle
  • Ripley's Believe It or Not Wisconsin Dells

Parks in Wisconsin

  • Wisconsin Deer Park
  • Cave Point County Park
  • Timbavati Wildlife Park
  • Carson Park
  • Petrifying Springs Park
  • Irvine Park
  • Lakeside Park
  • Fox River Park
  • Riverside Park
  • Minooka Park
  • Fox Brook Park
  • Plamann Park
  • Interstate State Park- Wisconsin
  • Dorothy Carnes County Park & Rose Lake State Natural Area
  • Rotary Park

Sports Teams in Wisconsin

  • Green Bay Packers (NFL)
  • Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)
  • Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)
  • Wisconsin Herd (NBA G League)
  • Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)

Universities in Wisconsin

  • University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
  • Marquette University
  • University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
  • University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
  • Medical College of Wisconsin
  • University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
  • University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
  • University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
  • University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
  • University of Wisconsin-Stout
  • Lawrence University
  • Beloit College
  • Milwaukee School of Engineering
  • University of Wisconsin-Platteville

FAQs: Moving from Chicago to Wisconsin

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

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

Why are people moving from Chicago to Wisconsin?

Many people are moving to Wisconsin because of its low cost of living and high quality of life. 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 Wisconsin