MoveCostGuide

Long Distance

Moving from Chicago, IL to Atlanta, GA

589 miles · 12h 18m drive · Estimated cost $1,923$3,017 for a 2-bedroom move

589 miles
12h 18m drive
Cost Index: 1.021.03

Cost Estimate: Chicago to Atlanta

Average costs for a 2-bedroom move. Use the calculator below for a custom quote.

Full Service

Movers handle everything

$2,464
Range: $1,923$3,017
  • Professional packing & unpacking
  • Loading, transport & unloading
  • Basic valuation coverage

Partial Service

You pack, movers move

$1,799
Range: $1,445$2,162
  • You pack your own boxes
  • Movers load, transport & unload
  • Save 20–35% vs. full service

DIY Move

Rent a truck, do it yourself

$1,506
Range: $1,015$2,037
  • Truck rental + gas + equipment
  • No labor costs — you do the lifting
  • Full control over your schedule

Custom Moving Calculator

Adjust home size, move type, and extras to get a personalized estimate for your Chicago to Atlanta move.

Cheapest Moderate Expensive

Estimated Moving Cost

Chicago, ILAtlanta, GA · 589 miles

Low

$1,923

Estimated

$2,464

High

$3,017

🟢 Off-peak pricing · March

Where Does Your Money Go?

Full-service cost breakdown for a 2-bedroom long distance from Chicago to Atlanta.

Total$2,466
Labor(22.5%)
$484$623
Transportation(50.5%)
$986$1,504
Packing(21.0%)
$360$675
Insurance(3.8%)
$55$140
Tips(2.3%)
$39$75

Best Time to Move

Moving costs from Chicago to Atlanta vary significantly by season.

January is the cheapest month (save up to 15%), while July is the most expensive (+30%).

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
CheapestModerateExpensive
Origin

Chicago

Illinois
Destination

Atlanta

Georgia
Cost of Living Index
102
103
Average Rent (1BR)
$1,850
$1,650
Average Rent (2BR)
$2,300
$2,050
State Income Tax
5.0%
5.5%
Avg High Temperature
59°F
72°F
You'll save ~11% on housing
Average rent in Atlanta is $1,850/mo vs $2,075/mo in Chicago
Top Neighborhoods
Chicago
  • Lincoln Park
  • Wicker Park
  • Logan Square
  • Lakeview
  • Hyde Park
Atlanta
  • Virginia-Highland
  • Inman Park
  • Decatur
  • Old Fourth Ward
  • Buckhead

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Expert advice for your 589-mile move from Chicago to Atlanta.

1

Get a binding estimate

Long-distance moves from Chicago to Atlanta can have surprise costs. A binding or not-to-exceed estimate protects you from a ballooning bill.

2

Move in winter to save big

January and February rates are 15–30% lower than the summer peak. If your timeline is flexible, a winter move from pays for itself.

3

Ship your car separately

At 589 miles, driving two vehicles is exhausting and expensive. Auto transport typically costs $800–$1,500 and eliminates wear on your car.

4

Inventory everything

Create a detailed, numbered inventory with photos before the movers arrive. This is essential for filing claims if anything goes missing or gets damaged.

5

Research your new city

Before arriving in Atlanta, research neighborhoods, school districts, and local utilities so you can hit the ground running.

6

Use a portable container

Companies like PODS or U-Pack let you pack on your schedule and can be more affordable than traditional long-distance movers.

Top Moving Companies for Chicago to Atlanta

These nationally recognized movers service the Chicago to Atlanta route. Compare their rates and read reviews before choosing.

United Van Lines

$$$
4.3
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationInternational
  • Extensive nationwide agent network for reliable coverage
  • Offers a comprehensive online tracking and shipment management system
  • Strong reputation with decades of industry experience
Get a Free Quote

Allied Van Lines

$$$
4.2
Long DistanceMilitaryCorporate Relocation
  • Wide range of service options including packing and unpacking
  • Transparent online quote process with detailed estimates
  • Strong military and government relocation program
Get a Free Quote

Mayflower

$$$
4.1
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationStorage
  • Offers flexible moving and storage bundles
  • Provides detailed shipment tracking throughout the move
  • Well-established claims process for damaged items
Get a Free Quote

North American Van Lines

$$$
4
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationGovernment
  • Assigned personal move coordinator for each customer
  • ProMover certified with strong safety track record
Get a Free Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to move from Chicago to Atlanta?
The average cost for a 2-bedroom full-service move from Chicago, IL to Atlanta, GA ranges from $1,923 to $3,017, with a typical cost around $2,464. A DIY move with a rental truck averages $1,506. Actual costs depend on home size, time of year, and additional services.
How long does the drive from Chicago to Atlanta take?
The distance from Chicago to Atlanta is approximately 589 miles. The estimated driving time is 12h 18m, though actual drive time may vary based on the route, traffic, and road conditions. Professional movers may take 2–3 days to deliver your belongings.
What's the cheapest month to move from Chicago to Atlanta?
January is typically the cheapest month to move, with rates up to 15% below average. The most expensive month is July, when rates increase by about 30%. Moving mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) also helps reduce costs by 10–20%.
Should I hire movers or do it myself?
For a 589-mile move, hiring professional movers is usually worth the investment. The logistics of a long-distance move are complex, and the physical toll of driving a large truck hundreds of miles can be overwhelming. Compare your DIY cost of ~$1,506 vs. full-service at ~$2,464 to decide.
How far is Chicago from Atlanta?
Chicago, IL is approximately 589 miles from Atlanta, GA. This is classified as a long distance and the drive takes roughly 12h 18m.
What size moving truck do I need for a move from Chicago to Atlanta?
For a 2-bedroom home, a 15–17 foot truck is usually sufficient. For 3-bedroom homes, plan on a 20–22 foot truck. For 4+ bedrooms, you will likely need a 26-foot truck or may need to consider two trips. When in doubt, size up — packing a too-small truck wastes time and risks damage.

Moving to Atlanta from elsewhere?

Compare moving costs from other cities to Atlanta, GA.