MoveCostGuide

Long Distance

Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Chicago, IL

1452 miles · 30h 24m drive · Estimated cost $2,310$3,651 for a 2-bedroom move

1452 miles
30h 24m drive
Cost Index: 0.981.02

Cost Estimate: Phoenix to Chicago

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

Full Service

Movers handle everything

$2,974
Range: $2,310$3,651
  • Professional packing & unpacking
  • Loading, transport & unloading
  • Basic valuation coverage

Partial Service

You pack, movers move

$2,312
Range: $1,834$2,801
  • You pack your own boxes
  • Movers load, transport & unload
  • Save 20–35% vs. full service

DIY Move

Rent a truck, do it yourself

$2,042
Range: $1,455$2,585
  • 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 Phoenix to Chicago move.

Cheapest Moderate Expensive

Estimated Moving Cost

Phoenix, AZChicago, IL · 1,452 miles

Low

$2,310

Estimated

$2,974

High

$3,651

🟢 Off-peak pricing · March

Where Does Your Money Go?

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

Total$2,975
Labor(18.2%)
$473$608
Transportation(58.8%)
$1,373$2,126
Packing(17.4%)
$360$675
Insurance(3.8%)
$67$170
Tips(1.8%)
$38$73

Best Time to Move

Moving costs from Phoenix to Chicago 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

Phoenix

Arizona
Destination

Chicago

Illinois
Cost of Living Index
98
102
Average Rent (1BR)
$1,350
$1,850
Average Rent (2BR)
$1,650
$2,300
State Income Tax
2.5%
5.0%
Avg High Temperature
86°F
59°F
You'll spend ~38% more on housing
Average rent in Chicago is $2,075/mo vs $1,500/mo in Phoenix
Top Neighborhoods
Phoenix
  • Arcadia
  • Downtown Phoenix
  • Camelback East
  • North Central
  • Roosevelt Row
Chicago
  • Lincoln Park
  • Wicker Park
  • Logan Square
  • Lakeview
  • Hyde Park

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Expert advice for your 1452-mile move from Phoenix to Chicago.

1

Get a binding estimate

Long-distance moves from Phoenix to Chicago 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 1452 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 Chicago, 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 Phoenix to Chicago

These nationally recognized movers service the Phoenix to Chicago 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 Phoenix to Chicago?
The average cost for a 2-bedroom full-service move from Phoenix, AZ to Chicago, IL ranges from $2,310 to $3,651, with a typical cost around $2,974. A DIY move with a rental truck averages $2,042. Actual costs depend on home size, time of year, and additional services.
How long does the drive from Phoenix to Chicago take?
The distance from Phoenix to Chicago is approximately 1452 miles. The estimated driving time is 30h 24m, though actual drive time may vary based on the route, traffic, and road conditions. Professional movers may take 4–6 days to deliver your belongings.
What's the cheapest month to move from Phoenix to Chicago?
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 1452-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 ~$2,042 vs. full-service at ~$2,974 to decide.
How far is Phoenix from Chicago?
Phoenix, AZ is approximately 1452 miles from Chicago, IL. This is classified as a long distance and the drive takes roughly 30h 24m.
What size moving truck do I need for a move from Phoenix to Chicago?
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 Chicago from elsewhere?

Compare moving costs from other cities to Chicago, IL.