Long Distance

Moving from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

1732 miles · 36h 12m drive · Estimated cost $2,485–$3,923 for a 2-bedroom move

1732 miles

36h 12m drive

Cost Index: 1.15 → 1.02

Cost Estimate: San Diego to Chicago

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

Full Service

Movers handle everything

$3,196

Range: $2,485 – $3,923

Professional packing & unpacking
Loading, transport & unloading
Basic valuation coverage

Partial Service

You pack, movers move

$2,525

Range: $2,000 – $3,061

You pack your own boxes
Movers load, transport & unload
Save 20–35% vs. full service

DIY Move

Rent a truck, do it yourself

$2,215

Range: $1,599 – $2,763

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 San Diego to Chicago move.

Home Size

Move Month

Cheapest Moderate Expensive

Estimated Moving Cost

San Diego, CA → Chicago, IL · 1,732 miles

Low

$2,485

Estimated

$3,196

High

$3,923

🟢 Off-peak pricing · March

Where Does Your Money Go?

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

Total$3,197

Labor(18.3%)

$513 – $659

Transportation(59.8%)

$1,499 – $2,327

Packing(16.2%)

$360 – $675

Insurance(3.8%)

$71 – $183

Tips(1.8%)

$41 – $79

Best Time to Move

Moving costs from San Diego 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

San Diego

California

Destination

Chicago

Illinois

Cost of Living Index

115

102

Average Rent (1BR)

$2,200

$1,850

Average Rent (2BR)

$2,850

$2,300

State Income Tax

13.3%

5.0%

Avg High Temperature

71°F

59°F

You'll save ~18% on housing

Average rent in Chicago is $2,075/mo vs $2,525/mo in San Diego

Top Neighborhoods

San Diego

North Park
Hillcrest
La Jolla
Pacific Beach
Little Italy

Chicago

Lincoln Park
Wicker Park
Logan Square
Lakeview
Hyde Park

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Expert advice for your 1732-mile move from San Diego to Chicago.

Get a binding estimate

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

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.

Ship your car separately

At 1732 miles, driving two vehicles is exhausting and expensive. Auto transport typically costs $800–$1,500 and eliminates wear on your car.

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.

Research your new city

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

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 San Diego to Chicago

These nationally recognized movers service the San Diego 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

$$$

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 San Diego to Chicago?

The average cost for a 2-bedroom full-service move from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL ranges from $2,485 to $3,923, with a typical cost around $3,196. A DIY move with a rental truck averages $2,215. Actual costs depend on home size, time of year, and additional services.

How long does the drive from San Diego to Chicago take?

The distance from San Diego to Chicago is approximately 1732 miles. The estimated driving time is 36h 12m, though actual drive time may vary based on the route, traffic, and road conditions. Professional movers may take 5–7 days to deliver your belongings.

What's the cheapest month to move from San Diego 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 1732-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 ~$2,215 vs. full-service at ~$3,196 to decide.

How far is San Diego from Chicago?

San Diego, CA is approximately 1732 miles from Chicago, IL. This is classified as a long distance and the drive takes roughly 36h 12m.

What size moving truck do I need for a move from San Diego 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.