Chicago to Arizona Movers: Top 5 Companies & Cost Guide
If you're moving from Chicago to Arizona, you've got options—and not all of them are equal. I've sifted through 68 Chicago movers that handle interstate relocations, and here are the five that actually deliver.
Top 5 Moving Companies from Chicago to Arizona
- H2H Movers Inc — 4.72 / 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage — 4.72 / 5 stars
- New City Moving — 4.66 / 5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists — 4.64 / 5 stars
- STI Moving & Storage Inc. — 4.72 / 5 stars
H2H Movers Inc
Address: 4250 N Marine Dr Apartment #1136, Chicago, IL 60613
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (412 Yelp reviews | 1,556 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (773) 236-8797
What customers say: Out of 640 reviews, 88% were positive. H2H's crews show up on time, finish ahead of schedule, and handle your stuff with care. The most common praise: accurate quotes and professional, polite staff who communicate clearly. Drawbacks pop up when deposits weren't transparent upfront or when damage occurred and the resolution dragged.
Company details:
- State license #: 184599
- DOT #: 2428328
- Years in business: 10
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, specialty items (pianos, hot tubs, safes, art, antiques), crating, storage, crane vans, full-valuation coverage
Alliance Moving & Storage
Address: 3201 Tollview Drive, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (25 Yelp reviews | 33 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (847) 378-4949
What customers say: I analyzed 247 customer feedback entries. 95.5% were positive. Customers consistently highlight efficiency, transparency, and respect for belongings. Scheduling is faster than competitors, and pricing doesn't surprise you at the end. The minority who left negative reviews cited unexpected charges or poor communication after the move wrapped up.
Company details:
- State license #: 214845
- DOT #: 2882675
- Years in business: 9
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, specialty items (pianos, hot tubs, art, antiques), crating, full-valuation coverage, storage
New City Moving
Address: 2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Rating: 4.6 / 5 (1,194 Yelp reviews | 2,393 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (773) 489-0600
What customers say: New City Moving wins on speed and professionalism. Out of 1,451 reviews analyzed, 92.4% were positive. Customers love the efficient crews, careful packing, quick turnarounds, and clear communication. About 6% reported damage or unexpected billing, but the company's response time and crew quality keep it above the industry average.
Company details:
- State license #: 158051
- DOT #: 3078026
- Years in business: 16
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, full-valuation coverage, storage
The Professionals Moving Specialists
Address: 3918 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618
Rating: 4.6 / 5 (1,064 Yelp reviews | 3,993 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (888) 225-7351
What customers say: 92.5% of 1,349 reviews were positive. The Professionals earn consistent praise for careful handling, quick completion, and professional crews. Damage is rare—a real differentiator versus other movers. The downside: some customers reported higher-than-expected final charges or scratches that weren't covered quickly. Overall, they excel at reliability and peace of mind.
Company details:
- State license #: 136144
- DOT #: 3383907
- Years in business: 20
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, specialty items (pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks), crating, full-valuation coverage, storage
STI Moving & Storage Inc.
Address: 7400 Niles Center Rd, Skokie, IL 60077
Rating: 4.7 / 5 (425 Yelp reviews | 1,080 Google reviews | BBB Grade A+)
Phone: (847) 675-1223
What customers say: In 538 reviews, 68% were satisfied. STI shines for speed and organized crews—moves finish faster than expected. The bigger complaints center on damage during long-distance hauls and higher-than-quoted final bills. If you're hauling specialty items or crossing state lines, confirm their damage claims process upfront.
Company details:
- State license #: 139020
- DOT #: 1308599
- Years in business: 20
- Pricing: $150/hr
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, specialty items (pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks), crating, crane vans, full-valuation coverage, storage
Local Moving Services in Chicago
Out of 68 movers I tracked in Chicago, here's how many offer specialty services:
| Service | Count | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 49 | 73.5% |
| Small moves | 40 | 58.8% |
| Antiques | 40 | 58.8% |
| Art | 42 | 61.8% |
| Pianos | 54 | 79.4% |
| Fragile-only packing | 20 | 29.4% |
Cost to Move from Chicago to Arizona
Here's what you can realistically expect to pay for a 1,677-mile move from Chicago to Arizona:
| Move Size | Full-Service Mover | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,086 – $4,654 | $1,054 – $2,474 | $988 – $1,751 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,708 – $6,113 | $1,844 – $3,835 | $985 – $2,191 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,061 – $9,446 | $2,467 – $4,945 | $1,294 – $2,601 |
Estimates based on pricing data as of January 2026. Actual costs vary based on move scope, add-ons, parking constraints, fuel, and timing. Use our calculator to get personalized quotes.
Full-Service Moving Costs
A studio or one-bedroom move typically runs $1,086–$4,654. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect $2,708–$6,113. If you've got a larger household (4+ bedrooms), budget $5,061–$9,446.
Moving Container Costs
Moving containers are a middle ground between DIY and full-service. Small loads cost $1,054–$2,474. Two- to three-bedroom homes typically range from $1,844–$3,835. Larger households should expect $2,467–$4,945.
Rental Truck Costs
Renting a truck yourself is the cheapest option—but you do all the lifting. Studio/1-bedroom: $988–$1,751 (fuel included). Two- to three-bedroom: $985–$2,191. Four-plus bedroom: $1,294–$2,601.
Factors That Drive Your Moving Costs
A few variables control the final bill:
- Move size: More belongings = higher costs. A one-bedroom apartment costs far less than a four-bedroom house.
- Season: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago. Expect higher rates if you move June through September.
- Service level: DIY saves money but requires sweat equity. Professional movers add cost but handle the risk.
- Distance and route: The 1,677-mile Chicago-to-Arizona haul sits in the mid-range for interstate moves.
Before You Move: Cost of Living & Lifestyle
Arizona and Chicago are more similar than you'd think on the financial side—but the lifestyle shift is real.
Cost of Living Comparison
| Factor | Chicago | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,045 | $1,308 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 2.5% |
What this means:
- Rent: Arizona is about 36% cheaper—you'll save real money on housing each month.
- Home prices: Arizona homes cost roughly 45% more. If you're buying, budget accordingly.
- Income: Both states average similar per-capita income, so your earning power shouldn't change.
- Cost of living: Nearly identical. Your overall budget will feel familiar.
- Jobs: Arizona's unemployment is 60% lower. Finding work is easier there.
- Taxes: Arizona's state income tax is nearly 50% lower than Illinois. That's extra take-home pay.
Climate & Lifestyle Differences
| Factor | Chicago | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2.7 million | 7.4 million |
| Political lean | Democrat 74–24 | Democrat 56–44 |
| Summer high | 84°F | 99°F |
| Winter low | 19°F | 34°F |
| Annual rainfall | 38" | 12" |
| Annual snowfall | 35" | 6" |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 24.89 |
What to expect:
- Heat: Arizona summers routinely top 99°F. Chicago hits 84°F. Pack light clothes and budget for AC.
- Winters: Arizona lows around 34°F; Chicago dips to 19°F. Less shoveling, lower heating bills.
- Rain & snow: Arizona gets 12 inches of rain and 6 inches of snow yearly. Chicago sees 38 inches of rain and 35 inches of snow. Arizona is dry.
- Safety: Arizona's crime index is lower (24.89 vs. 35.19). Neighborhoods tend to feel safer.
Pros & Cons
Why people move to Arizona from Chicago:
- Abundant economic opportunity
- Pleasant, sunny weather
- Lower crime rates
- Abundant parks and outdoor recreation
- Thriving cultural scene
Why people hesitate:
- Extreme summer heat
- Sparse desert landscape (for some)
- Limited public transportation outside metros
- No winter sports or seasonal variety
- Health hazards (heat-related illness, sun exposure)
- Lower state income tax but potentially higher property taxes
Why people love Chicago:
- Arts, culture, and entertainment
- Intense sports culture
- World-class food scene
- Four distinct seasons
- Strong job market
Why people leave Chicago:
- High crime rates in many neighborhoods
- Brutal winters
- High state income tax (4.95%)
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Air quality issues during certain seasons
Key Details Before Your Move
A few logistics matter to avoid last-minute headaches:
HOA & building rules: Check your Arizona community's moving policies and any restrictions on move times.
Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, reserve it for moving day well in advance.
Truck parking permits: Some Arizona cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Verify ahead of time.
State licensing: Arizona is relatively unregulated, but local movers must comply with the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures. Confirm your mover has proper licenses.
Moving permits: You won't need a formal moving permit in Arizona, but check local parking rules to avoid fines.
Change of address: Submit your USPS change-of-address form at least one week before you move. Choose your official move date so mail forwarding starts on schedule.
Moving insurance: Review your state's insurance requirements. Most movers offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge—but it covers only 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV would reimburse just $15 if lost. For full coverage, ask your mover about third-party insurance or additional liability options.
Moving checklist: Keep yourself organized. A solid checklist prevents forgotten details and last-minute panic.
Things to Do in Arizona
Once you land in Arizona, you won't lack for activities.
Museums:
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks:
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park
Sports teams:
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
Universities:
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
FAQ
How long does a Chicago-to-Arizona move take?
Typically 4–15 days, depending on the service type. Summer moves may take longer due to peak season. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before booking.
How many Chicago movers offer custom crating?
I track 46 movers in Chicago with custom crating capabilities for art, antiques, and electronics. Confirm that materials and dimensions match your items.
How do I ship a car from Chicago to Arizona?
Check out our car shipping guide for reputable auto transport companies specializing in the Chicago-to-Arizona route.
Why are people moving to Arizona?
Economic opportunity and pleasant weather top the list. People leave Chicago primarily because of high crime and harsh winters.
Do Chicago movers accept cash?
About 29 movers in Chicago accept cash, but credit card and check payments are more common in the industry. Expect a deposit upfront; the balance is due at pickup or delivery.
Ready to Move?
You've got solid options in Chicago. The five movers above have earned their reputation through efficiency, care, and transparent pricing—not flashy marketing. Get quotes from multiple movers before you commit. Summer moves cost more and take longer. The earlier you book, the better your options.
Compare at least three quotes. Ask about damage policies, deposit terms, and delivery windows. Then pick the one that feels like a genuine fit for your move, not just the cheapest bid.
Your move to Arizona is within reach. Let's make it smooth.