chicago to nc

---
title: "Moving from Chicago to North Carolina: Costs, Top Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Moving from Chicago to NC? Costs run $1,117–$7,457. See top movers, real price ranges, and a Chicago vs. North Carolina cost-of-living breakdown."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Chicago to North Carolina", "Chicago to North Carolina movers", "Chicago to NC moving cost", "long distance movers Chicago", "moving to North Carolina", "Chicago moving companies", "North Carolina relocation"]
---

If you're moving from Chicago to North Carolina, you're looking at roughly 789 miles and a real shift in how your money works. The costs are manageable if you plan ahead — but the range is wide depending on how you do it and when you go.

Below I've put together the top-rated Chicago movers for this route, real price ranges for every service tier, and a side-by-side breakdown of what life in North Carolina actually costs compared to Chicago. Let's get into it.

## Top Chicago Movers for the Chicago to North Carolina Route

Out of 68 Chicago-area movers that handle interstate jobs, these five ranked highest for the Chicago–North Carolina route based on verified customer reviews.

1. H2H Movers Inc — 4.72 / 5
2. Alliance Moving & Storage — 4.72 / 5
3. New City Moving — 4.66 / 5
4. The Professionals Moving Specialists — 4.64 / 5
5. STI Moving & Storage Inc. — 4.72 / 5

If you want to compare quotes from [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) before digging into individual companies, that's worth doing first.

---

### H2H Movers Inc

**4250 N Marine Dr, Chicago, IL 60613**
- 4.7 / 5 overall
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/h2h-movers-chicago-3): 412 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=H2H+Movers+chicago+il&source=lmns&bih=929&biw=1920&rlz=1C1CHBF_enPH1019PH1019&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi39Kq_wp38AhUYrXIEHbMOBu4Q_AUoAHoECAEQAA#lrd=0x880fcc4b72b765ef:0xb5ce540806608c3e,1,,,): 1,556 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/il/chicago/profile/moving-companies/h2h-movers-inc-0654-88602348)
- **88% positive | 9% negative**
- DOT #: 2428328 | IL License #: 184599 | 10 years in business

**What the reviews show:** H2H earns its rating honestly. Out of 640 analyzed reviews, 88% are positive — above average for this market. Customers flag efficient crews, careful handling, accurate quotes (sometimes lower than estimated), and punctual arrivals. Where things go wrong: extra charges tacked on after the fact, and damage claims that were slow to resolve. Strong option for this route, but get everything in writing before the truck shows up.

**Phone:** (773) 236-8797

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing and unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, crane vans, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts cash and credit card. Deposit required.

---

### Alliance Moving & Storage

**3201 Tollview Drive, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008**
- 4.7 / 5 overall
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/alliance-moving-and-storage-chicago-4): 25 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Alliance+Moving+%26+Storage+Rolling+Meadows%2C+IL&sca_esv=1e35dc1f4110e681&bih=911&biw=1920&rlz=1C1CHBF_enPH1019PH1019&hl=en&sxsrf=AHTn8zq3CUzgqQfHNfeI5jCB1ZJ7oQdNjA%3A1738642530713&ei=YpShZ4WfK_Do1e8P4M3buAk&ved=0ahUKEwiF2LyTlKmLAxVwdPUHHeDmFpcQ4dUDCBE): 33 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/il/rolling-mdws/profile/moving-companies/alliance-moving-storage-0654-90005673)
- **96% positive | 5% negative**
- DOT #: 2882675 | IL License #: 214845 | 9 years in business

**What the reviews show:** Alliance has the highest positive-review rate on this list — 95.5% across 247 analyzed reviews. Customers consistently mention transparent pricing, fast scheduling, professional crews, and reliable communication start to finish. The small slice of complaints involves surprise charges after the job and difficulty getting responses when something went wrong. Confirm all costs in writing before you book, and you should be in good shape.

**Phone:** (847) 378-4949

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing and unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts cash and credit card.

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### New City Moving

**2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60618**
- 4.6 / 5 overall
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/new-city-moving-chicago): 1,194 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=new+city+moving+2929+N+Campbell+Ave+Chicago): 2,393 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/il/chicago/profile/moving-companies/new-city-moving-0654-88374245)
- **92% positive | 6% negative**
- DOT #: 3078026 | IL License #: 158051 | 16 years in business

**What the reviews show:** New City has a large review footprint and a solid 92.4% positive rate across 1,451 analyzed reviews. Fast, careful crews come up constantly — alongside good communication and competitive pricing. The main complaints are damage claims, unexpected add-on fees, and slow resolution when disputes arise. Not a dealbreaker at this volume, but worth factoring into your expectations.

**Phone:** (773) 489-0600

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing and unpacking, offices, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing. Accepts cash and credit card. Deposit required.

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### The Professionals Moving Specialists

**3918 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618**
- 4.6 / 5 overall
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-professionals-moving-specialists-chicago-2): 1,064 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=the+professionals+moving+specialists+chicago+IL#lrd=0x880fcd9660b1ba9f:0x5fa25b4c368a620,1,,,): 3,993 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/il/chicago/profile/moving-companies/the-professionals-moving-specialists-0654-31000448)
- **93% positive | 6% negative**
- DOT #: 3383907 | IL License #: 136144 | 20 years in business

**What the reviews show:** Twenty years in business and 92.5% positive reviews across 1,349 analyzed reviews is a hard combination to argue with. Customers point to on-time arrivals, minimal damage incidents, fair pricing, and crews who treat your property carefully. Where things go sideways: occasional extra charges for materials or time, and some damage claims that took too long to resolve. For reliability and care on a long interstate move, this is one of the stronger operators in Chicago.

**Phone:** (888) 225-7351

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing and unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts money order, cash, and credit card.

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### STI Moving & Storage Inc.

**7400 Niles Center Rd, Skokie, IL 60077**
- 4.7 / 5 overall
- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/sti-moving-and-storage-skokie): 425 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=sti+moving+and+storage+7400+Niles+Center+Rd+Skokie): 1,080 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/il/skokie/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/sti-moving-storage-0654-88009275)
- **68% positive | 29% negative**
- DOT #: 1308599 | IL License #: 139020 | 20 years in business | $150/hr

**What the reviews show:** The star rating looks fine, but the review split tells a different story. A 68% positive / 29% negative ratio is the weakest on this list by a wide margin. Customers who are happy point to fast, friendly crews. But nearly one in three reviews mentions damaged items, late deliveries — especially on long-distance hauls — and surprise charges. I'd trust STI for a local Chicago move before handing them a 789-mile interstate job. Review their claims process carefully before committing.

**Phone:** (847) 675-1223

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing and unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, crane vans, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing. Accepts cash and credit card. Deposit required.

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## Local Moving Services Available in Chicago, IL

If you need specialty handling, here's how many Chicago-area movers offer each service:

| Service | # of Movers | % of Chicago Movers |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate | 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% |

If you have a piano, artwork, or antiques to transport, confirm those capabilities with your specific mover before signing anything. Don't assume a "full-service" quote covers specialty items.

## Cost to Move from Chicago to North Carolina

Here's what the numbers actually look like across service types, based on a ~789-mile route. Use our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a tighter estimate for your specific home size and timing.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving containers | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,117 – $3,814 | $733 – $1,778 | $514 – $1,007 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,197 – $5,171 | $1,279 – $2,644 | $595 – $1,137 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,795 – $7,457 | $1,664 – $3,381 | $673 – $1,493 |

*Estimates based on pricing data as of January 2026. Rental truck ranges include estimated fuel. Final prices vary with timing, access conditions, add-ons, and market movement.*

### Cost to Hire Full-Service Movers from Chicago to North Carolina

For a studio or one-bedroom, budget $1,117 to $3,814. A two- or three-bedroom home typically runs $2,197 to $5,171. Larger households — four bedrooms or more — generally land between $3,795 and $7,457. That wide range reflects real variability based on summer vs. off-season timing, stair carries, packing add-ons, and how much stuff you actually have. [Full-service movers](/best/full-service-movers) handle packing through unloading, which is worth considering on a haul this long if your time is limited.

### Cost of Moving Containers from Chicago to North Carolina

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are a reasonable middle-ground for this route. You load at your own pace, they handle the driving. Costs run $733 to $1,778 for small loads, $1,279 to $2,644 for mid-size households, and $1,664 to $3,381 for larger homes. You save compared to full-service movers, but you're doing all the physical work on both ends.

### Cost of Rental Trucks from Chicago to North Carolina

If you want the [cheapest option](/best/cheap-movers) for this move, a rental truck is it — $514 to $1,007 for a studio, $595 to $1,137 for a 2–3 bedroom, and $673 to $1,493 for a larger home. Fuel is baked into those ranges. The real cost is time and labor: you're driving nearly 800 miles and handling every piece of furniture yourself. That math works for some people. Know what you're signing up for before you book.

## Factors That Affect Moving Costs from Chicago to NC

A few variables will push your quote up or down significantly:

- **Home size:** More stuff means more truck space and more crew hours. That's the single biggest cost driver.
- **Time of year:** June through August is peak season for Chicago movers. Rates rise, availability shrinks. If you can move in spring or fall, do it.
- **DIY vs. professional movers:** Hiring a crew is more expensive upfront, but you're buying convenience and shifting liability. Worth it for most people on a move this distance.

## What to Know Before Moving from Chicago to NC

If you're leaving [Illinois](/movers/illinois), you already know Chicago isn't cheap. The appeal of [North Carolina](/movers/north-carolina) is real — but the financial picture is more nuanced than the "escape Illinois taxes" narrative suggests. Here's the actual breakdown.

### Cost of Living: Chicago vs. North Carolina

| | Chicago, IL | North Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,045 | $1,093 |
| Average home cost | $295,743 | $328,715 |
| Per capita income | $71,566 | $66,186 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 3.7% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 4.5% |

*Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, BLS, Tax Foundation, Zumper, Numbeo*

What these numbers actually mean for you:

- **Rent** in North Carolina runs about 47% cheaper than in Chicago. That's a real, immediate monthly gain.
- **Home prices** in NC average about 11% higher than Chicago. If you're buying, factor that into your timeline.
- **Income** in NC is roughly 8% lower per capita. Plan your budget before assuming the savings offset that gap.
- **Overall cost of living** drops from an index of 106 to 96 — about 9% lower. Real breathing room.
- **Unemployment** in NC is about 59% lower than Chicago's 9.0%. The job market is genuinely stronger.
- **State income tax:** NC's 4.5% beats Illinois' 4.95%. Small but consistent.

### How Life Is Different in Chicago vs. North Carolina

| | Chicago, IL | North Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 10,835,491 |
| Political leaning | Democrat 74–24 | Republican 51–49 |
| Summer high | 84°F | 88°F |
| Winter low | 19°F | 29°F |
| Annual rain | 38" | 48" |
| Annual snow | 35" | 4" |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 24.69 |

*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270toWin, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces*

A few things worth calling out:

- **Politics:** Chicago runs deep blue. North Carolina is a genuine swing state that leans slightly Republican. If that matters to your daily life, it's worth knowing.
- **Winters:** This is probably the biggest lifestyle shift. NC winters bottom out around 29°F versus Chicago's brutal 19°F, and you're trading 35 inches of annual snow for 4. If you've spent years digging out of Chicago winters, that alone might close the deal.
- **Summer:** NC runs a few degrees warmer — 88°F vs. 84°F — with higher humidity. Factor that into your expectations.
- **Rain:** NC gets 10 more inches annually than Chicago. Green landscapes, yes. Pack a rain jacket.
- **Crime:** NC's index of 24.69 compares favorably to Chicago's 35.19. That said, check neighborhood-level data for wherever you're actually moving — statewide averages smooth over a lot of local variation.

### Pros and Cons: Chicago vs. North Carolina

**Reasons Chicago is hard to leave:**
- World-class arts, food, and entertainment
- Strong sports culture (Bears, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks)
- Dense professional networks and economic infrastructure

**Reasons North Carolina makes sense:**
- Significantly lower cost of living
- Stronger job market and lower unemployment
- Outdoor recreation across mountains, coast, and Piedmont
- High quality of life in Raleigh, Charlotte, Asheville, and Research Triangle

**Chicago drawbacks you're already aware of:**
- High crime rate
- Brutal winters
- High taxes
- Traffic

**NC tradeoffs worth being realistic about:**
- Hurricane season affects coastal regions and can reach inland
- Milder weather is nice, but some people miss Chicago's distinct seasons
- Education outcomes vary significantly by district — research before you commit to a neighborhood
- Tax burden is lower than Illinois but not negligible

### Other Things to Handle Before Your Chicago to NC Move

Don't leave these for moving week:

- **HOA rules:** Check your destination community's policies on moving hours, truck sizes, and elevator access.
- **Elevator reservations:** If either building has an elevator, book it at both ends in advance.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some municipalities require permits for moving vehicles. Verify before your truck arrives.
- **NC state licensing:** For-profit household goods carriers in North Carolina fall under the NC Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. Legitimate movers carry a "C Number" proving they meet minimum insurance requirements and comply with the state's Maximum Rate Tariff. Verify your mover's license on the state regulator's website before you sign anything.
- **Moving permits:** NC doesn't require a general moving permit, but check local parking rules wherever you're landing.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move date at usps.com.
- **Moving insurance:** Know the difference between coverage types. Released Value Protection costs nothing but limits liability to just 60 cents per pound per item — meaningless for anything of real value. Full Value Protection is worth the upgrade on an 800-mile haul. Third-party moving insurance is another option worth exploring.
- **Moving checklist:** Use a proper [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to track what needs to happen before, during, and after your move. The details that catch people off guard are the ones you didn't write down.

## Things to Do in North Carolina

If you're wondering what you're actually moving toward, here's a quick orientation.

### Museums in North Carolina
- Biltmore (Asheville)
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (Raleigh)
- International Civil Rights Center & Museum (Greensboro)
- Greensboro Science Center
- Museum of the Cherokee Indian (Cherokee)

### Parks in North Carolina
- Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
- Mingo Falls
- The North Carolina Arboretum (Asheville)
- Sarah P. Duke Gardens (Durham)
- Fontana Lake

### Sports Teams in North Carolina
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
- North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
- Charlotte FC (MLS)

### Universities in North Carolina
- NC State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- East Carolina University
- Appalachian State University

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Chicago to North Carolina take?

Plan for two to seven days depending on the service type and time of year. Summer moves trend toward the longer end. Before you book, ask your mover for a specific delivery window — not a range of weeks — and get it in writing.

### What's the availability of custom crating among Chicago movers?

There are 46 Chicago-area movers that offer custom crating for art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. If you're shipping anything fragile or high-value, confirm the mover's crating materials and dimensions match your actual items. Don't assume a "yes we do crating" answer means they're equipped for what you specifically need.

### What's the best way to ship a car from Chicago to North Carolina?

Use a dedicated [auto transport](/best/car-shipping) company rather than tacking vehicle shipping onto a household moving quote. Specialized carriers handle the route regularly and know what they're doing. See options for car shipping from Illinois to North Carolina before committing.

### Why are people moving from Chicago to North Carolina?

The short version: lower cost of living, lower crime, and a significantly stronger job market. People leaving Chicago most often cite the high crime rate and punishing winters. If you're making this move, you're not alone.

### Can I pay a Chicago mover in cash?

Currently 29 Chicago-area movers accept cash. That said, cash is harder to dispute if something goes wrong. A credit card gives you more recourse. Expect to pay a deposit upfront to lock in your date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery — confirm the exact schedule with your mover before signing.

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Ready to see what your specific move costs? Compare quotes using the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) — takes about two minutes and gives you a realistic baseline before you start talking to companies.