## MoveFinders — AI Information Page
URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/pa-to-chicago
AI Information URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/pa-to-chicago/ai-information

## Page Overview
Title: Moving from Pennsylvania to Chicago, IL — Cost & Top Movers
Description: Moving from Pennsylvania to Chicago? Compare costs, routes, and reviews of the best Pennsylvania movers for your 606-mile interstate relocation.
Category: Moving route guide
Published: 2026-07-24
Last Updated: 2026-07-24

## Author
Name: Sean Sullivan
Role: Senior Research Analyst
Bio: Sean has spent over a decade analyzing the moving industry, helping thousands of families find reliable movers. His research has been featured in Forbes, TIME, and Consumer Reports.

## SEO Keywords
moving from Pennsylvania to Chicago, Pennsylvania movers, cost to move to Chicago, interstate moving companies, Chicago moving costs

## Content

If you're moving from [Pennsylvania](/movers/pennsylvania) to Chicago, you're looking at a 606-mile interstate shift—far enough that you'll want experienced movers who know the route and can handle the logistics without surprises.

Out of dozens of Pennsylvania movers handling state-to-state relocations, here are the ones with the strongest track records for this specific move:

## Top-Rated Movers from Pennsylvania to Chicago

1. **The Armstrong Company** — 4.64 / 5
2. **College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving** — 4.62 / 5
3. **Zip to Zip Moving Inc** — 4.5 / 5
4. **Packhorse Moving** — 4.38 / 5
5. **Flex Moving & Storage** — 4.34 / 5

---

## The Armstrong Company

**1074 East Main Street, Mount Joy, PA 17552**  
**Grade: A+** | **4.64 / 5** | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/armstrong-relocation-mount-joy)

The Armstrong Company stands out for professionalism and accuracy. Over 90% of their 225+ reviews are positive, with customers consistently praising on-time arrivals, careful handling, and estimates that match final invoices. Their crews treat homes and belongings with genuine respect, and many movers report finishing faster than expected.

The trade-offs: A handful of customers reported property damage, and a few felt that claim resolution moved slowly. Some also mentioned difficulty reaching staff or unexpected add-on costs.

**What they offer:**
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Piano moving, art, and antiques
- Full-valuation coverage and storage
- Credit card payments accepted

**Contact:** (717) 492-4155  
**License #:** 8917264 | **Years in business:** 76 | **DOT #:** 1170867

---

## College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

**1101 William Flynn Highway, Glenshaw, PA 15116**  
**Grade: A+** | **4.62 / 5** | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/college-hunks-hauling-junk-and-moving-pittsburgh-glenshaw)

College Hunks earns high marks for speed and friendliness. Nearly 75% of their 290 reviews are positive, with customers loving the efficient service, polite crews, and surprisingly fast completion times. Communication is generally attentive, and the team handles belongings carefully.

The downside: About one in four reviews mentions property damage, trouble getting claims resolved, or unprofessional behavior. Some customers also reported poor follow-up from management when issues arose.

**What they offer:**
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Office relocations
- Storage
- Credit card payments

**Contact:** (336) 810-1801  
**License #:** 8919262 | **Years in business:** 7 | **DOT #:** 2378173

---

## Zip to Zip Moving Inc

**558 W Uwchlan Ave, Exton, PA 19341**  
**Grade: A** | **4.5 / 5** | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/zip-to-zip-moving-pa-exton)

Zip to Zip customers consistently report fast, attentive service with crews that go beyond expectations. More than 97% of their 64 reviews are positive, highlighting efficient moves, friendly staff, and responsive communication. Transparent pricing and straightforward booking separate them from many competitors.

The catch: Some customers encountered charges significantly higher than initial quotes, felt pressured into tipping, or noticed final costs ballooned. A few also reported communication gaps or left items.

**What they offer:**
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Specialty items (pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques)
- Crating and full-valuation coverage
- Storage, cash, or credit card payments

**Contact:** (484) 214-2143  
**License #:** 8925314 | **Years in business:** 6 | **DOT #:** 2969363

---

## Packhorse Moving

**1210 Stanbridge St, Norristown, PA 19401**  
**Grade: A+** | **4.38 / 5** | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/packhorse-moving-norristown) | [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Packhorse+Moving+Norristown%2C+PA)

Packhorse delivers fast, polite, professional service at competitive prices. After analyzing 238 reviews, 91.6% were positive. Customers praise efficient crews, friendly attitudes, careful handling of fragile items, and moves that typically finish quicker than expected at lower cost.

The issues: About 6.7% of reviews cite damage, rushed packing, delayed arrivals, or hidden costs. Some customers also found the damage claims process difficult.

**What they offer:**
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Office relocations
- Art and antiques
- Full-valuation coverage, fragile-only packing
- Credit card payments

**Contact:** (877) 309-7225  
**Years in business:** 4 | **DOT #:** 3524666

---

## Flex Moving & Storage

**100 N 18th St Suite 308, Philadelphia, PA 19103**  
**Grade: Not Rated** | **4.34 / 5** | [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/flexbox-moving-and-storage-philadelphia-5)

Flex Moving stands out for speed and affordability. Many customers praise quick scheduling, helpful movers, and careful handling. Moves finish fast, and pricing comes in lower than many competitors.

The significant caveat: Nearly half their reviews are negative. Customers report poor communication, unexpected charges, unprofessional conduct, and difficulty resolving billing disputes or service issues.

**What they offer:**
- Local and interstate moves
- Packing and unpacking
- Office relocations
- Storage
- Cash or credit card payments

**Contact:** (215) 720-1899  
**Years in business:** 3 | **DOT #:** 3610638

---

## Cost to Move from Pennsylvania to Chicago, IL

Use this table to estimate your moving costs across different service types and home sizes for a 606-mile move:

| Move Size | Full-Service Mover | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|-----------|-------------------|------------------|--------------|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,105 – $3,198 | $644 – $1,605 | $428 – $817 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,940 – $4,776 | $1,151 – $2,285 | $486 – $969 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,413 – $7,294 | $1,665 – $3,046 | $595 – $1,147 |

**These are approximations** based on MoveFinders' database of confirmed quotes as of January 2026. Actual costs vary with load size, optional services, parking challenges, fuel rates, and your chosen dates. Always [compare several quotes](/calculator) to get a realistic price range for your situation.

### Full-Service Moving Costs

A studio or one-bedroom move from Pennsylvania to Chicago typically costs $1,105–$3,198. Two to three bedrooms run $1,940–$4,776. A four- or five-bedroom home ranges from $3,413–$7,294.

### Moving Container Costs

If you're moving just a few items via container, expect $644–$1,605. For a two- or three-bedroom home, prices typically fall between $1,151–$2,285. Larger homes with four or more bedrooms cost $1,665–$3,046. [Explore the best affordable moving container companies](/best/moving-containers) to make this option work for your budget.

### Rental Truck Costs

A moving rental truck is the cheapest option but requires you to do all the driving and labor. Studio or one-bedroom moves cost around $428–$817. Two to three bedrooms run $486–$969. Four or more bedrooms cost $595–$1,147. These quotes include estimated fuel.

---

## Service Comparison: Top Movers from Pennsylvania to Chicago

| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---------|--------------|----------|-------------------|-----------------|
| The Armstrong Company | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Zip to Zip Moving Inc | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Packhorse Moving | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Flex Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |

---

## What to Expect: Pennsylvania vs. Chicago

Before you pack, here's what life in Chicago looks like compared to Pennsylvania:

### Cost of Living Comparison

| Factor | Pennsylvania | Chicago |
|--------|--------------|---------|
| Average rent | $1,110 / month | $2,045 / month |
| Average home price | $268,824 | $295,743 |
| Per capita income | $73,170 | $71,566 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99 | 106 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | 9.0% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 4.95% |

**What this means for you:**

- **Rent in Chicago is 84% higher.** Budget accordingly—housing is a major monthly expense.
- **Home prices run 10% higher** in Chicago. Expect a larger down payment and higher property taxes.
- **Income levels are roughly the same,** so your salary shouldn't change dramatically.
- **The job market is tighter in Chicago.** Unemployment is 165% higher, so start your job search early.
- **Illinois income tax is 61% higher** than Pennsylvania's. You'll notice less take-home pay each month.

### Climate & Weather

| Factor | Chicago | Pennsylvania |
|--------|---------|--------------|
| Summer high | 84°F | 83°F |
| Winter low | 19°F | 19°F |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 44″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 38″ |

Summer temperatures are nearly identical, so you'll acclimate easily. Winter lows match almost exactly—no surprise cold snaps. Chicago gets about 6 inches less rain annually, meaning more sunny days and better outdoor weather. Snowfall is also similar, so your winter utility costs shouldn't spike.

### Politics & Culture

Chicago leans heavily Democratic (74% in the last presidential election), while Pennsylvania split nearly evenly (51% Republican, 49% Democratic). This shapes local politics, ballot measures, and community priorities—worth understanding if you care about civic engagement.

### Population & Safety

Chicago's population is roughly 2.7 million, while Pennsylvania is about 13 million. Chicago has a higher crime index (35.19 vs. Pennsylvania's 17.62). This doesn't have to be a dealbreaker, but research your specific neighborhood carefully and understand local safety precautions before moving day.

---

## Things to Do in Chicago

### Museums
- The Field Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago History Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art

### Parks
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- The 606
- Lincoln Park
- Garfield Park

### Sports Teams
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)

### Universities
- Chicago State University
- Governors State University
- Northeastern Illinois University
- Northern Illinois University
- University of Illinois at Chicago

---

## Important Before Your Move

### State & Local Regulations

In Illinois, the **Illinois Commerce Commission** oversees intrastate moves and local movers. Any company moving household goods locally must have a current **Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity**. Always verify your mover's license before hiring—you can check the ICC's official website.

### Practical Steps

- **Elevator reservation:** Reserve your building's elevator in advance and confirm moving policies.
- **Parking permits:** Some Chicago neighborhoods require permits for large vehicles. Check local rules early.
- **HOA rules:** Review any community or neighborhood restrictions to avoid moving-day surprises.
- **Change of address:** Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move at USPS.com.
- **Moving permits:** You don't need a permit to move to Illinois, but review local parking rules before the truck arrives.

### Insurance & Protection

- **Released Value Protection** (cost-free, basic coverage) pays 60 cents per pound for damaged items.
- **Full-value protection** covers items at their declared value—ask your mover about costs or consider a third-party provider.

Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to ensure you've covered everything.

---

## FAQ

### How long does a Pennsylvania to Chicago move take?

Move duration depends on your starting point and method. Loading typically takes a day or less. If you're renting a truck from northern Pennsylvania, plan for a one- to two-day drive. Using movers or a moving container, expect a few days to a couple of weeks—always request a delivery estimate before booking.

### When should I book movers?

Book two to three months in advance if possible. Early booking locks in better prices and gives you priority for your preferred date.

### What's the cheapest time to move to Chicago?

Most people move during spring and fall. To save money, book during the slower summer or winter months and negotiate a lower rate.

---

## Related Moving Resources

**Pennsylvania Moving Services:**
- [Best Pennsylvania movers](/movers/pennsylvania)
- [Best long-distance movers from Pennsylvania](/best/long-distance-movers)
- [Best truck rentals](/best/truck-rentals)
- [Best moving containers](/best/moving-containers)

**Popular Routes from Pennsylvania:**
- Pennsylvania to California
- Pennsylvania to Florida
- Pennsylvania to New York
- Pennsylvania to North Carolina
- Pennsylvania to Ohio

**[Compare quotes now](/calculator)** to get real numbers for your specific move. The earlier you lock in rates, the better your options.

## About MoveFinders
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We help people find trustworthy movers with unbiased reviews, cost estimates, and expert guidance.
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