Reasons to move from Boston to Windy City
Boston and Chicago may share the energy of a major city, but their lifestyles, pace, and cultural atmosphere differ in meaningful ways. For many, Chicago offers not just a change in location but a shift in rhythm – more space, less congestion, and a vibrant Midwestern identity. The Windy City balances rich architecture, diverse communities, and access to nature without losing urban convenience. Whether you’re seeking a slower pace, a stronger sense of local pride, or simply a new experience beyond the East Coast bubble, Chicago often delivers what Boston no longer can.
Cost of Living
When comparing the cost of living between Boston and Chicago, emerges as the more affordable option. According to data from Salary.com, the overall cost of living in Boston is approximately 36.2% higher than in Chicago. This difference is primarily driven by housing costs. In November 2024, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment was $2,950, making it the fourth-priciest rental market in the U.S. In contrast, Chicago’s rental prices are generally lower, with the average rent for larger properties is around $1,783. Additionally, utilities in Boston are about 34% more expensive than in Chicago, and transportation costs are approximately 6% higher. These factors contribute to Chicago’s overall affordability, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a lower cost of living.
Job Market & Salaries between Boston and Chicago
When comparing the job markets and salaries, several key differences emerge.
Boston: As of May 2025, the average salary is approximately $92,000 per year, reflecting the city’s high cost of living and its concentration of industries such as biotechnology, finance, and higher education.
Chicago: In contrast, average salary is around $83,000 per year. While this is lower than Boston’s, the city offers a more affordable cost of living, which can offset the difference in earnings.
Both cities boast diverse economies, but Boston’s job market is heavily influenced by its academic and biotech sectors, whereas Chicago’s economy is more varied, encompassing finance, manufacturing, and transportation.
Housing & Rent Market
Boston: As of May 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $3,521 per month, with overall average rents around $3,742. This positions Boston as one of the most expensive rental markets in the U.S.
Chicago: Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $1,954 per month, with overall average rents around $2,381.
This substantial difference in rental costs makes Chicago a more affordable option for many individuals and families considering relocation.
Moving from Boston to Chicago with Born to Move
We are one of the top movers that offer you 2 days moving from Boston to Chicago as well as to other parts of Illinois. The next point in your plans is life in Chicago – then our moving service is exactly what you need.
- Regardless of the size of your apartment and the amount of furniture in it. Boston to Chicago movers can perform an excellent job. Antiques, fragile furniture, and other things will be carefully packed.
Special boxes will be provided, which protect your stuff from damage. - Our long-distance movers, Boston to Chicago, have all the necessary packages and boxes; you don’t have to buy them or pack things on your own.
A team of our specialists will do it quickly and professionally. - Our local apartment movers can take care of disassembling your furniture before the move and reassembling it in your new Chicago apartment.
- Our employees will carefully load all your property into the truck, and in the shortest period of time, everything will be in its place in your new home.
- Our team will help you to arrange the furniture and other stuff, and clean the premises when everything is finished.
- You will not have to pick up the cardboard, tape, and packages after moving. Just one call and in the shortest period of time, you will drink coffee from your favorite cup in your new, clean, and comfortable kitchen.
How much does it cost to move
Moving can come with a range of costs, depending on the size of your move and the services you need. Here’s what to expect when planning your relocation.
Price Range
Of course, you are wondering about moving costs So far we have an average flat price for every single customer that is contacting us, but on average
We try to determine a price by the
list of items, and here’s the list of FLAT prices for you.
- a 1-bedroom apartment will cost $4,500.
- a 2-bedroom apartment move will start from $5,500.
- a 3-bedroom apartment will cost around $6,900.
That is moving prices that will include all the necessary expenses to get your stuff from Boston to Chicago.
| Size of the move | Flat price range |
|---|---|
| studio | $4,500 - $5,000 |
| small 1 bedroom | $5,200 - $5,500 |
| large 1 bedroom | $5,500 - $5,800 |
| small 2 bedroom | $5,500 - $5,800 |
| large 2 bedroom | $5,700 - $6,200 |
| 3 bedroom apt | $5,800 - $6,500 |
| 2 bedroom townhouse/house | $5,800 - $6,500 |
| 3 bedroom townhouse/house | $6,500 - $7,500 |
| 4 bedroom townhouse/house | $7,000 - $8,000 |
| 5+ bedroom townhouse/house | starting from $8,000 |
| Delivery time range |
|---|
| 2 days |
- Expedited delivery
- 2 professional movers
- Insurance
- Dedicated clean truck
- Gas, tolls, miles, taxes
Moving process
On average moving your belongings will take us around 2 days. Let’s just say movers will pick up your belongings on Monday, and our driver will deliver your stuff on Wednesday around 10 AM, which will just give you an idea about the delivery time frames. The reason for that is that it’s 16 hours of driving in one direction, and it’s around 1000 miles to get to Chicago. Our Movers from Chicago to Boston will protect all of your belongings with blankets, tape, and shrink wrap, mattress covers and we will make sure to get your stuff safely and on time.
After the initial call, to Born to Move moving company, you need to provide our manager with the inventory that you will be taking with you to Chicago. Professional movers from Boston to Chicago ask for the bigger furniture and the approximate number of boxes that you will be moving. After providing this information, our representative will provide you with the flat price and delivery date. The staff will arrive in Chicago.
If you like our flat price and delivery time frames, you can sign up for our Moving service. In this case, all you have to do is go to our website and submit Boston to Chicago moving quote. After this, our representative will call you to confirm details such as a list of items, dates, and the pickup time.
Your moving date is our priority. On a move date, Cross country movers Boston to Chicago will show up at your doorstep, bring boxes to the truck, and the furniture. All of your furniture will be protected. Mattresses will be wrapped up, and all other things will be put in the boxes. After loading Boston to Chicago moving company hit the road and will be driving to Chicago. Not all of the moving companies can make it to Chicago in one and a half days.
Most of the moving companies from Boston to Chicago will take at least a week to move your things to the destination reason for that is to save money if you hire a broker. Brokers don’t care about your stuff because they are selling your job to somebody else who can pay more for the lead. If you don’t wanna end up in a terrible nightmare situation, it’s better to hire one of the best moving companies from Boston to Chicago. Born To Move will do everything efficiently and on time. We also never require a deposit and protect our customers with an insurance policy that will cover you up to $10,000.
list, or use your phone to capture the inventory
moving pros you can trust with complete confidence
Extra services that we provide
At Born to Move, we offer more than just transportation. Our team provides professional packing with quality materials, secure storage options, and full furniture disassembly and reassembly. We handle elevator coordination, COIs, and can move specialty items like pianos or artwork. Whatever your needs, we’ve got flexible services to make your move easy and stress-free.
Advices from movers
We’ve prepared some tips to help make your move easier and avoid unnecessary stress
Pro Tips from a Moving Company: How to Simplify Your Move from Boston to Chicago
-
Create a detailed inventory.
Knowing what you’re moving helps calculate the final price accurately and ensures enough packing materials. -
Avoid brokers.
Brokers sell your job to third-party carriers, leading to delays, lack of accountability, and surprise fees. Work directly with a licensed moving company. -
Book in advance.
Ideally, 2–3 weeks ahead. Early booking gives better scheduling options and peace of mind. -
Check for licensing and insurance.
A legitimate company will have a USDOT number, insurance, and a written contract. Reputable movers don’t ask for upfront payment without paperwork. -
Read reviews beyond the company website.
Look for real feedback on Yelp or Google, focusing on how complaints are handled. -
Clarify what’s included in the price.
Extra services like packing or stair carries may cost more. Ask ahead to avoid surprises. -
Keep your moving day clear.
Minor delays can happen, so avoid scheduling other important tasks that day.
By following these tips, you’ll protect your budget, time, and peace of mind—and make your move from Boston to Chicago much easier.
MEET OUR TEAM
At Born to Move, our experienced team is trained to pack, handle, and load your belongings with care. We arrive on time, stay in touch, and treat your home with respect. No matter the size of your move, you’ll get reliable service you can trust. Also you can read about us here.
Is Chicago a good place to live for immigrants?
Yes, Chicago is one of the most immigrant-friendly cities in the U.S. It offers access to cultural centers, legal aid programs, bilingual education, and diverse neighborhoods like Pilsen and Albany Park. Many services are designed to help new residents adapt quickly and thrive.
Is it cheaper to move yourself or hire movers?
DIY moving may seem cheaper upfront, but hidden costs like truck rental, fuel, packing materials, and time off work add up fast. For long-distance moves like Boston to Chicago, hiring professionals often saves time, reduces risk, and offers insurance - making it the better value overall.
What is the cheapest way to move furniture long distance?
For cross-state moves, many choose consolidated shipping or a flat-rate service to avoid multiple trips, damage, or delays. Comparing quotes and understanding what's included helps avoid costly surprises.
Why do people love Chicago so much?
Chicago offers the perfect blend of big-city energy and Midwestern warmth. People love its architecture, food scene, lakefront access, and cultural events - all without the sky-high rent of cities like New York or Boston. It's vibrant, yet affordable and surprisingly livable.
What are the biggest advantages of moving from Boston to Chicago?
Lower housing costs, a wider range of neighborhoods, and a more relaxed pace of life are major benefits. Chicago also has a strong job market, better affordability overall, and excellent public transportation. For many, it’s a chance to maintain urban living with less stress.
