If you’re planning to move from Chicago to Seattle, expect it to cost anywhere between $3,000 – $7,000. The total cost and how long it takes — usually around 6 to 17 days — depends on a few key things:

  • How much stuff you’re taking with you
  • The exact date you plan to move
  • Whether you’re hiring a moving company or handling the 2,064-mile journey on your own

What’s the Cost to Move from Chicago to Seattle?

On average, Chicago movers charge around $100 per hour. But the total cost for a full-service move depends on the size of your home and how you plan to move — whether you’re using a moving company, a portable container or a rental truck.

Here’s a breakdown to give you a general idea:

Move Size

 Full-Service Movers Moving Container Rental Truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,360 – $5,124 $1,329 – $3,159

$1,390 – $2,605

2 – 3 Bedrooms

 $3,686 – $8,139 $2,247 – $4,678 $1,447 – $3,193
4+ Bedrooms $6,980 – $12,110 $3,340 – $6,382

$1,918 – $3,648

These numbers are estimates based on the 2,064-mile distance from Chicago to Seattle. The final cost can change depending on how much stuff you’re moving, the services you choose (like packing, loading & unloading or storage), how easy it is to access your place with a truck, and even the time of year.

What Affects the Cost of Moving from Chicago to Seattle?

Several things can change how much your move will cost. Here’s what really makes a difference:

  • Size of Your Move — The more stuff you’re taking, the more it’ll cost. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment might cost around $1,360, while moving a large four-bedroom home could go up to $11,892 or more.
  • Season & Timing — Summer is peak moving season in Chicago, so prices usually go up. If you move during the off-season, you might save some money.
  • DIY vs. Hiring Movers — Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper, usually between $1,390 and $3,365 but it means more physical work and planning. Hiring professional movers is easier, but it costs more.

Things to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Seattle

Before you make the move from Chicago to Seattle, it’s helpful to compare the basics — like housing costs, income and overall living expenses. Here’s a quick look at how the two cities stack up:

Chicago

 Seattle
Average Rent $2,045/month

$1,975/month

Average Home Price

 $295,743 $842,068
Average Income (Per Person) $71,566

$77,845

Monthly Cost of Living (1 Person)

 $1,280 $1,446
Monthly Cost of Living (Family of 4) $4,685

$5,187

Unemployment Rate

 9.0% 4.8%
Sales Tax 10.25%

10.35%

State Income Tax

 4.95%

0% (No state tax)

Seattle has a higher home value and overall cost of living, but no state income tax, which can help balance things out. It’s also got a lower unemployment rate, which is good news if you’re job hunting.

Seattle vs. Chicago – How the Costs Compare

Here’s a quick breakdown of how living in Seattle compares to life in Chicago:

  • Rent in Seattle is about 3% cheaper than in Chicago.
  • Buying a home in Seattle will cost a lot more — prices are around 184.7% higher.
  • Income in Seattle is roughly 8.8% higher, so you might earn more.
  • For a single person, the cost of living in Seattle is about 13% more.
  • For a family, it’s around 10.7% higher in Seattle.
  • Unemployment is much lower in Seattle — about 47% less than in Chicago.
  • Sales tax is pretty much the same in both cities.
  • State income tax is a big win for Seattle — it’s completely zero, compared to what you pay in Illinois.

To put it simply, if you need $3,000 to live in Chicago, you’d need about $3,389 in Seattle to live the same way.

What’s Life Like in Chicago vs. Seattle?

Chicago and Seattle are both great cities but life feels pretty different in each one. Here’s how they compare:

Seattle

 Chicago
Population 737,015

2,746,388

Public Transit Score

 8/10 9/10
Walkability 74/100

77/100

Bike Friendliness

 71/100 72/100
Crime Index 58.88

35.19

Safety Index

 49.23 33.87
Air Quality Good

Good

What These Numbers Mean (in Simple Words)

  • Seattle’s population is way smaller — about 73% less than Chicago.
  • Chicago has slightly better public transit, with a score of 9 compared to Seattle’s 8.
  • Chicago is also more walkable & slightly more bike-friendly.
  • When it comes to crime, Seattle has a higher crime index — 58.88 compared to Chicago’s 35.19 — but…
  • Seattle still ranks as safer overall, with a higher safety index (49.23 vs. 33.87).
  • Both cities have good air quality, which is great if you care about clean air.

Sources: AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow

Other Things to Keep in Mind When Moving from Chicago to Seattle

Here are a few extra things to think about before your move:

  • Weather: People often say Seattle is rainy but the weather usually won’t cause problems for your move. Just keep an eye on the forecast.
  • Neighborhood or HOA Rules: If you’re moving into a place with a homeowners’ association (HOA), check if they have any specific rules about moving trucks or timing.
  • Elevator Access: If you’re moving into or out of a building with an elevator, ask the management if you need to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck Parking Permits: Some cities (including parts of Seattle and Chicago) require permits to park large moving trucks. It’s best to check ahead so you don’t run into any surprises on moving day.
  • Licensing for Movers: If your move involves going into Seattle or anywhere within Washington state, make sure the moving company is licensed. The Utilities & Transportation Commission (UTC) handles this and gives permits to moving companies. Always check that your movers are properly licensed before you hire them.
  • Verify a License: You can easily look up a mover’s license and status through Washington’s Public Utilities Commission. It’s a smart way to make sure you’re working with a legit company.
  • Moving Permits: Washington doesn’t require a special permit to move but it’s still a good idea to check for any local parking rules or restrictions, especially for moving trucks.
  • Change of Address: Don’t forget to update your address with USPS at least one week before your move. You can choose your exact move date on the form so all your mail gets sent to your new Seattle address without delays.

Moving Insurance in Washington – What You Should Know

When you’re planning a move in Washington, it’s a good idea to understand what kind of insurance your moving company offers. Each state has its own rules and moving companies are required to carry certain types of insurance.

  1. Most movers provide something called Released Value Protection for free. This means your belongings are only covered at 60 cents per pound which isn’t much if something valuable gets damaged.
  2. For better protection, you can ask about Full Value Protection which covers the full cost to repair or replace damaged items. This may come at an extra cost but gives more peace of mind.
  3. You can also look into third-party insurance companies if you want even more coverage tailored to your needs.

Before deciding, make sure to:

  1. Ask about what’s included & what’s not
  2. Check for any extra fees
  3. And read some customer reviews so you know what to expect

Where to Live in Seattle

So, you’ve made the decision to move to Seattle — also known as the “Emerald City.” Now comes the fun part: picking the best neighborhood to call home. Here are some great options based on your lifestyle:

Best Neighborhoods for Singles

If you’re moving on your own or love a social, lively vibe, check out these spots:

  • Ballard – Trendy with great bars, restaurants and a laid-back feel
  • Capitol Hill – Vibrant, artsy and full of nightlife
  • Fremont – Quirky, creative and super walkable
  • Lower Queen Anne – Close to downtown with awesome city views
  • South Lake Union – Great for young professionals, especially in tech

Best Neighborhoods for Families

Looking for something more relaxed and family-friendly? These areas are worth exploring:

  • Greenwood – A peaceful area with parks, schools and a community feel
  • Laurelhurst – Quiet and upscale, perfect for raising kids
  • Magnolia – Safe, scenic and great for outdoor lovers
  • Upper Queen Anne – Beautiful homes, good schools and a welcoming vibe
  • West Seattle – A mix of city life and suburban comfort, with great family spaces

Things to Do in Seattle

Once you’ve settled into your new home in Washington, it’s time to get out and enjoy what Seattle has to offer. No matter what you’re into, this city has something for everyone.

Arts & Culture

Seattle is full of unique museums and cultural spots. A few must-visits include:

  • Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
  • Olympic Sculpture Park
  • National Nordic Museum
  • Chihuly Garden & Glass
  • Museum of Flight

Enjoy the Outdoors

If you love fresh air and nature, you’re in luck. Seattle has beautiful parks where you can walk, bike or just relax:

  • Discovery Park
  • Green Lake Park
  • Carkeek Park
  • Olympic Sculpture Park

Sports & Games

Seattle has a big sports scene too! You can catch live games & root for teams like:

  • Seattle Seahawks (NFL)
  • Seattle Mariners (MLB)
  • Seattle Kraken (NHL)
  • Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)

Top Full-Service Moving Company from Chicago to Seattle

Getting ready to move from Chicago to Seattle? We know how overwhelming it can be to choose a moving company with so many out there. That’s where STI Moving & Storage comes in. We’re not just another name on the list — we’re your full-service moving partner with the experience, equipment and team to handle every step of your move. From careful packing to safe delivery across 2,000+ miles, we’ve got you covered so you can focus on settling into your new home.

Ready to begin?

Get an instant quote through our Insta quote tool, or give us a call today to learn more about how STI Movers can help make your move smooth and stress-free.

FAQ

When’s the best time to move from Chicago to Seattle?

Spring and fall are the best seasons to make the move. The weather is nicer or you’ll avoid the high prices and busy schedules that come with summer moves.

When’s the cheapest time to move?

If you’re looking to save money, winter might be your best bet. Since fewer people move during that time, some moving companies offer lower rates.

How long does it take to move from Chicago to Seattle?

The move is about 2,064 miles and it usually takes anywhere from 6 to 17 days. If you’re in a hurry, some Chicago moving companies offer faster, express moving options.

How Much Does It Cost to Move from Chicago to Seattle with Professional Movers?

If you’re hiring professional movers for a long-distance move from Chicago to Seattle, the price depends on how much you’re moving.

  • For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,360 and $5,124.
  • A two- or three-bedroom home can cost anywhere from $3,686 to $8,139.
  • And if you’re moving a four-bedroom home or something larger, the cost can go up to $6,980 to $12,110.

The more items you have, the more it’ll cost — but with a professional team handling everything, it makes the move a lot easier.