Best Denver to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Denver to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,005 mile move from Colorado to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 53 Denver to Chicago moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Movemasters, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Denver compared to Chicago. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Denver to Chicago Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Movemasters, Inc. | 9.58 | 9.45 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Denver Door to Door Movers LLC | 9.49 | 9.31 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
4 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Movers On Demand | 8.99 | 8.94 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
Cost to Move from Denver to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,005 miles from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,636 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Denver to Chicago move is roughly $6,333. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,772 | 300 ft³ | 5.91 |
1 Bedroom | $2,636 | 450 ft³ | 5.86 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,356 | 750 ft³ | 5.81 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,333 | 1100 ft³ | 5.76 |
4 Bedrooms | $9,132 | 1600 ft³ | 5.71 |
5+ Bedrooms | $10,183 | 1800 ft³ | 5.66 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Denver guide.
Compare the 5 Best Denver to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Movemasters, Inc.
745 Lipan St
Denver, CO, 80204
About Movemasters, Inc.
Located in Denver and serving customers locally and statewide for close to 40 years, Movemasters Inc. values trust, reputation, and results....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Household Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1290433 / 1550891 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 19 |
Registered Drivers | 23 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 216,634 (2022) |

Denver Door to Door Movers LLC
5686 Logan Ct Unit E
Denver, CO, 80216
About Denver Door to Door Movers LLC
Located in Mile High City, Denver Door to Door Movers is an experienced moving company providing residential and commercial moves. The...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Professional Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3184789 / 1195769 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2023) |

606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |

Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
Registered Drivers | 28 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |

Movers On Demand

30 S. Havana St #309
Foxfield, CO, 80016
About Movers On Demand
Movers On Demand is a moving company based in Aurora, Colorado, offering various services ranging from household moving to office relocation,...
Services
- Household Moving
- Office Relocation
- In-House Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3942778 / 1464833 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | - |

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Denver vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Denver, CO & Chicago, IL. This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood in Chicago that shares the attributes you loved about your area in Denver.
Denver | Chicago | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
LoDo (Lower Downtown) | West Loop | Trendy, vibrant dining scene |
Capitol Hill | Lakeview | Diverse culture, robust nightlife |
Cherry Creek | Gold Coast | Upscale shopping, luxury living |
Highlands | Wicker Park | Hip vibe, artsy community |
Washington Park | Lincoln Park | Expansive green space, family-friendly |
Uptown | Andersonville | Historic, diverse community |
River North | River North (Chicago) | Gallery district, nightlife |
Stapleton | Roscoe Village | Quiet, residential vibe |
Five Points | Hyde Park | Rich history, cultural icons |
Sloan's Lake | Bucktown | Trendy, near water activities |
If you're drawn to the trendy and vibrant dining scene of LoDo in Denver, you'll find Chicago's West Loop equally alluring, with top-tier restaurants like Girl & The Goat setting the stage for a foodie's paradise. Those moving from Cherry Creek's upscale shopping districts and luxury accommodations will find a seamless transition to the Gold Coast, where designer boutiques line the Magnificent Mile. Lastly, nature enthusiasts accustomed to the expansive green space and jogging trails of Washington Park might find their piece of the outdoors in Lincoln Park, home to the renowned Lincoln Park Zoo and vast public grounds perfect for recreational activities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Denver to Chicago
Moving can be a complex decision, balancing the excitement of a new beginning with the nostalgia and comfort of what's familiar. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the Denver, CO to Chicago, IL move , highlighting both positive and negative aspects to help you make an informed decision.
- Higher Altitude
- Smaller City
- Less Public Transit
- Fewer Cultural Institutions
- Less Diverse Cuisine
- Sea Level Comfort
- Larger City Vibrancy
- Extensive Transit System
- More Museums & Galleries
- World-Class Dining
- More Urban
- Colder Winters
- Fewer Outdoor Options
- Higher Population Density
- Faster Paced
- Nature Access
- Sunshine Days
- Outdoor Activities
- Smaller Population
- Relaxed Lifestyle
While the transition from Denver to Chicago introduces you to a world of cultural enrichment and culinary delight, it's a significant change. In Chicago, you'll have the opportunity to explore iconic museums like The Art Institute of Chicago and taste globally renowned dishes in neighborhoods such as Logan Square or the West Loop. However, for nature enthusiasts accustomed to Denver's Rocky Mountain backdrops and the relaxed Colorado lifestyle, the urban density and bustling pace of Chicago might take some getting used to. But the city's extensive green spaces, like Millennium Park or the Lakeshore Trail, offer a blend of urban life with touches of nature, making it a vibrant place to call home.
Denver vs. Chicago Food Guide
When relocating, it's essential to immerse yourself in the local culture, and what better way than through its culinary delights? This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Denver & Chicago , enabling you to get a taste of what your new home has to offer, from iconic dishes to the vibrant food scene.
Denver | Chicago | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Rocky Mountain Oysters | Deep-Dish Pizza |
Most popular meat dish | Bison Burgers | Italian Beef Sandwich |
Most popular street food item | Green Chili | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Denver, the adventurous eaters are often thrilled by Rocky Mountain Oysters, while health enthusiasts can find solace in the city's numerous vegan offerings, like the popular Jackfruit BBQ. Denver's food trucks and restaurants, such as The Buckhorn Exchange for a taste of local history or Rodizio Grill for a meaty feast, encapsulate the city's diverse and evolving food scene. Chicago, on the other hand, is your go-to for an authentic taste of its iconic deep-dish pizza. Neighborhoods like The Loop are dotted with historic eateries like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, embodying the city's rich culinary traditions. Whether you're exploring the vegan scene or indulging in a Chicago-style hot dog, each city offers a unique palate of flavors waiting to be explored.
Denver vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a culinary adventure as much as a logistical one. Understanding that food is crucial in making anywhere feel like home, this restaurant comparison chart between Denver, CO, and Chicago, IL, aims to help you find your new favorite eateries. By drawing parallels between the dining landscapes of your current and future cities, this guide will ensure a smoother transition for your taste buds.
Denver | Chicago | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Fruition Restaurant | North Pond | Fine dining in a scenic park setting |
Osteria Marco | Sapori Trattoria | Cozy, Italian dining experience |
Linger | Girl & The Goat | Eclectic, globally inspired dishes |
Rioja | The Purple Pig | Mediterranean tapas with a twist |
El Five | Cindy's Rooftop | Elevated views with unique small plates |
ChoLon | Fat Rice | Innovative Asian fusion |
Root Down | Green Zebra | Contemporary vegetarian cuisine |
Biju's Little Curry Shop | Vermilion | Indian-Latin fusion in an elegant setting |
Work & Class | The Publican | An eclectic mix of American fare |
Pantaleone's | Pequod's Pizza | Deep dish with a caramelized crust |
Transitioning from the Mile High City to the Windy City doesn't mean leaving behind the culinary experiences you've loved. Dive into Chicago's North Pond for an unforgettable fine dining experience that mirrors the intimate and meticulously crafted meals of Fruition Restaurant in Denver. If it's the globally inspired dishes and vibrant atmosphere of Linger that you're missing, head over to Girl & The Goat for an eclectic menu that's sure to remind you of home. And for those deep dish pizza cravings that only Pantaleone's could satisfy in Denver, Pequod's Pizza in Chicago offers a unique take with its legendary caramelized crust, ensuring your pizza nights continue to be as memorable as ever.

Ready to start your move?
Denver vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
As you prepare to move, understanding how real estate essentials compare between Denver, CO, and Chicago, IL is critical. This comparison will illuminate differences in housing cost, architecture, walkability , and the overall urban lifestyle you can expect in your new city.
Comparison | Denver | Chicago |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Modern Mountain | Brick Row House |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Open Floor Plan, Spacious Yard | Hardwood Floors, In-unit Laundry, Public Transit Access |
When comparing the two cities, Denver's housing market is characterized by its modern mountain aesthetics with a focus on spacious outdoor living—evident in its high demand for homes with views and open floor plans. Chicago, in contrast, leans towards historical brick architecture, valuing features like hardwood floors and accessibility to public transit more. Despite Chicago's urban lifestyle scoring higher due to its dense infrastructure and transit systems, Denver offers a unique blend of urban and natural living that appeals to a different set of preferences. This juxtaposition illustrates not just a difference in cost but a fundamental difference in lifestyle and priorities influenced by each city's unique environment.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Denver vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather varies from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL is crucial if you're planning a move. Knowing the differences will help you prepare for changes in weather patterns, seasonal shifts, and what to expect in your new home. This comparison highlights key weather aspects of Denver and Chicago, aiding in your transition.
Denver, CO
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Denver, CO
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Denver, CO
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Denver, CO
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Denver | Chicago |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Denver to Chicago, you'll experience more humid summers and colder, windy winters. Denver boasts about 245 days of sunshine a year, significantly more than Chicago's 189, meaning you might find Chicago's winters a bit gloomier. However, Chicago's summer temperatures are quite similar to Denver's, though with higher humidity levels. It's also essential to consider the different natural disaster risks, with Denver prone to wildfires and snowstorms, while Chicago faces snowstorms and occasional tornadoes. Adjusting to these changes will be an important part of your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Denver to Chicago
When contemplating a move from Denver, CO, to Chicago, IL, one key aspect to consider is the money and finance comparison in each city. Understanding how the cost of living, tax rates, and economic opportunities in Denver and Chicago will affect your finances is crucial for a smooth transition.
Comparison | Denver | Chicago |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $81,630 | $66,576 |
Cost of Living Index | 103.2 | 116.9 |
State Income Tax | 4.55 | 4.95 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.55 | 2.10 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.65 | 10.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Biotechnology, Energy | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
Affluence | High | Moderate |
Poverty | Moderate | High |
Homelessness | Moderate | High |
The financial landscape of Denver and Chicago presents a mixed picture, with each city having its strengths and challenges. For instance, while the average household income in Denver is higher, Chicago offers a more affordable cost of living. The state income tax is slightly higher in Chicago, but it's the property and sales taxes where Chicagoans feel the pinch more significantly. This financial dynamic is crucial to consider if you’re planning on buying a home or making significant purchases. Moreover, the differences in the top industries suggest varied job opportunities, potentially affecting your career path. Understanding these nuances will better prepare you for your move.
Denver vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When contemplating a move from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL, understanding the social landscape is crucial. This guide offers a quick glimpse into the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Denver & Chicago, giving you an insight into what to expect in terms of political climate and religious communities in your new home.
Denver | Chicago | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal/Progressive | Liberal/Democratic |
Local Politics | Strong focus on environmental and social equality issues | Historic commitment to labor rights and public education |
Religion | Christianity is major, but diverse religious representation | Highly diverse; stronger concentration of Catholics |
In exploring deeper, you'll find that Denver's political landscape, with its focus on environmental sustainability and equality, echoes in the personal values of many of its residents. The city's open-minded approach can be seen in its array of local establishments and community activities that prioritize inclusivity. In contrast, Chicago's rich history of labor rights and educational reforms shapes its local political climate. This historical backdrop might influence the public and community initiatives you'll encounter in Chicago, offering a vibrant scene of advocacy and reform. Chicago's religious landscape is also quite vibrant, reflecting the city's broader cultural diversity, with a notable presence of Catholic communities alongside other faiths. This diversity is celebrated in numerous churches and religious institutions across the city. Both cities showcase a rich tapestry of beliefs and political affiliations, making them welcoming places for newcomers with varied backgrounds and beliefs.
Denver vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in your daily commute and help you plan your transit more effectively in your new city.
Comparison | Denver | Chicago |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 35 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
When considering the move from Denver to Chicago, you'll discover significant differences in your daily commute. Chicago's average commute time is nearly 10 minutes longer, which is partly due to its higher traffic congestion score. However, the Windy City compensates with its more robust public transit system, rated 8 out of 10, thanks to the extensive coverage of the Chicago Transit Authority. While owning a car in Denver might be more of a necessity due to lesser public transit options, Chicago offers a more forgiving environment for those wishing to go carless, supported by its dense network of buses and the famed 'L' train system, making commuting without a car easier.



Additional Resources
Denver Moving Services
Popular Denver to Illinois Routes
Popular Moving Resources