Best overall value
Local moving companies in Austin
- Bellhop Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Square Cow: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Apple Moving : 4.86 out of 5 stars
- 3 Men Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Little Guys Movers : 4.76 out of 5 stars
Bellhop Moving
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 2878240
Years in Business: 13
2505 Longview Street, Austin, TX 78705 USFast moves and friendly attitudes set Bellhop Moving apart, with 163 feedback responses showing 69% positive and 30% negative experiences. Customers highlight the company’s quick-moving teams, professional and approachable staff, and the convenience of straightforward booking—qualities often missing from larger movers. Many found the service easy to use and appreciated clear communication, with several reporting moves done faster than estimated. On the downside, dissatisfied customers most frequently point to property damage, citing broken or scratched furniture and poor packing techniques. Complaints also reference a lack of experience among movers and occasional delays or no-shows. While helpful for simple moves and tight timelines, the service sometimes falls short on handling fragile or valuable items, losing ground to competitors with more rigorous training and consistent reliability.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2878240
- State license #: 009668291C
Square Cow
rating
4.9 / 5
DOT #: 1748594
Years in Business: 17
11517 Manchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748 USCustomer feedback on Square Cow rolls in with glowing praise for their professionalism and efficiency—most clients found their moves smooth, fast, and well-handled. Out of 1,395 reviews analyzed, 88% shared positive input, highlighting efficient service, friendly and capable staff, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication. These traits set Square Cow apart from many competitors. Customers especially valued the polite movers and careful work, often noting stress-free moves even under challenging circumstances. Although a small portion of responses (about 10%) reported issues, the main complaints focused on damages to property, slow or inefficient teams, and missing items. In particular, some moves took far longer than estimates or resulted in damaged goods that were hard to recover or claim. Only 1.8% of reviews were neutral, often mentioning slow pace or unexpected fees but balanced with some satisfactory points. Compared to other movers, Square Cow’s high volume of enthusiastic recommendations and consistent reliability make it a leading choice, though there is still risk of service lapses. Many customers return for repeat moves, citing trustworthy teams and honest pricing, underscoring a reputation for genuine customer care—yet it pays to keep an eye on timeframes and item handling.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
Additional Information
- DOT #: 1748594
- State license #: 006362543C
Alternative Business Names
- Square Cow Movers
- Square Cow Moovers LLC
Apple Moving
rating
4.86 / 5
DOT #: 1934458
Years in Business: 24
9807 Brown Ln, Austin, TX 78754 USCustomer input for Apple Moving stands out for consistent, reliable moving crews who are efficient, caring, and professional. Feedback praises staff friendliness and careful handling of belongings, with several customers noting quick, hassle-free moves. Many appreciate how movers placed boxes accurately and worked swiftly in challenging conditions or with short notice. Nevertheless, reports of scratched or broken items and unsatisfactory resolutions to claims are more common here than with top-tier moving companies. Several clients described surprise fees or price hikes, leading to frustration and a sense of distrust. Unprofessional behavior and communication lapses also surfaced among criticisms. Apple Moving’s high number of positive endorsements and repeat business ratings set it above most competitors, but reliable item protection and transparent billing need improvement. Out of 256 feedback entries, 72% rate their experience highly, but some warn about damage and unexpected costs.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- DOT #: 1934458
- State license #: 009119390C
3 Men Movers
rating
4.8 / 5
DOT #: 1914113
Years in Business: 40
1005 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701 USMoving with 3 Men Movers often means working with a team that's fast, careful, and consistently professional. From 273 customer reviews, 92.7% praised their efficient service, careful handling, and friendly staff. Many highlighted how the crew communicated well, worked rapidly, and treated belongings with respect. Customers frequently noted that movers arrived on time, finished quickly, and handled even difficult moves smoothly compared to other companies. Despite these strengths, 7% of feedback involved serious concerns like property or item damage, late arrivals, or jobs feeling rushed or incomplete. A few reviews described items broken or damaged without adequate compensation, as well as instances where crews arrived late and moved slowly. Only 0.4% delivered neutral input, mentioning minor unprofessional conduct and the need for careful home inspection after moving. People looking for a reliable moving team with a strong focus on efficiency and careful handling will find 3 Men Movers consistently delivers what most other companies do not, though it's wise to verify details in advance and check your property before the team leaves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- DOT #: 1914113
- State license #: 000534796B
Alternative Business Names
- 3 Men Movers LTD
Little Guys Movers
rating
4.76 / 5
DOT #: 1931566
Years in Business: 32
2363 E State Hwy 71 Service Rd, Austin, TX 78617 USLittle Guys Movers earns standout marks for professionalism and reliability, with 93.5% of 248 customer reviews rating their experience positively. Feedback highlights their courteous staff, quick and efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Many customers mention transparent pricing and strong communication as reasons for choosing this company repeatedly. Some clients point out affordable rates and the crew's willingness to handle last-minute changes or logistical challenges. On the negative side, a few reviewers report surprise charges, inexperienced movers leading to slower service or minor damage, and higher overall costs than expected. Compared to other moving services, Little Guys Movers receives more praise for dependability and friendliness, but a handful of clients encourage improving transparency around pricing and mover experience. Most people experience fast, careful moves with a friendly team, making this company one of the most recommended options around, while a few suggest clarifying expectations to avoid disappointment.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 1931566
- State license #: 006269796C
Factors influencing moving costs from Austin to Chicago
The cost of Austin movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Austin to Chicago can be as low as $1,383 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 9,097.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Austin, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $829 to $2,113. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.
What to know before moving from Austin to Chicago
Moving from Austin to Chicago comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Chicago is generally more expensive than Austin, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Austin | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,765 | $2,045 |
| Average home value | $508,841 | $295,743 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,258 | $71,566 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,345 | $3,648 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $7,815 | $9,266 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 9.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.95% |
- Rent prices in Chicago are 16% higher than in Austin, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Chicago.
Home prices in Chicago are 41.9% lower than in Austin. - Income in Chicago is 4.8% higher than in Austin, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Chicago include U.S. Government, Chicago Public Schools, and City of Chicago.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Chicago, since the cost of living for a single person in Chicago is 9.1% higher than in Austin. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- If you’re moving your family to Chicago, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Chicago is 18.6% higher than in Austin.
- The unemployment rate in Chicago is 157.14% higher than in Austin.
- You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Chicago, since the city’s sales taxes in Chicago are 24.24% higher than in Austin.
- State income taxes in Chicago are 4.95% higher than in Austin.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,271.75 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Austin.
How life is different in Austin vs. Chicago
| Chicago | Austin | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 974,447 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 9 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 42 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 54 |
| Crime Index | 35.19 | 42.91 |
| Safety Index | 33.87 | 59.87 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Chicago's population is about 182% greater than Austin.
- Chicago's public transportation has a score of 9 out of 10 versus Austin's lower score of 5.
- Chicago is more walkable than Austin with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Austin's 42 out of 100.
- With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Austin, which has a score of 54 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Chicago's crime rate is lower than Austin with a score of 35.19 compared to Austin's 42.91. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Austin neighborhoods are safer than 42.91%.
- Chicago is considered to be less safe than Austin with a score of 33.87 vs Austin's 59.87.
- Air quality in Chicago is good, and in Austin it's good.
Other things to consider for your Austin vs. Chicago move
- Weather: Although Chicago gets less snowfall than surrounding areas in the Midwest and the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall could still affect your move in the wintertime.
- HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Illinois, visit the state's public utilities commission
- Moving permits: While Illinois doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Chicago without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Chicago
With your sights set on "Chi-Town", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Chicago.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Lake View
- Lincoln Park
- The Loop
- Near North Side
- West Town
Best neighborhoods for families
- Beverly
- Edison Park
- Lincoln Park
- North Center
- West Loop
Things to do in Chicago
After settling into your new Illinois home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Chicago has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Chicago is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago History Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Cubs (MLB), Chicago White Sox (MLB), or Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Austin to Chicago?
The best time to move from Austin to Chicago is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Austin.
When is the cheapest time to move from Austin to Chicago?
Because most people are moving from Austin to Chicago in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Austin to Chicago take?
The 1,120-mile move from Austin, TX, to Chicago, IL, takes two to eight days. Some Austin movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Chicago.
