Every year, plenty of Chicagoans trade lake views for Denver’s mountain skylines. Some go for jobs, others want more sun and easy access to hiking trails and ski days. But Denver has its own rhythm: fewer crowds, more trails, and a lifestyle that leans outdoors. Even though it’s a long 1-2 day drive from Chicago, it can feel like a completely different world once you arrive.
Denver’s housing market and rent trends also look different than Chicago’s, so a little research goes a long way before you make your move. This guide compares cost of living and lifestyle, shows what a typical move costs, and gives you a step-by-step route checklist for your Chicago to Denver move.
Chicago vs. Denver: Key Differences to Know Before You Move
If you’re considering moving from Chicago to Denver, it helps to understand how life will really be different. Take a moment to explore our in-depth guide to Denver, titled Should You Move to Denver?, which dives into neighborhoods, culture, and what might fit you best. Right now, focus on the practical: what you’ll be paying, what you’ll be feeling, and who tends to thrive with this switch.
Chicago vs. Denver Cost of Living
The biggest difference between the two cities is housing. Buying is usually pricier in Denver right now, while rent often runs lower than in Chicago at the city level. Utilities and groceries depend on your building and location, but many newcomers notice that Denver’s dry climate and abundant sun help with winter bills.
Even though buying in Denver costs more, lower average rents and generally lower COL can keep day-to-day costs feeling manageable once you settle in. Take the time to check several listings in your desired area, since prices vary by neighborhood in both cities.
Finding a place that fits
If you’re interested in moving to Denver, here are some tips on finding a place that’s the perfect match for you:
- Tour smart. If you cannot visit in person, do a live video tour and ask for hallway and street views, not just the unit.
- Match the commute. If you are without a car, stay close to RTD rail or frequent bus lines, or pick a bike-friendly pocket near work.
- Plan for altitude. Denver sits at 5,280 feet. Drink water, use a humidifier, and give yourself a few days to adjust.
- Pet people, rejoice. Denver is very dog-friendly. Filter for pet policies early so deposits and monthly pet rent do not surprise you.
Chicago vs. Denver Lifestyle and Culture
Despite the cost differences, Chicago and Denver feel like two very different kinds of cities. Chicago is dense, historic, and built around its neighborhoods and train lines. Denver spreads wide, with mountain views in the distance and trailheads never far away. Moving between the two means trading lakefront living for sunshine and altitude, plus a different rhythm in how people work, commute, and spend their weekends.
Cost of living in daily life
Buying a home is usually pricier in Denver right now, while many renters pay less month to month than in Chicago. Utilities are different, too. Denver’s dry air and many sunny days help with winter heating in well-sealed buildings, but summer cooling and altitude can nudge your water bill higher. Transportation spending tends to be lower in Chicago if you rely on CTA and Metra, while in Denver, most people budget for a car and RTD as a backup for downtown trips or airport runs.
Getting around
Chicago’s CTA and Metra make car-light living realistic in many neighborhoods. Denver’s RTD rail and bus network covers the region, but most residents still drive. If you plan to use rail, the G Line that serves Arvada runs about every 30 minutes most of the day, and the A Line links Union Station to the airport at similar headways. For everyday errands, choose a walkable pocket near where you work or near a rail stop you will actually use.
Job market
Chicago has depth in finance, logistics, health care, and big corporate HQs. Denver blends energy, aerospace, health care, outdoor brands, and a busy startup scene. If you work in tech or a remote role, you will find plenty of meetups and flexible spaces. If you favor large, traditional orgs, Chicago’s footprint is wider. Jobs shift fast, so check current postings in your field before you commit.
Culture, lifestyle, and the outdoors
Chicago brings museums, theater, pro sports, and a packed festival calendar along the lake. Denver tilts outdoorsy (although you’ll still have sports teams to watch). You get trailheads after work, weekend skiing, and a big dog culture.
The city sits at 5,280 feet, which means the air is thinner and drier than what most people are used to at lower elevations. It’s something you notice right away, especially during physical activity or your first few nights of sleep. Denver also averages more sunny days per year than Chicago, which changes how winter feels day to day.
Neighborhood vibe
Chicago offers dense urban blocks, strong transit, and distinct neighborhood identities. In Denver, you’ll instead find smaller “village” pockets in the city and many calm suburbs with quick access to the foothills. Popular city spots include Highlands, Sloan’s Lake, Berkeley, Wash Park, and parts of Park Hill. For close-in suburbs with easy mountain access, people often look at Wheat Ridge, Lakewood, Littleton, Arvada, and Golden. You should visit at rush hour, try your planned commute, and check RTD trip times to get a good sense of the traffic.
Types of People Who Will Like Moving from Chicago to Denver
Not everyone who leaves Chicago falls for Denver right away, but plenty of people do. The ones who usually settle in fastest are those ready for more sunshine, more open space, and a lifestyle that leans outdoors instead of downtown.
- Remote or flexible workers. Denver makes a lot of sense if you work remotely or in a flexible field. The city is full of people who start their mornings on laptops and end them on hiking trails. Co-working spots and coffee shops are everywhere, and it’s common to see a dog curled up beside someone finishing a Zoom call.
- Outdoor and active lifestyles. People who thrive in active settings usually love it here. You can ski in the winter, bike or run almost year-round, and reach mountain views in under an hour. It’s easy to plan weekend adventures without ever getting on a plane.
- Balanced living. Denver also attracts those who want balance, like professionals trading long commutes for time outside, couples and families who want space without losing city amenities, and anyone who values blue skies and a slower rhythm of life. The community is friendly and relaxed, with a mix of newcomers from all over.
For anyone leaving Chicago in search of breathing room, sunshine, and a different kind of city energy, Denver has a way of growing on you fast. It’s less about having more square footage and more about having more time to explore, recharge, and enjoy where you are.
Quick reality check before you pick a neighborhood
If you’re interested in moving to Denver, here are some tips on finding a place that’s the perfect match for you:
- Live close to work if you can, since most people still drive.
- Visit in winter and summer — Denver’s weather can swing from snow to sun in a day.
- If you plan to rely on transit, test your RTD route (Denver’s public transit system) at the time you would actually commute.
- Check altitude tips before you move, and keep in mind that it takes a few days to adjust comfortably.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Chicago to Denver?
Moving from Chicago to Denver is roughly a 1,000-mile trip, so it qualifies as a long-distance move. Prices can depend on how much stuff you have, when you move, and whether you hire a full-service company or handle part of it yourself. Here’s a look at what people typically pay, based on HireAHelper’s 2025 data.
If you plan to rent a truck or container and just need movers for the loading and unloading, you’ll probably spend between $350-$650 for labor on each end. That usually covers a two-person crew for a few hours, which is plenty of time for most apartments or smaller houses.
Full-service moves cost more since the crew packs, drives, and unloads everything for you. Most people moving between Chicago and Denver pay somewhere around $4,000 for smaller places and up to $8,000 or more for larger homes or peak-season moves. It’s a big jump in price, but you also get door-to-door convenience and far less stress.
“If you’re arriving before ski season [in Denver], consider buying your pass early. Locals often grab Ikon or Epic passes in spring to get bonus days at Loveland or Winter Park later in the year.”
A lot of movers land somewhere in the middle. They hire local help in Chicago to load the truck or container, drive it themselves, then book another crew in Denver to unload. It’s a smart way to save money without trying to lift heavy furniture on your own.
No matter which option fits your budget, start getting quotes early. Long-distance prices can rise quickly during busy months, and booking ahead often locks in better rates and better crews.
Factors That Impact the Price of Your Move from Chicago to Denver
The cost of moving from Chicago to Denver depends on when you go, how much you bring, and where you’re headed once you arrive. Here’s how those details add up.
Size of your home
The bigger the space, the more time and labor it takes to pack, load, and unload. A small apartment might only need a few hours of help, while a three- or four-bedroom home can take most of the day. Labor-only services for smaller places usually land between $350 and $650, while full-service movers range from $4,000 to $8,000 once packing and transport are included.
Type of service
Plenty of people on this route take the middle option: hiring a local crew in Chicago to load, driving a truck or container themselves, then hiring another team in Denver to unload. It’s a good balance of cost and convenience, usually running $700 to $1,500 total, depending on how big the move is.
Time of year
Summer is always the most expensive season to move to Denver. It’s also when mountain passes are busiest, which can slow travel. Spring and fall usually bring clearer roads and lower rates. Winter moves are cheaper but require planning around snow in both states.
Day of the week
Weekends fill fast in Chicago and Denver, so weekday moves are often easier to book and cost less. If you can take a day off work, you’ll likely save money and stress.
Access and parking
In Chicago, you may need temporary “No Parking” signs so your crew can park close to your building and you won’t get fined or towed. In Denver, check access ahead of time — narrow drives and shared lots are common in older neighborhoods like Berkeley, Sloan’s Lake, and parts of Capitol Hill. If you’re unloading in suburbs like Arvada or Wheat Ridge, plan around smaller streets and HOA rules about truck parking.
Small local details can have a big impact on your total cost. Comparing quotes early, checking for permits, and staying flexible with your date can keep your budget in check and make the long drive feel a lot smoother once you hit the Rockies.
Getting the Best Price on Your Chicago-Denver Move
The best way to save on a long-distance move is to plan early and compare options before you commit. Start by getting at least three quotes so you can see what’s typical for your area, home size, and timing. When you request a quote, make sure you list heavy furniture, stairs, elevator access, and parking details. Movers will give you the most accurate prices when they know exactly what to expect.
“The city [of Denver] sits at 5,280 feet, which means the air is thinner and drier than what most people are used to…It’s something you notice right away, especially during physical activity or your first few nights of sleep.”
If you’re flexible, pick a weekday or a move in spring or fall to lower your rate. Summer weekends fill fast, and prices rise with demand.
HireAHelper also offers a Best Price Guarantee, which means you’ll always get a competitive rate from trusted, vetted movers. Combine that with clear communication and a little schedule flexibility, and you’ll have an easier move and keep more money in your pocket when you get to Denver.
Best Local Moving Companies for Chicago–Denver Moves
If you’re planning to drive your own truck or use a portable container, it often makes sense to hire local movers at each end of the trip. You’ll get professional help where it matters most, without paying full-service prices.
In Chicago, Packed Moving Services is a dependable option. They’ve completed more than 1,300 moves through HireAHelper and hold a 4.8 rating from hundreds of reviews. A two-person crew for two hours costs around $199, which is usually enough time to load a small home or apartment. S & L Express Moving Services and Logan Lift Express also have strong reputations for careful packing and on-time arrivals.
Once you get to Denver, Genesys Moving Services LLC is a favorite among people making the same long-distance move. With over 650 reviews and nearly 1,900 completed jobs, they charge about $253 for two movers for two hours. That’s enough to get a rental truck or container unloaded and set up without stress.
Using HireAHelper to book local crews gives you a clear price upfront, a verified team of movers, and customer support if anything changes along the way.
Tips for a Smooth Move Between Chicago and Denver
A little local prep can make this route a lot easier. The drive is long but straightforward, and there are a few things past Chicago that people often wish they’d known ahead of time.
- Plan your route around I-80 and I-76, and build in a stop overnight in Omaha or North Platte to break up the 15-hour drive. If you’re moving in winter, check forecasts carefully. Both Nebraska and eastern Colorado can close stretches of highway for snow and wind. Spring and fall are usually cheaper times to go and better for weather.
- Once you’re in Denver, know that parking and access vary by neighborhood. Older areas like Capitol Hill and Berkeley have narrow streets, while suburbs such as Wheat Ridge and Arvada are easier for truck parking but may have HOA limits, so check before arrival.
- Learn about public transportation routes. The G Line to Arvada runs about every 30 minutes and connects to the A Line for airport trips, but most locals say it’s best to keep a car for everyday errands.
- Give yourself time to adjust to the altitude by drinking plenty of water, keeping your first day light, and being careful not to overdo it with lifting or workouts right away.
- If you’re arriving before ski season, consider buying your pass early. Locals often grab Ikon or Epic passes in spring to get bonus days at Loveland or Winter Park later in the year.
The Chicago to Denver Moving Checklist
Every move needs a plan, but when you’re heading west from Chicago to Denver, a few local details can make the trip a lot smoother. Think of this as your route-specific checklist: what to do, when to do it, and a few tips from people who’ve made this same move.
If you haven’t already, take a look at our complete moving checklist for a full planning timeline. You’ll also want to bookmark our guides on how to change your address everywhere before you move and packing tips to make sure nothing gets missed.
4–6 Weeks Before Your Move
Start early, especially if you’re moving during the summer when both cities are busiest.
- Notify your Chicago utility providers, including ComEd, Peoples Gas, and the Department of Water Management, and set your shutoff date a day or two after the move.
- Schedule new service in Denver through Xcel Energy and Denver Water. If you’re moving to a suburb like Arvada or Wheat Ridge, check the local city utility department instead.
- Get at least three quotes from movers who specialize in long-distance routes. Booking early can save you hundreds and help you lock in your preferred date.
- Apply for a temporary “No Parking” permit in Chicago so your movers can park close to your building. It’s available through the city’s online portal, and you’ll need to post signs at least 48 hours before the move.
- Start decluttering. Donation centers like the Brown Elephant, Salvation Army, or Chicago Furniture Bank will often pick up large items. The less you bring, the faster your move will go.
- Check winter weather patterns if you’re planning a cold-season move. Late snow in Iowa or Nebraska can slow travel, so give yourself flexibility with your moving date.
2–3 Weeks Before Your Move
Next, finalize logistics and make sure everything’s ready for the road.
- Plan your driving route. Most people take I-88 to I-80 to I-76. Omaha and North Platte, Nebraska, are popular overnight stops if you’re splitting the drive into two days.
- Confirm your movers’ arrival windows and make sure both pickup and drop-off addresses have good truck access.
- Forward your mail through USPS and update your address with your bank, credit cards, and insurance providers.
- Take photos of valuable or fragile items before packing. It’s an easy way to document their condition in case you need to file a claim.
- Ask about truck size restrictions if you’re moving to an apartment or HOA neighborhood in Denver. Some complexes only allow smaller box trucks in their lots.
- Book pet boarding or hotels early if you’re traveling with animals. Many people stop overnight halfway across Nebraska, where pet-friendly options can fill quickly.
1 Week Before Your Move
This last week is about double-checking your details and setting yourself up for a smooth trip.
- Reconfirm all moving appointments, including parking permits and access codes.
- Check weather forecasts along I-80 and I-76. Denver’s conditions can change by the hour: snow one day, sunshine the next.
- Pack an essentials box with toiletries, snacks, water, medications, and a change of clothes. The dry air in Colorado can be a shock after Chicago’s humidity, so add lip balm and lotion to your travel kit.
- Empty and defrost your fridge at least 24 hours before loading day.
- Return cable boxes and routers to your Chicago provider to avoid extra charges.
- Leave a note for the new residents with any mail forwarding info or building tips. It’s a small courtesy that goes a long way.
Moving Day
Chicago to Denver is about a thousand miles, so treat it like a road trip, not just a moving day.
- Start early. Leaving before sunrise helps you clear Chicago traffic and gives you daylight through most of Iowa.
- Keep toll money or an I-PASS handy for the Illinois and Iowa sections of I-88 and I-80.
- Pack snacks, water, and a small cooler. There are long stretches between major stops once you pass Des Moines.
- Check fuel levels often, especially in rural Nebraska, where exits can be far apart.
- Watch for high winds across western Nebraska and eastern Colorado, especially if you’re driving a rental truck. It can make a fully loaded truck sway more than you expect.
- Secure everything in your truck or container. The wind picks up as you approach Colorado, and even well-tied items can shift on rough roads.
- Choose a hotel with large vehicle parking if you’re staying overnight. North Platte and Kearney both have truck-friendly options near the highway.
- Watch for low clearance signs and narrow neighborhood streets once you reach Denver. Older areas like Capitol Hill and Berkeley can be tricky for larger trucks.
First Week in Denver
You made it. Now it’s about settling in and getting used to life a mile high.
- Hydrate and rest your first few days. The altitude hits everyone differently, especially after a long drive.
- Register your vehicle with the Colorado DMV and schedule your emissions test if required. Appointments fill fast, so book early.
- Update your driver’s license with your new address at a Denver DMV or county office.
- Set up trash and recycling service through Denver Solid Waste Management or your local provider. Check pickup days and guidelines for cardboard recycling.
- Handle your Chicago deposits and final bills. Make sure you’ve received credits or refunds from ComEd, Peoples Gas, and your internet provider.
- Test your commute during the hours you’ll actually travel. Traffic builds early around I-25 and I-70, so adjust your schedule if needed.
- Explore your neighborhood. Tennyson Street, Sloan’s Lake, and South Pearl all have weekend farmers markets where locals gather year-round.
- Buy your ski or snowboard pass early for better prices. Loveland, Winter Park, and A-Basin are favorites for locals who want to avoid I-70 backups.
- Join a local Facebook or Nextdoor group for your area. Denver’s communities are friendly, and neighbors are quick to share advice on everything from snow shoveling to which brewery patio allows dogs.
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Should You Move to Denver?
Average Prices for Movers in Denver
Moving Permits & Parking in Denver