Moving from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale is a great way to get a fresh start in a city that is warm, sunny, and filled with fun activities.
The 1355 mile distance between these two cities, however, makes the process of relocation difficult if you don’t plan ahead and consider the options you have when looking to move.
Fortunately, this guide will cover everything you need to know about moving from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale, as well as some helpful tips to save money during the process.
How Much Does It Cost to Move From Chicago to Fort Lauderdale?
The average moving cost from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale will run approximately $3500-$4300 depending on the date you want to move and the total weight of your belongings.
Additionally, other factors such as whether you hire a moving service or perform a DIY move will add or subtract from the costs.
For example, hiring a Fort Lauderdale movers to load your belongings into a truck, transport them to Fort Lauderdale, unload on arrival will cost you more than hiring a moving labor service for just loading/unloading a rental truck.
Alternatively, if you want to handle all of the packing and loading yourself but need a service to transport your belongings, you could save some money by ordering a moving pod that can be dropped off, delivered, and picked up at your convenience.
While you could save a bit of money on the cost of moving from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale by renting, loading, driving, and unpacking belongings on your own, the cost may work out to be the same when you consider:
- the rising price of gas
- the expenses of accommodation during the drive down
- the cost for packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap, furniture protection, etc.)
All-in-all, the best way to move from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale will be with the help of a moving service that provides all or some of the moving services needed to get from point A to B.
When is the Best Time to Move From Chicago to Fort Lauderdale?
Considering that the Chicago winter might be too frigid and icy for packing up your belongings and performing a cross-country drive with a heavy moving truck, it might be a good idea to plan your move during warmer seasons.
And while some may think that the summer is the best time to move from one city to another, the truth is that Fort Lauderdale may be too warm during the summer months to do the packing and unpacking quickly and comfortably.
This is why it is recommended to schedule your move from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale for either the fall or spring months of September-November and March-mid May when both cities will be at their finest weather-wise.
How to Get From Chicago to Fort Lauderdale
Whether you are moving your belongings on your own or following the moving truck with your car, getting from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale is relatively easy. By Taking the I-65S to the I-75S, you can reach Fort Lauderdale after about 20 hours of driving time. On average, it takes about 2-3 days with 6-8 hours of driving each day.
If you don’t have a car or have sent your car along with a moving service, you can catch a flight to Fort Lauderdale from Chicago for anywhere between $50-$200.
While flying will be the faster option, remember that you may need to rent a car at the airport to get to your new home, meaning you’ll need to include this fee in your overall moving budget.
Should you choose to make the drive down yourself, be sure to include the cost of accommodation and gas for each day on the road into your total relocation expense budget.
What are the Benefits of Moving to Fort Lauderdale?
Moving to Fort Lauderdale will be a fantastic experience for those who have been living in Chicago. Firstly, the weather in Fort Lauderdale will be widely different than what is experienced in Chicago. Unlike Chicago, where the winter is biting and cold, Fort Lauderdale sees average temperatures between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter months.
The rest of the year is pleasantly warm as well, making activities such as boating, sailing, and fishing some of Fort Lauderdale’s major attractions for both tourists and residents.
Additionally, Florida is a tax-free state. This means that residents of Fort Lauderdale won’t be responsible for paying income tax. Additionally, taxes are almost non-existent on most food products and household medical supplies, making it ideal for retirees, young professionals, and families that want to reduce the cost of living expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Fort Lauderdale get a lot of rain?
Located in South Florida, Fort Lauderdale can get hit with heavy rains during the summer months, where thunderstorms and lightning are common. However, during spring and fall, these storms will be short-lived and dissipate quickly after starting.
What is there to do in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale has many activities that will keep you busy, especially during the warmer months. From shopping centers to golf courses, casinos to amusement parks, and beaches galore, Fort Lauderdale is an exciting place with much to do.
What kinds of jobs can I find in Fort Lauderdale?
In Fort Lauderdale, jobs are plentiful, especially those related to tourism and hospitality. For those from Chicago looking for a job as a bartender or waiter, there is no better place to be as these jobs will be relatively easy to come by considering the sheer amount of tourists in South Florida.
Moving from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale is Easier Than You Think!
Thanks to experienced relocation services and direct interstate routes, moving from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale is pretty easy. However, remember that the total cost will depend on what and when you are moving, so be sure to plan your trip when the weather is preferable in both locations.
Contact a long-distance moving service to get the most accurate estimate for relocating from The Windy City to the Venice of America.
