Moving from Chicago, IL to Washington, DC
Your Complete Guide
772
Miles
14 hrs
Drive Time
I-90 East
Primary Highway
Off-Peak
Current Season
Cost of Living Comparison
Category
Chicago, IL
Washington, DC
Cost of Living Index
107
152
Median Home Price
$315,000
$620,000
Median 1BR Rent
$1,700/mo
$2,200/mo
Avg Monthly Utilities
$145
$155
Grocery Index
102
108
Best Stops Along the Way
Breaking up a 772-mile drive? Here are great places to stop between Chicago, IL and Washington, DC.
Milwaukee, WI
A Great Lakes city famous for its brewing heritage and lakefront festivals. Known as Brew City with a revitalized downtown and Third Ward.
Brewing heritage, Summerfest, and lakefront dining
Madison, WI
Wisconsin's capital built on an isthmus between two lakes. A progressive college town consistently ranked among the best places to live.
University of Wisconsin, State Street, and farmer's market on the Capitol Square
State Transition Guide: Illinois → District of Columbia
Moving from Illinois to District of Columbia? Here's what you need to know about updating your documents.
Driver's License
Update within 30 days of establishing residency in District of Columbia
Vehicle Registration
Register vehicle within 30 days in District of Columbia
Vehicle inspection: Required every 2 years
Things to Know About District of Columbia
- Residents pay federal taxes but have no voting representation in Congress
- Reciprocity agreements affect income taxes for commuters from VA and MD
- Parking is extremely limited and expensive—public transit is essential
Frequently Asked Questions
The drive is approximately 772 miles via I-90 East, taking about 14 hours of driving. We recommend breaking this into 2 days of driving, accounting for stops, fuel, and rest.