When moving from Illinois to Arkansas, expect to spend between
$1,863–$4,658 if using professional movers, about
$1,675 for a moving container, and around
$637
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Illinois
Illinois offers 76 interstate moving companies ready to support your move to Arkansas. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best local movers in Illinois, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Mid-West Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- New City Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 136144
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 3383907
The Professionals Moving Specialists, serving Chicago, IL, since 2005, are a highly reputable local moving company specializing in residential relocations. With an impressive 4.6 average rating from 1013 Yelp reviews and a perfect 5.0 from 3993 Google My Business reviews, they stand out as a top choice compared to other area movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers a variety of services, including packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing, as well as the ability to move specialized items such as pianos, pool tables, and antiques. Known for their customer satisfaction and comprehensive services, The Professionals Moving Specialists are well-equipped to handle all local moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 214845
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2882675
Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC
Alliance Moving & Storage has been providing dependable local residential moving services in and around Rolling Meadows, IL, since 2016. With an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 3.8 on Google, they have earned a solid reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, Alliance Moving & Storage stands out with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to move pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. They accept both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a convenient and flexible choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 75043
Years in Business: 41
DOT #: 294025
Mid-West Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in the Elk Grove Village, IL area since 1984, specializing in local residential moves. While their Yelp reviews average at 2.8 from 77 reviews, their stellar Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 385 reviews and an A+ BBB rating speak volumes about their overall customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, Mid-West Moving & Storage distinguishes itself with a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moves like pianos and antiques. They also offer full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking for added peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 93712
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 504435
Alternate Names: Golan’s Moving and Storage, Inc.
Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc., based in Skokie, IL, has been a staple in the local moving industry since 1992, specializing in residential moves within the area. With a strong reputation backed by 553 Yelp reviews averaging 3.5 stars, and an impressive 4.5-star rating from 556 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby moving companies. They boast an A+ rating from the BBB, underscoring their commitment to customer satisfaction. Offering a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques, Golan’s Moving & Storage ensures a smooth and efficient moving experience with full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 158051
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 3078026
Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.
New City Moving, a reputable moving company based in Chicago, IL, has been providing local residential moving services since 2010. With an impressive 4.7 average rating from 1,096 Yelp reviews and a 4.8 average rating from 2,393 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. Beyond local moves, New City Moving offers office moving, packing, and unpacking services, along with full valuation insurance coverage. They accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring a flexible payment process.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Illinois to Arkansas moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Illinois and drops it off at your new home in Arkansas.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best Illinois to Arkansas moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from Illinois to Arkansas, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Illinois to Arkansas labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They’ll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from Illinois to Arkansas.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to AR move
After studying pricing from 98 Illinois movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
- Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Arkansas?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois to Arkansas. You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,043 – $3,079 | $682 – $1,480 | $366 – $696 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,863 – $4,658 | $1,161 – $2,189 | $414 – $860 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,059 – $7,093 | $1,573 – $2,921 | $542 – $1,014 |
*Estimated costs for a 469-mile move from IL to AR are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s dataset as of Nov 04, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling. For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Arkansas
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Arkansas will cost between $1,043 and $3,079. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from IL to AR will range from $1,863 to $4,658, and a large move from Illinois to Arkansas will cost from $3,059 to $7,093.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Arkansas
If you’re moving from Illinois to Arkansas, expect to pay between $682 and $1,480 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,161 up to $2,189. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,573 and $2,921. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Arkansas
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $366 and $696. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $414 and $860. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $542 up to $1,014 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to AR
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Illinois to Arkansas. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in Illinois is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from IL to AR
A relocation from Illinois to Arkansas comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Arkansas
Comparing expenses in Illinois and Arkansas shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
| Illinois | Arkansas | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,179 | $868 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $208,078 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $56,335 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 2.3% |
| Average sales tax | 8.82% | 9.51% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 2.0% |
- Expect to pay around 26% less in rent in Arkansas than in Illinois, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
- Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 17% lower in Arkansas than in Illinois.
- Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Arkansas are about 28% lower than in Illinois.
- Since the cost of living is about the same in Arkansas and Illinois, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
- With an unemployment rate about 57% lower than Illinois, Arkansas boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
- Sales taxes are 8% higher in Arkansas than in Illinois, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 60% lower in Arkansas than in Illinois. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Arkansas vs. Illinois
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in Arkansas stacks up against Illinois across important lifestyle factors:
| Arkansas | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,067,732 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 64-36 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 28ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 50″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 4″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 30.97 | 19.7 |
- With a population about 76% smaller than Illinois, Arkansas offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle. Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
- In the most recent presidential election, Arkansas leaned Republican, while Illinois went with Democratic.
- In Arkansas, summer highs hover around 91°F, while Illinois sits at 86°F. Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
- During the coldest part of the year, Arkansas bottoms out around 28°F, compared to 17°F in Illinois. A move to Arkansas with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
- Expect about 50 inches of rain each year in Arkansas, a noticeable difference from the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois. With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
- In Arkansas, you can expect about 4 inches of snow each year, much less than the 22 inches you’d deal with in Illinois. So, if you’re moving to Arkansas, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
- Arkansas has a higher crime rate than Illinois with a crime index of 30.97 vs. 19.7. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Arkansas
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Arkansas versus Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois | Pros of living in Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Home of chicago | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Ample economic opportunity | Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
| Delicious food | Fantastic weather |
| World-class sports culture | Natural beauty |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Arkansas
Moving from Illinois to Arkansas comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Illinois | Cons of living in Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | High crime rate |
| Bad traffic | Dangerous wildlife |
| High crime rate | Poor education |
| Dull landscape | Pervasive poverty |
| Strict laws | Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Arkansas move
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: Before providing in-state household goods relocation services, Arkansas moving companies must be issued an Intrastate Authority Permit from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a Arkansas moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Arkansas, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Arkansas without a hitch. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Released Value Protection, offered by movers at no extra cost, is the most economical option, albeit with minimal coverage. The mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, the reimbursement would be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure full coverage of your items’ value, explore alternative options with your moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Arkansas
Get ready to discover all that Arkansas has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Arkansas
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- Ozark Folk Center State Park
- Daisy Airgun Museum
- Mid-America Science Museum
Parks in Arkansas
- Riverfront Park
- Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
- Craighead Forest Park
- Cadron Settlement Park
- Maumelle Park
Sports teams in Arkansas
- Arkansas Razorbacks (NCAA)
- Arkansas State Red Wolves (NCAA)
- Central Arkansas Bears (NCAA)
- Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans (NCAA)
Universities in Arkansas
- University of Arkansas
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Arkansas State University
- University of Central Arkansas
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Arkansas?
Opting for a full-service Illinois moving company might mean a higher upfront cost, but it lets you relax while the pros tackle all the details. Want to be more budget-friendly? You can rent a moving truck or choose a moving container. Just keep in mind you’ll be taking on more of the work yourself. If you’re keen to cut costs even further, check out our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Arkansas?
Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from Illinois to Arkansas using a top-rated auto transport company.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Arkansas?
The main reasons people are moving from Illinois to Arkansas are the amazing upsides of living in Arkansas, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Arkansas?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in Illinois. While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing is much more affordable in Arkansas, with average rent about 26% less and home prices 17% lower than in Illinois. Taxes are also lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arkansas?
You should make approximately $56,231 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Arkansas. The cost of living in Arkansas is about $2,422 per month for an individual and $5,241 for a family of four. Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Some movers in Illinois provide budget-friendly deals. In Illinois, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts. Special pricing for military members is available from 1 moving companies. Discounts for seniors are offered by 2 movers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
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