Local moving companies in New York City
Out of 165 New York City movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Illinois.
- NYC Great Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Imperial Moving and Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Roadway Moving : 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Alpha Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 39493
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2180117
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 32647
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1422485
Alternate Names: Lion’s Den Enterprises Inc. , Imperial Self Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 38589
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1854436
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2047066
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 2047066
Alternate Names: Alpha Movers , Alpha Relocation Services , Alpha Transportation, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 648262
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 648262
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Local moving services in New York City, NY
At a glance, the number of New York City movers with specialty add-ons:
Cost to move from New York City, NY to Illinois
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from New York City to Illinois with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,021 – $3,851 | $825 – $1,928 | $623 – $1,156 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,032 – $5,094 | $1,481 – $2,792 | $674 – $1,306 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,427 – $7,255 | $1,993 – $3,622 | $853 – $1,586 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 910-mile move from New York City, NY, to Illinois using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects and verifies thousands of prices from movers nationwide, then updates the figures monthly to reflect seasonal changes and market dynamics. Your total may vary with load size, extra services, access or parking hurdles, fuel prices, and your move date. Get several mover quotes to better validate pricing.
Cost to hire movers from New York City to Illinois
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from New York City to Illinois typically costs between $1,021 and $3,851. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,032 and $5,094. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,427 up to $7,255.
Cost of moving containers from New York City to Illinois
If you’re relocating from New York City to Illinois, you’ll typically spend between $825 and $1,928 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,481 up to $2,792. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,993 and $3,622. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from New York City.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New York City to Illinois
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from New York City to Illinois, expect to pay between $623 and $1,156. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $674 to $1,306. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $853 and $1,586.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors influencing moving costs from New York City to IL
The cost of a move in New York City can change based on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Peak summer months in New York City often come with higher moving rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Handling the move yourself lowers costs but adds stress; pros cost more but save time and effort.
What you should know before moving from New York City to IL
Relocating from New York City to Illinois could mean a change in lifestyle and might also help you save some money. The cost of living in New York City is generally higher, so moving could provide a chance for more budget-friendly living.
Explore the detailed cost of living analysis below to see how New York City fares against Illinois, so you’re well-prepared for what’s next.
Compare cost of living: New York City vs. Illinois
| New York City, NY | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $4,340 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $752,778 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,058 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 172 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 11.2% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 4.95% |
Illinois sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 73% lower in Illinois than in New York City, giving you extra breathing room in your budget.
- In Illinois, home prices are about 67% lower than in New York City, easing your mortgage burden.
- The average income is about equal in Illinois and New York City, meaning your budget should hold up just fine.
- The cost of living is around 48% lower in Illinois than in New York City, freeing up money for savings or lifestyle upgrades.
- The unemployment rate in Illinois is around 53% lower than in New York City, pointing to a more favorable employment outlook.
- Illinois’s income tax rates are about 55% lower than New York’s, so you’ll keep more of what you earn.
How life is different in New York City, NY from Illinois
When planning a move from New York City to Illinois, you’ll be in for some changes, including new weather, a different community feel, and a unique political scene. Here’s what awaits when you leave the New York City behind for life in Illinois.
| New York City, NY | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,258,035 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 76-23 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 26ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 47″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 25″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 50.83 | 19.7 |
Illinois Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both New York City and Illinois voted Democratic.
- Summer highs typically reach about 86ºF in Illinois and 84ºF in New York City. With similar temperatures, you shouldn’t have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
- Colder winters await in Illinois, where lows average 17ºF, compared to New York City at 26ºF. This shift means more heating costs and brisker weather, but also unique seasonal charm and activities.
- In Illinois, rainfall totals about 40 inches a year, less than the 47 inches you’re used to in New York City. More sunshine and fewer rainy days make it easier to get outside and enjoy your new home.
- In Illinois, you can expect about 22 inches of snow each year. By comparison, New York City typically gets around 25 inches annually. Since both places see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
- Illinois has a lower crime index of 19.7 versus New York City at 50.83, suggesting safer neighborhoods and fewer safety concerns overall.
Comparing the pros of New York City, NY versus Illinois:
Relocating can open up a world of new experiences. Discover the unique charms of New York City when set against Illinois.
| Pros of living in New York City, NY | Pros of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Home of Chicago |
| Diverse cuisine | Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Incredible landmarks | Delicious food |
| Abundant entertainment | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of New York City, NY versus Illinois:
While venturing from New York City to Illinois, be mindful of the potential hurdles you may encounter.
| Cons of living in New York City, NY | Cons of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Overcrowded | Harsh winter weather |
| Pollution | Bad traffic |
| Terrible traffic | High crime rate |
| Crime | Dull landscape |
| High cost of living | Strict laws |
Other considerations when moving to Illinois
If you’re relocating from New York City to Illinois, there’s more involved than simply packing up and hiring movers. Don’t forget to look into local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure you find out how to reserve it for your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks or oversized vehicles, so be sure to find out ahead of time if you’ll need one for your move.
- 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. Double-check that your moving company is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can easily verify a Illinois moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory site.
- Moving permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can select your official move date to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Illinois without a hitch. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules aren’t the same everywhere. They change depending on the state. 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: Move with confidence using our moving checklist. It keeps you organized and covers all the details, letting you stress less and focus on settling into your new place.
Things to do in Illinois
Whether you love parks, museums, sports, or college-town energy, Illinois has plenty for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in Illinois
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
Parks in Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee river State Park
Sports teams in Illinois
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
Universities in Illinois
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- Northern Illinois University
FAQ
How long does a move from New York City to Illinois take?
The time it takes to move from New York City, NY, to Illinois ultimately depends on the moving method you choose. But on average it will take two to seven days. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.
For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do movers in New York City offer custom-built crate services?
132 movers in New York City list custom crating, a useful option for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Before you book, ask a New York City mover about crate specs and whether they can tailor the build to your needs.
What is the best way to get a car from New York City to Illinois?
Need to ship your car from New York City to Illinois? Go with a team that takes professionalism and car care seriously, with proven experience to match. See our top choices for car shipping from New York to Illinois.
Why are people moving from New York City to Illinois?
Many people are moving to Illinois because of its home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity. On the other hand, people are moving away from New York City because of the overcrowded and pollution.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Illinois.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in New York City?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in New York City.
Is cash an option to pay for a move from New York City, NY?
THere are currently, 72 movers in New York City that allow customers to pay with cash. Keep in mind that cash remains the exception; most carriers want traceable payments and digital receipts. Standard process is to pay a deposit to secure the date and crew. You’ll pay the remainder at pickup or after delivery—verify the exact timing and acceptable methods before booking.
Helpful moving resources
New York moving services
Popular New York routes
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