Local moving companies in Boston
Out of 96 Boston movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Illinois.
- Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Michael’s Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Poseidon Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Esquire Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Flash Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 31391
Years in Business: 19
DOT #: 1718049
Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 30293
Pricing: $199/hr
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 782104
Alternate Names: Michael’s Moving & Storage, Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 31816
Pricing: $120/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2522855
Alternate Names: Poseidon Moving, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Pricing: $115/hr
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2820253
Alternate Names: Esquire Moving Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3025065
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Local moving services in Boston, MA
A quick snapshot of how many Boston movers provide add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Boston, MA to Illinois
The following table outlines average prices to move from Boston to Illinois, organized by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,138 – $4,935 | $832 – $2,156 | $717 – $1,271 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,605 – $5,817 | $1,567 – $2,947 | $730 – $1,558 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,265 – $7,668 | $2,076 – $4,012 | $955 – $1,917 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,110-mile move from Boston, MA, to Illinois using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Boston to Illinois
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Boston to Illinois, you’ll likely pay between $1,138 and $4,935. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,605 and $5,817 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,265 to $7,668.
Cost of moving containers from Boston to Illinois
When you’re heading from Boston to Illinois, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $832 and $2,156. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,567 and $2,947. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,076 to $4,012. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Boston easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Boston to Illinois
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Boston to Illinois in a rental truck will cost around $717 to $1,271. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $730 to $1,558, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $955 to $1,917.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors influencing moving costs from Boston to IL
Several factors influence the cost of movers in Boston:
- Move size: A studio move is far less expensive than relocating a large household.
- Time of year: Higher demand in the summer season pushes up moving company rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY options are budget-friendly but labor-intensive; hiring movers costs more but makes the process easier.
What you should know before moving from Boston to IL
Transitioning from Boston to Illinois can bring a different lifestyle and may ease financial pressures. With Boston often being expensive, living in Illinois could be a more cost-effective option.
Browse through the cost of living data below to find out how Boston stacks against Illinois, ensuring you’re equipped for the road ahead.
Compare cost of living: Boston vs. Illinois
| Boston, MA | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $3,400 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $739,121 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $89,212 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 151 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.2% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 9.0% | 4.95% |
Illinois sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Illinois runs roughly 65% less than in Boston, which means monthly savings.
- Your mortgage costs should go down, since homes in Illinois are about 66% cheaper than in Boston.
- Salaries in Illinois are about 12% lower than in Boston, which could mean less flexibility in your budget.
- In Illinois, the cost of living is around 40% cheaper than in Boston, offering potential savings each month.
- Job seekers may have an advantage in Illinois, where the unemployment rate is 15% lower than in Boston.
- Income taxes are 45% lower in Illinois than in Massachusetts, leaving you with more money each month.
How life is different in Boston, MA from Illinois
If you’re moving from Boston to Illinois, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Let’s break down what life in Illinois is like compared to Boston.
| Boston, MA | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 675,647 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49-48 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 47″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 48″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 39.88 | 19.7 |
Illinois Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Illinois leaned Democratic, while Boston supported Republican.
- Summer highs hover close to 86ºF in Illinois and near 82ºF in Boston. With such similar temperatures, you’ll find adapting to the new climate relatively straightforward. Don’t forget to consider factors like humidity, overall weather dynamics, and energy usage when picturing your summer experience in the new locale.
- In the coldest months, Illinois sees lows near 17ºF, and Boston hovers around 19ºF. Since the conditions are alike, your expenses and daily routines should remain consistent.
- In Illinois, yearly rainfall averages 40 inches, less than the 47 inches in Boston. Expect sunnier skies and fewer weather disruptions, perfect for spending more time outdoors.
- In Illinois, you’ll only get about 22 inches of snow each year, much less than Boston. That means moving to Illinois brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
- With a lower crime index of 19.7, Illinois offers a safer environment compared to Boston, which posts a higher index of 39.88.
Other considerations when moving to Illinois
When moving from Boston to Illinois, think beyond just hiring movers and boxing up your stuff to keep things running smoothly. Don’t forget to check local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods have specific rules for move-in days — verify with your HOA before moving.
- Elevator reservation: Many buildings require advance booking of elevators for moves — check before your moving date.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit if you’re using a moving truck or larger vehicle. Be sure to check ahead of time to see 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Illinois moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Illinois, but it’s a good idea to check the local parking regulations ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can set your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Illinois without any hiccups. Start here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules differ from state to state, so your specific needs will depend on your location. 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Illinois
No matter what you’re into—parks, museums, sports, or universities—you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy in Illinois.
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 Boston to Illinois take?
Wondering how long your move from Boston, MA to Illinois will take? Timing depends on the service you choose, but it typically takes two to eight days. Keep in mind, if you’re moving during the busy summer months, your move might take a little longer.
If you want your move to go smoothly and avoid delays, make sure to ask about the delivery timeframe before booking your moving company.
Can I find movers that build custom crates in Boston?
Yes—77 movers in Boston offer custom crating, ideal for protecting artwork, antiques, and other fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask a Boston mover about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What is the best way to get a car from Boston to Illinois?
Need to ship your car from Boston to Illinois? Trust professionals who’ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Massachusetts to Illinois.
Why are people moving from Boston to Illinois?
Many people are moving to Illinois because of its home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Illinois.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Boston?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Boston.
Can I pay for my move from Boston, MA, with cash?
There are 30 movers in Boston that accept cash payments. That said, cash is not common in the moving industry—most companies prefer card, ACH, or cashier’s check for traceability and receipts. Typically, you’ll pay a deposit to secure your booking and move date, with the remaining balance collected at pickup or after delivery (policy varies by mover). Always confirm accepted payment types and the timing of each payment before you book.
Helpful moving resources
Massachusetts moving services
Popular Massachusetts routes
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- See All Moving Routes
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