Local moving companies in San Diego
Out of 29 San Diego movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Illinois.
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Grizzly Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Dominant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- We Like To Move It Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
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 money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191958
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3299407
Alternate Names: Stella Moving & Delivery , The Remarkable Movers
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 cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191376
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2642040
Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 191165
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 2718191
Alternate Names: Velorom LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0191446
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2843171
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in San Diego, CA
Here is a quick look at how many movers in San Diego offer add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from San Diego, CA to Illinois
The table below shows typical price ranges to move from San Diego to Illinois, with service options tailored to your home size.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,271 – $5,093 | $1,072 – $2,933 | $1,164 – $2,265 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,184 – $7,094 | $2,071 – $4,091 | $1,175 – $2,619 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,369 – $11,066 | $2,836 – $5,348 | $1,482 – $3,113 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,972-mile move from San Diego, CA, to Illinois using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified rates from moving companies around the country, refreshed monthly for seasonality and market movement. Final charges can fluctuate based on the scope of your move, add-ons, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and timing. We suggest comparing multiple estimates for accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from San Diego to Illinois
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from San Diego to Illinois, you can expect to spend between $1,271 and $5,093. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,184 to $7,094 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home typically runs between $6,369 and $11,066.
Cost of moving containers from San Diego to Illinois
When moving from San Diego to Illinois, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,072 and $2,933. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,071 to $4,091. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,836 up to $5,348. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from San Diego.
Cost of moving truck rentals from San Diego to Illinois
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom in San Diego to relocate to Illinois and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,164 and $2,265. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,175 and $2,619. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,482 and $3,113.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors influencing moving costs from San Diego to IL
The cost of San Diego movers will depend on:
- Move size: Larger homes and more belongings increase the total moving cost.
- Time of year: Moving during busy summer months in San Diego can drive up rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY can cut costs, but professional movers provide convenience and peace of mind.
What you should know before moving from San Diego to IL
Switching from life in San Diego to settling in Illinois offers a fresh lifestyle and potential savings. Since living costs in San Diego are usually greater, this move might allow for a more economical way of life.
Have a look at the cost of living figures below to see the comparison between San Diego and Illinois, allowing you to get ready for upcoming changes.
Compare cost of living: San Diego vs. Illinois
| San Diego, CA | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,881 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $1,003,444 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $72,963 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 155 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.6% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.95% |
Illinois sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Expect rent in Illinois to be about 59% cheaper than in San Diego, leaving you with more money each month.
- Expect home values to be about 75% lower in Illinois than in San Diego, giving you extra room in your budget.
- In Illinois, average earnings are about 7% higher than in San Diego, giving you some extra financial breathing room.
- The cost of living is about 42% lower in Illinois compared to San Diego, which could leave you with extra breathing room in your budget.
- With unemployment about 20% lower in Illinois than in San Diego, you may find it easier to secure work.
- Moving to Illinois means income taxes about 63% lower than in California, so you’ll enjoy extra take-home pay.
How life is different in San Diego, CA from Illinois
If you’re considering a move from San Diego to Illinois, there are some notable lifestyle differences to keep in mind. From climate and population size to political leanings, here’s how life in Illinois compares to life in San Diego.
| San Diego, CA | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,386,932 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 60-37 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 79ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 46ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 12″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 39.83 | 19.7 |
Illinois Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, both San Diego and Illinois voted Democratic.
- Summer weather in Illinois can reach a toasty 86ºF, noticeably brewing more heat than in San Diego, where summer highs tend to peak at around 79ºF. Be prepared for more bright days, energetic outdoor activities, and potentially increased cooling expenses as you settle into this warmer environment.
- Winter lows in Illinois fall to 17ºF, colder than San Diego at 46ºF. Moving here means colder days and higher heating expenses, but also plenty of winter scenery and seasonal activities.
- Expect 40 inches of rain each year in Illinois, compared with just 12 inches in San Diego. That’s more frequent rainfall, so be ready for lush landscapes and the occasional soggy day.
- Illinois gets about 22 inches of snow each year, while San Diego sees none. Moving to Illinois means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- Crime is lower in Illinois, with an index of 19.7 compared to San Diego at 39.83. This generally points to safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of security.
Other considerations when moving to Illinois
When relocating from San Diego to Illinois, a few details are worth keeping in mind to avoid last-minute hiccups. Beyond choosing a mover and packing your belongings, it’s helpful to consider local rules, permit requirements, and other practical factors that could impact your move.
- HOA rules: Make sure to check your neighborhood or community’s moving rules ahead of time to avoid any surprises on moving day.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator ahead of time if one is available for moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities ask for parking permits when you’re using a moving truck or large vehicle. Check in advance to see if you’ll need a permit 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 your moving company has all the proper licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit for Illinois, but it’s smart to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before you move. You’ll be able to choose your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Illinois seamlessly. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary by state, so be sure to review the regulations where you live. 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: Simplify your move using our moving checklist. It keeps everything organized and takes care of the details, so you can relax and enjoy making your new place home.
Things to do in Illinois
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these 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 San Diego to Illinois take?
How long will your move from San Diego, CA to Illinois take? It depends on the type of service you pick, but you can usually expect it to take five to 16 days. Just keep in mind that moves during the busy summer season may take a bit longer.
To get your move done as quickly as possible, ask for a delivery timeframe before you book your moving company.
What’s the availability of custom crating among movers in San Diego?
We track 23 movers in San Diego that can build custom crates for items such as art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Be sure to confirm with a San Diego moving company that the materials and dimensions match your item requirements.
What is the best way to get a car from San Diego to Illinois?
Looking to ship your car from San Diego to Illinois? Choose experts who know how to treat your vehicle right and handle every detail with professionalism. Check out our top picks for car shipping from California to Illinois.
Why are people moving from San Diego 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 San Diego?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in San Diego.
Can I use cash to pay a mover in San Diego, CA?
Currently, 10 movers in San Diego accept cash as a payment option. Still, cash isn’t widely used in the moving industry, which favors traceable methods and clear receipts. Expect to pay a deposit first to secure your move date. The rest is due either at pickup or once delivery is complete—check with your mover on the exact payment schedule and accepted types.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!