How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to AZ move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Arizona?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois
to Arizona, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,191 – $4,431 |
$949 – $2,432 |
$907 – $1,773 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,653 – $6,074 |
$1,644 – $3,690 |
$924 – $1,968 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,066 – $8,768 |
$2,333 – $4,508 |
$1,151 – $2,529 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,545-mile relocation from IL to
AZ, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Arizona
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to Arizona, you’ll likely pay between
$1,191
and $4,431.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,653 and $6,074
for the same journey (IL to AZ).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,066
to $8,768.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Arizona
When you’re heading from Illinois to Arizona, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $949 and
$2,432. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,644 and
$3,690. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,333
to $4,508. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Illinois easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Arizona
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 in a rental truck will cost around
$907
to $1,773.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $924
to $1,968, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Illinois to Arizona costs around
$1,151 to
$2,529.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to AZ
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to Arizona. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Illinois when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from IL to AZ
If you’re moving to Arizona from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Arizona
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and Arizona can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Illinois |
Arizona |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$1,308 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$72,581 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
107 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
8.4% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
2.5% |
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Rent is about 11% higher in Arizona than in Illinois. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Arizona are typically about 72% higher than in Illinois.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Arizona are about 7% lower than in Illinois.
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The cost of living is 19% higher in Arizona than in Illinois. If you’re making the move to Arizona with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
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Arizona boasts an unemployment rate about 32% lower than Illinois. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
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No need to stress about sales tax. Rates are similar in Illinois and Arizona, making your move a bit less expensive.
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Income taxes in Arizona are 49% lower than in Illinois. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Arizona vs. Illinois
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Arizona and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Arizona |
Illinois |
| Population |
7,431,344 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 56-44 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
99ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
34ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
12″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
6″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
24.89 |
19.7 |
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The population of Arizona is approximately 41% lower than the population of Illinois.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential election, Arizona voted Democrat, while Illinois went Democratic.
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Arizona averages 99°F in the summer, compared to 86°F in Illinois.
Hotter summers bring more sunshine and outdoor opportunities but also more reliance on air conditioning.
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Winter lows in Arizona average 34°F, milder than 17°F in Illinois.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
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In Arizona, you’ll get about 12 inches of rain each year — less than the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
-
In Arizona, you’ll only get about 6 inches of snow each year, much less than Illinois.
That means moving to Arizona brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
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Arizona has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with a crime index of 24.89 compared to 19.7.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Arizona
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Arizona and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Arizona |
| Home of chicago |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Pleasant weather |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Abundant recreational opportunities |
| Delicious food |
Cultural diversity |
| World-class sports culture |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Arizona
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Illinois for Arizona:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Arizona |
| Harsh winter weather |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
Barren desert land |
| High crime rate |
Health hazards |
| Dull landscape |
Limited public transportation |
| Strict laws |
No winter |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Arizona move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
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Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
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State licensing:
Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Arizona moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Arizona, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Arizona right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Arizona
While you’re in Arizona, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Arizona
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks in Arizona
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park
Sports teams in Arizona
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns Basketball (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
Universities in Arizona
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Arizona?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Arizona?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or,
if you prefer, you can arrange
vehicle transport from Illinois to Arizona on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Arizona?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to Arizona to enjoy all the great benefits Arizona provides, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Arizona?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Arizona.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 10% less and home prices 42% lower than in Arizona.
However, taxes are
lower in Arizona, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arizona?
Thinking of moving to Arizona on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,608 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,392 per month, or around $5,612 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Phoenix and Tucson tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
In Illinois, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 2 movers.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Illinois to Arizona, you’ll likely pay between $2,653–$6,074 with professional movers, roughly
$2,667 for a moving container, and about
$1,446
for a rental truck.
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