Best Movers From Illinois to New York (2025 Cost Data)
When moving from Illinois to New York, expect to spend between
$2,181–$5,686 if using professional movers, about
$2,084 for a moving container, and around
$962
for a rental truck.
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Let’s get moving.
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$1,063 — $5,686 Top local mover
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$1,063 — $7,416 Top long-distance mover
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$798 — $3,463 Top container company
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$585 — $1,661 Top truck rental
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$59 — $80/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Illinois to New York
After assessing 3,180 movers, moveBuddha concluded that 2,641 (83%) provide interstate moving. Applying our thorough rating methodology, our experts narrowed the list to the best companies equipped to manage your move from Illinois to New York.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from Illinois to New York
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
3 Bedrooms
Nov 15, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 10, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 04, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 01, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Nov 01, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Oct 30, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 25, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 21, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Oct 06, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to New York?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,063 – $4,218 | $798 – $1,957 | $585 – $1,061 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,181 – $5,686 | $1,334 – $2,835 | $664 – $1,261 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,942 – $7,416 | $1,795 – $3,463 | $816 – $1,661 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,063 – $4,218
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,181 – $5,686
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,942 – $7,416
How much do moving containers cost from Illinois to New York?
- Small move: $798 – $1,957
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,334 – $2,835
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,795 – $3,463
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $585 – $1,061
- 2–3 bedrooms: $664 – $1,261
- 4+ bedrooms: $816 – $1,661
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option — but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself.
Why are these prices ranges (not exact quotes)?
These are approximate estimates for a 908-mile move from IL to NY using moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 17, 2025.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
Compare quotes from multiple movers to dial in a precise number.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from IL to NY?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Illinois | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,179 | $1,507 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $482,742 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $81,386 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 4.4% |
| Average sales tax | 8.82% | 8.52% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 10.9% |
Will rent be more expensive in New York?
Rent is about 28% higher in New York than in Illinois.
Avg rent: $1,179 vs. $1,507
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 94% higher in New York than in Illinois.
Avg home value: $249,224 vs. $482,742
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average incomes are about the same in Illinois and New York.
Avg income (per capita): $78,433 vs. $81,386
Is the overall cost of living higher in New York?
The cost of living is 11% higher in New York than in Illinois.
Cost of living index: 90 vs. 100
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax rates are similar in Illinois and New York.
Avg sales tax: 8.82% vs. 8.52%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 120% higher in New York than in Illinois.
State income tax: 4.95% vs. 10.9%
How is daily life different in New York compared to Illinois?
Relocating is about more than a job or a place to live — it’s how your day-to-day life will feel.
| New York | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 19,571,216 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 60-40 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 16ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 44″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 62″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 21.51 | 19.7 |
Will New York feel more crowded than Illinois?
New York is about 56% more populous than Illinois — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both Illinois and New York voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (81°F vs. 86°F).
Winter: Lows are very similar (16°F vs. 17°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in New York?
Rain: Annual rainfall is pretty similar (44″ vs. 40″).
Snow: New York gets more snow (62 inches vs. 22 inches).
Is New York safer than Illinois?
New York has a higher crime index than Illinois (21.51 vs. 19.7). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in New York?
Museums in New York
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- The Strong National Museum of Play
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- New York State Museum
- Erie Canal Museum
Parks in New York
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Central Park
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Robert Moses State Park
Sports teams in New York
- Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA)
- Buffalo Bills (NFL)
- Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
- New York City FC (MLS)
- New York Islanders (NHL)
Universities in New York
- Cornell University
- Columbia University in the City of New York
- New York University
- University of Rochester
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Illinois to New York 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: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a New York moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in New York, 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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance (“released value protection”) free of charge. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in New York?
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in New York?
New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a New York moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in New York?
You won’t need a moving permit in New York.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
Interstate movers must provide basic insurance at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
Some movers in Illinois offer discounts: 1 AAA discounts; 1 military discounts; 2 senior discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
Illinois moving services
Popular Illinois routes
Popular moving resources
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