When moving from Illinois to South Carolina, you’ll likely pay between $2,170–$5,383 with professional movers, roughly
$2,013 for a moving container, and about
$957
for a rental truck.
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The best local moving companies in Illinois
In Illinois, there are 76 interstate moving companies available to accommodate your move to South Carolina. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Illinois, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Mid-West Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- New City Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 136144
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 3383907
The Professionals Moving Specialists, serving Chicago, IL, since 2005, are a highly reputable local moving company specializing in residential relocations. With an impressive 4.6 average rating from 1013 Yelp reviews and a perfect 5.0 from 3993 Google My Business reviews, they stand out as a top choice compared to other area movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers a variety of services, including packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing, as well as the ability to move specialized items such as pianos, pool tables, and antiques. Known for their customer satisfaction and comprehensive services, The Professionals Moving Specialists are well-equipped to handle all local moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 214845
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2882675
Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC
Alliance Moving & Storage has been providing dependable local residential moving services in and around Rolling Meadows, IL, since 2016. With an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 3.8 on Google, they have earned a solid reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, Alliance Moving & Storage stands out with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to move pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. They accept both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a convenient and flexible choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 75043
Years in Business: 41
DOT #: 294025
Mid-West Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in the Elk Grove Village, IL area since 1984, specializing in local residential moves. While their Yelp reviews average at 2.8 from 77 reviews, their stellar Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 385 reviews and an A+ BBB rating speak volumes about their overall customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, Mid-West Moving & Storage distinguishes itself with a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moves like pianos and antiques. They also offer full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking for added peace of mind.
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 credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 93712
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 504435
Alternate Names: Golan’s Moving and Storage, Inc.
Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc., based in Skokie, IL, has been a staple in the local moving industry since 1992, specializing in residential moves within the area. With a strong reputation backed by 553 Yelp reviews averaging 3.5 stars, and an impressive 4.5-star rating from 556 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby moving companies. They boast an A+ rating from the BBB, underscoring their commitment to customer satisfaction. Offering a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques, Golan’s Moving & Storage ensures a smooth and efficient moving experience with full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 158051
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 3078026
Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.
New City Moving, a reputable moving company based in Chicago, IL, has been providing local residential moving services since 2010. With an impressive 4.7 average rating from 1,096 Yelp reviews and a 4.8 average rating from 2,393 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. Beyond local moves, New City Moving offers office moving, packing, and unpacking services, along with full valuation insurance coverage. They accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring a flexible payment process.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Illinois to South Carolina moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Illinois and dropping it off at your new home in South Carolina.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
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The best Illinois to South Carolina moving truck rentals
Want to save money on your move from Illinois to South Carolina? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you’ll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best Illinois to South Carolina labor-only movers
Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.
When you’re getting ready to move from Illinois to South Carolina, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to SC move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 98 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
- 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 South Carolina?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois to South Carolina, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,163 – $3,918 | $799 – $1,904 | $546 – $1,083 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,170 – $5,383 | $1,410 – $2,617 | $602 – $1,312 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,902 – $7,140 | $1,764 – $3,527 | $730 – $1,484 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 828-mile relocation from IL to SC, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 04, 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 South Carolina
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to South Carolina, you’ll likely pay between $1,163 and $3,918. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,170 and $5,383 for the same journey (IL to SC). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,902 to $7,140.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to South Carolina
When you’re heading from Illinois to South Carolina, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $799 and $1,904. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,410 and $2,617. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,764 to $3,527. 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 South Carolina
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 $546 to $1,083. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $602 to $1,312, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Illinois to South Carolina costs around $730 to $1,484.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to SC
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to South Carolina. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
- How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
- The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Illinois when demand for movers is highest.
- 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 SC
If you’re moving to South Carolina from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. South Carolina
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and South Carolina can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
| Illinois | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,179 | $1,065 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $63,623 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 4.7% |
| Average sales tax | 8.82% | 7.46% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 7.0% |
- Rent in South Carolina is around 10% less than in Illinois, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
- Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in South Carolina are typically about 19% higher than in Illinois.
- Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in South Carolina are about 19% lower than in Illinois.
- The cost of living is 7% higher in South Carolina than in Illinois. If you’re making the move to South Carolina with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
- South Carolina boasts an unemployment rate about 11% 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.
- Sales tax in South Carolina is 15% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in South Carolina can really help cut down your living expenses.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 41% higher than in Illinois, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in South Carolina 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 South Carolina and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
| South Carolina | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,373,555 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 58-42 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 33ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 48″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 28.0 | 19.7 |
- The population of South Carolina is approximately 57% 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.
- In the most recent presidential election, South Carolina voted Republican, while Illinois went Democratic.
- In South Carolina, summer highs are around 91°F, close to 86°F in Illinois. With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
- Winter lows in South Carolina average 33°F, milder than 17°F in Illinois. Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
- Get ready for about 48 inches of rain each year in South Carolina, which is quite a change from the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois. The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
- In South Carolina, you’ll only get about 1 inch of snow each year, much less than Illinois. That means moving to South Carolina brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
- South Carolina has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with a crime index of 28.0 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. South Carolina
New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in South Carolina and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois | Pros of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Home of chicago | Warm southern hospitality |
| Ample economic opportunity | Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Beautiful landscapes |
| Delicious food | Consistently gorgeous weather |
| World-class sports culture | Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. South Carolina
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 South Carolina:
| Cons of living in Illinois | Cons of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | High cost of living |
| Bad traffic | Hurricane frequency |
| High crime rate | Low quality of healthcare |
| Dull landscape | High taxes |
| Strict laws | Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to South Carolina 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.
- 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.
- State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, but it’s a good idea 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 moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to South Carolina right on schedule. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
- 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 South Carolina
While you’re in South Carolina, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in South Carolina
- Fort Sumter National Monument
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- Coastal Discovery Museum
- Brookgreen Gardens
- BMW Zentrum
Parks in South Carolina
- Joe Riley Waterfront Park
- Falls Park on the Reedy
- Kiawah Beachwalker Park
- Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
- Riverfront Park
Sports teams in South Carolina
- Clemson Tigers (NCAA)
- Augusta GreenJackets (Low-A East)
- Charleston Battery (USL Championship)
- Charleston RiverDogs (Low-A East)
- Columbia Fireflies (Low-A East)
Universities in South Carolina
- Clemson University
- University of South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina
- College of Charleston
- Furman University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to South Carolina?
Going with a full-service Illinois moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to South Carolina?
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 South Carolina on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to South Carolina?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to South Carolina to enjoy all the great benefits South Carolina provides, such as warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or South Carolina?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in South Carolina. Housing is more affordable in Illinois, with average rent about 11% less and home prices 16% lower than in South Carolina. Taxes are also lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by South Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Carolina?
Thinking of moving to South Carolina on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,255 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,659 per month, or around $6,645 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Charleston and Columbia 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.
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