When moving from New Jersey to Illinois, expect to spend between
$2,190–$5,396 if using professional movers, about
$2,106 for a moving container, and around
$1,003
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in New Jersey
New Jersey offers 78 interstate moving companies ready to support your move to Illinois. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best local movers in New Jersey, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- Flatrate Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Universal Relocations Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Reliable Van & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 1748105
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 488466
Flatrate Moving has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Newark, NJ since 1993. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Flatrate Moving stands out with its comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, making it a versatile choice for various moving needs. With an average rating of 4.0 from 23 Yelp reviews and a 3.6 from 30 Google reviews, customers generally express satisfaction with their services, which is further reinforced by their A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Additionally, the company accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, providing convenience and flexibility for its clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2428388
Universal Relocations Inc. is a reputable local moving company serving Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ, since 2014. With over a decade of experience, they offer comprehensive residential moving services, including packing, unpacking, and specialty item handling such as pianos and antiques. Unlike many nearby movers, Universal Relocations boasts a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and strong consumer reviews, averaging 4.3 stars on Google and 3.8 stars on Yelp. They stand out by offering additional services like long-distance and international moves, making them a versatile choice for any local relocation needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 39PC00058806
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 939629
Alternate Names: A Action Family Moving Company, Inc.
Transtar Moving Systems, a reputable local moving company operating in and around Moorestown, NJ since 1963, offers comprehensive residential moving services. Compared to other nearby movers, Transtar stands out with its longevity and strong customer satisfaction, reflected in an impressive 4.8 average rating from 161 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their services include office moving, packing and unpacking, and specialized relocation for antiques, art, and safes. With no deposit required and full valuation insurance coverage provided, Transtar Moving Systems is a trusted and dependable choice for your local moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2969363
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2969363
Zip to Zip Moving Inc, a trusted name in local residential moving in and around Kearny, NJ, has been successfully operating since 2018. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 114 Yelp reviews and 1379 Google reviews, the company stands out for its exceptional customer satisfaction, surpassing many nearby competitors. Beyond standard moving services, they offer packing, unpacking, and specialized art and antique moving, ensuring a tailored relocation experience. Zip to Zip Moving Inc also provides full valuation insurance coverage, giving clients peace of mind throughout their move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 151755
Years in Business: 102
DOT #: 151755
Reliable Van & Storage, a trusted name in local residential moving services around Elizabeth, NJ since 1924, stands out for its long-standing reputation. Unlike other nearby movers, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized care for fragile items, pianos, antiques, and safes. While their Yelp reviews average out to a modest 2.7 from 63 reviews, their Google My Business profile tells a more positive story with an average rating of 4.4 from 254 reviews. Coupled with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer customers peace of mind with full valuation insurance coverage and no deposit required, ensuring a seamless and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
The best New Jersey to Illinois moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in New Jersey and drops it off at your new home in Illinois.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best New Jersey to Illinois moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from New Jersey to Illinois, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best New Jersey to Illinois labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They’ll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from New Jersey to Illinois.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your NJ to IL move
After studying pricing from 87 New Jersey movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
- Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from New Jersey to Illinois?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from New Jersey to Illinois. You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,142 – $4,071 | $777 – $1,908 | $576 – $1,177 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,190 – $5,396 | $1,424 – $2,789 | $621 – $1,385 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,636 – $7,364 | $1,878 – $3,724 | $827 – $1,634 |
*Estimated costs for a 897-mile move from NJ to IL are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s dataset as of Nov 04, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling. For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from New Jersey to Illinois
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from New Jersey to Illinois will cost between $1,142 and $4,071. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from NJ to IL will range from $2,190 to $5,396, and a large move from New Jersey to Illinois will cost from $3,636 to $7,364.
Cost of moving containers from New Jersey to Illinois
If you’re moving from New Jersey to Illinois, expect to pay between $777 and $1,908 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,424 up to $2,789. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,878 and $3,724. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from New Jersey.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New Jersey to Illinois
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $576 and $1,177. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $621 and $1,385. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $827 up to $1,634 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NJ to IL
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from New Jersey to Illinois. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in New Jersey is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from NJ to IL
A relocation from New Jersey to Illinois comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: New Jersey vs. Illinois
Comparing expenses in New Jersey and Illinois shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
| New Jersey | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,368 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $534,773 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $97,126 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 114 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.3% |
| Average sales tax | 6.6% | 8.82% |
| State income tax | 10.7% | 4.95% |
- Expect to pay around 14% less in rent in Illinois than in New Jersey, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
- Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 53% lower in Illinois than in New Jersey.
- Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Illinois are about 19% lower than in New Jersey.
- Living in Illinois is about 21% cheaper than New Jersey. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
- Unemployment in Illinois is about 13% higher than in New Jersey. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
- Sales taxes are 34% higher in Illinois than in New Jersey, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes are 54% lower in Illinois than in New Jersey. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Illinois vs. New Jersey
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in Illinois stacks up against New Jersey across important lifestyle factors:
| Illinois | New Jersey | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,549,689 | 9,290,841 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 55-45 | Democratic 52-46.1 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 17ºF | 22ºF |
| Annual rain | 40″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 22″ | 23″ |
| Crime index | 19.7 | 16.2 |
- Illinois is about 35% more populous than New Jersey. With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
- During the last presidential election, both New Jersey and Illinois supported the Democratic candidate.
- In Illinois, summer highs hover around 86°F, while New Jersey sits at 85°F. Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
- During the coldest part of the year, Illinois reaches about 17°F and New Jersey gets down to 22°F. When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
- You’ll enjoy about 40 inches of rain each year in Illinois, compared to 48 inches in New Jersey. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
- In Illinois, you’ll get about 22 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, New Jersey averages around 23 inches annually. With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
- Illinois has a higher crime rate than New Jersey with a crime index of 19.7 vs. 16.2. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of New Jersey vs. Illinois
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Illinois versus New Jersey:
| Pros of living in New Jersey | Pros of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Home of chicago |
| Diversity | Ample economic opportunity |
| World-class entertainment | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Leading education | Delicious food |
| Superb health care | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of living in New Jersey vs. Illinois
Moving from New Jersey to Illinois comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in New Jersey | Cons of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Extreme weather | Harsh winter weather |
| Congested population | Bad traffic |
| High cost of living | High crime rate |
| High tax burden | Dull landscape |
| Terrible traffic | Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your New Jersey to Illinois 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: 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a Illinois moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Illinois, 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. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Illinois without a hitch. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Illinois
Get ready to discover all that Illinois has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from New Jersey to Illinois?
Opting for a full-service New Jersey moving company might mean a higher upfront cost, but it lets you relax while the pros tackle all the details. Want to be more budget-friendly? You can rent a moving truck or choose a moving container. Just keep in mind you’ll be taking on more of the work yourself. If you’re keen to cut costs even further, check out our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from New Jersey to Illinois?
Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from New Jersey to Illinois using a top-rated auto transport company.
What are the benefits of moving from New Jersey to Illinois?
The main reasons people are moving from New Jersey to Illinois are the amazing upsides of living in Illinois, such as home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in New Jersey or Illinois?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in New Jersey. Housing is more affordable in Illinois, with average rent about 14% less and home prices 53% lower than in New Jersey. Taxes are also lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by New Jersey residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Illinois?
You should make approximately $83,234 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Illinois. The cost of living in Illinois is about $3,434 per month for an individual and $7,489 for a family of four. Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Chicago and Aurora tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in New Jersey?
Some movers in New Jersey provide budget-friendly deals. In New Jersey, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts. Special pricing for military members is available from 3 moving companies. Discounts for seniors are offered by 4 movers. Student savings are available through 1 moving providers. Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 1 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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