How we chose the best moving companies for your WI to IL move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 39 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin to Illinois?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Wisconsin
to Illinois, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$845 – $2,911 |
$599 – $1,401 |
$291 – $495 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,578 – $4,310 |
$1,066 – $1,919 |
$285 – $587 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$2,049 – $5,504 |
$1,297 – $2,475 |
$372 – $684 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 265-mile relocation from WI to
IL, 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 Wisconsin to Illinois
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Wisconsin to Illinois, you’ll likely pay between
$845
and $2,911.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$1,578 and $4,310
for the same journey (WI to IL).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $2,049
to $5,504.
Cost of moving containers from Wisconsin to Illinois
When you’re heading from Wisconsin to Illinois, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $599 and
$1,401. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,066 and
$1,919. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,297
to $2,475. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Wisconsin easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Wisconsin to Illinois
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
$291
to $495.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $285
to $587, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Wisconsin to Illinois costs around
$372 to
$684.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WI to IL
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Wisconsin to Illinois. 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 Wisconsin 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 WI to IL
If you’re moving to Illinois from Wisconsin, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Wisconsin vs. Illinois
Understanding how costs compare between Wisconsin and Illinois can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Wisconsin |
Illinois |
| Average rent |
$1,100 |
$1,179 |
| Average home cost |
$306,566 |
$249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$72,458 |
$78,433 |
| Cost of living index |
99 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
5.3% |
| Average sales tax |
5.43% |
8.82% |
| State income tax |
7.65% |
4.95% |
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Rent is about 7% higher in Illinois than in Wisconsin. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Illinois are about 19% lower than in Wisconsin. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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You’re likely to earn about 8% more in Illinois than in Wisconsin. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
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The cost of living in Illinois is about 9% lower than in Wisconsin. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
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The unemployment rate in Illinois is about 83% higher than in Wisconsin. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
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Sales taxes are 62% higher in Illinois than in Wisconsin. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes in Illinois are 35% lower than in Wisconsin. 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 Illinois vs. Wisconsin
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 Illinois and Wisconsin line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Illinois |
Wisconsin |
| Population |
12,549,689 |
5,910,955 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 55-45 |
Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high |
86ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
40″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
22″ |
48″ |
| Crime index |
19.7 |
16.82 |
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The population of Illinois is approximately 112% greater than the population of Wisconsin.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential election, Illinois voted Democratic, while Wisconsin went Republican.
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In Illinois, summer highs are around 86°F, close to 81°F in Wisconsin.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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Winter lows in Illinois average 17°F, milder than 7°F in Wisconsin.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
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Get ready for about 40 inches of rain each year in Illinois, which is quite a change from the 34 inches you’re used to in Wisconsin.
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.
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In Illinois, you’ll only get about 22 inches of snow each year, much less than Wisconsin.
That means moving to Illinois brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
-
Illinois has a higher crime rate than Wisconsin, with a crime index of 19.7 compared to 16.82.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Wisconsin vs. Illinois
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Illinois and Wisconsin:
| Pros of living in Wisconsin |
Pros of living in Illinois |
| Low cost of living |
Home of chicago |
| High quality of life |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant outdoor recreational activities |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Unique tasty food |
Delicious food |
| Borders great lakes |
World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Wisconsin vs. Illinois
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 Wisconsin for Illinois:
| Cons of living in Wisconsin |
Cons of living in Illinois |
| High tax burden |
Harsh winter weather |
| Extreme seasonal weather |
Bad traffic |
| Lack of diversity |
High crime rate |
| Poor roads |
Dull landscape |
| High rate of alcoholism |
Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your Wisconsin to Illinois 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.
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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 is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Illinois 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 Illinois, 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 Illinois 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 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.
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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 Illinois
While you’re in Illinois, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home 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 Wisconsin to Illinois?
Do movers transport your car from Wisconsin to Illinois?
What are the benefits of moving from Wisconsin to Illinois?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Wisconsin to Illinois to enjoy all the great benefits Illinois provides, such as home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Wisconsin or Illinois?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Wisconsin.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 7% less and home prices 19% lower than in Wisconsin.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Wisconsin residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Illinois?
Thinking of moving to Illinois on your own? You’ll want to earn around $83,234 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,434 per month, or around $7,489 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Chicago and Aurora tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Wisconsin?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
In Wisconsin, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 2 moving companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
Wisconsin moving services
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When moving from Wisconsin to Illinois, you’ll likely pay between $1,578–$4,310 with professional movers, roughly
$1,492 for a moving container, and about
$436
for a rental truck.
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