When moving from California to Illinois, expect to spend between
$3,535–$7,267 if using professional movers, about
$3,251 for a moving container, and around
$2,047
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in California
California offers 309 interstate moving companies ready to support your move to Illinois. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best local movers in California, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
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 money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- 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 #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0192497
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3014539
Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation
Seka Moving, serving Los Angeles, CA, since 2019, has quickly built a stellar reputation for local residential moving services. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 137 Google reviews and 4.5 from 17 Yelp reviews, this A+ BBB rated company stands out among local competitors. Seka Moving offers a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized handling for fragile items, pianos, art, and antiques. Clients can also opt for labor-only services, with the convenience of paying via cash, credit cards, or money orders. For those looking for a reliable and highly rated moving partner in Los Angeles, Seka Moving is a top choice.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best California 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 California 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 California to Illinois moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from California 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 California 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 California to Illinois.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to IL move
After studying pricing from 362 California 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 California to Illinois?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from California 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 | $1,250 – $4,783 | $1,181 – $2,752 | $1,169 – $2,278 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,535 – $7,267 | $1,998 – $4,504 | $1,329 – $2,765 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,055 – $11,623 | $2,995 – $5,678 | $1,597 – $3,288 |
*Estimated costs for a 2,082-mile move from CA 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 California to Illinois
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Illinois will cost between $1,250 and $4,783. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from CA to IL will range from $3,535 to $7,267, and a large move from California to Illinois will cost from $6,055 to $11,623.
Cost of moving containers from California to Illinois
If you’re moving from California to Illinois, expect to pay between $1,181 and $2,752 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,998 up to $4,504. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,995 and $5,678. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California 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 $1,169 and $2,278. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,329 and $2,765. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,597 up to $3,288 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to IL
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from California 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 California 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 CA to IL
A relocation from California to Illinois comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: California vs. Illinois
Comparing expenses in California 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:
| California | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,856 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 134 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 5.3% |
| Average sales tax | 8.68% | 8.82% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.95% |
- Expect to pay around 36% less in rent in Illinois than in California, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
- Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 68% lower in Illinois than in California.
- Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Illinois are about 15% lower than in California.
- Living in Illinois is about 33% cheaper than California. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
- Unemployment rates are similar in both California and Illinois, so you probably won’t notice much change in job prospects or competition once you relocate.
- You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. California and Illinois have similar rates, making your move easier.
- Income taxes are 63% lower in Illinois than in California. 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. California
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 California across important lifestyle factors:
| Illinois | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,549,689 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 55-45 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 17ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 40″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 22″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 19.7 | 28.43 |
- With a population about 68% smaller than California, Illinois offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle. Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
- During the last presidential election, both California and Illinois supported the Democratic candidate.
- In Illinois, summer highs hover around 86°F, while California sits at 87°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 drops to about 17°F while California only reaches 59°F. Moving to Illinois with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
- Expect about 40 inches of rain each year in Illinois, a noticeable difference from the 22 inches you’re used to in California. With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
- Every year, Illinois gets around 22 inches of snow, much more than the 7 inches that California typically sees. With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
- Illinois has a lower crime rate than California with a crime index of 19.7 vs. 28.43. A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Illinois
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Illinois versus California:
| Pros of living in California | Pros of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Home of chicago |
| Pleasant weather | Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant recreational options | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| High quality of life | Delicious food |
| Fresh and healthy foods | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. Illinois
Moving from California to Illinois comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in California | Cons of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | Harsh winter weather |
| Heavy tax burdens | Bad traffic |
| Natural disasters | High crime rate |
| Terrible traffic | Dull landscape |
| Strange laws | Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your California 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 California to Illinois?
Opting for a full-service California 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 California 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 California to Illinois using a top-rated auto transport company.
What are the benefits of moving from California to Illinois?
The main reasons people are moving from California 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 California or Illinois?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in California. Housing is more affordable in Illinois, with average rent about 36% less and home prices 68% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by California 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 California?
Some movers in California provide budget-friendly deals. In California, 7 movers provide AAA member discounts. Special pricing for military members is available from 7 moving companies. Discounts for seniors are offered by 7 movers. Student savings are available through 2 moving providers. Teacher and educator discounts can be found with 2 movers. Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 4 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
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