Best Movers from California to Illinois (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: The average cost to move from California to Illinois ranges from $1,618 to $9,474 and takes six–17 days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Illinois to California guide.
Our track record
The best California to Illinois full-service movers
Planning a move from California to Illinois? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.
Start your move from California to Illinois with these top-rated long-distance movers in California.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in California
With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in California, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.
- Best California Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 5 out of 5 stars
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
- All Star Movers & Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.86 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: T0192283
Pricing: $109/hr
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3489907
Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage, An Moving Forward
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services around San Luis Obispo, CA, since 1998. The company stands out with its glowing consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 4.3 on Google My Business, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other local moving companies, Meathead Movers also offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, all without requiring a deposit. With their solid reputation and wide range of services, they remain a top choice for residents seeking reliable and efficient movers locally.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
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 #: 0191302
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2971368
All Star Movers & Storage, serving Dublin, CA and surrounding areas since 2016, is a reputable choice for local residential moves. Praised for their exceptional service with an average Yelp rating of 4.8 from 152 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they stand out among local competitors. They offer a comprehensive array of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and can even handle delicate items such as pianos and art. Unlike many movers, All Star Movers & Storage accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making the process easier for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- 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
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
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 California to Illinois, 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 CA to IL move
How much does it cost to move from California to Illinois?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Illinois with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,597 - $6,116 | $1,480 - $3,521 | $1,554 - $2,969 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,259 - $9,474 | $2,712 - $5,375 | $1,618 - $3,499 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,066 - $14,009 | $3,539 - $7,259 | $2,061 - $4,203 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,083 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from California to Illinois
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to Illinois typically costs between $1,597 and $6,116. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $4,259 and $9,474 when moving from CA to IL. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to Illinois, you’re looking at costs ranging from $8,066 up to $14,009.
Cost of moving containers from California to Illinois
Moving containers from California to Illinois will cost you $1,480 to $3,521 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,712 to $5,375. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,539 to $7,259. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Illinois
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,554 and $2,969 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,618 to $3,499. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $2,061 to $4,203.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
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:
- Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
- Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in California.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.
What to know before moving from CA to IL
If you’re moving from California to Illinois, it’s a good idea to see how your new state compares to your old one.
Cost of living: California vs. Illinois
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in California and Illinois. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:
| California | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $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.
- Good news for your budget—home prices in Illinois are around 68% lower than in California. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
- Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Illinois are about 15% lower than in California.
- Moving to Illinois is about 33% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
- With an unemployment rate roughly 2% lower than California, Illinois offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
- Sales taxes are 2% higher in Illinois than in California, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes in Illinois are 63% lower than in California. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
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, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living. Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
- The last presidential election saw both California and Illinois siding with the Democratic party.
- Summer highs typically reach about 86ºF in Illinois and 87ºF in California. With similar temperatures, you shouldn't have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
- During winter, temperatures in Illinois can drop to around 17ºF, while California usually only experiences lows near 59ºF. Moving to Illinois means adjusting to chillier winters, which could bring higher heating costs and more intense weather. On the bright side, you’ll also get to enjoy the unique charm and winter activities that come with a colder climate.
- Get ready for about 40 inches of rain each year in Illinois, which is quite a change from the 22 inches you’re used to in California. 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.
- Each year, Illinois gets about 22 inches of snow, far more than the 7 inches you might be accustomed to in California. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation, regular upkeep, and dressing warmly.
- Moving to Illinois means choosing a safer place to call home. With a lower crime index of 19.7 versus California’s 28.43, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s comforting to know your new home offers extra security.
Comparing the pros of California vs. Illinois
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Illinois compared to 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
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from California to Illinois.
| 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
- Weather: Illinois' climate is clearly different in the northern and southern halves of the state. The northern half experiences cold winters and mild summers whereas the southern half experiences mild winters and hot and humid summers. Illinois is a part of "tornado alley"
- 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: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- 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: You can quickly check a Illinois moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- 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.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Illinois right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, 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.
- 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 Illinois. Check out these must-visit places 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
