Local moving companies in Illinois
When you’re moving from Illinois to Irvine, CA, make your move easy with one of the best local movers who know the ins and outs of relocating from the Land of Lincoln to the vibrant .
Out of 78 Illinois movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Irvine, CA.
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Mighty Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 139020
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1308599
Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
STI Moving & Storage Inc., serving Skokie, IL since 2004, has established itself as a reputable choice for local residential moving. Standing out from competitors, STI boasts an impressive Google rating of 4.7 from over 1000 reviews and holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling for fragile items and antiques. With a competitive rate of $150 per hour and options for full valuation insurance coverage, they cater to a variety of moving needs, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
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 #: 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
Company Info
Years in Business: 3
DOT #: 3788656
Alternate Names: Heroic Moving & Storage Experts
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
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
Cost to move from Illinois to Irvine, CA
This table details typical cost ranges to move from Illinois to Irvine, CA, depending on your home size and the moving service selected.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,269 – $4,893 | $1,095 – $2,682 | $1,130 – $2,114 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,123 – $6,677 | $2,071 – $4,298 | $1,151 – $2,619 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,179 – $10,838 | $2,836 – $5,460 | $1,497 – $3,081 |
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,956-mile move from Illinois to Irvine, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified rates from movers across the country and refreshes the data each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers to gauge a fair price.
Cost to hire professional movers from Illinois to Irvine, CA
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Irvine, CA, typically costs between $1,269 and $4,893. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,123 and $6,677. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Illinois to Irvine, CA, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,179 up to $10,838.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Irvine, CA
When relocating from Illinois to Irvine, CA, you’ll typically spend between $1,095 and $2,682 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,071 up to $4,298. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,836 and $5,460. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Irvine, CA
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck from Illinois to Irvine, CA, expect to pay between $1,130 and $2,114. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,151 to $2,619. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,497 and $3,081.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Compare local moving companies from Illinois to Irvine, CA
Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular services and discounts available for the top movers for your move:
| Company | Full Service | Antiques | Military Discount | Senior Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STI Moving & Storage Inc. | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| Alliance Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| New City Moving | ✓ | × | × | × |
| Mighty Moving & Storage | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
| The Professionals Moving Specialists | ✓ | ✓ | × | × |
After evaluating 3,175 movers, here’s how Illinois movers measure up to the countrywide competition in terms of offered services and discounts:
| Illinois | Nationwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Service | 97% | 96% |
| Antiques | 48% | 46% |
| Military Discount | 1% | 3% |
| Senior Discount | 2% | 4% |
Things to know before moving from Illinois to Irvine, CA
Before packing your bags, it’s important to understand how life in Irvine, CA differs from what you’re used to in Illinois. From the cost of living and cultural vibe to everyday experiences. We’ll walk you through key lifestyle differences and the top local attractions you can explore in your new hometown.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Irvine, CA
| Illinois | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,179 | $4,000 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $1,561,760 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $114,027 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90 | 165 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 5.4% |
| State Income Tax | 4.95% | 13.3% |
Irvine sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Irvine is approximately 239% higher than in Illinois. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
- Home prices are about 527% higher in Irvine than in Illinois. It’s important to factor in increased costs for a down payment, property taxes, and overall homeownership expenses.
- Salaries in Irvine are usually 45% higher than in Illinois, giving you more wiggle room for living expenses or saving extra cash.
- Unemployment in Irvine (5.4%) and Illinois (5.3%) are about the same, so expect a comparable job market.
- Income taxes are 169% higher in California than in Illinois. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Irvine from Illinois
| Irvine | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 307,670 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 46ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 13″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 31.01 | 19.7 |
Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Illinois and Irvine both voted Democratic in the last election.
- Summer temperatures in Irvine typically reach 82ºF, which is about the same as the average 86ºF you’re used to in Illinois. That means you won’t have to worry about a major heat increase. However, be sure to consider local humidity, weather patterns, and possible shifts in energy costs for a complete picture of what summer living will be like in your new home.
- During the coldest months, temperatures in Irvine usually drop to around 46ºF, while in Illinois, they can fall as low as 17ºF. Moving to Irvine means you’ll enjoy milder winters, which makes daily life more comfortable, helps you save on heating costs, and lets you spend more time outdoors.
- You can expect only about 13 inches of annual rainfall in Irvine vs the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois. With less rain each year, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and freedom to get outside without worrying about the weather. This kind of climate can be a real boost for your energy and outlook when you’re moving.
- Irvine doesn’t get snow, while Illinois sees around 22 inches annually. Relocating to Irvine means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
- Crime rates in Irvine are higher than in Illinois, with a crime index of 31.01 versus 19.7. This doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, but it’s smart to research local safety insights and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Things to do in Irvine
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Irvine.
Museums in Irvine
- Pretend City Children’s Museum
- Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute & Museum of California Art
- Museum of Woman
Parks in Irvine
- Orange County Great Park
- Adventure Playground
- William R. Mason Regional Park
- Turtle Rock Community Park
- Jeffrey Open Space Trail
Sports teams in Irvine
- UC Irvine Anteaters (Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball, Water Polo)
- Adult Basketball Leagues
- Adult Soccer Leagues
- Adult Softball Leagues
- Tennis League
Universities in Irvine
- University of California, Irvine
- California Southern University
- Concordia University
- Westcliff University
- Irvine Valley College
Other considerations when moving to Irvine, CA
- HOA rules: Before your move, double-check any neighborhood or community guidelines to help everything go smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One thing you’ll want to take care of early is reserving your building’s elevator and finding out any moving policies they have.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for your moving truck, so check your new neighborhood’s regulations before moving day.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Double-check that your moving company is properly licensed before booking.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit to settle in California, but it’s a smart idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. You’ll be able to select your move date so your mail gets forwarded to California on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Staying organized is key to a stress-free move. Our moving checklist helps you stay on track, so you don’t miss a single detail.
FAQ
How long does a move from Illinois to Irvine take?
The time it takes to move from Illinois to Irvine, CA depends on where you’re starting and the kind of moving option you choose. No matter which route you go, packing and loading your stuff typically takes a day or less, even if you’re handling it all on your own.
Obviously, the further upstate you are in Illinois, the longer the drive time to Irvine will be. If you’re driving a rental truck, the move could be completed in one or two days, on average, depending on your route and how often you stop.
Depending on the company’s schedule and shipping logistics, delivery from Illinois to Irvine can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re using professional movers or a moving container. Be sure to ask for an estimated timeline before you book.
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Illinois to Irvine?
If you’re planning a 1,956-mile move from Illinois to Irvine, it’s a good idea to schedule your moving date as soon as your plans are confirmed. To get the best rates and secure your preferred date, aim to book your movers two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Irvine, CA?
Summer temperatures in Irvine can soar to 82°F, while winters can get as chilly as 46°F. That’s why most people making the move from Illinois to Irvine prefer the milder weather of spring or fall. But if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds and maybe snag a better deal, consider moving during summer or winter. Sure, you’ll have to handle a bit more heat or cold, but it could be worth it. Want more advice? Check out our tips on peak moving season.
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