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($1,160) Movers From Illinois to San Jose, CA

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Estimated cost & time: Relocating from Illinois to San Jose, CA generally runs between $1,310 and $7,169. The 2,103-mile trip often takes six–17 days. Your cost will depend on your household size, move date, and choice of DIY vs. pros.
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Best movers from Illinois to San Jose, CA

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Illinois to San Jose, CA

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,103-mile move from Illinois to San Jose, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We collect thousands of trustworthy price points from movers nationwide, updating the figures monthly to mirror seasonal fluctuations and broader market trends. Your ultimate cost can shift with move size, service add-ons, parking/access issues, fuel prices, and schedule. Always compare multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,271 – $5,245
  • Moving Container $1,658 – $3,157
  • Rental Truck $1,117 – $2,179
Two Three Bed Icon

2 – 3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,040 – $7,169
  • Moving Container $1,962 – $4,259
  • Rental Truck $1,310 – $2,594
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,000 – $10,016
  • Moving Container $2,663 – $5,470
  • Rental Truck $1,654 – $3,112
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Vermont, IL Scotts Valley, CA
Studio apartment
Nov 26, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Wood River, IL Blackhawk, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 25, 2025
BLVD Moving
Glenview, IL Palo Alto, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 24, 2025
Safeway Moving
Leland Grove, IL San Lorenzo, CA
3 Bedrooms
Nov 15, 2025
United Van Lines
Tremont, IL Brisbane, CA
4 Bedrooms
Nov 06, 2025
PODS
Irvington, IL Colma, CA
2 Bedrooms
Nov 06, 2025
North American Van Lines
Hoyleton, IL Pajaro Dunes, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 29, 2025
Roadway Moving
Libertyville, IL Campbell, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 27, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Hanover, IL Pleasure Point, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 16, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Oak Grove, IL Tracy, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 06, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from San Jose, CA, to Illinois guide .

Local moving companies in Illinois

When relocating from Illinois to San Jose, CA, let our favorite local movers take the stress out of your journey.

Out of 78 Illinois movers that handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to San Jose, CA.

  1. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. Mighty Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  3. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  5. Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.4% of all reviews were positive
28.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings. Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI’s organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

Company Info

State license #: 139020

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1308599

Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.9% of all reviews were positive
7.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Mighty Moving & Storage for their professional, efficient, and friendly crews. Out of 70 reviews, 93% are positive, with many highlighting careful handling, quick moves, and affordable rates. Movers consistently receive praise for their politeness and attention to detail, making stressful moves easier. Some feedback points to issues with damaged or lost items and unexpected charges, but these are rare compared to the volume of positive input. Compared to other moving companies, Mighty Moving & Storage stands out for reliability and customer satisfaction, though a few customers experienced problems with item care and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (855) 699-8999

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.5% of all reviews were positive
4.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Alliance Moving & Storage feels like a breath of fresh air: 247 customer feedback entries were analyzed, with a remarkable 95.5% being positive. Most people describe the company as efficient, careful with belongings, highly professional, and quick. Customers consistently mention respectful staff and clear, reliable communication throughout the process. Affordable, transparent pricing and rapid scheduling compared favorably versus rival companies. On the downside, a minority report unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, or trouble reaching someone after problems arose. Issues like last-minute price increases or lack of follow-up were sometimes cited by dissatisfied customers. Negative experiences remain much less common than positive ones. Compared with typical moving companies, Alliance stands out for speed, professionalism, and care, though some customers recommend confirming all charges up front to prevent misunderstandings.
Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Company Info

State license #: 214845

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2882675

Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
69.5% of all reviews were positive
29.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Golan’s is a tale of standout efficiency and careful handling, backed by a team known for their professionalism and great communication. Nearly 70% of the 814 customer experiences highlighted fast moves, respect for customers’ belongings, and crews who made even complex moves feel smooth. People mention polite staff, careful packing, and transparency more often than with other moving companies. On the other hand, almost a third encountered problems such as damaged items, higher-than-expected final bills, or delays on moving day. Some also point out that resolving claims and unexpected charges can be frustrating. Compared to similar companies, Golan’s receives more repeat business for their fast, careful service but also faces more complaints about damages or billing than some direct competitors. Golan’s consistently delivers safe, efficient moves with friendly crews, but be sure to clarify all charges and ask about insurance and delivery timing before booking.
Get a Quote (847) 262-9778

Company Info

State license #: 93712

Years in Business: 34

DOT #: 504435

Alternate Names: Golan’s Moving and Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
54.3% of all reviews were positive
44.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback on Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc. stands out for its sharp contrasts. Of 414 reviews, 54% are positive and center on efficiency, friendly and professional movers, careful handling, and jobs finished ahead of schedule. Many people mention hardworking, polite staff who move quickly, protect belongings, and ease stress on moving day. Customers value organized operations and a helpful team. On the flip side, 44% report serious problems—damaged items, sudden extra charges, and late arrivals. Numerous customers describe property loss, hostage payments, ruined furniture, delayed deliveries, and a lack of accountability for damage or missing items. Neutral input notes incomplete jobs or occasional lapses between satisfactory moves. Compared to similar companies, Advanced shows a greater divide between high-quality hands-on moving crews and problematic company policies. Booking is easy and staff can be accommodating, but recurring issues like property damage and shifting costs reduce trust. Consumers seeking reliable and stress-free moves with respectful handling may find strong crews here, but transparent communication and guarantees may be better elsewhere.
Get a Quote (800) 394-4462

Company Info

Years in Business: 110

DOT #: 872553

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

Cost to move from Illinois to San Jose, CA

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Illinois to San Jose, CA with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,160 – $4,879 $1,172 – $2,732 $1,176 – $2,179
2-3 bedrooms $3,040 – $7,169 $1,962 – $4,259 $1,310 – $2,594
4+ bedrooms $6,000 – $10,016 $2,663 – $5,470 $1,654 – $3,112

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,103-mile move from Illinois to San Jose, CA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Each month, moveBuddha updates thousands of vetted price points from nationwide moving companies to reflect seasonality and market trends. Your final total may vary with move size, add-on services, access or parking constraints, fuel costs, and scheduling. Comparing estimates from multiple movers is the best way to nail down accurate pricing.

Cost to hire professional movers from Illinois to San Jose, CA

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to San Jose, CA, you can expect to spend between $1,160 and $4,879. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,040 to $7,169 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home will typically run between $6,000 and $10,016.

Cost of moving containers from Illinois to San Jose, CA

When moving from Illinois to San Jose, CA, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,172 and $2,732. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,962 to $4,259. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,663 up to $5,470. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to San Jose, CA

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to San Jose, CA, and are renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,176 and $2,179. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,310 and $2,594. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,654 and $3,112.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Compare local moving companies from Illinois to San Jose, 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. × ×
Mighty Moving & Storage × ×
Alliance Moving & Storage × ×
Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc. × ×
Advanced Moving & Storage, Inc. × ×

Out of the 3,180 movers we’ve reviewed, here’s how Illinois movers stack up compared to the percentage of movers in the country that offer these services and discounts:

Illinois Nationwide
Full Service 97% 96%
Antiques 48% 46%
Military Discount 1% 4%
Senior Discount 2% 4%

Things to know before moving from Illinois to San Jose, CA

Before you start packing, take a moment to get a feel for what life in San Jose, CA is really like compared to Illinois. From the cost of living and local culture to daily routines, we’ll guide you through the biggest lifestyle changes and must-see attractions to be aware of.

Cost of living: Illinois vs. San Jose, CA

Illinois San Jose
Average rent cost $1,179 $3,095
Average home cost $249,224 $1,453,657
Average income (per capita) $78,433 $83,421
Cost of Living Index 90 231
Unemployment rate 5.3% 6.6%
State Income Tax 4.95% 13.3%
  • Rent in San Jose is roughly 163% higher than in Illinois. You’ll need to plan for higher monthly rent.
  • Home prices in San Jose are approximately 483% higher than in Illinois. Be sure to budget for a larger down payment, higher property taxes, and increased overall homeownership costs.
  • You’ll typically earn about 6% more in San Jose than in Illinois, which means extra breathing room in your budget, whether you want to spend more or save more.
  • With unemployment 25% higher in San Jose than Illinois, expect more competition for jobs. A focused job search will help you get ahead.
  • Expect income taxes in California to run about 169% higher than in Illinois, which could cut into your paycheck.

How life is different in San Jose from Illinois

San Jose Illinois
Population 971,233 12,549,689
Political leaning Democratic 73-25 Democratic 55-45
Summer high 82ºF 86ºF
Winter low 42ºF 17ºF
Annual rain 17″ 40″
Annual snow 0″ 22″
Crime index 47.73 19.7
  • During the last presidential election, both Illinois and San Jose supported the Democratic candidate.
  • Summer in San Jose usually hits around 82ºF, pretty similar to the 86ºF you’re used to in Illinois. While you won’t face a dramatic change in temperature, you should still keep factors like local humidity, weather trends, and changes to energy costs in mind as you prepare for summer at your new home.
  • During the coldest part of the year, San Jose reaches a temperature of 42ºF while Illinois gets down to 17ºF. Relocating to San Jose means you’ll enjoy milder winters, making daily life easier, more affordable, and better for spending time outside.
  • In San Jose, you’ll see just 17 inches of rain annually, much less than the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois. With fewer rainy days, you’ll have more opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. This sunnier climate can really lift your mood and energy as you settle into your new home.
  • San Jose doesn’t get snow, while Illinois sees around 22 inches annually. Relocating to San Jose means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
  • San Jose has a higher crime rate than Illinois with a crime index of 47.73 vs 19.7. A higher crime rate isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it’s your cue to research local safety measures and think about how it might affect your day-to-day life.

Things to do in San Jose

From parks and museums to sports and top universities, San Jose has a little bit of everything waiting for you.

Museums in San Jose

  • Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
  • Children’s Discovery Museum
  • The Tech Interactive
  • San Jose Museum of Art
  • New Almaden Mercury Mining Museum

Parks in San Jose

  • Almaden Quicksilver County Park
  • Alum Rock Park
  • Emma Prusch Farm Park
  • Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park
  • Joseph D. Grant County Park

Sports teams in San Jose

  • San Jose Barracuda (AHL)
  • San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)
  • San Jose Giants (California League)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)

Universities in San Jose

  • San Jose State University
  • San Jose City College
  • Evergreen Valley College
  • International Technological University
  • WestMed College

Other considerations when moving to San Jose, CA

  • HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community rules before moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to book your building’s elevator ahead of time and check on any moving rules they might have.
  • Parking permits: Some cities make you get a parking permit for your moving truck, so remember to look up your new neighborhood’s rules 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license directly on the state regulator’s official website, here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit to relocate to California, but it’s wise to check local parking regulations ahead of time.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your moving date so your mail will be forwarded to California without any delays. 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 keeps your move stress-free. Our moving checklist makes it easy to stay on top of every detail.

FAQ

How long does a move from Illinois to San Jose take?

The time frame for a move from Illinois to San Jose, CA, varies based on your moving method and starting location. The actual loading up of your items should not take more than a day, even with DIY moves.

The farther north you are in Illinois, the longer it’ll take to reach San Jose. If you’re renting a truck, expect the trip to take one or two days on average, depending on your route and how many stops you make.

Delivery from Illinois to San Jose can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, whether you’re hiring movers or using a moving container. Always ask for a delivery estimate before booking.

How far in advance should I book movers when moving from Illinois to San Jose?

If you’re gearing up for a 2,103-mile move from Illinois to San Jose, lock in your moving date as soon as your plans are set. Booking your movers two to three months in advance helps you snag the best rates and ensures you get the date you want.

What time of year is the cheapest to move to San Jose, CA?

Summer in San Jose can reach highs of 82°F, while winter temperatures can dip to 42°F. That’s why most people moving from Illinois to San Jose opt for the milder spring or fall weather. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds—and possibly score a better price—think about moving in the off-season, even if you have to endure crazier temperatures. Need more help planning? Check out our tips on peak moving seasons.

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