How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to FL move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 100 Illinois moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Florida?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to Florida.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,173 – $4,590 |
$886 – $2,019 |
$743 – $1,389 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,455 – $5,653 |
$1,524 – $3,118 |
$757 – $1,554 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,110 – $7,461 |
$2,042 – $4,209 |
$961 – $2,034 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,183-mile move from IL to
FL using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Florida
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Illinois to Florida,
you can expect prices to land between $1,173
and $4,590.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,455 to
$5,653 for the trip from IL
to FL. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,110 and
$7,461.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Florida
Moving containers from Illinois to Florida
will cost you $886 to
$2,019 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,524
to $3,118. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,042 to
$4,209.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Florida
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
$743
and $1,389
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $757
to $1,554.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$961
to $2,034.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to FL
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Illinois to Florida. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Illinois generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from IL to FL
Making the move from Illinois to Florida means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Florida
A clear look at the cost differences between Illinois and Florida helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Illinois |
Florida |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$1,444 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$67,917 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
102 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
7.08% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
0.0% |
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Rent in Florida is about 22% higher than in Illinois. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Florida are usually around 57% higher than what you’ll find in Illinois.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 13% lower Florida than in Illinois.
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Living in Florida costs 13% more than in Illinois. If you’re relocating to Florida, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 45% lower than Illinois, Florida offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in Florida is 20% lower than in Illinois. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Florida could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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Florida has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Illinois. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Florida vs. Illinois
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Florida and Illinois compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Florida |
Illinois |
| Population |
22,610,726 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-48 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
49ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
55″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
21.39 |
19.7 |
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Florida has a population that’s about 80% larger than Illinois.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
-
In the latest presidential election, Florida voted Republican, while Illinois chose Democratic.
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Summer highs average 91°F in Florida, compared to 86°F in Illinois.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Florida has winter lows around 49°F, compared to 17°F in Illinois.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect about 55 inches of annual rainfall in Florida versus only 40 inches of rainfall in Illinois.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
Florida doesn’t get snow, while Illinois sees around 22 inches annually.
Relocating to Florida means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
-
Florida has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with crime indexes at 21.39 and 19.7, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Florida
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Florida compared to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Florida |
| Home of chicago |
Fantastic weather |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Abundant water recreational activities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious food |
World-leading entertainment |
| World-class sports culture |
Beautiful flora and fauna |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Florida
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Illinois to Florida:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Florida |
| Harsh winter weather |
High cost of living |
| Bad traffic |
Poor healthcare |
| High crime rate |
Natural disasters |
| Dull landscape |
Heat and humidity |
| Strict laws |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Florida move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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State licensing:
Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Florida moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Florida, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Florida right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Florida
You’ll have plenty to explore in Florida! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Florida
- Wynwood Halls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dali Museum
Parks in Florida
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest
Sports teams in Florida
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)
Universities in Florida
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Florida?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Florida?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Florida?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Illinois for Florida, drawn by advantages like fantastic weather and abundant water recreational activities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Florida?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Florida.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 18% less and home prices 36% lower than in Florida.
However, taxes are
lower in Florida, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Florida?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Florida, you should aim to make around $61,933.
On average, expect to spend about $3,010 per month, or $7,388 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Jacksonville and Miami generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Many movers in Illinois publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
1 offer military-specific savings;
2 extend deals for seniors;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Illinois to Florida, budget between $2,455–$5,653 for full-service movers, around
$2,321 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,155
for a rental truck.
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