When relocating from Illinois to Iowa, expect professional movers to cost around
$1,509 to
$4,036, roughly
$1,467 for a container move, and close to
$451
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Illinois
In Illinois, you can choose from 76 interstate movers capable of assisting with your move to Iowa. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Illinois. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Mid-West Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- New City Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
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
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 #: 75043
Years in Business: 41
DOT #: 294025
Mid-West Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in the Elk Grove Village, IL area since 1984, specializing in local residential moves. While their Yelp reviews average at 2.8 from 77 reviews, their stellar Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 385 reviews and an A+ BBB rating speak volumes about their overall customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, Mid-West Moving & Storage distinguishes itself with a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moves like pianos and antiques. They also offer full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking for added peace of mind.
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 credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 93712
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 504435
Alternate Names: Golan’s Moving and Storage, Inc.
Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc., based in Skokie, IL, has been a staple in the local moving industry since 1992, specializing in residential moves within the area. With a strong reputation backed by 553 Yelp reviews averaging 3.5 stars, and an impressive 4.5-star rating from 556 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby moving companies. They boast an A+ rating from the BBB, underscoring their commitment to customer satisfaction. Offering a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques, Golan’s Moving & Storage ensures a smooth and efficient moving experience with full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
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
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
The best Illinois to Iowa moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in Illinois and drop it off at your new home in Iowa.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best Illinois to Iowa moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from Illinois to Iowa, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat equity, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best Illinois to Iowa labor-only movers
If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that’s the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.
For a smooth move from Illinois to Iowa, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to IA move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 98 Illinois moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
- Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
- Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Iowa?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois to Iowa. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $833 – $2,727 | $584 – $1,394 | $290 – $533 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,509 – $4,036 | $1,008 – $1,927 | $314 – $589 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,978 – $5,647 | $1,468 – $2,586 | $370 – $737 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 259-mile move from IL to IA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Iowa
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Iowa typically costs between $833 and $2,727. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,509 and $4,036 when moving from IL to IA. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Illinois to Iowa, you’re looking at costs ranging from $1,978 up to $5,647.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Iowa
If you’re relocating from Illinois to Iowa, you’ll typically spend between $584 and $1,394 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,008 up to $1,927. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $1,468 and $2,586. 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 Iowa
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, expect to pay between $290 and $533. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $314 to $589. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $370 and $737.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to IA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Illinois to Iowa. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Illinois, which usually means higher prices.
- Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from IL to IA
Transitioning from Illinois to Iowa gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Iowa
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Illinois and Iowa are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
| Illinois | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,179 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 8.82% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 4.4% |
- Rent is about 22% less expensive in Iowa than in Illinois, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Home prices in Iowa are about 12% lower than in Illinois, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
- Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Iowa are roughly 10% lower than in Illinois.
- With a similar cost of living in both Illinois and Iowa, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
- With an unemployment rate roughly 43% lower than Illinois, Iowa offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
- Sales tax in Iowa is 21% lower than in Illinois, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
- Income taxes are 11% lower in Iowa compared to Illinois. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Illinois
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Iowa and Illinois compare.
| Iowa | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 19.7 |
- With a population roughly 74% smaller than Illinois, Iowa gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses. Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
- In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while Illinois supported Democratic.
- The average summer high in Iowa is 84°F, while Illinois averages 86°F. With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
- In the coldest months, Iowa dips to about 10°F, colder than 17°F in Illinois. Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
- In Iowa, you’ll experience about 35 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois. While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
- Each year, Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow, far more than the 22 inches you might be accustomed to in Illinois. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
- Iowa boasts a lower crime rate than Illinois, with a crime index of 16.18 compared to 19.7. This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Iowa
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Iowa to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois | Pros of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Home of chicago | Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | High quality of education |
| Delicious food | No traffic |
| World-class sports culture | Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Iowa
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Illinois to Iowa:
| Cons of living in Illinois | Cons of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | Severe weather conditions |
| Bad traffic | Limited recreational opportunities |
| High crime rate | High taxes |
| Dull landscape | High emphasis on politics |
| Strict laws | Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Iowa move
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- 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: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Iowa, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Iowa. 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.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Iowa
Get excited to explore Iowa. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Iowa?
If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service Illinois moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Iowa?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from Illinois to Iowa separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Iowa?
Many people are making the move from Illinois to Iowa to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Iowa has to offer, like low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Illinois. While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing is much more affordable in Iowa, with average rent about 22% less and home prices 12% lower than in Illinois. Taxes are also lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
Planning to move to Iowa? A single adult should aim for an income of around $63,616 to live comfortably. Monthly costs average $2,436 for an individual, or $5,230 for a family of four. Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Illinois: 1 movers offer AAA member savings; 1 provide military discounts; 2 have senior-discount programs;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Illinois moving services
Popular Illinois routes
Popular moving resources
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