How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to ID 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 Idaho?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to Idaho.
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 |
$1,165 – $4,301 |
$1,040 – $2,489 |
$946 – $1,781 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,703 – $6,194 |
$1,785 – $3,673 |
$1,045 – $2,098 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,381 – $9,052 |
$2,483 – $5,065 |
$1,328 – $2,539 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,643-mile move from IL to
ID 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 Idaho
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Illinois to Idaho,
you can expect prices to land between $1,165
and $4,301.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,703 to
$6,194 for the trip from IL
to ID. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$5,381 and
$9,052.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Idaho
Moving containers from Illinois to Idaho
will cost you $1,040 to
$2,489 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,785
to $3,673. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,483 to
$5,065.
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 Idaho
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
$946
and $1,781
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,045
to $2,098.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,328
to $2,539.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to ID
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Illinois to Idaho. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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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 ID
Making the move from Illinois to Idaho means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Idaho
A clear look at the cost differences between Illinois and Idaho 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 |
Idaho |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$1,061 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$451,520 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$70,214 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
106 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.03% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
5.8% |
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You’ll pay about 10% less in rent in Idaho compared to Illinois, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Idaho are usually around 81% 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 10% lower Idaho than in Illinois.
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Living in Idaho costs 18% more than in Illinois. If you’re relocating to Idaho, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 30% lower than Illinois, Idaho 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 Idaho is 32% lower than in Illinois. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Idaho could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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State income taxes in Idaho are 17% higher than in Illinois, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Idaho 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 Idaho and Illinois compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Idaho |
Illinois |
| Population |
1,964,726 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 70-30 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
18″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
11.68 |
19.7 |
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The population of Idaho is about 84% smaller than that of Illinois.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
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In the latest presidential election, Idaho voted Republican, while Illinois chose Democratic.
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Summer highs average 85°F in Idaho, compared to 86°F in Illinois.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Winter lows in Idaho hover around 17°F, while Illinois averages 17°F.
When temperatures are this close, your move won’t bring big seasonal surprises.
-
You can expect only about 18 inches of annual rainfall in Idaho versus 40 inches of rainfall in Illinois.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
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Each year, Idaho gets about 47 inches of snow, while Illinois sees only 22 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
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Moving to Idaho means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 11.68 versus Illinois’s 19.7, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Idaho
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Idaho compared to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Idaho |
| Home of chicago |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of life |
| Delicious food |
Beautiful landscapes |
| World-class sports culture |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Idaho
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 Idaho:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Idaho |
| Harsh winter weather |
Low diversity |
| Bad traffic |
Harsh winters |
| High crime rate |
Political dominance |
| Dull landscape |
Isolation |
| Strict laws |
Competitive housing |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Idaho 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.
-
State licensing:
In Idaho, in-state movers are regulated by and must register with the Idaho Transportation Department.
In cases of unresolvable disputes with local movers, they may help. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Idaho 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 Idaho, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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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 Idaho right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection for minimal coverage, provided by movers at no extra charge. With liability capped at 60 cents per pound per article, consider alternative coverage options from your selected moving company or explore third-party insurance for full value protection.
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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 Idaho
You’ll have plenty to explore in Idaho! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Idaho
- Museum of Clean
- Warhawk Air Museum
- Museum of Idaho
- Legacy Flight Museum
- Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Education Center
Parks in Idaho
- Harriman State Park
- Sawtooth Wilderness Area
- Indian Creek Park
- McEuen Park
- Thousand Springs State Park
Sports teams in Idaho
- Idaho Steelheads (ECHL)
- Boise State Broncos (NCAA)
- Idaho State Bengals (NCAA)
- Idaho Vandals Big Sky (NCAA)
Universities in Idaho
- University of Idaho
- Boise State University
- Brigham Young University-Idaho
- Idaho State University
- Northwest Nazarene University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Idaho?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Idaho?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Idaho?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Illinois for Idaho, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and low cost of living that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Idaho?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Idaho.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 11% less and home prices 45% lower than in Idaho.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Idaho residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Idaho?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Idaho, you should aim to make around $82,425.
On average, expect to spend about $3,700 per month, or $7,442 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Boise and Meridian 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 Idaho, budget between $2,703–$6,194 for full-service movers, around
$2,729 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,571
for a rental truck.
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