How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to KS move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 100 Illinois moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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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 Kansas?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to Kansas.
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 |
$1,076 – $3,206 |
$707 – $1,723 |
$443 – $869 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,905 – $5,188 |
$1,177 – $2,266 |
$483 – $1,011 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,561 – $7,678 |
$1,604 – $2,991 |
$579 – $1,245 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 611-mile move from IL to
KS using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 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 Kansas
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Kansas typically costs between
$1,076 and
$3,206.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$1,905
and $5,188
when moving from IL to KS.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Illinois to Kansas,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,561
up to $7,678.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Kansas
If you’re relocating from Illinois to Kansas,
you’ll typically spend between $707
and $1,723 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,177 up to
$2,266.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,604 and
$2,991. 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 Kansas
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
$443 and
$869.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$483 to
$1,011.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $579 and
$1,245.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to KS
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Illinois to Kansas. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Illinois, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from IL to KS
Transitioning from Illinois to Kansas 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. Kansas
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Illinois and Kansas are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Illinois |
Kansas |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$986 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$229,012 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$69,747 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
87 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
8.65% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
5.7% |
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Rent is about 16% less expensive in Kansas than in Illinois, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Kansas are about 8% lower than in Illinois, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Kansas are roughly 11% lower than in Illinois.
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With a similar cost of living in both Illinois and Kansas, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 36% lower than Illinois, Kansas offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax rates are similar in Kansas and Illinois, so this won’t affect your cost of living when you relocate.
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Income taxes are 15% higher in Kansas compared to Illinois. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in Kansas 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 Kansas and Illinois compare.
|
Kansas |
Illinois |
| Population |
2,940,546 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 57.1%-41.1 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
33″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
15″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
24.07 |
19.7 |
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With a population roughly 77% smaller than Illinois, Kansas 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.
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In the last presidential election, Kansas leaned Republican, while Illinois supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Kansas is 91°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.
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During the coldest months, Kansas averages 19°F while Illinois sees lows of 17°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
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In Kansas, you’ll get about 33 inches of rain each year, less than the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
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In Kansas, it only snows about 15 inches annually while Illinois gets 22 inches.
Moving to Kansas, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
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Kansas has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with a crime index of 24.07 compared to 19.7.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Kansas
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Kansas to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Kansas |
| Home of chicago |
Delicious barbecue |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost housing |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Cheap living |
| Delicious food |
Four season living |
| World-class sports culture |
Ample economic opportunity |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Kansas
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Illinois to Kansas:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Kansas |
| Harsh winter weather |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
Dull landscape |
| High crime rate |
High taxes |
| Dull landscape |
Lack of public transportation |
| Strict laws |
Remote small-town lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Kansas 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.
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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.
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State licensing:
In Kansas, the Transportation Division of the Kansas Corporation Commission monitors, licenses, and regulates intrastate motor carriers like movers.
The state’s Corporation Commission issues moving companies operating authority in the form of KCC Numbers, which customers can verify online here before hiring a mover. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Kansas moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Kansas, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 Kansas. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Kansas
Get excited to explore Kansas. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Kansas
- Evel Knievel Museum
- Old Cowtown Museum
- Boot Hill Museum
- Exploration Place
- Flint Hills Discovery Center
Parks in Kansas
- Ernie Miller Nature Center
- Coronado Heights
- Lewis & Clark Historic Park at Kaw Point
- Black Hoof Park and Lake Lenexa
- Gezer Park
Sports teams in Kansas
- Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
- Wichita Thunder (ECHL)
- Wichita Wind Surge (Double-A Central)
- Kansas Jayhawks (NCAA)
- Kansas State Wildcats (NCAA)
Universities in Kansas
- University of Kansas
- Kansas State University
- Wichita State University
- Fort Hays State University
- Emporia State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Kansas?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Kansas?
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
Kansas
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Kansas?
Many people are making the move from Illinois to Kansas to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Kansas has to offer, like delicious barbecue and low cost housing.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Kansas?
Living in Kansas usually costs less than in Illinois.
Housing
is much more affordable in Kansas,
with average rent about 16% less and home prices 8% lower than in Illinois.
However, taxes are
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Kansas residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kansas?
Planning to move to Kansas? A single adult should aim for an income of around $61,447 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,433 for an individual, or $5,464 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Wichita and Overland Park 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
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When relocating from Illinois to Kansas, expect professional movers to cost around
$1,905 to
$5,188, roughly
$1,721 for a container move, and close to
$747
for a rental truck.
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