How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to KY move
Using rate data from 100 Illinois movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Kentucky?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Illinois
to Kentucky with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,015 – $2,996 |
$605 – $1,480 |
$345 – $680 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,619 – $4,669 |
$1,118 – $2,120 |
$360 – $759 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$2,976 – $6,281 |
$1,526 – $2,681 |
$452 – $948 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 408-mile move from IL to
KY, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Kentucky
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Kentucky,
you can expect to spend between $1,015
and $2,996.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $1,619 to
$4,669 on the same route
(IL to KY). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Illinois to Kentucky typically runs between
$2,976 and
$6,281.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Kentucky
Moving from Illinois to Kentucky? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $605 and
$1,480. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,118 to
$2,120. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,526 up to
$2,681. 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 Kentucky
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 and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$345 and
$680.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$360 and
$759.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $452 and
$948.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to KY
There are many factors that influence Illinois moving costs. The cost to move from Illinois to Kentucky will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Illinois fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from IL to KY
Moving between Illinois and Kentucky involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Kentucky
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Illinois and Kentucky. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Illinois |
Kentucky |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$902 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$60,183 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
93 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
5.0% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
4.0% |
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Rent in Kentucky is about 23% cheaper than in Illinois, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Kentucky are roughly 15% less than in Illinois, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Kentucky are about 23% lower than in Illinois.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Illinois and Kentucky, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Kentucky has a lower unemployment rate than Illinois by about 6%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is 32% lower in Kentucky compared to Illinois, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Income taxes in Kentucky are 19% lower than in Illinois. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Kentucky vs. Illinois
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Kentucky differs from Illinois in these areas.
|
Kentucky |
Illinois |
| Population |
4,526,154 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
24ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
11″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
16.63 |
19.7 |
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With a population about 64% smaller than Illinois, Kentucky offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
-
In the last presidential election, Kentucky voted Republican and Illinois voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in Kentucky average 87°F, almost the same as 86°F in Illinois.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in Kentucky average 24°F, compared to 17°F in Illinois.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
Expect about 48 inches of rain each year in Kentucky — a big shift from the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
-
In Kentucky, you’ll see just 11 inches of snow each year, compared to Illinois, which gets 22 inches annually.
Moving to Kentucky means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
Kentucky offers a safer environment than Illinois, with a crime index of 16.63 versus 19.7.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Kentucky
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Kentucky stacks up against Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Kentucky |
| Home of chicago |
Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Abundant outdoor adventures |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Delicious food and drink |
| Delicious food |
Horse racing |
| World-class sports culture |
Four season weather |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Kentucky
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Illinois to Kentucky, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Kentucky |
| Harsh winter weather |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
Low diversity |
| High crime rate |
Poor air quality |
| Dull landscape |
Poor infrastructure |
| Strict laws |
Poor education system |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Kentucky move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers.
Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each.
The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Kentucky moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Kentucky does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Kentucky 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,” for free. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Kentucky
Get ready to discover Kentucky. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Kentucky
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Ark Encounter
- National Corvette Museum
- The National Quilt Museum
Parks in Kentucky
- Smothers Park
- Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Red River Gorge Geological Area
- Freeman Lake Park
Sports teams in Kentucky
- Bellarmine Knights (NCAA)
- Eastern Kentucky Colonels (NCAA)
- Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
- Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
- Morehead State Eagles (NCAA)
Universities in Kentucky
- University of Kentucky
- University of Louisville
- Western Kentucky University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Georgetown College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Kentucky?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Kentucky?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Illinois to Kentucky
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Kentucky?
More and more folks are relocating from Illinois to Kentucky to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Kentucky?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Kentucky.
Housing
is much more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 23% less and home prices 15% lower than in Illinois.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Kentucky, aim for an income of around $59,905 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,600 if you’re flying solo, or $4,876 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Louisville and Lexington usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Illinois.
There are 1 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 2 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Illinois to Kentucky, professional movers typically run between
$1,619 and $4,669, a moving container averages about
$1,619, and a rental truck is around
$559.
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