|
|
|
 rating
4.8 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
Illinois to Kentucky Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- When moving from Illinois to Kentucky, a two-bedroom move with professional movers is commonly $1,600–$3,800.*Estimates assume a 2–3 bedroom household with one–four day delivery. Your costs and timelines vary by home size, distance, and seasonality.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from Illinois to Kentucky is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 4,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights
Who are the best movers to move from Illinois to Kentucky?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from Illinois to Kentucky is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from Illinois to Kentucky below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Illinois to Kentucky
We recommend using a professional, long-distance mover for your Illinois to Kentucky move, since they’re built for the coordination a 408 mile journey can require. After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from Illinois to Kentucky.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Kentucky?
It costs between $1,600–$6,700 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from Illinois to Kentucky. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 408-mile move from IL to
KY using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 03, 2026. moveBuddha curates a nationwide set of thousands of validated moving prices, with monthly updates reflecting seasonal patterns and evolving market conditions. Final charges may fluctuate due to move size, optional services, access/parking constraints, fuel rates, and booking dates. For the best read on cost, gather multiple mover quotes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
North American Van Lines
Henning, IL
›
St. Regis Park, KY
2 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
$2,334
Mayflower Transit
Limestone, IL
›
Hodgenville, KY
3 Bedrooms
Jan 04, 2026
$4,574
PODS
Collinsville, IL
›
Hebron Estates, KY
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 27, 2025
$1,455
BLVD Moving
Ashley, IL
›
Beattyville, KY
Studio apartment
Nov 16, 2025
$1,580
Budget Truck Rental
East Peoria, IL
›
Concord, KY
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 05, 2025
$458
Mayzlin Relocation
Prairie Grove, IL
›
Harrodsburg, KY
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 02, 2025
$2,777
United Van Lines
Palatine, IL
›
Francisville, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 02, 2025
$5,037
Joyce Van Lines
Bay View Garden, IL
›
Shelbyville, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 30, 2025
$4,278
Allied Van Lines
East Moline, IL
›
Hardin, KY
Studio apartment
Oct 26, 2025
$2,189
Safeway Moving
Pearl, IL
›
Princeton, KY
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 21, 2025
$2,622
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Kentucky?
Moving from Illinois to Kentucky can cost anywhere from $955–$5,428, but most people pay around $1,616–$3,830 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $955 – $2,677 | $610 – $1,432 | $334 – $665 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,616 – $4,521 | $1,093 – $2,179 | $393 – $727 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,939 – $6,656 | $1,434 – $2,594 | $479 – $909 |
These are approximate estimates for a 408-mile move from IL to KY using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $1,616 – $4,521 to hire a moving company to move you from Illinois to Kentucky. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $955 – $2,677
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,616 – $4,521
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,939 – $6,656
How much do moving containers cost from Illinois to Kentucky?
Using a moving container from Illinois to Kentucky costs, on average, $1,093 – $2,179. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $610 – $1,432
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,093 – $2,179
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,434 – $2,594
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from Illinois to Kentucky will costs you between $393 – $727, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $334 – $665
- 2–3 bedrooms: $393 – $727
- 4+ bedrooms: $479 – $909
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from Illinois to Kentucky, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from IL to KY?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Kentucky — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,179 in Illinois to $902 in Kentucky, and average home values go from $249,224 to $212,088.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (90 vs. 93), unemployment (5.3% vs. 5.0%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.82% vs. 6.0%) and state income tax (4.95% vs. 4.0%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| 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% |
Will rent be more expensive in Kentucky?
Rent is about 23% lower in Kentucky than in Illinois.
Avg rent: $1,179 vs. $902
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 15% lower in Kentucky than in Illinois.
Avg home value: $249,224 vs. $212,088
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 23% lower in Kentucky than in Illinois.
Avg income (per capita): $78,433 vs. $60,183
Is the overall cost of living higher in Kentucky?
The cost of living is about the same in Illinois and Kentucky.
Cost of living index: 90 vs. 93
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 32% lower in Kentucky than in Illinois.
Avg sales tax: 8.82% vs. 6.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 19% lower in Kentucky than in Illinois.
State income tax: 4.95% vs. 4.0%
How is daily life different in Kentucky compared to Illinois?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| 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 |
Will Kentucky feel more crowded than Illinois?
Kentucky is about 64% less populous than Illinois — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Kentucky voted Republican while Illinois voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (87°F vs. 86°F).
Winter: Kentucky is milder on average (24°F vs. 17°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Kentucky?
Rain: Kentucky gets more rain (48″ vs. 40″).
Snow: Kentucky gets less snow (11 inches vs. 22 inches).
Is Kentucky safer than Illinois?
Kentucky has a lower crime index than Illinois (16.63 vs. 19.7), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Kentucky?
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
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
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.
- 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.
- Moving permits: Kentucky does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance 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.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Kentucky?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Kentucky?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Kentucky moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Kentucky?
Kentucky does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. 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.
Some movers in Illinois offer discounts: 1 AAA discounts; 1 military discounts; 2 senior discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
Illinois Moving Services
Frequently Traveled Illinois Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All 
Hide All
