How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to LA 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 Louisiana?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to Louisiana.
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 |
$1,115 – $4,181 |
$751 – $1,787 |
$550 – $1,038 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,227 – $5,450 |
$1,349 – $2,583 |
$631 – $1,310 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,605 – $7,485 |
$1,831 – $3,450 |
$729 – $1,544 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 852-mile move from IL to
LA 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 Louisiana
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Illinois to Louisiana,
you can expect prices to land between $1,115
and $4,181.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,227 to
$5,450 for the trip from IL
to LA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,605 and
$7,485.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Louisiana
Moving containers from Illinois to Louisiana
will cost you $751 to
$1,787 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,349
to $2,583. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,831 to
$3,450.
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 Louisiana
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
$550
and $1,038
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $631
to $1,310.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$729
to $1,544.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to LA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Illinois to Louisiana. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
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 LA
Making the move from Illinois to Louisiana means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Louisiana
A clear look at the cost differences between Illinois and Louisiana 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 |
Louisiana |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$996 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$201,519 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$57,852 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
4.1% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
4.25% |
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You’ll pay about 16% less in rent in Louisiana compared to Illinois, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Louisiana are around 19% lower than in Illinois. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 26% lower Louisiana than in Illinois.
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Since living costs in Louisiana and Illinois are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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With an unemployment rate around 23% lower than Illinois, Louisiana 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 Louisiana is 21% lower than in Illinois. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Louisiana could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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Income taxes in Louisiana are 14% lower than in Illinois. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Louisiana 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 Louisiana and Illinois compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Louisiana |
Illinois |
| Population |
4,573,749 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 60.2-38.2 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
92ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
39ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
60″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
33.77 |
19.7 |
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The population of Louisiana is about 64% 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, Louisiana voted Republican, while Illinois chose Democratic.
-
Summers in Louisiana top out at 92°F, higher than 86°F in Illinois.
Expect more heat, more sunshine, and possibly higher cooling costs.
-
Louisiana has winter lows around 39°F, compared to 17°F in Illinois.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect about 60 inches of annual rainfall in Louisiana versus only 40 inches of rainfall in Illinois.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
Louisiana doesn’t get snow, while Illinois sees around 22 inches annually.
Relocating to Louisiana means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
-
Louisiana has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with crime indexes at 33.77 and 19.7, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Louisiana
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Louisiana compared to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Louisiana |
| Home of chicago |
Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Delicious regional food |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Diverse culture |
| Delicious food |
Fun outdoor activities |
| World-class sports culture |
Cajun culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Louisiana
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 Louisiana:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Louisiana |
| Harsh winter weather |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
Pesky wildlife and insects |
| High crime rate |
Limited economic opportunities |
| Dull landscape |
High crime rate |
| Strict laws |
Hot humidity |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Louisiana 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:
If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC).
During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC.
In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Louisiana moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Louisiana, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
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 Louisiana 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,” free of charge. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Louisiana
You’ll have plenty to explore in Louisiana! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Louisiana
- The National WWII Museum
- USS Kidd
- Louisiana’s Old State Capitol
- R. W. Norton Art Gallery
- Shreveport Water Works Museum
Parks in Louisiana
- Millennium Park
- Prien Lake Park
- Sam Houston Jones State Park
- Camp Salmen Nature Park
- Lafreniere Park
Sports teams in Louisiana
- New Orleans Saints (NFL)
- New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)
- New Orleans Gold (MLR)
- Ragin’ Cajuns (NCAA)
- Tigers and Lady Tigers (NCAA)
Universities in Louisiana
- Louisiana State University
- Tulane University
- Loyola University New Orleans
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- University of New Orleans
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Louisiana?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Louisiana?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Louisiana?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Illinois for Louisiana, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and delicious regional food that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Louisiana?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Louisiana.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Louisiana,
with average rent about 16% less and home prices 19% lower than in Illinois.
Taxes are also
lower in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Louisiana, you should aim to make around $53,317.
On average, expect to spend about $2,452 per month, or $5,746 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge 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 Louisiana, budget between $2,227–$5,450 for full-service movers, around
$1,966 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$970
for a rental truck.
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