How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to MD move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Maryland?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois
to Maryland, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,066 – $3,634 |
$727 – $1,746 |
$515 – $1,000 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,182 – $5,341 |
$1,375 – $2,547 |
$579 – $1,199 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,806 – $7,477 |
$1,844 – $3,253 |
$710 – $1,454 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 787-mile relocation from IL to
MD, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Maryland
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to Maryland, you’ll likely pay between
$1,066
and $3,634.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,182 and $5,341
for the same journey (IL to MD).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,806
to $7,477.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Maryland
When you’re heading from Illinois to Maryland, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $727 and
$1,746. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,375 and
$2,547. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,844
to $3,253. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Illinois easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Maryland
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$515
to $1,000.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $579
to $1,199, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Illinois to Maryland costs around
$710 to
$1,454.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to MD
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to Maryland. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Illinois when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from IL to MD
If you’re moving to Maryland from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Maryland
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and Maryland can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Illinois |
Maryland |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$1,598 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$418,438 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$98,461 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
5.75% |
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Rent is about 36% higher in Maryland than in Illinois. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Maryland are typically about 68% higher than in Illinois.
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You’re likely to earn about 26% more in Maryland than in Illinois. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
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The cost of living is 11% higher in Maryland than in Illinois. If you’re making the move to Maryland with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
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Maryland boasts an unemployment rate about 43% lower than Illinois. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
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Sales tax in Maryland is 32% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Maryland can really help cut down your living expenses.
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Income taxes in Maryland are 16% higher than in Illinois, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in Maryland vs. Illinois
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Maryland and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Maryland |
Illinois |
| Population |
6,180,253 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 63-34.4 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
19″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
20.34 |
19.7 |
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The population of Maryland is approximately 51% lower than the population of Illinois.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential race, both Illinois and Maryland leaned Democratic.
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In Maryland, summer highs are around 87°F, close to 86°F in Illinois.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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Winter lows in Maryland average 25°F, milder than 17°F in Illinois.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
-
In Maryland, you’ll see about 44 inches of rain each year — nearly identical to the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
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In Maryland, it snows about 19 inches annually while Illinois gets 22 inches.
With snowfall being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
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Both Maryland and Illinois share similar crime rates (19.7).
However, crime levels can vary widely between different cities and neighborhoods, so it’s a good idea to look up local crime stats for a clearer picture.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Maryland
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Maryland and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Maryland |
| Home of chicago |
Delicious food |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Diverse outdoor activities |
| Delicious food |
Beautiful coastline |
| World-class sports culture |
Rich history |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Maryland
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Illinois for Maryland:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Maryland |
| Harsh winter weather |
High cost of living |
| Bad traffic |
Bad traffic |
| High crime rate |
High crime |
| Dull landscape |
High homelessness |
| Strict laws |
Peculiar alcohol laws |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Maryland move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
-
State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Maryland moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Maryland, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
-
Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Maryland right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Maryland
While you’re in Maryland, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Maryland
- U.S. Naval Academy
- The Walters Art Museum
- American Visionary Art Museum
- Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
- Baltimore Museum of Art
Parks in Maryland
- Northside Park
- Rock Creek Regional Park
- Wheaton Regional Park
- Centennial Park
- Hagerstown City Park
Sports teams in Maryland
- Baltimore Orioles (MLB)
- Baltimore Ravens (NFL)
- Washington Commanders (NFL)
- Maryland Terrapins (NCAA)
- Potomac River Exiles Men’s Rugby Club (MAC)
Universities in Maryland
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Maryland
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Towson University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Maryland?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Maryland?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or,
if you prefer, you can arrange
vehicle transport from Illinois to Maryland on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Maryland?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to Maryland to enjoy all the great benefits Maryland provides, such as delicious food and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Maryland?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Maryland.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 26% less and home prices 40% lower than in Maryland.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Maryland residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Maryland?
Thinking of moving to Maryland on your own? You’ll want to earn around $96,415 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,469 per month, or around $8,331 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Washington DC and Baltimore tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
In Illinois, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 2 movers.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Illinois to Maryland, you’ll likely pay between $2,182–$5,341 with professional movers, roughly
$1,961 for a moving container, and about
$889
for a rental truck.
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