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Illinois to Michigan Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- For a move from Illinois to Michigan, a two-bedroom home with professional movers typically costs $1,700–$3,700.*Estimates reflect a 2–3 bedroom move and a one–four day delivery window. Actual cost and timing depend on 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 Michigan 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 Michigan?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from Illinois to Michigan 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 Michigan 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.
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Best professional movers from Illinois to Michigan
For a move from Illinois to Michigan, we generally recommend hiring a professional interstate mover—they’re better equipped for the complex logistics that can come with a 401 mile relocation. Based on a review of 3,180 movers, moveBuddha found 2,642 (83%) that perform interstate moves. Leveraging our thorough rating methodology, our experts curated the best options to manage your relocation from Illinois to Michigan.
- 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 Michigan?
It costs between $1,700–$6,700 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from Illinois to Michigan. 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 401-mile move from IL to
MI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 03, 2026.
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.
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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.
Safeway Moving
Mackinaw, IL
›
Vineyard Lake, MI
3 Bedrooms
Jan 11, 2026
$2,588
Colonial Van Lines
Crestwood, IL
›
Davison, MI
3 Bedrooms
Jan 10, 2026
$2,405
Budget Truck Rental
West Frankfort, IL
›
Paw Paw, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 05, 2026
$461
Roadway Moving
Burbank, IL
›
Hart, MI
4 Bedrooms
Dec 15, 2025
$2,693
Mayflower Transit
Mound Station, IL
›
Southfield, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 06, 2025
$2,825
Joyce Van Lines
Lansing, IL
›
Charlotte, MI
4 Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
$2,693
American Van Lines
Farina, IL
›
Hubbardston, MI
3 Bedrooms
Nov 20, 2025
$3,438
United Van Lines
Ladd, IL
›
Manitou Beach-Devils Lake, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 20, 2025
$2,680
North American Van Lines
Minooka, IL
›
Parma, MI
3 Bedrooms
Nov 16, 2025
$3,738
BLVD Moving
Ava, IL
›
Adrian, MI
4 Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
$5,056
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Michigan?
Moving from Illinois to Michigan can cost anywhere from $964–$5,592, but most people pay around $1,717–$3,675 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $964 – $2,733 | $622 – $1,389 | $334 – $607 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,717 – $4,611 | $1,071 – $2,052 | $371 – $758 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,771 – $6,720 | $1,419 – $2,756 | $442 – $882 |
These are approximate estimates for a 401-mile move from IL to MI 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 $1,717 – $4,611 to hire a moving company to move you from Illinois to Michigan. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $964 – $2,733
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,717 – $4,611
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,771 – $6,720
How much do moving containers cost from Illinois to Michigan?
Using a moving container from Illinois to Michigan costs, on average, $1,071 – $2,052. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $622 – $1,389
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,071 – $2,052
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,419 – $2,756
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 Michigan will costs you between $371 – $758, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $334 – $607
- 2–3 bedrooms: $371 – $758
- 4+ bedrooms: $442 – $882
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 Michigan, 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 MI?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Michigan — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,179 in Illinois to $1,037 in Michigan, and average home values go from $249,224 to $245,716.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (90 vs. 92), unemployment (5.3% vs. 4.7%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.82% vs. 6.0%) and state income tax (4.95% vs. 4.25%). 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 | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,179 | $1,037 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $68,505 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 92 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 4.7% |
| Average sales tax | 8.82% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 4.25% |
Will rent be more expensive in Michigan?
Rent is about 12% lower in Michigan than in Illinois.
Avg rent: $1,179 vs. $1,037
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are pretty similar in Illinois and Michigan.
Avg home value: $249,224 vs. $245,716
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 13% lower in Michigan than in Illinois.
Avg income (per capita): $78,433 vs. $68,505
Is the overall cost of living higher in Michigan?
The cost of living is about the same in Illinois and Michigan.
Cost of living index: 90 vs. 92
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 32% lower in Michigan than in Illinois.
Avg sales tax: 8.82% vs. 6.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 14% lower in Michigan than in Illinois.
State income tax: 4.95% vs. 4.25%
How is daily life different in Michigan compared to Illinois?
Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size.
| Michigan | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 10,037,261 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49.7-48.3 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 81ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 14ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 34″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 64″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 19.98 | 19.7 |
Will Michigan feel more crowded than Illinois?
Michigan is about 20% less populous than Illinois — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Michigan voted Republican while Illinois voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (81°F vs. 86°F).
Winter: Lows are very similar (14°F vs. 17°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Michigan?
Rain: Michigan gets less rain (34″ vs. 40″).
Snow: Michigan gets more snow (64 inches vs. 22 inches).
Is Michigan safer than Illinois?
Michigan and Illinois have similar crime rates (19.98 vs. 19.7). It’s still smart to check the city/neighborhood level.
What are some things to do in Michigan?
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Michigan 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: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Michigan, 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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance at no extra cost. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Michigan?
Some cities expect a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Michigan?
The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Michigan moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Michigan?
You don’t need a moving permit in Michigan.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Get started here.
Interstate movers provide basic insurance free of charge. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
Some movers in Illinois offer discounts: 1 AAA discounts; 1 military discounts; 2 senior discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Make moving day a breeze with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
Illinois Moving Services
Frequently Traveled Illinois Routes
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