How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to MI 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 Michigan?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois
to Michigan, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$919 – $2,767 |
$611 – $1,539 |
$366 – $667 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,636 – $4,394 |
$1,163 – $2,184 |
$394 – $752 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$2,976 – $6,673 |
$1,496 – $2,817 |
$471 – $902 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 401-mile relocation from IL to
MI, 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 Michigan
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to Michigan, you’ll likely pay between
$919
and $2,767.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$1,636 and $4,394
for the same journey (IL to MI).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $2,976
to $6,673.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Michigan
When you’re heading from Illinois to Michigan, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $611 and
$1,539. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,163 and
$2,184. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,496
to $2,817. 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 Michigan
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
$366
to $667.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $394
to $752, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Illinois to Michigan costs around
$471 to
$902.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to MI
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to Michigan. 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 MI
If you’re moving to Michigan from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Michigan
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and Michigan can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
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% |
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Rent in Michigan is around 12% less than in Illinois, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Home prices in Michigan and Illinois are pretty similar, so you probably won’t need to adjust your mortgage budget much, unless you’re planning to move into a bigger or nicer place.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Michigan are about 13% lower than in Illinois.
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With the cost of living being about the same in Michigan and Illinois, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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Michigan boasts an unemployment rate about 11% 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 Michigan is 32% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Michigan can really help cut down your living expenses.
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Income taxes in Michigan are 14% lower than in Illinois. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Michigan 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 Michigan and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
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 |
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The population of Michigan is approximately 20% 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 election, Michigan voted Republican, while Illinois went Democratic.
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In Michigan, summer highs are around 81°F, close to 86°F in Illinois.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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Winter temperatures usually fall to 14°F in Michigan and 17°F in Illinois.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
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In Michigan, you’ll get about 34 inches of rain each year — less than the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
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Each year, Michigan sees about 64 inches of snowfall, while Illinois averages just 22 inches.
With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
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Both Michigan 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. Michigan
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Michigan and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Home of chicago |
Scenic beauty |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Good higher education |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Delicious food |
Low cost of living |
| World-class sports culture |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Michigan
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 Michigan:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Harsh winter weather |
Cold snowy winters |
| Bad traffic |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| High crime rate |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Dull landscape |
Expensive education |
| Strict laws |
Thick accents |
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.
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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.
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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.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Michigan 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 Michigan, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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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 Michigan 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, 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.
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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 Michigan
While you’re in Michigan, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Michigan?
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 Michigan on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Michigan?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to Michigan to enjoy all the great benefits Michigan provides, such as scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Michigan?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Michigan.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 12% less and home prices 1% lower than in Illinois.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, 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 Michigan?
Thinking of moving to Michigan on your own? You’ll want to earn around $54,934 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,608 per month, or around $6,859 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids 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 Michigan, you’ll likely pay between $1,636–$4,394 with professional movers, roughly
$1,673 for a moving container, and about
$573
for a rental truck.
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