How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to MT move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 100 Illinois moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
-
Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
-
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 Montana?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to Montana.
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 |
$1,176 – $4,330 |
$896 – $2,266 |
$782 – $1,464 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,753 – $6,045 |
$1,635 – $3,236 |
$853 – $1,796 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,511 – $8,522 |
$2,154 – $4,215 |
$1,151 – $2,326 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,364-mile move from IL to
MT 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 Montana
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Illinois to Montana,
you can expect prices to land between $1,176
and $4,330.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,753 to
$6,045 for the trip from IL
to MT. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,511 and
$8,522.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Montana
Moving containers from Illinois to Montana
will cost you $896 to
$2,266 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,635
to $3,236. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,154 to
$4,215.
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 Montana
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
$782
and $1,464
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $853
to $1,796.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,151
to $2,326.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to MT
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Illinois to Montana. 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.
-
Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Illinois generally comes with a higher price tag.
-
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 MT
Making the move from Illinois to Montana means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Montana
A clear look at the cost differences between Illinois and Montana 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 |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
6.75% |
-
You’ll pay about 17% less in rent in Montana compared to Illinois, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
-
Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Montana are usually around 86% higher than what you’ll find in Illinois.
-
Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 15% lower Montana than in Illinois.
-
Living in Montana costs 11% more than in Illinois. If you’re relocating to Montana, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
-
With an unemployment rate around 38% lower than Illinois, Montana offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
-
Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Illinois.
-
State income taxes in Montana are 36% higher than in Illinois, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Montana 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 Montana and Illinois compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Montana |
Illinois |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
19.7 |
-
The population of Montana is about 91% 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.
-
In the latest presidential election, Montana voted Republican, while Illinois chose Democratic.
-
Summer highs average 84°F in Montana, compared to 86°F in Illinois.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Winter lows in Montana hover around 12°F, while Illinois averages 17°F.
When temperatures are this close, your move won’t bring big seasonal surprises.
-
You can expect only about 15 inches of annual rainfall in Montana versus 40 inches of rainfall in Illinois.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
Each year, Montana gets about 49 inches of snow, while Illinois sees only 22 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
-
Montana has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with crime indexes at 23.37 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. Montana
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Montana compared to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Home of chicago |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious food |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| World-class sports culture |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Montana
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 Montana:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Montana |
| Harsh winter weather |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Bad traffic |
Remote lifestyle |
| High crime rate |
Touristy |
| Dull landscape |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| Strict laws |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Montana 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:
In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Montana moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Montana, 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 Montana 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss 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 Montana
You’ll have plenty to explore in Montana! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Montana?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Montana?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Illinois for Montana, drawn by advantages like unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Montana?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Montana.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 21% less and home prices 46% lower than in Montana.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Montana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Montana, you should aim to make around $62,210.
On average, expect to spend about $2,225 per month, or $5,468 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Billings and Missoula 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
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
For a move from Illinois to Montana, budget between $2,753–$6,045 for full-service movers, around
$2,435 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,324
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
