How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to NC move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
-
Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
-
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 North Carolina?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois
to North Carolina, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,100 – $3,786 |
$780 – $1,783 |
$564 – $1,074 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,118 – $5,271 |
$1,362 – $2,683 |
$562 – $1,191 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,715 – $7,552 |
$1,828 – $3,364 |
$756 – $1,489 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 819-mile relocation from IL to
NC, 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 North Carolina
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to North Carolina, you’ll likely pay between
$1,100
and $3,786.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,118 and $5,271
for the same journey (IL to NC).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,715
to $7,552.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to North Carolina
When you’re heading from Illinois to North Carolina, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $780 and
$1,783. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,362 and
$2,683. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,828
to $3,364. 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 North Carolina
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
$564
to $1,074.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $562
to $1,191, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Illinois to North Carolina costs around
$756 to
$1,489.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to NC
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to North Carolina. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
-
How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
-
The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Illinois when demand for movers is highest.
-
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 NC
If you’re moving to North Carolina from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. North Carolina
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and North Carolina can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Illinois |
North Carolina |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$1,093 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$328,715 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$66,186 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.98% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
4.5% |
-
Rent in North Carolina is around 7% less than in Illinois, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
-
Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in North Carolina are typically about 32% higher than in Illinois.
-
Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in North Carolina are about 16% lower than in Illinois.
-
The cost of living is 7% higher in North Carolina than in Illinois. If you’re making the move to North Carolina with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
-
North Carolina boasts an unemployment rate about 30% 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.
-
Sales tax in North Carolina is 21% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in North Carolina can really help cut down your living expenses.
-
Income taxes in North Carolina are 9% 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
North Carolina |
Illinois |
| Population |
10,835,491 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
29ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
24.69 |
19.7 |
-
The population of North Carolina is approximately 14% 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.
-
In the most recent presidential election, North Carolina voted Republican, while Illinois went Democratic.
-
In North Carolina, summer highs are around 88°F, close to 86°F in Illinois.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
-
Winter lows in North Carolina average 29°F, milder than 17°F in Illinois.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
-
Get ready for about 48 inches of rain each year in North Carolina, which is quite a change from the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
-
In North Carolina, you’ll only get about 4 inches of snow each year, much less than Illinois.
That means moving to North Carolina brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
-
North Carolina has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with a crime index of 24.69 compared to 19.7.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. North Carolina
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in North Carolina and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in North Carolina |
| Home of chicago |
Great communities |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious food |
High quality of life |
| World-class sports culture |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. North Carolina
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 North Carolina:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in North Carolina |
| Harsh winter weather |
Hurricanes |
| Bad traffic |
Bland weather |
| High crime rate |
High crime rate |
| Dull landscape |
High tax burden |
| Strict laws |
Poor education |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to North Carolina 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:
For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division.
All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
-
State regulator:
You can verify a North Carolina moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina right on schedule. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
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 North Carolina
While you’re in North Carolina, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in North Carolina
- Biltmore
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
- International Civil Rights Center & Museum
- Greensboro Science Center
- Museum of the Cherokee Indian
Parks in North Carolina
- Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
- Mingo Falls
- The North Carolina Arboretum
- Sarah P. Duke Gardens
- Fontana Lake
Sports teams in North Carolina
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
- North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
- Charlotte FC (MLS)
Universities in North Carolina
- North Carolina State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- East Carolina University
- Appalachian State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to North Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to North Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to North Carolina?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to North Carolina to enjoy all the great benefits North Carolina provides, such as great communities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or North Carolina?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in North Carolina.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 8% less and home prices 24% lower than in North Carolina.
However, taxes are
lower in North Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 9% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Carolina?
Thinking of moving to North Carolina on your own? You’ll want to earn around $43,333 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,876 per month, or around $6,644 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh 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
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
When moving from Illinois to North Carolina, you’ll likely pay between $2,118–$5,271 with professional movers, roughly
$2,022 for a moving container, and about
$876
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
