How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to ND move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 100 Illinois moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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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 North Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to North Dakota.
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 |
$1,087 – $4,340 |
$750 – $1,940 |
$609 – $1,198 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,363 – $5,503 |
$1,446 – $2,921 |
$631 – $1,397 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,736 – $7,125 |
$1,909 – $3,650 |
$784 – $1,565 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 933-mile move from IL to
ND 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 North Dakota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Illinois to North Dakota,
you can expect prices to land between $1,087
and $4,340.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,363 to
$5,503 for the trip from IL
to ND. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,736 and
$7,125.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to North Dakota
Moving containers from Illinois to North Dakota
will cost you $750 to
$1,940 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,446
to $2,921. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,909 to
$3,650.
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 North Dakota
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
$609
and $1,198
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $631
to $1,397.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$784
to $1,565.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to ND
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Illinois to North Dakota. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Illinois generally comes with a higher price tag.
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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 ND
Making the move from Illinois to North Dakota means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. North Dakota
A clear look at the cost differences between Illinois and North Dakota 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 |
North Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$912 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$263,410 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$73,959 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
2.4% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.96% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
2.9% |
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You’ll pay about 23% less in rent in North Dakota compared to Illinois, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in North Dakota are usually around 6% higher than what you’ll find in Illinois.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 6% lower North Dakota than in Illinois.
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Living in North Dakota costs 7% more than in Illinois. If you’re relocating to North Dakota, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 55% lower than Illinois, North Dakota offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in North Dakota is 21% lower than in Illinois. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in North Dakota could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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Income taxes in North Dakota are 41% lower than in Illinois. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in North Dakota 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 North Dakota and Illinois compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
North Dakota |
Illinois |
| Population |
783,926 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 68-32 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
0ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
19″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
22.74 |
19.7 |
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The population of North Dakota is about 94% 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.
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In the latest presidential election, North Dakota voted Republican, while Illinois chose Democratic.
-
Summer highs average 82°F in North Dakota, compared to 86°F in Illinois.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, North Dakota reaches lows near 0°F, colder than 17°F in Illinois.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
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You can expect only about 19 inches of annual rainfall in North Dakota 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, North Dakota gets about 39 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.
-
North Dakota has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with crime indexes at 22.74 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. North Dakota
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in North Dakota compared to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in North Dakota |
| Home of chicago |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Peaceful rural life |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Affordable living costs |
| Delicious food |
High-quality education opportunities |
| World-class sports culture |
Open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. North Dakota
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 North Dakota:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in North Dakota |
| Harsh winter weather |
Long and cold winters |
| Bad traffic |
Lack of diversity |
| High crime rate |
Housing shortages |
| Dull landscape |
Small populations |
| Strict laws |
Relaxed lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to North Dakota 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:
All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a North Dakota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in North Dakota
You’ll have plenty to explore in North Dakota! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in North Dakota
- Red River Zoo
- Fargo Air Museum
- North Dakota Museum of Art
- Roger Maris Museum
- Dickinson Museum Center
Parks in North Dakota
- The Dakota Zoo
- Red River Zoo
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Scandinavian Heritage Park
- Roosevelt Park Zoo
Sports teams in North Dakota
- Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL)
- Fargo Force (USHL)
- Minot Minotauros (NAHL)
Universities in North Dakota
- University of North Dakota
- North Dakota State University
- University of Mary
- Minot State University
- Valley City State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to North Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to North Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to North Dakota?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Illinois for North Dakota, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and peaceful rural life that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or North Dakota?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in North Dakota.
Housing
is more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 29% less and home prices 5% lower than in North Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Dakota?
To live comfortably as a single adult in North Dakota, you should aim to make around $66,980.
On average, expect to spend about $2,516 per month, or $5,264 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Fargo and Bismarck 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
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For a move from Illinois to North Dakota, budget between $2,363–$5,503 for full-service movers, around
$2,183 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,014
for a rental truck.
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