How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to NE move
After studying pricing from 100 Illinois movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Nebraska?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to Nebraska.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,034 – $3,416 |
$708 – $1,710 |
$441 – $902 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,926 – $5,022 |
$1,228 – $2,320 |
$480 – $1,019 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,616 – $7,242 |
$1,656 – $3,003 |
$649 – $1,220 |
*Estimated costs for a 632-mile move from IL to
NE are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Nebraska
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Illinois to Nebraska will cost between
$1,034 and
$3,416.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from IL to NE will
range from $1,926 to
$5,022, and a large move from Illinois
to Nebraska will cost from $3,616
to $7,242.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Nebraska
If you’re moving from Illinois to Nebraska,
expect to pay between $708
and $1,710 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,228 up to
$2,320.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,656 and
$3,003. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Nebraska
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$441 and
$902.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $480
and $1,019. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $649 up to
$1,220 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to NE
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Illinois to Nebraska. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Illinois is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from IL to NE
A relocation from Illinois to Nebraska comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Nebraska
Comparing expenses in Illinois and Nebraska shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Illinois |
Nebraska |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$987 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$259,443 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$71,722 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
2.7% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.96% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
6.64% |
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Expect to pay around 16% less in rent in Nebraska than in Illinois, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Home prices are about the same in Nebraska and Illinois, so there’s no need to change up your mortgage budget, unless you’re upgrading your living situation.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Nebraska are about 9% lower than in Illinois.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Nebraska and Illinois, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
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With an unemployment rate about 49% lower than Illinois, Nebraska boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Sales tax in Nebraska is 21% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Nebraska can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 34% higher in Nebraska than in Illinois. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Nebraska vs. Illinois
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Nebraska stacks up against Illinois across important lifestyle factors:
|
Nebraska |
Illinois |
| Population |
1,978,379 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 59.6-39.1 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
13ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
27″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
28″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
21.72 |
19.7 |
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With a population about 84% smaller than Illinois, Nebraska offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
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In the most recent presidential election, Nebraska leaned Republican, while Illinois went with Democratic.
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In Nebraska, summer highs hover around 87°F, while Illinois sits at 86°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Nebraska reaches about 13°F and Illinois gets down to 17°F.
When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
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You’ll enjoy about 27 inches of rain each year in Nebraska, compared to 40 inches in Illinois.
With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
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Every year, Nebraska gets around 28 inches of snow, much more than the 22 inches that Illinois typically sees.
With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
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Nebraska has a higher crime rate than Illinois with a crime index of 21.72 vs. 19.7.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Nebraska
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Nebraska versus Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Nebraska |
| Home of chicago |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Four seasons |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Beautiful storms |
| Delicious food |
Abundant rivers |
| World-class sports culture |
Wide-open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Nebraska
Moving from Illinois to Nebraska comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Nebraska |
| Harsh winter weather |
Dull landscape |
| Bad traffic |
Natural disasters |
| High crime rate |
Bad weather |
| Dull landscape |
Small-town life |
| Strict laws |
Limited entertainment |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Nebraska move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
The Nebraska Public Service Commission (NPSC) regulates local and intrastate moving companies within the state.
All movers must have a Certificate of Authority issued by the NPSC, maintain minimum levels of insurance, and comply with regulations set forth by the Commission’s Motor Carrier Division. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Nebraska moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Nebraska, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Nebraska without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost choice with minimal coverage, as movers are liable for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For example, if your mover misplaces or damages a valuable antique weighing 30 pounds, you’d receive $18 (60 cents x 30 pounds). For broader coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider consulting a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Nebraska
Get ready to discover all that Nebraska has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Nebraska
- Museum of American Speed
- The Durham Museum
- Joslyn Art Museum
- Great Platte River Road Archway Monument
- Omaha Children’s Museum
Parks in Nebraska
- Heartland of America Park
- Pioneer Park Nature Center
- Kenefick Park
- First National’s Spirit of Nebraska’s Wilderness and Pioneer Courage Park
- Holmes Park & Lake
Sports teams in Nebraska
- Lincoln Stars (USHL)
- Omaha Lancers (USHL)
- Omaha Storm Chasers (Triple-A East)
- Tri-City Storm Hockey USHL
- Creighton Bluejays (NCAA)
Universities in Nebraska
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Creighton University
- University of Nebraska at Omaha
- University of Nebraska Medical Center
- University of Nebraska at Kearney
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Nebraska?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Nebraska?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Nebraska?
The main reasons people are moving from Illinois to Nebraska are the amazing upsides of living in Nebraska, such as ample economic opportunity and four seasons.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Nebraska?
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 19% less and home prices 4% lower than in Nebraska.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Nebraska residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Nebraska?
You should make approximately $71,756 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Nebraska.
The cost of living in Nebraska is about $3,134 per month for an individual and $5,680 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Omaha and Lincoln tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Some movers in Illinois provide budget-friendly deals.
In Illinois, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 1 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 2 movers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Illinois to Nebraska, expect to spend between
$1,926–$5,022 if using professional movers, about
$1,774 for a moving container, and around
$749
for a rental truck.
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