How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to NJ 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 New Jersey?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to New Jersey.
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 |
$1,127 – $4,180 |
$759 – $1,825 |
$550 – $1,094 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,227 – $5,541 |
$1,390 – $2,830 |
$612 – $1,351 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,586 – $7,120 |
$1,795 – $3,563 |
$760 – $1,531 |
*Estimated costs for a 893-mile move from IL to
NJ 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 New Jersey
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Illinois to New Jersey will cost between
$1,127 and
$4,180.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from IL to NJ will
range from $2,227 to
$5,541, and a large move from Illinois
to New Jersey will cost from $3,586
to $7,120.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to New Jersey
If you’re moving from Illinois to New Jersey,
expect to pay between $759
and $1,825 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,390 up to
$2,830.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,795 and
$3,563. 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 New Jersey
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
$550 and
$1,094.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $612
and $1,351. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $760 up to
$1,531 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to NJ
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Illinois to New Jersey. 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 NJ
A relocation from Illinois to New Jersey comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. New Jersey
Comparing expenses in Illinois and New Jersey 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 |
New Jersey |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$1,368 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$534,773 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$97,126 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
114 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.6% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
10.7% |
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Rent in New Jersey is approximately 16% higher than in Illinois, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 115% higher in New Jersey than in Illinois.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 24% higher in New Jersey compared to Illinois. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Moving to New Jersey means you’ll be paying 27% more than you did in Illinois. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
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With an unemployment rate about 11% lower than Illinois, New Jersey 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 New Jersey is 25% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in New Jersey can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 116% higher in New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey stacks up against Illinois across important lifestyle factors:
|
New Jersey |
Illinois |
| Population |
9,290,841 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-46.1 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
22ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
23″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
16.2 |
19.7 |
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With a population about 26% smaller than Illinois, New Jersey 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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During the last presidential election, both Illinois and New Jersey supported the Democratic candidate.
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In New Jersey, summer highs hover around 85°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, New Jersey reaches about 22°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.
-
Expect about 48 inches of rain each year in New Jersey, a noticeable difference from the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
In New Jersey, you’ll get about 23 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, Illinois averages around 22 inches annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
-
New Jersey has a lower crime rate than Illinois with a crime index of 16.2 vs. 19.7.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. New Jersey
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in New Jersey versus Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in New Jersey |
| Home of chicago |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Diversity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
World-class entertainment |
| Delicious food |
Leading education |
| World-class sports culture |
Superb health care |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. New Jersey
Moving from Illinois to New Jersey 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 New Jersey |
| Harsh winter weather |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
Congested population |
| High crime rate |
High cost of living |
| Dull landscape |
High tax burden |
| Strict laws |
Terrible traffic |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to New Jersey 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.
-
State licensing:
In New Jersey, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs handles the regulation of in-state moving companies.
The state’s Division of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that warehousemen (public storage companies) and public movers provide safe, reliable, and ethical services while adhering to all relevant state rules and regulations. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a New Jersey 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 New Jersey, 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 New Jersey 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. Released Value Protection is the most economical option as it incurs no cost. It is provided by movers at no additional charge, but the coverage is minimal. Under this option, no more than 60 cents per pound per article is the responsibility of the mover. For example, if a delicate china set weighing 20 pounds is lost or damaged by the mover, only $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds) would be received. If coverage for the full value of your items is needed, consultation with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider is recommended.
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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 New Jersey
Get ready to discover all that New Jersey has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in New Jersey
- Cape May Lighthouse
- Silverball Retro Arcade Asbury Park
- Battleship New Jersey
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Newark Museum
Parks in New Jersey
- Branch Brook Park
- Laurel Acres Park
- The Frelinghuysen Arboretum
- Roosevelt Park
- Bergen County Zoological Park
Sports teams in New Jersey
- New Jersey Devils (NHL)
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Jets (NFL)
- New York Red Bulls (MLS)
Universities in New Jersey
- Princeton University
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Seton Hall University
- Montclair State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to New Jersey?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to New Jersey?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to New Jersey?
The main reasons people are moving from Illinois to New Jersey are the amazing upsides of living in New Jersey, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and diversity.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or New Jersey?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in New Jersey.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 14% less and home prices 53% lower than in New Jersey.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by New Jersey residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Jersey?
You should make approximately $54,567 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in New Jersey.
The cost of living in New Jersey is about $3,483 per month for an individual and $7,579 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Trenton and Newark 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 New Jersey, expect to spend between
$2,227–$5,541 if using professional movers, about
$2,110 for a moving container, and around
$981
for a rental truck.
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