How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to NM move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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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 New Mexico?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois
to New Mexico, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,144 – $4,271 |
$879 – $2,002 |
$686 – $1,267 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,419 – $5,793 |
$1,499 – $3,026 |
$779 – $1,614 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,241 – $7,792 |
$2,087 – $4,074 |
$904 – $1,871 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,114-mile relocation from IL to
NM, 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 New Mexico
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to New Mexico, you’ll likely pay between
$1,144
and $4,271.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,419 and $5,793
for the same journey (IL to NM).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,241
to $7,792.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to New Mexico
When you’re heading from Illinois to New Mexico, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $879 and
$2,002. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,499 and
$3,026. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,087
to $4,074. 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 New Mexico
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
$686
to $1,267.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $779
to $1,614, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Illinois to New Mexico costs around
$904 to
$1,871.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to NM
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to New Mexico. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Illinois when demand for movers is highest.
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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 NM
If you’re moving to New Mexico from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. New Mexico
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and New Mexico can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Illinois |
New Mexico |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$966 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$303,910 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$58,722 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
7.61% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
5.9% |
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Rent in New Mexico is around 18% less than in Illinois, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in New Mexico are typically about 22% higher than in Illinois.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in New Mexico are about 25% lower than in Illinois.
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With the cost of living being about the same in New Mexico and Illinois, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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New Mexico boasts an unemployment rate about 45% 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.
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Sales tax in New Mexico is 14% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in New Mexico can really help cut down your living expenses.
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Income taxes in New Mexico are 19% higher than in Illinois, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in New Mexico 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 New Mexico and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
New Mexico |
Illinois |
| Population |
2,113,344 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.9-45.9 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
20ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
24″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
38.81 |
19.7 |
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The population of New Mexico is approximately 83% 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.
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In the most recent presidential race, both Illinois and New Mexico leaned Democratic.
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In New Mexico, summer highs are around 88°F, close to 86°F in Illinois.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
-
Winter temperatures usually fall to 20°F in New Mexico and 17°F in Illinois.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
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In New Mexico, you’ll get about 15 inches of rain each year — less than the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
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In New Mexico, it snows about 24 inches annually while Illinois gets 22 inches.
With snowfall being similar, you’re likely to experience a smooth transition with no major surprises.
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New Mexico has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with a crime index of 38.81 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. New Mexico
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in New Mexico and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in New Mexico |
| Home of chicago |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Rich culture |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Delicious food and wine |
| Delicious food |
Low cost of living |
| World-class sports culture |
Abundant outdoor activities |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. New Mexico
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 New Mexico:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in New Mexico |
| Harsh winter weather |
Bad roads |
| Bad traffic |
Lackluster economy |
| High crime rate |
Scarce job opportunity |
| Dull landscape |
Slow life |
| Strict laws |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to New Mexico 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:
Movers that operate within the Land of Enchantment are licensed and regulated by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a New Mexico moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in New Mexico, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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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 New Mexico 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, the cost-free, minimal coverage option from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 New Mexico
While you’re in New Mexico, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in New Mexico
- Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Roswell Museum
- Museum of International Folk Art
- El Rancho de las Golondrinas
- International UFO Museum and Research Center
Parks in New Mexico
- Dripping Springs Natural Area
- Spring River Park and Zoo
- Old Fort Marcy Park
- Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area
- City of Rocks State Park
Sports teams in New Mexico
- Albuquerque Isotopes (Triple-A West)
- New Mexico Ice Wolves (NAHL)
- New Mexico United (USL Championship)
Universities in New Mexico
- University of New Mexico
- New Mexico State University
- New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Western New Mexico University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to New Mexico?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to New Mexico?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to New Mexico?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to New Mexico to enjoy all the great benefits New Mexico provides, such as beautiful landscapes and rich culture.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or New Mexico?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in New Mexico.
Housing
is more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 22% less and home prices 18% lower than in New Mexico.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by New Mexico residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Mexico?
Thinking of moving to New Mexico on your own? You’ll want to earn around $67,478 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,664 per month, or around $5,879 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Albuquerque and Las Cruces 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
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When moving from Illinois to New Mexico, you’ll likely pay between $2,419–$5,793 with professional movers, roughly
$2,262 for a moving container, and about
$1,196
for a rental truck.
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