Best Movers from Illinois to New York (2025 Cost Data)

Quick answer: Moving from Illinois to New York typically costs between $844 and $6,880 and usually takes two–seven days. Your final price depends on the size and timing of your move, and whether you choose professional movers or handle it on your own.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from New York to Illinois guide.

Our track recordtoggle

Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports
Recommended by Time Magazine
Recommended by The New York Times
Recommended by Forbes
Recommended by Money.com
Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best Illinois to New York full-service movers

Thinking about moving from Illinois to New York? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.

Kick off your move from Illinois to New York with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in Illinois.

Best Overall Value
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
read our full review
(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
read our full review
(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
read our full review
(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in Illinois

With so many options, finding a dependable local moving company isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in Illinois, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.

  1. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  3. Move-tastic: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. New City Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Planes Moving & Storage Company: 4.9 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/stimovingandstorage, https://twitter.com/stimovers?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings. Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI's organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 139020

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1308599

Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.


STI Moving & Storage Inc., serving Skokie, IL since 2004, has established itself as a reputable choice for local residential moving. Standing out from competitors, STI boasts an impressive Google rating of 4.7 from over 1000 reviews and holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling for fragile items and antiques. With a competitive rate of $150 per hour and options for full valuation insurance coverage, they cater to a variety of moving needs, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoMover, https://twitter.com/TheProMove1
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication. People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 136144

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 3383907


The Professionals Moving Specialists, serving Chicago, IL, since 2005, are a highly reputable local moving company specializing in residential relocations. With an impressive 4.6 average rating from 1013 Yelp reviews and a perfect 5.0 from 3993 Google My Business reviews, they stand out as a top choice compared to other area movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers a variety of services, including packing, unpacking, and fragile-only packing, as well as the ability to move specialized items such as pianos, pool tables, and antiques. Known for their customer satisfaction and comprehensive services, The Professionals Moving Specialists are well-equipped to handle all local moving needs.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/movetastic, https://x.com/movetastic
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Friendly and approachable staff
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
Review Analysis
Move-tastic moves customers with speed, skill, and care that set the standard for Chicago moving companies. After reviewing 1,169 pieces of feedback, 91% praised their efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moves, and friendly staff—qualities mentioned far more than in most moving company reviews. Customers frequently highlight how the moving teams are not only fast and organized, but also protect homes and belongings with diligence and respect, often completing jobs ahead of schedule and below the original estimate. The booking process and communication draw special mention for ease and transparency. Conversely, 7% of customers cite issues such as damage to items, unexpected costs, or delayed arrival, reflecting the main patterns among negative input. Some report furniture scratches or losses, with a few noting the claims process or repair follow-up as challenging; a handful mentioned bills far exceeding quoted rates or frustration over slow moves. Neutral feedback—just under 2%—pointed to sporadic minor mishaps, price increases, or items misplaced and later returned. Move-tastic’s positive feedback dominates, and problems are less common than with most regional competitors, though the risk of damage or extra fees still exists. When compared to others, it's the combination of outstanding efficiency, careful work, and friendly attitude that keeps so many customers recommending Move-tastic again and again.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 158678

Years in Business: 16


Move-tastic, a reputable local moving company based in Chicago, IL, has been delivering exceptional residential moving services since 2009. Comparing favorably to other nearby movers, Move-tastic stands out with over 2,000 positive reviews, boasting an impressive 4.6 Yelp rating and a stellar 4.9 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their comprehensive service offerings include packing, unpacking, and office moving services, and they also provide labor-only services. Move-tastic secures customer trust by accepting both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a reliable and convenient choice for local moves.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/NewCityMoving, https://twitter.com/newcitymoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move. While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 158051

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 3078026

Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.


New City Moving, a reputable moving company based in Chicago, IL, has been providing local residential moving services since 2010. With an impressive 4.7 average rating from 1,096 Yelp reviews and a 4.8 average rating from 2,393 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby movers. They also boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. Beyond local moves, New City Moving offers office moving, packing, and unpacking services, along with full valuation insurance coverage. They accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring a flexible payment process.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/teamplanes/,
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Moving reliability makes all the difference, and Planes Moving & Storage stands out in customer feedback. 232 reviews were analyzed, with nearly nine out of ten customers satisfied. Customers rave about Planes’ professional and polite teams, efficient moving processes, careful handling of items, fast service, and consistent communication. Many moves finished ahead of schedule without hidden costs. On the downside, a few reported item damage, inaccurate cost estimates, and occasional lost belongings, which affected their trust in the process. Some also flagged issues when delivery or claims didn't match their expectations. Compared to similar companies, Planes earns stronger praise for staff professionalism and handling but loses ground with damage and claim resolution concerns. This feedback points to a moving company that gets high marks for speed, courtesy, and organization, though some clients face setbacks with damage and missed estimates.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 7545

Years in Business: 104

DOT #:  1458935

Alternate Names: Planes Moving & Storage of Chicago, L.L.C.


Planes Moving & Storage Company, established in 1921, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Aurora, IL. With a strong reputation built over a century, the company also provides packing, unpacking, and crating services, ensuring valuable items like pianos and antiques are handled with care. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, a 4.7 average rating from 320 Google reviews, and a solid consumer satisfaction. While their Yelp reviews show mixed feedback with a 3.1 average rating, their long-standing presence and comprehensive service offerings make them a trustworthy choice compared to other local movers.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

The best Illinois to New York moving container companies

Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in Illinois and drop it off at your new home in New York.

Check out these highly rated moving container companies:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best Illinois to New York moving truck rentals

If you want to save money moving from Illinois to New York, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
Licensedcheckmark
Insuredcheckmark
Price dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign dollar sign
  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best Illinois to New York labor-only movers

Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.

When you’re getting ready to move from Illinois to New York, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 20
  • Yelp: 2.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 20
  • Yelp: 4.5 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 16
  • Yelp: 4.6 / 5
  • BBB: C

How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to NY movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 63 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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 York?

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Illinois to New York with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,422 - $5,523 $954 - $2,343 $773 - $1,449
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,974 - $6,880 $1,731 - $3,499 $844 - $1,756
4+ bedrooms $4,580 - $9,710 $2,305 - $4,677 $1,017 - $2,174

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 922 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from Illinois to New York

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Illinois to New York, you can expect to spend between $1,422 and $5,523. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,974 to $6,880 on the same route (IL to NY). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Illinois to New York typically runs between $4,580 and $9,710.

Cost of moving containers from Illinois to New York

If you're moving from Illinois to New York, expect to pay between $954 and $2,343 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,731 up to $3,499. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,305 and $4,677. 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 York

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $773 and $1,449. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $844 to $1,756. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,017 and $2,174.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to NY

A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Illinois to New York. Here’s what might influence your total price:

  • Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
  • Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in Illinois.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.

What to know before moving from IL to NY

If you’re making the move from Illinois to New York, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.

Cost of living: Illinois vs. New York

Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in Illinois and New York. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:

Illinois New York
Average rent cost $1,179 $1,507
Average home cost $249,224 $482,742
Average income (per capita) $78,433 $81,386
Cost of Living Index 90 100
Unemployment rate 5.3% 4.4%
Average Sales Tax 8.82% 8.52%
State Income Tax 4.95% 10.9%
  • Rent is about 28% more expensive in New York than in Illinois; make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 94% higher in New York than in Illinois.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 4% higher in New York than in Illinois, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • The cost of living is 11% higher in New York than in Illinois. If you're making the move to New York with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
  • New York has a lower unemployment rate than Illinois by about 17%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 3% lower in New York than in Illinois. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in New York can reduce your overall living expenses.
  • Income taxes are 120% higher in New York 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 York vs. Illinois

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a new home, it’s about how your everyday life will actually feel. Factors like climate, safety, local culture, and the community’s size can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s a quick comparison of what life is like in New York versus Illinois across key lifestyle categories:

New York Illinois
Population 19,571,216 12,549,689
Political leaning Democratic 60-40 Democratic 55-45
Summer high 81ºF 86ºF
Winter low 16ºF 17ºF
Annual rain 44" 40"
Annual snow 62" 22"
Crime index 21.51 19.7
  • If you’re relocating from Illinois to New York, you’ll notice that New York has about 56% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
  • The last presidential election saw both Illinois and New York siding with the Democratic party.
  • Summers in New York average 81ºF, while Illinois hits highs of 86ºF. Opting for a cooler destination means less heat, lower energy bills, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, perfect if you prioritize comfort and enjoy spending time outside.
  • During winter, temperatures in New York can drop to around 16ºF, while Illinois usually only experiences lows near 17ºF. Moving to New York means adjusting to chillier winters, which could bring higher heating costs and more intense weather. On the bright side, you’ll also get to enjoy the unique charm and winter activities that come with a colder climate.
  • In New York, you’ll see about 44 inches of rain each year—nearly identical to the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois. While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
  • Each year, New York gets about 62 inches of snow, far more than the 22 inches you might be accustomed to in Illinois. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation, regular upkeep, and dressing warmly.
  • New York has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with crime indexes at 21.51 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. New York

Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in New York to Illinois.

Pros of living in Illinois Pros of living in New York
Home of Chicago Natural beauty
Ample economic opportunity Arts
Bountiful recreational opportunities Ample economic opportunity
Delicious food Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities
World-class sports culture Distinct seasons

Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. New York

Moving from Illinois to New York 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 York
Harsh winter weather High tax burden
Bad traffic Rough winter weather
High crime rate High cost of living
Dull landscape Poor quality healthcare
Strict laws Populous

Other things to consider for your Illinois to New York move

  • Weather: The climate of New York state is generally has warm to hot summers and cold winters. In the farther southeastern portion of the state (New York City and Long Island area) hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters. Winter temperatures average below freezing during January and February in much of New York state, but several degrees above freezing along the Atlantic coastline, including New York City.
  • 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: 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 require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
  • State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state's safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
  • State regulator: Easily verify a New York moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in New York, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
  • 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 York right on schedule. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage 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.
  • Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

Things to do in New York

You’ll have plenty to explore in New York! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:

Museums in New York

  • The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
  • The Strong National Museum of Play
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • New York State Museum
  • Erie Canal Museum

Parks in New York

  • Brooklyn Bridge Park
  • Central Park
  • Flushing Meadows Corona Park
  • Gantry Plaza State Park
  • Robert Moses State Park

Sports Teams in New York

  • Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA)
  • Buffalo Bills (NFL)
  • Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
  • New York City FC (MLS)
  • New York Islanders (NHL)

Universities in New York

  • Cornell University
  • Columbia University in the City of New York
  • New York University
  • University of Rochester
  • University at Buffalo, State University of New York

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to New York? toggle

If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service Illinois moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Illinois to New York? toggle

Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from Illinois to New York using a top-rated auto transport company.

What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to New York? toggle

An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to New York to enjoy all the great benefits New York provides, such as: natural beauty and arts.

Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or New York? toggle

Living in Illinois usually costs less than in New York. Housing is much more affordable in Illinois, with average rent about 22% less and home prices 48% lower than in New York. Taxes are also lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by New York residents.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New York? toggle

Thinking of moving to New York on your own? You’ll want to earn around $39,029 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living on your own, expect to spend about $5,700 per month, or around $13,509 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like New York City and Brooklyn tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources