How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to NY 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 York?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois to New York.
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 |
$1,063 – $4,218 |
$798 – $1,957 |
$585 – $1,061 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,181 – $5,686 |
$1,334 – $2,835 |
$664 – $1,261 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,942 – $7,416 |
$1,795 – $3,463 |
$816 – $1,661 |
*Estimated costs for a 908-mile move from IL to
NY 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 York
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Illinois to New York will cost between
$1,063 and
$4,218.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from IL to NY will
range from $2,181 to
$5,686, and a large move from Illinois
to New York will cost from $3,942
to $7,416.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to New York
If you’re moving from Illinois to New York,
expect to pay between $798
and $1,957 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,334 up to
$2,835.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,795 and
$3,463. 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 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
$585 and
$1,061.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $664
and $1,261. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $816 up to
$1,661 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
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:
-
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 NY
A relocation from Illinois to New York comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. New York
Comparing expenses in Illinois and New York 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 York |
| Average rent |
$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% |
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Rent in New York is approximately 28% 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 94% higher in New York than in Illinois.
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Good news — you won’t need to stress about your finances since average incomes are similar in both New York and Illinois.
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Moving to New York means you’ll be paying 11% 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 17% lower than Illinois, New York boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. Illinois and New York have similar rates, making your move easier.
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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
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 York stacks up against Illinois across important lifestyle factors:
|
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 |
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New York is about 56% more populous than Illinois.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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During the last presidential election, both Illinois and New York supported the Democratic candidate.
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In New York, summer highs hover around 81°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 York reaches about 16°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.
-
In New York, you’ll get about 44 inches of rain each year, while Illinois sees around 40 inches annually.
So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
-
Every year, New York gets around 62 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.
-
New York has a higher crime rate than Illinois with a crime index of 21.51 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. New York
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in New York versus 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
-
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.
-
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:
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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a New York 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 York, 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 York 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. 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.
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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 York
Get ready to discover all that New York has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new 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?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to New York?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to New York?
The main reasons people are moving from Illinois to New York are the amazing upsides of living in New York, such as natural beauty and arts.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or New York?
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?
You should make approximately $78,058 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in New York.
The cost of living in New York is about $5,550 per month for an individual and $12,661 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like New York City and Brooklyn 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 York, expect to spend between
$2,181–$5,686 if using professional movers, about
$2,084 for a moving container, and around
$962
for a rental truck.
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