When moving from Illinois to Pennsylvania, you’ll likely pay between $2,061–$5,559 with professional movers, roughly
$2,016 for a moving container, and about
$862
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Illinois
In Illinois, there are 76 interstate moving companies available to accommodate your move to Pennsylvania. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Illinois, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Mid-West Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- New City Moving: 4.64 out of 5 stars
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
Company Info
State license #: 214845
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2882675
Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC
Alliance Moving & Storage has been providing dependable local residential moving services in and around Rolling Meadows, IL, since 2016. With an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp and 3.8 on Google, they have earned a solid reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, Alliance Moving & Storage stands out with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, as well as specialized capabilities to move pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. They accept both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a convenient and flexible choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 75043
Years in Business: 41
DOT #: 294025
Mid-West Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in the Elk Grove Village, IL area since 1984, specializing in local residential moves. While their Yelp reviews average at 2.8 from 77 reviews, their stellar Google My Business rating of 4.7 from 385 reviews and an A+ BBB rating speak volumes about their overall customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, Mid-West Moving & Storage distinguishes itself with a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moves like pianos and antiques. They also offer full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking for added peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 93712
Years in Business: 34
DOT #: 504435
Alternate Names: Golan’s Moving and Storage, Inc.
Golan’s Moving & Storage, Inc., based in Skokie, IL, has been a staple in the local moving industry since 1992, specializing in residential moves within the area. With a strong reputation backed by 553 Yelp reviews averaging 3.5 stars, and an impressive 4.5-star rating from 556 Google reviews, they stand out among nearby moving companies. They boast an A+ rating from the BBB, underscoring their commitment to customer satisfaction. Offering a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques, Golan’s Moving & Storage ensures a smooth and efficient moving experience with full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
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
The best Illinois to Pennsylvania moving container companies
Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Illinois and dropping it off at your new home in Pennsylvania.
Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:
|
|
|
|
rating
The best Illinois to Pennsylvania moving truck rentals
Want to save money on your move from Illinois to Pennsylvania? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you’ll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
|
|
|
|
The best Illinois to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
|
|
|
|
How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to PA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 98 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
- 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 Pennsylvania?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois to Pennsylvania, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,100 – $3,607 | $766 – $1,713 | $525 – $986 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,061 – $5,559 | $1,379 – $2,653 | $555 – $1,170 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,785 – $7,655 | $1,866 – $3,214 | $722 – $1,461 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 731-mile relocation from IL to PA, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 04, 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 Pennsylvania
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to Pennsylvania, you’ll likely pay between $1,100 and $3,607. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,061 and $5,559 for the same journey (IL to PA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,785 to $7,655.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Pennsylvania
When you’re heading from Illinois to Pennsylvania, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $766 and $1,713. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,379 and $2,653. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,866 to $3,214. 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 Pennsylvania
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 $525 to $986. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $555 to $1,170, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Illinois to Pennsylvania costs around $722 to $1,461.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to PA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to Pennsylvania. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
- How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
- The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Illinois when demand for movers is highest.
- 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 PA
If you’re moving to Pennsylvania from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Pennsylvania
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and Pennsylvania can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
| Illinois | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,179 | $1,110 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $73,170 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 99 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 3.4% |
| Average sales tax | 8.82% | 6.34% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 3.07% |
- Rent in Pennsylvania is around 6% less than in Illinois, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
- Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Pennsylvania are typically about 8% higher than in Illinois.
- Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Pennsylvania are about 7% lower than in Illinois.
- The cost of living is 10% higher in Pennsylvania than in Illinois. If you’re making the move to Pennsylvania with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
- Pennsylvania boasts an unemployment rate about 36% 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.
- Sales tax in Pennsylvania is 28% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Pennsylvania can really help cut down your living expenses.
- Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 38% lower than in Illinois. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
| Pennsylvania | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,961,683 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-49 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 83ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 44″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 38″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 17.62 | 19.7 |
- The population of Pennsylvania and Illinois is similar. You’ll likely experience comparable scale and access, but the local vibe, economy, and lifestyle will determine how your new home feels day to day.
- In the most recent presidential election, Pennsylvania voted Republican, while Illinois went Democratic.
- In Pennsylvania, summer highs are around 83°F, close to 86°F in Illinois. With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
- Winter temperatures usually fall to 19°F in Pennsylvania and 17°F in Illinois. With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
- In Pennsylvania, 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, Pennsylvania sees about 38 inches of snowfall, while Illinois averages just 22 inches. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
- Pennsylvania is a safer choice than Illinois, boasting a lower crime index of 17.62 compared to 19.7. You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Pennsylvania
New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in Pennsylvania and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois | Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Home of chicago | Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity | Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Beautiful landscapes |
| Delicious food | Ample economic opportunity |
| World-class sports culture | Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania:
| Cons of living in Illinois | Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Harsh winter weather | Harsh winter weather |
| Bad traffic | Bad driving conditions |
| High crime rate | Nuclear power plants |
| Dull landscape | Unpredictable weather |
| Strict laws | High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Pennsylvania 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: For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
- State regulator: You can verify a Pennsylvania moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Pennsylvania, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
- 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 Pennsylvania 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. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
- 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 Pennsylvania
While you’re in Pennsylvania, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- The Hershey Story Museum
- National Civil War Museum
- SteelStacks
- Steamtown National Historic Site
Parks in Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Presque Isle State Park
- Core Creek Park
- Allentown Fish Hatchery
- Rocky Ridge County Park
Sports teams in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
- Philadelphia Eagles Football (NFL)
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)
- Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Universities in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania
- Penn State University
- Carnegie Mellon University.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Pennsylvania?
Going with a full-service Illinois moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Pennsylvania?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from Illinois to Pennsylvania on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Pennsylvania?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to Pennsylvania to enjoy all the great benefits Pennsylvania provides, such as low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Pennsylvania?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Pennsylvania. Housing is more affordable in Illinois, with average rent about 6% less and home prices 7% lower than in Pennsylvania. However, taxes are lower in Pennsylvania, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Pennsylvania?
Thinking of moving to Pennsylvania on your own? You’ll want to earn around $56,150 to cover your expenses comfortably. If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,452 per month, or around $5,603 if you have a family of four. Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh 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
Illinois moving services
Popular Illinois routes
Popular moving resources
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
