How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to WI move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 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 Wisconsin?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois
to Wisconsin, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$813 – $2,881 |
$553 – $1,387 |
$277 – $500 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,402 – $4,143 |
$1,066 – $2,057 |
$304 – $605 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$1,854 – $5,241 |
$1,406 – $2,499 |
$376 – $733 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 265-mile relocation from IL to
WI, 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 Wisconsin
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to Wisconsin, you’ll likely pay between
$813
and $2,881.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$1,402 and $4,143
for the same journey (IL to WI).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $1,854
to $5,241.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Wisconsin
When you’re heading from Illinois to Wisconsin, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $553 and
$1,387. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,066 and
$2,057. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,406
to $2,499. 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 Wisconsin
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
$277
to $500.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $304
to $605, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Illinois to Wisconsin costs around
$376 to
$733.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to WI
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to Wisconsin. 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 WI
If you’re moving to Wisconsin from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Wisconsin
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and Wisconsin can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Illinois |
Wisconsin |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$1,100 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$306,566 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$72,458 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
5.43% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
7.65% |
-
Rent in Wisconsin is around 7% less than in Illinois, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
-
Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Wisconsin are typically about 23% higher than in Illinois.
-
Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Wisconsin are about 8% lower than in Illinois.
-
The cost of living is 10% higher in Wisconsin than in Illinois. If you’re making the move to Wisconsin with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
-
Wisconsin 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.
-
Sales tax in Wisconsin is 38% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Wisconsin can really help cut down your living expenses.
-
Income taxes in Wisconsin are 55% 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Wisconsin |
Illinois |
| Population |
5,910,955 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
48″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
16.82 |
19.7 |
-
The population of Wisconsin is approximately 53% 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.
-
In the most recent presidential election, Wisconsin voted Republican, while Illinois went Democratic.
-
In Wisconsin, summer highs are around 81°F, close to 86°F in Illinois.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
-
In the coldest months, Wisconsin sees lows of 7°F compared to 17°F in Illinois.
That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
-
In Wisconsin, you’ll get about 34 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.
-
Each year, Wisconsin sees about 48 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.
-
Wisconsin is a safer choice than Illinois, boasting a lower crime index of 16.82 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. Wisconsin
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Wisconsin and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Wisconsin |
| Home of chicago |
Low cost of living |
| Ample economic opportunity |
High quality of life |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Abundant outdoor recreational activities |
| Delicious food |
Unique tasty food |
| World-class sports culture |
Borders great lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Wisconsin |
| Harsh winter weather |
High tax burden |
| Bad traffic |
Extreme seasonal weather |
| High crime rate |
Lack of diversity |
| Dull landscape |
Poor roads |
| Strict laws |
High rate of alcoholism |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Wisconsin 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 providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state.
However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
-
State regulator:
You can verify a Wisconsin moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin 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. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
-
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 Wisconsin
While you’re in Wisconsin, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Wisconsin
- Harley-Davidson Museum
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- Civil War Museum
- Hearthstone Historic House Museum
- Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame
Parks in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Deer Park
- Cave Point County Park
- Timbavati Wildlife Park
- Carson Park
- Petrifying Springs Park
Sports teams in Wisconsin
- Green Bay Packers (NFL)
- Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)
- Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)
- Wisconsin Herd (NBA G League)
- Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)
Universities in Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Marquette University
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Wisconsin?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Wisconsin?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Wisconsin?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to Wisconsin to enjoy all the great benefits Wisconsin provides, such as low cost of living and high quality of life.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Wisconsin?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Wisconsin.
Housing
is more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 7% less and home prices 19% lower than in Wisconsin.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Wisconsin residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Wisconsin?
Thinking of moving to Wisconsin on your own? You’ll want to earn around $58,399 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,391 per month, or around $5,463 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Milwaukee and Madison 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
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
When moving from Illinois to Wisconsin, you’ll likely pay between $1,402–$4,143 with professional movers, roughly
$1,561 for a moving container, and about
$454
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
