How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to IL move
Using rate data from 29 Kentucky movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Kentucky to Illinois?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Kentucky
to Illinois with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$984 – $3,118 |
$648 – $1,554 |
$338 – $654 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,753 – $4,806 |
$1,084 – $2,077 |
$360 – $790 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$2,884 – $7,080 |
$1,556 – $2,872 |
$471 – $929 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 409-mile move from KY to
IL, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Kentucky to Illinois
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Kentucky to Illinois,
you can expect to spend between $984
and $3,118.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $1,753 to
$4,806 on the same route
(KY to IL). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Kentucky to Illinois typically runs between
$2,884 and
$7,080.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to Illinois
Moving from Kentucky to Illinois? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $648 and
$1,554. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,084 to
$2,077. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,556 up to
$2,872. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Kentucky.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kentucky to Illinois
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$338 and
$654.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$360 and
$790.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $471 and
$929.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to IL
There are many factors that influence Kentucky moving costs. The cost to move from Kentucky to Illinois will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Kentucky fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from KY to IL
Moving between Kentucky and Illinois involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. Illinois
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Kentucky and Illinois. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Kentucky |
Illinois |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$1,179 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$78,433 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
5.3% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
8.82% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
4.95% |
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Rent costs 31% more in Illinois compared to Kentucky. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Illinois to be about 18% more than what you’ll find in Kentucky.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 30% more in Illinois compared to Kentucky. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Kentucky and Illinois, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Illinois has a higher unemployment rate than Kentucky by about 6%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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Shoppers in Illinois pay about 47% more in sales tax than those in Kentucky, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Income taxes in Illinois are 24% higher than in Kentucky. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in Illinois vs. Kentucky
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Illinois differs from Kentucky in these areas.
|
Illinois |
Kentucky |
| Population |
12,549,689 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 55-45 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
86ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
40″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
22″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
19.7 |
16.63 |
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If you’re relocating from Kentucky to Illinois, you’ll notice that Illinois has about 177% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, Illinois voted Democratic and Kentucky voted Republican.
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Summer highs in Illinois average 86°F, almost the same as 87°F in Kentucky.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winter in Illinois can dip to 17°F, colder than the 24°F lows in Kentucky.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In Illinois, you’ll see about 40 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in Kentucky.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
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In Illinois, it snows about 22 inches annually while Kentucky gets only about 11 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
Illinois reports a higher crime rate than Kentucky, with a crime index of 19.7 versus 16.63.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Kentucky vs. Illinois
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Illinois stacks up against Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in Illinois |
| Low cost of living |
Home of chicago |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious food and drink |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Horse racing |
Delicious food |
| Four season weather |
World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. Illinois
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Kentucky to Illinois, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in Illinois |
| Extreme weather |
Harsh winter weather |
| Low diversity |
Bad traffic |
| Poor air quality |
High crime rate |
| Poor infrastructure |
Dull landscape |
| Poor education system |
Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to Illinois move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
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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.
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State licensing:
In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission.
To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Illinois moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Illinois right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Illinois
Get ready to discover Illinois. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Illinois
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
Parks in Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee river State Park
Sports teams in Illinois
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
Universities in Illinois
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- Northern Illinois University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Kentucky to Illinois?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky to Illinois?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Kentucky to Illinois
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to Illinois?
More and more folks are relocating from Kentucky to Illinois to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky or Illinois?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in Illinois.
Housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 23% less and home prices 15% lower than in Illinois.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Illinois?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Illinois, aim for an income of around $83,234 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,434 if you’re flying solo, or $7,489 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Chicago and Aurora usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Kentucky?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Kentucky.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Kentucky to Illinois, professional movers typically run between
$1,753 and $4,806, a moving container averages about
$1,580, and a rental truck is around
$575.
Fact Checked by:
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