($1,482) Cost of Moving From Massachusetts to Illinois

Quick answer: Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois usually costs between $983 and $7,847, with most moves taking about two–eight days. Your actual price will depend on the size of your home, the time of your move, and whether you hire pros or go the DIY route.

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 Illinois to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts to Illinois full-service movers

Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois? With thousands of moving companies in the U.S., hiring the right interstate moving company can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we've narrowed down the most reliable movers based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.

Start with these top long-distance moving companies serving Massachusetts for your relocation to 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 Massachusetts

Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Massachusetts based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.

  1. Oscar's Moving Company: 5 out of 5 stars
  2. Boston Best Rate Movers: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  4. Gallo Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. StairHopper Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/oscarsmoving,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Delayed arrival or delivery
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and attentive staff consistently define Oscar's Moving Company, based on analysis of 339 customer inputs. Nearly 84% of feedback expresses satisfaction, pointing to fast service, careful treatment of belongings, professionalism, speedy moving, and open communication as standout qualities. Teams frequently arrive on time, work efficiently, and ensure property is protected. Many highlight helpful communication and a courteous attitude not always found with other movers in the industry. Yet, about 16% of feedback cites issues like damaged goods, missed time windows, and billing surprises. Reports of lost or broken items and charges exceeding quotes occur more than with top competitors. Despite some lapses, the high rate of repeat business suggests Oscar's consistently outperforms most local options for professionalism and efficiency while keeping prices transparent for the majority of customers.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 31320

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1637689

Alternate Names: Oscar's Moving Company


Oscar's Moving Company, established in 2008, specializes in local residential moving services in and around Newton, MA. Unlike many nearby movers, Oscar's Moving Company boasts a stellar reputation with a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, an impressive 4.8-star average on Google My Business, and a solid 3.8-star average on Yelp from 143 reviews. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing and unpacking, and even have the capability to move pianos. Customers can pay by credit card, though a deposit is required.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BostonBestRateMovers,
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Affordable rates
Customer Complaints
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Damage to items
  • Poor complaint handling
Review Analysis
Boston Best Rate Movers earns applause for its swift, careful, and professional moving teams. Out of 248 pieces of customer feedback, 96% praised factors like efficiency, attention to detail, professionalism, timely arrivals, and budget-friendly rates. Customers often highlight careful wrapping, fast-paced teams, courteous staff, and straightforward pricing that rarely incurs surprises. Users also welcome the ease of the booking process and the respectful treatment of property—qualities that place BBRM ahead of many local competitors. Only a handful of reviewers express frustration with unexpected costs, item damage, or unsatisfactory complaint resolution, noting higher-than-expected bills, difficult claims processes, or unresolved breakage issues. Even so, Boston Best Rate Movers consistently delivers an experience that exceeds expectations for reliability and service quality compared to other movers in the Boston area.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 31391

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1718049

Alternate Names: Flat Rate Moving & Storage, Inc.


Boston Best Rate Movers has been a trusted name for local residential moves in and around Waltham, MA since 2006. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and handling fragile items, making them an excellent choice for meticulous movers. Clients consistently praise their reliability, as evidenced by their 4.7 average rating across 32 Yelp reviews and 530 Google reviews, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, their no-deposit policy and acceptance of credit cards add to their customer-friendly approach.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/OlympiaMovingandStorage/, https://twitter.com/olympiams
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Inaccurate estimates
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Moving with Olympia means speed, professionalism, and care—nearly 85% of customers praise efficient crews, courteous staff, and thoughtful handling of belongings. Many describe clear communication and a smooth moving process, often noting Olympia’s reliability and thoroughness compared to other moving companies. Clients highlight quick responses, well-organized teams, and genuine respect for property, making even challenging relocations feel manageable. Some feedback points to recurring issues with poor packing that results in damaged items, final bills that surpass the original estimates, and occasional communication lapses, especially when addressing problems or claims. While most reported positive interactions, a notable group experienced broken or missing items and found it difficult to resolve disputes. For those seeking a moving company known for professionalism and efficiency, Olympia stands out, but potential customers should verify the estimate details and clarify communication protocols to avoid misunderstandings that some reviewers encountered. This analysis is based on 382 reviews, with the vast majority—84.8%—being positive.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 70719

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 70719


Olympia Moving & Storage, located in Watertown, MA, has been providing exceptional local residential moving services since 1994. They stand out among nearby moving companies with their comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, and the ability to move delicate items such as pianos, antiques, and safes. Their reputation is solid, boasting a Yelp average rating of 4.1 from 148 reviews, a Google My Business rating of 4.5 from 229 reviews, and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Olympia Moving & Storage also accepts credit cards and offers full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.

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
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/Gallomoving/, https://twitter.com/gallomoving
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Gallo Moving & Storage, LLC racks up rave input for professional, courteous teams who handle belongings with care and keep lines of communication open. Across 194 pieces of feedback, 91% give top marks, highlighting efficient service, attention to detail, and staff who are both friendly and responsive. Customers often mention careful handling of goods, smooth moves, and quick turnaround times. Some reviews note issues involving damaged items, higher charges than expected, or misplaced possessions—these negative encounters remain far less frequent than positive ones. Compared with other movers, Gallo stands out for its team’s reliability, customer-focused approach, and clear communication. Fewer storage or long-haul movers maintain this level of satisfaction for such a high percentage of clients.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 1420771

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1420771


Gallo Moving & Storage, LLC, based in Milford, MA, has been a trusted name in local residential moving since 2006. Known for their impressive track record, they boast an average rating of 4.8 from 134 Google reviews and a 4.1 average from 30 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many other nearby movers, Gallo offers comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, as well as specialized moving for pianos, pool tables, and antiques. Clients appreciate their flexible payment options, with no deposit required and full valuation insurance coverage provided.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/stairhoppers/, https://twitter.com/Stairhoppers
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Higher-than-expected costs
  • Unexpected charges
  • Damage to items
Review Analysis
Customers call StairHopper Movers a top choice for hassle-free, fast, and professional moving. Out of 831 customer feedback pieces reviewed, 97.5% gave positive marks. Most highlight efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, speed, and strong communication as major reasons for high satisfaction. Movers stand out for punctuality, wrapping and protecting furniture, and working quickly—often finishing ahead of schedule. Input often references respectful, friendly crews and transparent scheduling updates—a rarity among movers. Some feedback shares that costs ran higher than quoted, often due to extra material charges or underestimated packing needs. Customers occasionally noted surprise fees. A small number mention minor damage or billing complaints. Compared to many moving companies, StairHopper receives consistently stronger praise for reliability and organization, though pricing clarity could be improved. Many say it's the best move they've ever had and would recommend StairHopper to friends or use them again.
Get a Quote

Company Info

State license #: 31321

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1696867


StairHopper Movers, a trusted name in local residential moving since 2004, serves the Boston, MA area with exemplary service. Known for their reliability, they stand out among local competitors with impressive consumer reviews, boasting an average rating of 4.8 on Yelp and a flawless 5.0 on Google. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer comprehensive moving solutions, including packing, unpacking, and specialized services for fragile items and artwork. While a deposit is required, they accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind for their customers.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

The best Massachusetts to Illinois moving container companies

Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Massachusetts and drops it off at your new home in Illinois.

We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:

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 Massachusetts to Illinois moving truck rentals

Looking to cut costs on your move from Massachusetts to Illinois? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.

Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:

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 Massachusetts to Illinois labor-only movers

If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They'll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.

Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from Massachusetts to Illinois.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 19
  • Yelp: 4.7 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 21
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.86 / 5
  • Years in Business: 19
  • Yelp: 4.8 / 5
  • BBB: A+

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

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 91 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts to Illinois?

Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Massachusetts to Illinois. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,482 - $5,946 $1,021 - $2,675 $858 - $1,563
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,174 - $7,847 $2,003 - $3,884 $983 - $1,899
4+ bedrooms $5,275 - $10,114 $2,550 - $4,771 $1,128 - $2,334

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,099 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 Massachusetts to Illinois

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Massachusetts to Illinois will cost between $1,482 and $5,946. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MA to IL will range from $3,174 to $7,847, and a large move from Massachusetts to Illinois will cost from $5,275 to $10,114.

Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to Illinois

Moving containers from Massachusetts to Illinois will cost you $1,021 to $2,675 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,003 to $3,884. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,550 to $4,771. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Massachusetts.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to Illinois

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $858 and $1,563 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $983 to $1,899. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,128 to $2,334.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to IL

A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Massachusetts to Illinois. 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 Massachusetts.
  • 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 MA to IL

When moving from Massachusetts to Illinois, be sure to check out how your new state stacks up against your current one.

Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. Illinois

Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in Massachusetts and Illinois. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:

Massachusetts Illinois
Average rent cost $1,588 $1,179
Average home cost $623,131 $249,224
Average income (per capita) $96,505 $78,433
Cost of Living Index 100 90
Unemployment rate 3.9% 5.3%
Average Sales Tax 6.25% 8.82%
State Income Tax 9.0% 4.95%
  • Rent is about 26% less expensive in Illinois than in Massachusetts, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 60% lower in Illinois than in Massachusetts.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 19% lower in Illinois than in Massachusetts.
  • The cost of living in Illinois is about 10% lower than in Massachusetts. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
  • Illinois has a higher unemployment rate than Massachusetts by about 36%. 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 processes.
  • Sales taxes are 41% higher in Illinois than in Massachusetts. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 45% lower in Illinois than in Massachusetts. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

How life is different in Illinois vs. Massachusetts

Relocating to a new state is more than just scoring a job or signing a lease, it’s all about how your daily life will shape up. Things like weather, safety, local vibes, and community size can really impact your experience. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at what life is like in Illinois compared to Massachusetts across a few key lifestyle factors:

Illinois Massachusetts
Population 12,549,689 7,001,399
Political leaning Democratic 55-45 Democratic 61.5-36.3
Summer high 86ºF 82ºF
Winter low 17ºF 16ºF
Annual rain 40" 49"
Annual snow 22" 47"
Crime index 19.7 13.92
  • If you’re moving from Massachusetts to Illinois, you’ll find Illinois has about 79% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
  • During the last presidential election, both Massachusetts and Illinois supported the Democratic candidate.
  • Summer temperatures usually hit around 86ºF in Illinois and 82ºF in Massachusetts. With these temperatures being similar, you’ll likely have an easy time getting used to the new climate. Just don’t forget to think about humidity, typical weather, and energy costs to get the full picture of summer in your new place.
  • Winter temperatures in Illinois hover around 17ºF, while Massachusetts can dip to a chilly 16ºF. By making the move to Illinois, you’ll enjoy gentler winters, making life a bit easier and often more affordable. Plus, with less snow and cold, you’ll have more chances to get outdoors. If you’re ready to swap snow shovels for sunnier days, this is the perfect change for you.
  • In Illinois, you’ll see about 40 inches of rain each year, less than the 49 inches you’re used to in Massachusetts. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
  • In Illinois, you’ll get about 22 inches of snow each year, far less than the 47 inches you’d see in Massachusetts. That means moving to Illinois will bring milder winters with less shoveling, less upkeep, and fewer weather headaches, making life in the colder months a whole lot easier.
  • Illinois has a higher crime rate than Massachusetts, with a crime index of 19.7 compared to 13.92. While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it's smart to research neighborhoods, stay update

Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. Illinois

Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Illinois versus Massachusetts.

Pros of living in Massachusetts Pros of living in Illinois
Natural beauty Home of Chicago
Excellent education system Ample economic opportunity
Delicious seafood Bountiful recreational opportunities
Bountiful recreational opportunities Delicious food
Home to Boston World-class sports culture

Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. Illinois

No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Massachusetts to Illinois.

Cons of living in Massachusetts Cons of living in Illinois
Bad traffic Harsh winter weather
Poor driving conditions Bad traffic
Harsh winter weather High crime rate
High cost of living Dull landscape
Peculiar liquor laws Strict laws

Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to Illinois move

  • Weather: Illinois' climate is clearly different in the northern and southern halves of the state. The northern half experiences cold winters and mild summers whereas the southern half experiences mild winters and hot and humid summers. Illinois is a part of "tornado alley"
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Illinois moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Illinois does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Illinois. Get started here.
  • 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 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.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.

Things to do in Illinois

Get excited to explore Illinois. Don’t miss these top spots 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 Massachusetts to Illinois? toggle

Hiring a full-service Massachusetts moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Massachusetts to Illinois? toggle

Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from Massachusetts to Illinois separately through one of the top car shipping companies.

What are the benefits of moving from Massachusetts to Illinois? toggle

The main reasons people are moving from Massachusetts to Illinois are the amazing upsides of living in Illinois such as home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.

Is it cheaper to live in Massachusetts or Illinois? toggle

It is generally cheaper to live in Illinois than in Massachusetts. Housing is much more affordable in Illinois, with average rent about 26% less and home prices 60.0% lower than in Massachusetts. Taxes are also lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Massachusetts residents.

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

You should make approximately $ 80,838 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Illinois. The cost of living in Illinois is approximately $ 3,569 per month for an individual and $ 7,930 for a family of four. The exact amount you’ll need to live comfortably may be more or less depending on where in Illinois you live For example, larger cities like Chicago and Aurora will have higher housing costs than those in smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources