Best Movers from New York to Illinois (2025 Cost Data)

Quick answer: The average cost to move from New York to Illinois ranges from $787 to $6,383 and takes two–seven days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Illinois to New York guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

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The best New York to Illinois full-service movers

Thinking about moving from New York to Illinois? With so many movers out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the legwork, digging into reviews, comparing pricing, and analyzing each mover’s services, to bring you the best interstate moving companies.

Kick off your move from New York to Illinois with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in New York.

Best Overall Value
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 New York

With so many options, finding a dependable local moving company isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in New York, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.

  1. Roadway Moving : 4.96 out of 5 stars
  2. Triangle Movers Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. Flatrate Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  5. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/RoadwayMoving/, https://x.com/roadwaymoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Lack of communication
  • Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Top-rated moves aren’t a myth—Roadway Moving receives glowing feedback for being fast, careful, and professional. Out of 790 reviews, 92% are positive. Most customers highlight efficient and friendly crews, meticulous furniture handling, speedy packing and delivery, and excellent communication throughout the move. Crews wrap and organize everything to prevent damage, and many note stress-free experiences even during complicated or long-distance moves. Many find the booking process easy and the pricing transparent. A few reports mention delays or lost items, and some cite poor communication or surprise charges when things go wrong. Damage to items, lost communication, and unexpected fees lead the small number of negative reviews. Overall, customer input suggests Roadway stands out for reliability, detailed care, and customer focus—making them a stronger choice than many moving competitors, particularly for those seeking peace of mind on move day.
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Company Info

State license #: 38589

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1854436


Roadway Moving, established in 2009, offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around New York, NY. In comparison to other nearby moving companies, Roadway Moving stands out with a remarkable reputation backed by an average Yelp rating of 4.6 from 447 reviews and a Google My Business rating of 4.9 from 1590 reviews. Additionally, they hold an A rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company not only excels in local moves but also provides packing and unpacking services, office moving, and even labor-only services. With no deposit required and an acceptance of credit cards, Roadway Moving promises a seamless and reliable moving experience.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TriangleMovers/, https://twitter.com/TriangleMovers
Customer Praise
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Careful handling
  • Efficient service
  • Quick moving process
  • Helpful movers
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unprofessional behavior
  • Lack of communication
Review Analysis
Customer input on Triangle Movers Inc. highlights standout service with remarkable consistency. Analyzing 189 reviews shows 93.7% of feedback is positive, signaling a high satisfaction rate. Clients often mention professional and polite staff, careful handling of belongings, efficient teamwork, speed, and helpful movers. Many customers experience stress-free moves, appreciate prompt communication, and go out of their way to recommend the company. Negative input, though rare, points to issues such as damaged or missing items, unprofessional crew conduct, and lapses in communication. Some reports also include insurance claim difficulties and mishandling during delivery. Compared to others in the moving industry, Triangle Movers routinely receives praise for reliability and friendliness, with only isolated incidents of dissatisfaction—often related to rare mishaps common across moving companies. The insights provided by customers make Triangle Movers one of the most highly recommended options in its region, especially for those prioritizing careful attention and professionalism.
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Company Info

State license #: 33402

Years in Business: 28

DOT #: 2256609

Alternate Names: Triangle Movers, Inc


Triangle Movers Inc., a reputable moving company established in 1997, provides top-notch local residential moving services in and around Newburgh, NY. Renowned for its superior customer satisfaction, the company boasts an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. What sets Triangle Movers Inc. apart from other local movers is their comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, as well as their specialized capabilities in handling fragile items, pianos, and antiques. With full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking available, this company ensures a hassle-free moving experience.

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 money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/DumboMoving, https://twitter.com/dumbomoving
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Affordable rates
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Unexpected charges
  • Damage to items
  • Unfriendly or rude staff
Review Analysis
Customers call Dumbo Moving a go-to for affordable, fast, and careful moves. Over 2,100 feedback entries show more than half of the input is positive and under 43% negative. Clients praise the team's efficient service, attention to detail, courteous crew, fair quotes, and how quickly they finish both local and long-distance jobs. Many appreciate their careful handling of everything from fragile furniture to electronics. Several people highlight reliable performance compared to pricier competitors, with many repeat customers saying they always get what they expect. On the downside, hundreds report cost problems—unexpected charges, extra fees for minor add-ons, and surprise upcharges once belongings are in the truck. A significant portion warn of property damage left unresolved or poorly compensated, and complaints about staff that come off as unhelpful or pushy are common. While speedy moves and competitive rates stand out, the risk of extra charges and inconsistent customer care means Dumbo moves faster than some firms but often delivers a less predictable experience. Fewer companies inspire such loyalty—or frustration—in a crowded industry.
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Company Info

State license #: 36990

Years in Business: 18

DOT #: 1543241


Dumbo Moving and Storage, based in Brooklyn, NY, has been a reliable local residential moving service provider since 2008. They are highly reputable, offering comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and the ability to move delicate items such as pianos and antiques. With an impressive 3460 reviews on Google averaging 4.4 stars, they stand out positively compared to other nearby movers, despite a more mixed Yelp rating of 3.2 from 1688 reviews and a BBB rating of B. Dumbo Moving and Storage is an excellent choice for local moves, offering professionalism and a wide range of services to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/FlatRateMoving/, https://twitter.com/FlatRate_Moving?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Good communication
  • Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Poor complaint handling
  • Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
FlatRate Moving receives glowing feedback from most customers, with 94% of input highlighting efficiency, skilled handling, professional and courteous staff, clear communication, and speedy moves. Clients mention organized packing and care for belongings, with many moves completed ahead of schedule. Transparent pricing and a streamlined process set the company apart from many competitors in the industry, reducing stress typically linked to moving. Negative experiences are far less common but mainly report damaged or lost items, unresolved claims, and challenges with customer support for complaints. A small segment also notes issues with repeated follow-up needed for claim resolutions or communication lapses after damage occurred. Out of 271 reviews analyzed, an overwhelming majority found the company reliable and highly recommended FlatRate Moving, reflecting a track record that outperforms many moving services in both satisfaction and consistency.
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Company Info

State license #: 32557

Years in Business: 33

DOT #: 488466


Flatrate Moving, serving New York, NY, since 1993, stands out among local moving companies with their commitment to quality and a vast array of services. Specializing in local residential moves, they also offer office moving, packing, unpacking, and crating services, even catering to complex needs like piano moving. With stellar consumer reviews, including a 5.0 average on Yelp and a 4.4 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Flatrate Moving proves to be a reliable and reputable choice. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, providing added convenience and customer peace of mind.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/PieceofCakeMoving/, https://twitter.com/pieceofcakemove?lang=en
Customer Praise
  • Efficient service
  • Careful handling
  • Professional and polite staff
  • Quick moving process
  • Good communication
Customer Complaints
  • Damage to items
  • Unexpected charges
  • Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes relocating feel like a breeze for most customers, with 94.5% of nearly 9,000 reviews giving positive feedback. Their crews often win praise for being efficient, friendly, and showing care with belongings, making moves run quickly and protecting furniture well. Many also mention good communication and stress-free experiences, even for moves under tough conditions. Some reviewers highlight organized packing and transparent pricing as standout qualities that set Piece of Cake above their competition in major cities. Still, a small but notable group (5%) describe frustrating experiences such as item damage, surprise charges not made clear upfront, or missing boxes—and a handful share stories of items lost or mishandled during long-distance moves. A few neutral reviews point out that while customer support is responsive, the packing service can fall short of expectations. Compared to similar companies, Piece of Cake is recognized for consistent service, but it’s important for customers to ensure item lists are accurate and to monitor the moving process. For those seeking a smooth, hands-off move with careful, reliable movers, Piece of Cake comes highly recommended, but vigilance is wise to prevent issues common in the industry.
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Company Info

State license #: 40244

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3066988

Alternate Names: Piece of Cake Moving & Storage LLC


Piece of Cake Moving & Storage offers top-tier local residential moving services in and around New York, NY, setting itself apart from competitors with its reliability and efficiency. Since 2019, this company has garnered a stellar reputation, boasting an impressive 4.7 average rating on Yelp from 1,580 reviews and a 4.8 average rating on Google from 3,214 reviews. They also hold a BBB rating of A-, underscoring their commitment to customer satisfaction. In addition to local moves, their comprehensive services include packing, unpacking, and specialty moves for pianos, art, and antiques. Customers appreciate that they accept credit cards, although a deposit is required.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

The best New York to Illinois moving container companies

Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in New York and drop it off at your new home in Illinois.

Check out these highly rated moving container companies:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best New York to Illinois moving truck rentals

Want to save money on your move from New York to Illinois? 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:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best New York to Illinois labor-only movers

If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that's the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.

For a smooth move from New York to Illinois, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 16
  • Yelp: 4.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.96 / 5
  • Years in Business: 28
  • Yelp: 4.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
  • Years in Business: 18
  • Yelp: 3.1 / 5
  • BBB: A

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

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 121 New York 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 New York to Illinois?

Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from New York to Illinois. 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 $1,344 - $4,777 $1,044 - $2,416 $773 - $1,434
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,758 - $6,383 $1,749 - $3,711 $787 - $1,722
4+ bedrooms $4,339 - $8,485 $2,329 - $4,677 $1,028 - $2,091

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 922 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 New York to Illinois

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from New York to Illinois, you can expect prices to land between $1,344 and $4,777. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,758 to $6,383 for the trip from NY to IL. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,339 and $8,485.

Cost of moving containers from New York to Illinois

If you’re relocating from New York to Illinois, you’ll typically spend between $1,044 and $2,416 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,749 up to $3,711. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,329 and $4,677. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Exploree our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from New York.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York 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 $773 and $1,434 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $787 to $1,722. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,028 to $2,091.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from NY to IL

Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from New York to Illinois. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:

  • Move size: Moving a bigger home is pricier than relocating a small studio.
  • Time of year: Rates usually go up during the summer, which is peak moving season in New York.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: You’ll save money moving yourself, but hiring professionals means less hassle and no heavy lifting for you.

What to know before moving from NY to IL

If you’re moving to Illinois from New York, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: New York vs. Illinois

Before you move, it’s a good idea to compare living expenses in New York and Illinois. This simple side-by-side overview highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, so you can see how your budget might change. Take a look at how these two states measure up when it comes to the essentials that impact your cost of living:

New York Illinois
Average rent cost $1,507 $1,179
Average home cost $482,742 $249,224
Average income (per capita) $81,386 $78,433
Cost of Living Index 100 90
Unemployment rate 4.4% 5.3%
Average Sales Tax 8.52% 8.82%
State Income Tax 10.9% 4.95%
  • Rent in Illinois is around 22% less than in New York, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
  • Good news for your budget—home prices in Illinois are roughly 48% less than in New York, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
  • Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Illinois are roughly 4% lower than in New York.
  • Living in Illinois is about 10% cheaper than New York. That means big savings for you, but it's still important to plan your move carefully.
  • Unemployment in Illinois is roughly 20% higher than in New York. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
  • Sales taxes are 4% higher in Illinois than in New York. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes in Illinois are 55% lower than in New York. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.

How life is different in Illinois vs. New York

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 New York across a few key lifestyle factors:

Illinois New York
Population 12,549,689 19,571,216
Political leaning Democratic 55-45 Democratic 60-40
Summer high 86ºF 81ºF
Winter low 17ºF 16ºF
Annual rain 40" 44"
Annual snow 22" 62"
Crime index 19.7 21.51
  • With a population roughly 36% smaller than New York, Illinois gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses. Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
  • During the last presidential election, both New York and Illinois supported the Democratic candidate.
  • Summer in Illinois can reach highs of 86ºF, compared to New York, which usually peaks at 81ºF. With more sunshine and outdoor activities, be prepared for increased cooling costs and a warmer climate than you might be used to.
  • Winter temperatures in Illinois hover around 17ºF, while New York 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 get about 40 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 44 inches you’ve been used to in New York. Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain fall might affect your daily routine.
  • In Illinois, you’ll get about 22 inches of snow each year, far less than the 62 inches you’d see in New York. 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 is a safer choice than New York, boasting a lower crime index of 19.7 compared to 21.51. You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind. While crime rates aren't everything, it's reassuring to know you're moving somewhere relatively safe.

Comparing the pros of New York vs. Illinois

New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in Illinois and New York.

Pros of living in New York Pros of living in Illinois
Natural beauty Home of Chicago
Arts Ample economic opportunity
Ample economic opportunity Bountiful recreational opportunities
Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities Delicious food
Distinct seasons World-class sports culture

Comparing the cons of living in New York vs. Illinois

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

Cons of living in New York Cons of living in Illinois
High tax burden Harsh winter weather
Rough winter weather Bad traffic
High cost of living High crime rate
Poor quality healthcare Dull landscape
Populous Strict laws

Other things to consider for your New York 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 ready to discover all that Illinois has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new 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 New York to Illinois? toggle

Opting for a full-service New York moving company might mean a higher upfront cost, but it lets you relax while the pros tackle all the details. Want to be more budget-friendly? You can rent a moving truck or choose a moving container. Just keep in mind you’ll be taking on more of the work yourself. If you’re keen to cut costs even further, check out our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from New York to Illinois? toggle

Many full-service movers offer auto transport for an extra fee. If you'd rather take care of it yourself, you can easily arrange vehicle shipping from New York to Illinois with a leading car transport company.

What are the benefits of moving from New York to Illinois? toggle

More and more people are making the move from New York to Illinois to take advantage of everything Illinois has to offer, including: home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.

Is it cheaper to live in New York or Illinois? toggle

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 48.4% 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 Illinois? toggle

If you’re planning to live on your own in Illinois, aim for an income of around $80,838 to live comfortably. Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,569 if you’re flying solo, or $7,930 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.

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