How we chose the best moving companies for your OK to IL move
Using rate data from 32 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma to Illinois?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Oklahoma
to Illinois with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,124 – $3,759 |
$697 – $1,769 |
$474 – $941 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,068 – $5,733 |
$1,330 – $2,379 |
$511 – $1,107 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,955 – $7,536 |
$1,611 – $3,054 |
$625 – $1,328 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 681-mile move from OK 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 Oklahoma to Illinois
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Oklahoma to Illinois,
you can expect to spend between $1,124
and $3,759.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,068 to
$5,733 on the same route
(OK to IL). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Oklahoma to Illinois typically runs between
$3,955 and
$7,536.
Cost of moving containers from Oklahoma to Illinois
Moving from Oklahoma to Illinois? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $697 and
$1,769. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,330 to
$2,379. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,611 up to
$3,054. 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 Oklahoma.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Oklahoma 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
$474 and
$941.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$511 and
$1,107.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $625 and
$1,328.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from OK to IL
There are many factors that influence Oklahoma moving costs. The cost to move from Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 OK to IL
Moving between Oklahoma and Illinois involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Oklahoma vs. Illinois
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Oklahoma 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:
|
Oklahoma |
Illinois |
| Average rent |
$934 |
$1,179 |
| Average home cost |
$205,968 |
$249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$61,364 |
$78,433 |
| Cost of living index |
86 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
5.3% |
| Average sales tax |
8.95% |
8.82% |
| State income tax |
4.75% |
4.95% |
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Rent costs 26% more in Illinois compared to Oklahoma. 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 21% more than what you’ll find in Oklahoma.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 28% more in Illinois compared to Oklahoma. 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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma by about 61%. 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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Sales tax is similar in Illinois and Oklahoma, so you won’t see much change in what you pay at the register after your move.
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Income taxes are similar in Illinois and Oklahoma, so your paycheck deductions will stay consistent. You can count on steady finances when moving between these states.
How life is different in Illinois vs. Oklahoma
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 Oklahoma in these areas.
|
Illinois |
Oklahoma |
| Population |
12,549,689 |
4,053,824 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 55-45 |
Republican 66-34 |
| Summer high |
86ºF |
93ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
26ºF |
| Annual rain |
40″ |
39″ |
| Annual snow |
22″ |
6″ |
| Crime index |
19.7 |
27.52 |
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If you’re relocating from Oklahoma to Illinois, you’ll notice that Illinois has about 210% 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 Oklahoma voted Republican.
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Summers in Illinois average 86°F, a bit cooler than 93°F in Oklahoma.
This means more comfortable summers, reduced cooling costs, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
-
Winter in Illinois can dip to 17°F, colder than the 26°F lows in Oklahoma.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In Illinois, you’ll get about 40 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 39 inches you’ve been used to in Oklahoma.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In Illinois, it snows about 22 inches annually while Oklahoma gets only about 6 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 offers a safer environment than Oklahoma, with a crime index of 19.7 versus 27.52.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Oklahoma vs. Illinois
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Illinois stacks up against Oklahoma:
| Pros of living in Oklahoma |
Pros of living in Illinois |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Home of chicago |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious barbecue |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Rapid earnings growth |
Delicious food |
Comparing the cons of living in Oklahoma vs. Illinois
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Oklahoma to Illinois, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Oklahoma |
Cons of living in Illinois |
| Dull landscape |
Harsh winter weather |
| Destructive weather |
Bad traffic |
| Poor education |
High crime rate |
| Dangerous drivers |
Dull landscape |
| Low diversity |
Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your Oklahoma 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.
-
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 Oklahoma to Illinois?
Do movers transport your car from Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma to Illinois
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Oklahoma to Illinois?
More and more folks are relocating from Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma or Illinois?
Living in Oklahoma usually costs less than in Illinois.
Housing
is more affordable in Oklahoma,
with average rent about 21% less and home prices 17% lower than in Illinois.
Taxes are also
lower in Oklahoma, most notably income taxes, which are more than 4% 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 Oklahoma?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Oklahoma.
There are 1 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 1 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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