($1,501) Cost of Moving From Texas to Illinois

Quick answer: When planning a move from Texas to Illinois, you can expect to pay anywhere from $887 to $7,824. Most relocations will take about two–seven days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.

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  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
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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 Texas guide.

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The best Texas to Illinois full-service movers

Thinking about moving from Texas 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 Texas to Illinois with these highly rated long-distance moving pros in Texas.

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
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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
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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(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
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The best local moving companies in Texas

With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Texas, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  2. Square Cow: 5 out of 5 stars
  3. Firefighting's Finest Moving & Storage: 5 out of 5 stars
  4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Firehouse Movers Inc.: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Bellhop Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 2878240

Years in Business: 13

12634 Carriage Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78249

Bellhop Moving, serving San Antonio, TX, since 2012, has established itself as a reputable local moving company. Known for their reliability and quality service, Bellhop Moving provides a range of services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options. Customer feedback speaks volumes, with an average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, distinguishing them from other local competitors. Accepting credit cards for convenience, Bellhop does require a deposit, ensuring commitment to their clients’ needs.

Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage

Additional Information

  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2878240
  • State license #: 009668291C

Alternative Business Names

  • Bellhops, Inc.
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Square Cow

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 1748594

Years in Business: 17

20816 Park Row Drive, Katy, TX 77449

Square Cow, a trusted local moving company based in Katy, TX, has been providing exemplary residential moving services since 2009. With an impressive 4.8 average rating from 316 Google reviews and a stellar 4.6 from 63 Yelp reviews, Square Cow is highly regarded for its professionalism and reliability. Unlike many nearby competitors, they boast a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, without requiring a deposit upfront. For those seeking dependable and well-reviewed local movers, Square Cow stands out as a top choice.

Get a Quote (832) 437-8511

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Square Cow Movers
  • Square Cow Moovers LLC
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Firefighting's Finest Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar5 / 5

DOT #: 2783472

Years in Business: 22

1800 W Howard Ln, Austin, TX 78728

Firefighting's Finest Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Austin, TX since 2003. Known for their exceptional customer satisfaction, the company boasts an average rating of 4.2 on Yelp, 4.8 on Google, and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. In addition to standard moving services, they excel in packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring the safe transport of fragile items, art, and antiques. Compared to other nearby movers, Firefighting's Finest stands out for their comprehensive service offerings and stellar reviews, making them a reliable choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (512) 361-6683

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2783472
  • State license #: 007074263C
  • DOD certified
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College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 2378173

Years in Business: 6

720 Bastrop Hwy, Austin, TX 78741

College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, offering local residential moving services in and around Austin, TX, has established itself as a reputable and reliable choice since its inception in 2020. This company stands out among local competitors by providing comprehensive services such as office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, all without requiring a deposit. The team’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in its impressive reviews: 751 on Google with an average rating of 4.9, 232 on Yelp with an average rating of 4.1, and a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Accepting credit cards for convenience further underscores their dedication to hassle-free service.

Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • College Hunks Moving Central Austin
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Firehouse Movers Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.9 / 5

DOT #: 1939062

Years in Business: 26

2535-B E. State Hwy 121, Suite 140, Lewisville, TX 75056

Firehouse Movers Inc., serving Lewisville, TX, has been a trusted local residential moving service since 2000. With an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and stellar consumer reviews—averaging 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google—Firehouse Movers stands out among nearby competitors. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and storage options, and are equipped to handle special items like pianos and antiques. Accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit, Firehouse Movers provides convenient and reliable moving solutions tailored to meet any local residential need.

Get a Quote (972) 412-6033

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

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The best Texas to Illinois moving container companies

Moving containers help you save money without having to do all the heavy lifting. You load and unload your stuff, while the company handles all the driving, picking up your container in Texas and dropping it off at your new home in Illinois.

Check out our top picks for the best moving container companies:

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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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 Texas to Illinois moving truck rentals

If you want to save money moving from Texas to Illinois, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these 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 Texas to Illinois labor-only movers

If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.

When planning a move from Texas to Illinois, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
  • Years in Business: 13
  • Yelp: 4.1 / 5
  • BBB: C
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 17
  • Yelp: 4.5 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
  • Years in Business: 22
  • Yelp: 3.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+

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

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 134 Texas 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 Texas to Illinois?

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Texas to Illinois with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,501 - $5,954 $1,075 - $2,594 $788 - $1,555
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,249 - $7,824 $1,801 - $3,723 $887 - $1,776
4+ bedrooms $5,094 - $10,019 $2,451 - $4,944 $1,035 - $2,293

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 984 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 Texas to Illinois

Planning a move from Texas to Illinois? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,501 and $5,954. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,249 and $7,824 for the same journey (TX to IL). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,094 to $10,019.

Cost of moving containers from Texas to Illinois

Moving from Texas to Illinois? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,075 and $2,594. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,801 to $3,723. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,451 up to $4,944. 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 Texas.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Texas to Illinois

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you're moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $788 and $1,555. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $887 to $1,776. If you’re heading from Texas to Illinois or tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,035 and $2,293.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from TX to IL

There are many factors that influence Texas moving costs. The cost to move from Texas to Illinois will depend on these factors:

  • Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
  • Time of year: The peak moving season in Texas is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.

What to know before moving from TX to IL

If you’re moving from Texas to Illinois, take a moment to see how your new state compares to your current one.

Cost of living: Texas vs. Illinois

Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in Texas 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:

Texas Illinois
Average rent cost $1,251 $1,179
Average home cost $300,267 $249,224
Average income (per capita) $73,035 $78,433
Cost of Living Index 93 90
Unemployment rate 4.1% 5.3%
Average Sales Tax 8.19% 8.82%
State Income Tax 0.0% 4.95%
  • Expect to pay around 6% less in rent in Illinois than in Texas, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
  • Good news for your budget—home prices in Illinois are around 17% lower than in Texas. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
  • You’re likely to earn about 7% more in Illinois than in Texas. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
  • Moving to Illinois is about 3% cheaper than living in Texas. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
  • Unemployment in Illinois is about 29% higher than in Texas. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
  • Sales taxes are 8% higher in Illinois than in Texas, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • State income taxes in Illinois are 5% higher than in Texas, which means you'll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.

How life is different in Illinois vs. Texas

Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel. From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience. Here’s how life in Illinois and Texas compares across key lifestyle indicators:

Illinois Texas
Population 12,549,689 30,503,301
Political leaning Democratic 55-45 Republican 56-44
Summer high 86ºF 94ºF
Winter low 17ºF 36ºF
Annual rain 40" 36"
Annual snow 22" 2"
Crime index 19.7 27.32
  • The population of Illinois is about 59% smaller than that of Texas. Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
  • In the most recent presidential election, Illinois voted Democratic, while Texas went Republican.
  • Summers in Illinois average 86ºF, while Texas typically sees highs of 94ºF. Choosing to move somewhere cooler can mean less extreme heat, reduced energy costs, and more time to enjoy being outside in the summer.
  • In the coldest months, temperatures in Illinois dip to around 17ºF, while Texas only falls to about 36ºF. Relocating to Illinois means you’ll likely face colder winters, which can bring higher heating bills, change up your routine, and bring on more extreme weather, but you’ll also get to enjoy the unique beauty and experiences that come with the season.
  • In Illinois, you’ll get about 40 inches of rain each year, while Texas sees around 36 inches annually. So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
  • Each year, Illinois sees about 22 inches of snowfall, while Texas averages just 2 inches. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation, maintenance, and warm gear.
  • Illinois boasts a lower crime rate than Texas, with a crime index of 19.7 compared to 27.32. This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you're moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.

Comparing the pros of Texas vs. Illinois

Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Illinois to Texas.

Pros of living in Texas Pros of living in Illinois
Ample economic opportunity Home of Chicago
Favorable climate Ample economic opportunity
Delicious barbecue Bountiful recreational opportunities
Low taxes Delicious food
Privacy and freedom World-class sports culture

Comparing the cons of living in Texas vs. Illinois

Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Texas to Illinois, keep these tips in mind.

Cons of living in Texas Cons of living in Illinois
Severe weather Harsh winter weather
Limited healthcare access Bad traffic
High crime rate High crime rate
Traffic issues Dull landscape
Politics Strict laws

Other things to consider for your Texas 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 your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
  • 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 your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
  • State regulator: Easily verify a Illinois moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Illinois, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
  • Change of address: Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Illinois right on schedule. Get started here.
  • 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.
  • Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

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 Texas to Illinois? toggle

Choosing a full-service Texas moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Texas to Illinois? toggle

A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or, if you prefer, you can arrange vehicle transport from Texas to Illinois on your own through a top car shipping company.

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

More and more folks are relocating from Texas to Illinois to enjoy all the perks that come with living in Illinois, such as: home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.

Is it cheaper to live in Texas or Illinois? toggle

Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Texas. Housing is more affordable in Illinois, with average rent about 6% less and home prices 17.0% lower than in Texas. Texas has no income tax.

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

If you’re planning to live solo in Illinois, a comfortable income is around $80,838. Expect your monthly living costs to be about $3,569 on your own, or $7,930 for a family of four. Keep in mind, your expenses will depend on exactly where you settle down. Major cities like Chicago and Aurora typically have steeper housing prices than smaller towns.

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