Local moving companies in Houston
Out of 49 Houston movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Illinois.
- A Better Tripp Moving & Storage: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- 3 Men Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Square Cow: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Johnnie T. Melia Moving & Storage: 4.44 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 005972633C
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 679167
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 000534796B
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 1914113
Alternate Names: 3 Men Movers LTD
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Company Info
State license #: 007018347C
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 006362543C
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1748594
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
Company Info
State license #: 0000005457
Years in Business: 56
DOT #: 436264
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Local moving services in Houston, TX
Quick breakdown of Houston movers that offer specialty add-on services:
Cost to move from Houston, TX to Illinois
The table below breaks down average costs for moves from Houston to Illinois, varying by home size and service option.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,229 – $4,492 | $833 – $1,851 | $642 – $1,122 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,471 – $5,928 | $1,395 – $2,708 | $653 – $1,334 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,065 – $7,912 | $1,936 – $3,777 | $828 – $1,705 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 943-mile move from Houston, TX, to Illinois using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from movers nationwide, updating the data monthly to track seasonal patterns and market trends. Your final quote may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always compare estimates from several movers for an accurate picture.
Cost to hire movers from Houston to Illinois
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Houston to Illinois will cost between $1,229 and $4,492. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home will range from $2,471 to $5,928, and a large move will cost from $4,065 to $7,912.
Cost of moving containers from Houston to Illinois
If you’re moving from Houston to Illinois, expect to pay between $833 and $1,851 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,395 up to $2,708. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,936 and $3,777. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Houston.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Houston to Illinois
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck from Houston to Illinois, expect to spend between $642 and $1,122. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $653 and $1,334. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $828 up to $1,705 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors influencing moving costs from Houston to IL
When calculating the price of Houston movers, consider:
- Move size: The bigger your home and the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Houston, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Going the DIY route can be less expensive but demands more effort compared to hiring experts.
What you should know before moving from Houston to IL
Leaving Houston for Illinois means embracing a new lifestyle — and likely saving some cash. Living in Houston typically comes with a higher price tag, so your move could open the door to more affordable living.
Check out the cost of living comparison below to understand how Houston and Illinois measure up, helping you to prepare for the future.
Compare cost of living: Houston vs. Illinois
| Houston, TX | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,549 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $263,945 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,833 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 97 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.95% |
Illinois sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about 24% less expensive in Illinois compared to Houston, leaving you more flexibility with your income.
- You’ll pay roughly 6% less for housing in Illinois compared to Houston, saving you money each month.
- Expect incomes in Illinois to be about 12% higher than in Houston, offering more opportunities to save or spend.
- You’ll spend roughly 7% less on the cost of living in Illinois compared to Houston, a boost for your budget.
- Illinois has a higher unemployment rate than Houston by about 29%. That means more job seekers and potentially tougher competition in the market.
- Illinois has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Houston, TX from Illinois
When relocating from Houston to Illinois, get ready for some changes. From weather and population to politics, here’s how living in Illinois stacks up against life in the Houston.
| Houston, TX | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,301,572 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 56-42 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 94ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 43ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 53″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 63.5 | 19.7 |
Illinois Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Illinois leaned Democratic, while Houston supported Republican.
- Cooler summer days in Illinois reach typical highs around 86ºF, whereas Houston sees warmer peaks approaching 94ºF. By selecting a cooler spot, you’ll enjoy less heat, decreased energy costs, and lots of fresh-air activities, which is ideal if comfort and time spent outside are your priorities.
- Winter lows in Illinois can drop to 17ºF, colder than Houston at 43ºF. Moving here means preparing for chillier winters, higher heating costs, and more intense seasonal weather — but also scenic snowy days and winter activities.
- You’ll enjoy about 40 inches of annual rain in Illinois, which is less than the 53 inches you’re used to in Houston. That means brighter skies, extra outdoor time, and fewer rainy-day interruptions.
- Illinois gets about 22 inches of snow each year, while Houston sees none. Moving to Illinois means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- Illinois has a lower crime rate than Houston, with indexes at 19.7 vs 63.5. A lower crime rate usually means safer neighborhoods and extra peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Houston, TX versus Illinois:
Moving to a new place brings exciting possibilities. Here’s what makes living in Houston special compared to Illinois.
| Pros of living in Houston, TX | Pros of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Bountiful arts and recreational activities | Home of Chicago |
| Ample economic opportunity | Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious seafood | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Diversity | Delicious food |
| Affordable housing | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of Houston, TX versus Illinois:
Making the move from Houston to Illinois isn’t always easy, and there are important factors to consider.
| Cons of living in Houston, TX | Cons of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Tropical storms | Harsh winter weather |
| Heat and humidity | Bad traffic |
| Terrible traffic | High crime rate |
| Limited public transportation | Dull landscape |
| High crime rate | Strict laws |
Other considerations when moving to Illinois
If you’re moving from Houston to Illinois, there’s more to do than just booking a moving crew and transporting your stuff. Be sure you’re on top of local regulations, permits, and any logistics that might affect your move.
- HOA rules: Confirm whether your HOA has any moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling your movers.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Certain cities ask you to get parking permits for moving trucks or large vehicles. Check in advance to see if you’ll need one for your move.
- 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 is fully licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check a Illinois moving license anytime on the state’s official regulatory website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Illinois, but make sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Illinois. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance requirements vary from state to state. 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: Use a checklist to move with confidence. Our moving checklist keeps you organized and ensures everything’s covered, so you can relax and focus on the move.
Things to do in Illinois
No matter what you’re into, from parks and museums to sports or college-town vibes—Illinois is packed with things for you to explore and enjoy.
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
FAQ
How long does a move from Houston to Illinois take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Houston, TX to Illinois? Typically, the process takes about two to seven days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if you’re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.
Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you won’t get stuck with any surprise delays.
How many Houston movers provide custom crating for art or antiques?
There are 21 movers in Houston that offer custom-built crates for delicate or unusual items like artwork, antique pieces, and electronics. If you need special crating, confirm with a Houston moving company that they can accommodate your specific items.
What is the best way to get a car from Houston to Illinois?
Looking to move your car from Houston to Illinois? Choose a service that puts professionalism and vehicle care first, backed by real experience. Check out our top picks for car shippers from Texas to Illinois.
Why are people moving from Houston to Illinois?
Many people are moving to Illinois because of its home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity. On the other hand, people are moving away from Houston because of the tropical storms and heat and humidity.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Illinois.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Houston?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Houston.
Do movers in Houston, TX, accept cash?
Yes, eight movers in Houston accept cash. However, cash is uncommon in the moving space, where traceable payment types are standard. You’ll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking before moving day. The rest of the total is due at pickup or post-delivery—confirm the schedule and permitted payment methods with your mover.
Helpful moving resources
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