($1,298) Cost of Moving From Virginia to Illinois

Quick answer: Moving from Virginia to Illinois usually costs between $733 and $6,672, with most moves taking about two–seven 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 Virginia 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 car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

The best Virginia to Illinois full-service movers

Moving from Virginia 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 Virginia 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) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
read our full review
(866) 935-3437
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 Virginia

Choosing a reliable local moving company can be a big undertaking with so many choices out there. That's why we've handpicked the best local movers in Virginia, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.

  1. The Other Moving Company: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Around Town Movers: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. My Pro Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Mr. Moving, LLC: 4.76 out of 5 stars

The Other Moving Company

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 915026

Years in Business: 27

4375 George Washington Memorial Hwy Suite 100, HAYES, VA 23072

The Other Moving Company has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Hayes, VA since 1998. Known for their exceptional customer satisfaction, they boast an average rating of 4.0 on Yelp from 27 reviews, and a stellar 4.5 from 179 Google reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also offer office moving, packing, and unpacking services, making them a versatile choice for local moves. They stand out by accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit, ensuring a smooth and flexible moving experience.

Get a Quote (866) 482-6683

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Other Moving Company, The
Back to Top movebuddha icon

Around Town Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 2294507

Years in Business: 18

101 International Dr Suite 120, Sterling, VA 20166

Around Town Movers, a trusted name in Sterling, VA since 2007, specializes in local residential moving services. Unlike many nearby competitors, they boast an impressive Google My Business profile with 815 reviews averaging 4.9 stars and a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They not only offer packing and unpacking services but also have the expertise to move delicate items like pianos and antiques. With a solid reputation and comprehensive service offerings, Around Town Movers stands out as a dependable choice for local moving needs.

Get a Quote (703) 682-5922

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage

Additional Information

  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2294507
  • State license #: 2294507

Alternative Business Names

  • Hometown Services, LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

All My Sons Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 902281

Years in Business: 24

8176 Mechanicsville Turnpike Building B, Mechanicsville, VA 23111

All My Sons Moving & Storage has been a reliable option for local residential moving services in and around Mechanicsville, VA since 2000. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A rating from the Better Business Bureau and over 1,600 positive reviews on Google, it stands out among nearby moving companies. Their comprehensive offerings include packing, unpacking, and crating services, as well as the expertise to move pianos, antiques, and safes. Although a deposit is required, their professional service and range of capabilities make them a trusted choice for many. However, potential customers should note the mixed feedback on Yelp.

Get a Quote (804) 729-0109

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 902281
  • State license #: 822633

Alternative Business Names

  • All My Sons Moving and Storage of Richmond
Back to Top movebuddha icon

My Pro Movers

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 3116640

Years in Business: 7

8370 Greensboro Dr, Apt 817, McLean, VA 22102

My Pro Movers, operating since 2018, specializes in local residential moving services around McLean, VA. This reputable company stands out with an impressive consumer review profile, boasting an average rating of 4.9 on Google My Business and a solid 4.3 on Yelp, underscoring their commitment to customer satisfaction. My Pro Movers distinguishes itself from other nearby movers with an extensive range of services, including office moving, packing and unpacking, and even challenging tasks like piano and hot tub relocations. They offer flexible payment options, accepting cash, credit cards, and cryptocurrency, all while ensuring peace of mind with full valuation insurance coverage.

Get a Quote (703) 310-7333

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • MyProMovers LLC
Back to Top movebuddha icon

Mr. Moving, LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 3511853

Years in Business: 5

1343 Pritchard Ter, North Chesterfield, VA 23235

Mr. Moving, LLC offers reliable local residential moving services in North Chesterfield, VA, and has been in business since 2021. This company stands out with an impressive average rating of 4.1 on Yelp and 4.5 on Google, along with an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby movers, Mr. Moving, LLC also provides packing and unpacking services and can move specialty items like pianos and antiques. They accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, making them a convenient and trustworthy choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (804) 986-9480

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques

Additional Information

Back to Top movebuddha icon

The best Virginia to Illinois moving container companies

Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in Virginia and delivering it to your new place in Illinois.

Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:

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 Virginia to Illinois moving truck rentals

If you're looking to cut costs on your move from Virginia to Illinois, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you'll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.

Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

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 Virginia to Illinois labor-only movers

Need an extra set of hands for loading your belongings into a rental truck or storage unit? Labor-only movers have you covered. You pick the team size that works for you, and you’re only charged for the hours they’re on the job.

When you’re getting ready to move from Virginia to Illinois, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 7
  • Yelp: 4.1 / 5
  • BBB: A-
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 5
  • Yelp: 3.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 11
  • Yelp: 2.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+

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

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 72 Virginia 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 Virginia to Illinois?

Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Virginia 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 $1,298 - $4,709 $914 - $2,193 $687 - $1,253
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,609 - $6,672 $1,646 - $3,464 $733 - $1,563
4+ bedrooms $4,441 - $9,493 $2,229 - $4,510 $937 - $1,859

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 756 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 Virginia to Illinois

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Virginia to Illinois will cost between $1,298 and $4,709. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from VA to IL will range from $2,609 to $6,672, and a large move from Virginia to Illinois will cost from $4,441 to $9,493.

Cost of moving containers from Virginia to Illinois

Moving containers from Virginia to Illinois will cost you $914 to $2,193 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,646 to $3,464. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,229 to $4,510. Learn more about PODS cost.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia 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 $687 and $1,253. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $733 and $1,563. Moving from Virginia to Illinois or dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $937 and $1,859.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from VA to IL

A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Virginia 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 Virginia.
  • 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 VA to IL

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

Cost of living: Virginia vs. Illinois

Before you move, it’s smart to see how cost of living compares between Virginia and Illinois. This quick, side-by-side breakdown covers essentials like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a better idea of how your budget might be affected. Check out how these two states stack up when it comes to cost of living:

Virginia Illinois
Average rent cost $1,440 $1,179
Average home cost $392,682 $249,224
Average income (per capita) $87,249 $78,433
Cost of Living Index 100 90
Unemployment rate 2.9% 5.3%
Average Sales Tax 5.73% 8.82%
State Income Tax 5.75% 4.95%
  • Rent in Illinois is around 18% less than in Virginia, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
  • Good news for your budget—home prices in Illinois are roughly 37% less than in Virginia, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
  • Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Illinois are roughly 10% lower than in Virginia.
  • Living in Illinois is about 10% cheaper than Virginia. That means big savings for you, but it's still important to plan your move carefully.
  • Unemployment in Illinois is roughly 83% higher than in Virginia. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
  • Sales taxes are 54% higher in Illinois than in Virginia. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes in Illinois are 14% lower than in Virginia. 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. Virginia

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in Illinois versus Virginia across some essential lifestyle factors:

Illinois Virginia
Population 12,549,689 8,715,698
Political leaning Democratic 55-45 Democratic 52-48
Summer high 86ºF 87ºF
Winter low 17ºF 25ºF
Annual rain 40" 44"
Annual snow 22" 14"
Crime index 19.7 19.3
  • If you’re relocating from Virginia to Illinois, you’ll notice that Illinois has about 44% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
  • In the last presidential election, Illinois leaned Democratic, while Virginia supported Democratic.
  • Summer highs typically reach about 86ºF in Illinois and 87ºF in Virginia. With similar temperatures, you shouldn't have much trouble adjusting to the climate. Remember to also consider humidity, general weather patterns, and energy expenses to really understand what summer will feel like in your new home.
  • During winter, temperatures in Illinois can drop to around 17ºF, while Virginia usually only experiences lows near 25ºF. Moving to Illinois means adjusting to chillier winters, which could bring higher heating costs and more intense weather. On the bright side, you’ll also get to enjoy the unique charm and winter activities that come with a colder climate.
  • In Illinois, you’ll see about 40 inches of rain each year—nearly identical to the 44 inches you’re used to in Virginia. While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
  • Each year, Illinois gets about 22 inches of snow, far more than the 14 inches you might be accustomed to in Virginia. That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation, regular upkeep, and dressing warmly.
  • Both Illinois and Virginia have a crime rate of 19.3. Keep in mind, though, that crime rates can differ significantly from one city or neighborhood to another, so be sure to check local statistics for more accurate information.

Comparing the pros of Virginia vs. Illinois

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

Pros of living in Virginia Pros of living in Illinois
Strong economy Home of Chicago
Beautiful scenery Ample economic opportunity
Abundance of outdoor activities Bountiful recreational opportunities
Enjoyable four season weather Delicious food
Strong military presence World-class sports culture

Comparing the cons of living in Virginia vs. Illinois

Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Virginia to Illinois.

Cons of living in Virginia Cons of living in Illinois
High cost of living Harsh winter weather
Unpredictable weather Bad traffic
Bad traffic congestion High crime rate
Lack of public transportation Dull landscape
Air noise pollution Strict laws

Other things to consider for your Virginia 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: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
  • 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 you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
  • 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
  • State regulator: You can quickly check a Illinois moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Illinois, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • 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.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. 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: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.

Things to do in Illinois

While you’re in Illinois, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit 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 Virginia to Illinois? toggle

Going with a full-service Virginia moving company is a bigger financial investment, but it saves you a ton of hassle. If you’re looking to cut costs, renting a moving truck or using a moving container will keep your budget in check, but you’ll have to do more of the heavy lifting. Want more options for saving money? Check out our tips on the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Virginia to Illinois? toggle

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 Virginia to Illinois separately with a leading car shipping provider.

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

Many people are making the move from Virginia to Illinois to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Illinois has to offer, like, home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.

Is it cheaper to live in Virginia or Illinois? toggle

Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Virginia. Housing is much more affordable in Illinois, with average rent about 18% less and home prices 36.5% lower than in Virginia. Taxes are also lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Virginia residents.

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

To live comfortably as a single adult in Illinois, you should aim to make around $80,838. On average, expect to spend about $3,569 per month, or $7,930 monthly for a family of four. Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Chicago and Aurora generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources