How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to IL move
After studying pricing from 95 Washington movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Washington to Illinois?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Washington 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 |
$1,437 – $5,281 |
$1,094 – $2,705 |
$1,091 – $2,123 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,479 – $8,008 |
$1,871 – $4,162 |
$1,122 – $2,379 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,810 – $12,206 |
$2,535 – $5,392 |
$1,401 – $3,064 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,941-mile move from WA to
IL are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Washington to Illinois
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Washington to Illinois will cost between
$1,437 and
$5,281.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from WA to IL will
range from $3,479 to
$8,008, and a large move from Washington
to Illinois will cost from $6,810
to $12,206.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to Illinois
If you’re moving from Washington to Illinois,
expect to pay between $1,094
and $2,705 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,871 up to
$4,162.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,535 and
$5,392. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Washington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington 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, expect to spend between
$1,091 and
$2,123.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,122
and $2,379. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,401 up to
$3,064 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to IL
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Washington to Illinois. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Washington is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from WA to IL
A relocation from Washington to Illinois comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Washington vs. Illinois
Comparing expenses in Washington and Illinois shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Washington |
Illinois |
| Average rent |
$1,900 |
$1,179 |
| Average home cost |
$588,856 |
$249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$90,325 |
$78,433 |
| Cost of living index |
115 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.8% |
5.3% |
| Average sales tax |
6.5% |
8.82% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
4.95% |
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Expect to pay around 38% less in rent in Illinois than in Washington, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 58% lower in Illinois than in Washington.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Illinois are about 13% lower than in Washington.
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Living in Illinois is about 22% cheaper than Washington. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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Unemployment in Illinois is about 10% higher than in Washington. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
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Sales taxes are 36% higher in Illinois than in Washington, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Illinois has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in Illinois vs. Washington
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Illinois stacks up against Washington across important lifestyle factors:
|
Illinois |
Washington |
| Population |
12,549,689 |
7,812,880 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 55-45 |
Democratic |
| Summer high |
86ºF |
79ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
40″ |
38″ |
| Annual snow |
22″ |
18″ |
| Crime index |
19.7 |
37.32 |
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Illinois is about 61% more populous than Washington.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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During the last presidential election, both Washington and Illinois supported the Democratic candidate.
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Illinois averages 86°F in summer compared to 79°F in Washington.
That extra heat means more sunshine and outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Illinois drops to about 17°F while Washington only reaches 31°F.
Moving to Illinois with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
-
In Illinois, you’ll get about 40 inches of rain each year, while Washington sees around 38 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.
-
In Illinois, you’ll get about 22 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, Washington averages around 18 inches annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
-
Illinois has a lower crime rate than Washington with a crime index of 19.7 vs. 37.32.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of Washington vs. Illinois
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Illinois versus Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington |
Pros of living in Illinois |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Home of chicago |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Ample economic opportunity |
| High quality of life |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Delicious food |
| Delicious seafood |
World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. Illinois
Moving from Washington to Illinois comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Washington |
Cons of living in Illinois |
| Constant rain |
Harsh winter weather |
| Bad traffic |
Bad traffic |
| High cost of living |
High crime rate |
| High crime rate |
Dull landscape |
| Natural disasters |
Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your Washington to Illinois move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
-
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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Illinois moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Illinois, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Illinois without a hitch. 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.
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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
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 Washington to Illinois?
Do movers transport your car from Washington to Illinois?
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to Illinois?
The main reasons people are moving from Washington to Illinois are the amazing upsides of living in Illinois, such as home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Washington or Illinois?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 38% less and home prices 58% lower than in Washington.
The tax rate is about the same between Washington and Illinois.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Illinois?
You should make approximately $83,234 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Illinois.
The cost of living in Illinois is about $3,434 per month for an individual and $7,489 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Chicago and Aurora tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Washington?
Some movers in Washington provide budget-friendly deals.
Special pricing for military members is available from 4 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 5 movers.
Student savings are available through 2 moving providers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Washington moving services
Popular Washington routes
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When moving from Washington to Illinois, expect to spend between
$3,479–$8,008 if using professional movers, about
$3,016 for a moving container, and around
$1,750
for a rental truck.
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