Best Movers from Michigan to Illinois (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: The average cost to move from Michigan to Illinois ranges from $477 to $6,611 and takes one–four days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Illinois to Michigan guide.
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The best Michigan to Illinois full-service movers
Planning a move from Michigan to Illinois? With countless moving companies to choose from, finding the right interstate mover can be tough. We’ve made it easier by researching and handpicking the best options based on detailed reviews, upfront pricing, and exceptional services.
Start your journey from Michigan to Illinois with these top-rated long-distance movers serving Michigan.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Michigan
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 Michigan, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Handle With Care Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Kingsley Moving Systems LLC: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Palmer Moving Services: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Careful handling
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
- Unprofessional behavior
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Madison Heights, MI. Known for their excellent customer service, they boast an impressive average rating of 4.3 on Yelp from 74 reviews and an even higher 4.9 average rating on Google from 866 reviews, making them one of the top-rated moving companies in the area. Unlike some competitors, they also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, all without requiring a deposit. For those prioritizing convenience and reliability, this company stands out in the local market.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Poor complaint handling
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
State license #: 359936
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 808976
Handle With Care Moving has been a trusted name in Ann Arbor, MI, since 1994, specializing in local residential moving services. With stellar consumer feedback, boasting a 4.8 average rating from 271 Google reviews and a 4.0 average from 26 Yelp reviews, along with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby companies, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and even fragile-only packing, ensuring all moving needs are met with utmost care. With the added convenience of accepting credit cards and requiring no upfront deposit, Handle With Care Moving stands out as a dependable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Quick moving process
- Affordable rates
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Unfriendly or rude staff
Company Info
State license #: 34172
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 1890987
Kingsley Moving Systems LLC stands out among local moving companies in Lansing, MI, offering exceptional service for residential moves. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 on Yelp and 4.8 on Google, customer satisfaction is evidently a top priority. Unlike some competitors, Kingsley Moving Systems also provides packing and unpacking services, making them a convenient one-stop solution for your moving needs. Their flexible payment options, including credit card acceptance and no required deposit, further enhance their appeal.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
- Damage to items
- Poor complaint handling
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Phase Six Moving, LLC, Two Men and A Truck/Grand Rapids North
Two Men and a Truck offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Grand Rapids, MI, having served the community since 2009. Unlike many competitors, they provide a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, with the expertise to move specialty items like pianos and safes. Consumer reviews highlight their strong reputation, with a 4.7 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company stands out for its no-deposit policy, making them a convenient and trustworthy choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Professional and polite staff
- Careful handling
- Efficient service
- Good communication
- Quick moving process
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
- Unexpected charges
Company Info
Years in Business: 114
DOT #: 511993
Palmer Moving Services has been a trusted name in local residential moving in and around Warren, MI since 1911. With over a century of experience, they offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, crating, and piano moving, setting them apart from many nearby competitors. While their Yelp profile shows mixed feedback with an average rating of 2.5 from 28 reviews, their Google My Business profile tells a different story, boasting an impressive 4.5 average rating from 178 reviews. Additionally, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau further solidifies their reputation. Customers can also take advantage of convenient features like credit card payments and no required deposit.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
The best Michigan to Illinois moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Michigan and drops it off at your new home in Illinois.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best Michigan to Illinois moving truck rentals
Want to save money on your move from Michigan to Illinois? Consider renting a moving truck. With this option, you'll do all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best Michigan 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 Michigan to Illinois, make your move a breeze with these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to IL move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 46 Michigan 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 Michigan to Illinois?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Michigan to Illinois with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,276 - $3,883 | $761 - $1,976 | $475 - $789 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $2,320 - $6,611 | $1,493 - $2,640 | $477 - $945 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,857 - $8,632 | $1,845 - $3,336 | $610 - $1,146 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 408 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 Michigan to Illinois
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Illinois will cost between $1,276 and $3,883. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MI to IL will range from $2,320 to $6,611, and a large move from Michigan to Illinois will cost from $3,857 to $8,632.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Illinois
Moving from Michigan to Illinois? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $761 and $1,976. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,493 to $2,640. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,845 up to $3,336. 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 Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan 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 $475 and $789. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $477 and $945. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $610 and $1,146.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to IL
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to Illinois. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
- Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
- Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in Michigan.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from MI to IL
If you’re making the move from Michigan to Illinois, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Illinois
Before you move, take a moment to compare the cost of living in Michigan and Illinois. This simple side-by-side comparison highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment so you can see exactly how your budget may change. See how both states measure up on the essentials that impact your finances:
| Michigan | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,037 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $245,716 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,505 | $78,433 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.3% |
| Average Sales Tax | 6.0% | 8.82% |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 4.95% |
- Rent costs 14% more in Illinois compared to Michigan. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
- Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment—home prices in Illinois are roughly 1% higher than in Michigan.
- Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 14% higher in Illinois compared to Michigan. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
- Living in Illinois costs about 2% less than in Michigan. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
- Illinois’s unemployment rate is about 13% higher than Michigan’s. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
- Sales taxes are 47% higher in Illinois compared to Michigan. You'll probably spend more on everyday taxable items such as clothing, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
- Income taxes are 16% higher in Illinois compared to Michigan. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in Illinois vs. Michigan
Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a new home, it’s about how your everyday life will actually feel. Factors like climate, safety, local culture, and the community’s size can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s a quick comparison of what life is like in Illinois versus Michigan across key lifestyle categories:
| Illinois | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,549,689 | 10,037,261 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 55-45 | Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high | 86ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 17ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 40" | 34" |
| Annual snow | 22" | 64" |
| Crime index | 19.7 | 19.98 |
- Illinois has a population that's about 25% larger than Michigan. A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
- In the most recent presidential election, Illinois voted Democratic, while Michigan went Republican.
- Summer highs in Illinois reach 86ºF, while Michigan sees temperatures around 81ºF. Warmer weather means more sunshine and time outdoors, but be ready for higher cooling bills and some adjustments if you’re coming from a cooler climate.
- In the heart of winter, temperatures in Illinois dip to 17ºF, while Michigan can get as cold as 14ºF. Relocating to Illinois means enjoying milder winters, which comes with lower expenses and more chances to enjoy the outdoors. If you’d rather soak up the sun than deal with winter storms, this move could be perfect for you.
- Expect about 40 inches of rain each year in Illinois, a noticeable difference from the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan. With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
- In Illinois, you’ll see just 22 inches of snow each year, compared to Michigan, which gets 64 inches annually. Moving to Illinois means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, lower upkeep, and fewer weather-related headaches. giving you a smoother, more relaxed winter.
- Illinois and Michigan share a similar crime rate of 19.98. However, crime can vary greatly between different cities and neighborhoods within each state, so be sure to look into local crime data for a clearer picture.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Illinois
New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in Illinois and Michigan.
| Pros of living in Michigan | Pros of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Scenic beauty | Home of Chicago |
| Good higher education | Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Low cost of living | Delicious food |
| Beautiful lakes | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Illinois
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Michigan for Illinois.
| Cons of living in Michigan | Cons of living in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Cold snowy winters | Harsh winter weather |
| Spotty economic opportunity | Bad traffic |
| Poor transportation infrastructure | High crime rate |
| Expensive education | Dull landscape |
| Thick accents | Strict laws |
Other things to consider for your Michigan 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
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 Michigan to Illinois?
Opting for a full-service Michigan moving company might mean a higher upfront cost, but it lets you relax while the pros tackle all the details. Want to be more budget-friendly? You can rent a moving truck or choose a moving container. Just keep in mind you’ll be taking on more of the work yourself. If you’re keen to cut costs even further, check out our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Illinois?
Many full-service movers offer auto transport for an extra fee. If you'd rather take care of it yourself, you can easily arrange vehicle shipping from Michigan to Illinois with a leading car transport company.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Illinois?
More and more people are making the move from Michigan to Illinois to take advantage of everything Illinois has to offer, including: home of Chicago and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Illinois?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Illinois. While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing is more affordable in Michigan, with average rent about 12% less and home prices 1% lower than in Illinois. Taxes are also lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% 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 $80,838 to live comfortably. Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,569 if you’re flying solo, or $7,930 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.
