Best Alabama to Illinois Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Alabama to Illinois and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 741 mile AL to IL move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 154 Alabama to Illinois moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is MoveDaddy), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Alabama compared to Illinois. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Alabama to Illinois Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1MoveDaddy9.399.53Authorized For HHG
2606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
3Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
4New Latitude Movers9.289.55Authorized For HHG
5Black Tie Moving9.268.98Authorized For HHG
6Pink Zebra Moving9.219.28Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Alabama to Illinois?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 741 miles from Alabama to Illinois will cost on average $2,411 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom AL to IL move is roughly $5,784. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup in Alabama and dropoff in Illinois as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve Alabama to Illinois movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,623300 ft³$5.41
1 Bedroom$2,411450 ft³$5.36
2 Bedrooms$3,981750 ft³$5.31
3 Bedrooms$5,7841100 ft³$5.26
4 Bedrooms$8,3341600 ft³$5.21
5+ Bedrooms$9,2851800 ft³$5.16
*Please note: These Alabama to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Alabama & Illinois. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed AL to IL mover.
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Compare the 6 Best AL to IL Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

MoveDaddy Logo

MoveDaddy

Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,564+ data points

3114 Bellwood Dr

Birmingham, AL, 35243

About MoveDaddy

Move Daddy offers a wide variety of moving services in Birmingham, including full-service residential and commercial moves, moving labor only, apartment...

Services

  • Long Distance moving
  • Local moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2521318 / 875746

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved55,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,042+ data points

159 N Sangamon St Suite 300

Chicago, IL, 60607

About 606 Movers, Inc.

606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 13,660+ data points

3100 N Tripp Ave

Chicago, IL, 60641

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...

Services

  • Full Moves
  • Truck Loading and Unloading
  • Interstate Moving Assistance

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
3
New Latitude Movers Logo

New Latitude Movers

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 1,154+ data points

130 Industrial Dr

Birmingham, AL, 35211

About New Latitude Movers

New Latitude Moving and Storage is a full-service moving company based in Birmingham, Alabama. Originally started as an antique moving company,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Storage Facilities

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2179652 / 765956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans57
Registered Drivers54
Total Annual Miles Moved450,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Black Tie Moving Logo

Black Tie Moving

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 759+ data points

4411 Evangel Cir NW Suite A

Huntsville, AL, 35816

About Black Tie Moving

Founded in 2013, Black Tie Moving has grown into a luxury moving franchise that boasts an A+ BBB rating and mentions...

Services

  • Local relocation
  • Nationwide moving services
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3381623 / 1375777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Pink Zebra Moving Logo

Pink Zebra Moving

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 245+ data points

630 Oliver Rd b

Montgomery, AL, 36117

About Pink Zebra Moving

Pink Zebra Moving is a service company that revolutionizes the moving industry. They strive to provide a luxurious, stress-free moving experience,...

Services

  • Home Moving Services
  • Apartment/Condo/Townhome Moving Services
  • Furniture Rearranging Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3976058 / 1487303

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
6
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Pros and Cons of Moving from Alabama to Illinois

When considering a move, it's crucial to weigh the positives and negatives to make a well-informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Alabama to Illinois , highlighting both the challenges and advantages of such a transition.

CONs
PROs
Alabama iconAlabama
  • Hot summers
  • Limited public transit
  • Lower employment opportunities
  • Higher humidity
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Cooler summers
  • Extensive transit networks
  • More job prospects
  • Less humidity
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Less friendly demeanor
  • Higher living costs
  • Harsh winters
  • Urban congestion
Alabama iconAlabama
  • Southern hospitality
  • Lower living costs
  • Mild winters
  • Rich cultural heritage

Relocating from Alabama to Illinois introduces a transformation in lifestyle and opportunity. While Alabama offers the charm of Southern hospitality and a lower cost of living, Illinois presents expanded employment prospects, especially in bustling Chicago. You might find yourself enjoying a stroll in Millennium Park or exploring the vibrant culinary scene in neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Square. However, brace for harsher winters but also embrace cooler summer temperatures. Each state has its distinct appeal, and your individual priorities will shape whether the move is right for you.

Alabama vs. Illinois Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Alabama and Illinois, showing that food is a vital part of local culture and living experience. Understanding the culinary scene can better prepare you for the move to your new home.

Alabama
Illinois
Most iconic local food item
Barbecue Ribs
Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dish
Pulled Pork
Italian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Conecuh Sausage
Chicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan food
Okra Stew
Vegan Deep Dish Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Dreamland BBQ
  • Highlands Bar and Grill
  • Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q
  • Lou Malnati's
  • Au Cheval
  • Portillo's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Upon relocating from Alabama to Illinois, you'll transition from a culinary landscape dominated by rich, hearty Southern cuisine to one that embraces both iconic dishes and modern flavors. Chicago, Illinois, stands out for its vibrant food scene, particularly in neighborhoods like Wicker Park and The Loop, where you can savor the legendary Chicago-style deep dish pizza at places like Lou Malnati's. The city's appreciation for diverse, international flavors also means a growing number of vegan and vegetarian options, making it easier than ever to find plant-based versions of comfort food classics like the deep dish pizza. While the barbecue and Southern comfort foods of Alabama will always hold a special place in your palate, Illinois’ dynamic food scene is sure to offer new and exciting flavors to call your new comfort food.

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Alabama vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, assessing real estate differences between Alabama and Illinois is critical. This comparison highlights key housing aspects to help you make an informed decision. Understanding the cost, architecture, and lifestyle offered by each state ensures your move aligns with your needs and preferences.

Alabama
Illinois
Typical Architecture Style
Antebellum, Craftsman
Prairie School, Chicago-style
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Large yards, Privacy
Proximity to public transport, Energy-efficient features

Understanding the key differences in housing between Alabama and Illinois can significantly impact your relocation experience. In Alabama, the housing market tends to be more affordable, with a median home price significantly lower than in Illinois. The architecture styles also differ, reflective of the historical and cultural influences in each state - with Alabama homes often showcasing Antebellum and Craftsman styles, while Illinois offers Prairie School and Chicago-style architecture, many of which can be seen in buildings preserved in areas like Oak Park or the city of Chicago itself. Illinois, particularly in urban areas such as Chicago, scores higher in terms of walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, attributes increasingly important for those who prioritize accessibility and a vibrant city life. This contrast in lifestyle preferences is also evident in the features highlighted in real estate listings, with Alabama properties often boasting large yards, and Illinois listings emphasizing proximity to public transportation and energy-efficient features.

Alabama vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Alabama to Illinois, it's crucial to compare the weather conditions you'll encounter. Understanding how Alabama's climate contrasts with Illinois's weather can help you prepare for the changes. This guide aims to provide a straightforward comparison to ease your transition.

Alabama
Illinois
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Tornadoes
Tornadoes, Severe Winter Storms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

90°F / 70°F
85°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

57°F / 36°F
35°F / 20°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

58"
39"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

1.6"
22"


When moving from Alabama to Illinois, you'll find significant differences in the seasonal weather patterns and natural disaster risks. While both states experience tornadoes, Illinois faces severe winter storms, a stark contrast to Alabama's mild winters. Moreover, the transition might involve adjusting to fewer days of sunshine and more snow in Illinois, which averages about 22 inches of annual snowfall compared to Alabama's minimal snow. Understanding these variations will help you prepare adequately for your new climate — from wardrobe changes to potential weather-related challenges in your new home.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Alabama to Illinois

When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape in your new home, such as moving from Alabama to Illinois, will compare to what you're used to. This comparison will help you plan and prepare for your financial future in a new state.

Alabama
Illinois
Avg. Household Income
$59,674
$76,708
Cost of Living Index
91.2
94.25
State Income Tax
2-5
4.95
Avg. Property Tax
0.42
2.16
Avg. Sales Tax
9.11
8.8
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail
Manufacturing, Services, Agriculture
Affluence
Lower
Higher
Poverty
Higher
Lower
Homelessness
Moderate
Moderate

When moving from Alabama to Illinois, you'll notice variations in the financial aspects of daily living. Illinois boasts a significantly higher average household income, which may be enticing, but it's also accompanied by a higher cost of living and significantly higher property taxes. The state income tax in Illinois is a flat rate, contrasting with Alabama's progressive tax system. Despite these differences, both states share moderate levels of homelessness. The adjustment from Alabama to Illinois will involve adapting to these financial changes, particularly the weight of property taxes and the overall cost of living.

Alabama vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

As you consider moving from Alabama to Illinois, this snapshot highlights the comparison of the politics and religious makeup of both states to give you a quick, at-a-glance understanding of the typical population characteristics you'll encounter in your new home.

Alabama
Illinois
Political Make-up
Republican-leaning
Democratic-leaning
Local Politics
Conservative policies prevail
Progressive policies more common
Religion
Protestant Christian majority
Diverse, with a slightly higher percentage of non-religious residents

When moving from Alabama, a state that leans Republican and has a strong Protestant Christian presence, to Illinois, known for its Democratic-leaning population and more progressive policies, you will experience a cultural and political shift. This difference is particularly noticeable in local politics where Alabama's conservative stance contrasts with Illinois's more liberal approach to governance and social issues. Furthermore, Illinois offers a wider array of religious diversity and a slightly higher percentage of non-religious residents, reflecting its more urban and cosmopolitan population makeup.

Education Guide When Moving from Alabama to Illinois

The purpose of this comparison is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options when moving from Alabama to Illinois. We'll explore the differences in school quality, from primary to secondary education, to help you make the most informed decision for your family.

AlabamaIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Alabama
Auburn University
University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Heritage Oak School
Tuscaloosa; Rock Quarry Elementary
Tuscaloosa; Greystone Elementary
Hoover
Lincoln Elementary School
River Forest; South Park Elementary
Deerfield; Willowbrook Elementary
Glenview

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mountain Brook Junior High
Mountain Brook; Liberty Park Middle
Vestavia Hills; Berry Middle
Hoover
Maple School
Northbrook; Daniel Wright Junior High
Lincolnshire; Clarendon Hills Middle School
Clarendon Hills

Top 3 High School Schools

Loveless Academic Magnet Program High
Montgomery; Mountain Brook High
Mountain Brook; Homewood High
Homewood
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Aurora; Northside College Preparatory High
Chicago; Payton College Preparatory High
Chicago

Top 3 private high schools

The Altamont School
Birmingham; Randolph School
Huntsville; Indian Springs School
Indian Springs
University of Chicago Lab School
Chicago; Latin School of Chicago
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Indian Springs School
Indian Springs; The Altamont School
Birmingham; Randolph School
Huntsville
University of Chicago Lab School
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago; Latin School of Chicago
Chicago

Top 3 School Districts

Mountain Brook City Schools
Hoover City Schools
Vestavia Hills City Schools
New Trier Township High School District 203
Niles Township High School District 219
Evanston Township High School District 202

When comparing Alabama and Illinois regarding educational opportunities, you'll notice distinctive differences, especially in top-ranking establishments. For example, the University of Chicago and Northwestern University in Illinois are known for their rigorous academics and worldwide reputation, which could provide significant advantages for college-bound seniors from Illinois. In the realm of secondary education, Illinois boasts several highly acclaimed private institutions such as the University of Chicago Lab School and Latin School of Chicago, known for their comprehensive K-12 programs. Meanwhile, Alabama hosts remarkable schools like The Altamont School and the Indian Springs School, which also offer excellent education but with a more localized prestige. For families valuing top-tier education, both states offer reputable districts and schools, each with unique strengths.

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