Best Illinois to Kentucky Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Illinois to Kentucky and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 407 mile IL to KY move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 144 Illinois to Kentucky 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Illinois compared to Kentucky. 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.

Best Illinois to Kentucky Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Illinois to Kentucky Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
2Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
3A1 Movers, Inc9.349.57Authorized For HHG
4Murphy Family Movers9.309.35Authorized For Property, HHG
5From Here to There9.178.82Authorized For Property, HHG
6Smooth Move Relocation Services9.109.64Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 407 miles from Illinois to Kentucky will cost on average $2,127 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IL to KY move is roughly $5,090. 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 Illinois and dropoff in Kentucky 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 Illinois to Kentucky movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,433300 ft³$4.78
1 Bedroom$2,127450 ft³$4.73
2 Bedrooms$3,508750 ft³$4.68
3 Bedrooms$5,0901100 ft³$4.63
4 Bedrooms$7,3241600 ft³$4.58
5+ Bedrooms$8,1491800 ft³$4.53
*Please note: These Illinois to Kentucky moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & Kentucky. 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 IL to KY mover.
Illinois iconArrow iconKentucky icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Kentucky to Illinois guide.

Popular moving destinations background image

Popular Illinois to Kentucky Moving Destinations

Make an easier move when you book with the best.

See All Routes >

Trusted moving guides helping you move from Illinois to Kentucky

Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.

Compare the 6 Best IL to KY Movers

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

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
1
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
2
A1 Movers, Inc Logo

A1 Movers, Inc

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 683+ data points

315 S Harrison St

Geneva, IL, 60134

About A1 Movers, Inc

A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...

Services

  • LOCAL MOVES
  • LONG DISTANCE MOVES
  • PACKING SERVICES

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Murphy Family Movers Logo

Murphy Family Movers

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 1,145+ data points

4N951 Old Lafox Rd Unit C

St. Charles, IL, 60175

About Murphy Family Movers

Murphy Family Movers has over 25 years of combined moving experience in Aurora, Illinois. This Aurora, IL mover promises the highest...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Interstate Moving
  • Professional Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2965334 / 7122

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
From Here to There Logo

From Here to There

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 614+ data points

Lexington, KY, 40507

About From Here to There

From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive...

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
  • Commercial/Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3481118 / 1254688

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,500 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Smooth Move Relocation Services Logo

Smooth Move Relocation Services

Exceptional9.10/10
based on 2,201+ data points

1132 Cherevilla Ln

Cincinnati, OH, 45238

About Smooth Move Relocation Services

Smooth Move Relocation Services is a moving company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, that has been serving clients since 2000. They offer...

Services

  • Affordable local and long distance moving
  • Packing and Boxes
  • Insurance

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1878284 / 781353

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved24,500 (2023)
View Full Review
6
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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 Illinois to Kentucky

When considering a move from Illinois to Kentucky, it's important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks. This guide offers an honest reflection, highlighting the pros and cons of relocating from Illinois to Kentucky to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Harsh winters
  • High taxes
  • Traffic congestion
  • Cost of living
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Milder climate
  • Lower taxes
  • Less traffic
  • Affordability
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Fewer urban amenities
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Limited public transit
  • Less diversity
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Chicago's amenities
  • Diverse job market
  • Public transit
  • Cultural diversity

While Illinois offers the bustling city life of Chicago with its renowned museums, upscale dining in neighborhoods like River North, and diverse job market, Kentucky provides a slower pace with its scenic beauty. Enjoy the milder climate as you explore neighborhoods like Anchorage in Louisville or take scenic drives through the Appalachian foothills in towns like Corbin. Although Kentucky may have fewer urban amenities and public transit options, you can still indulge in local favorites like the personalized dining experiences in Bardstown or the small-town charm of Lexington. Whether it's the lower taxes or lessened traffic, relocating to Kentucky might offer the tranquility you seek amidst the gentle rolling hills.

Illinois vs. Kentucky Food Guide

When moving from Illinois to Kentucky, knowing the local cuisine can offer a deeper understanding of life in each area. Food is a central part of local culture and integrating into your new home includes experiencing its culinary scene. We'll compare the local cuisine between Illinois & Kentucky to help you get acquainted with what awaits in terms of dining and local flavors.

Illinois
Kentucky
Most iconic local food item
Deep-dish Pizza
Fried Chicken
Most popular meat dish
Italian Beef Sandwich
Hot Brown Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Chicago-style Hot Dog
Bourbon Balls
Most popular vegan food
Seitan
Kentucky Beer Cheese
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Brown Hotel
  • KFC
  • Ramsi's Cafe on the World
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Illinois, you won't want to miss out on the deep-dish pizza, a beloved Chicago specialty found in neighborhoods like The Loop and River North. Giordano's and Portillo's are iconic eateries offering a taste of the state’s renowned Italian beef sandwiches and hot dogs. Over in Kentucky, the comfort of Southern cuisine shines through dishes like fried chicken, notably at The Brown Hotel in Louisville where the Hot Brown Sandwich originated. For those with a sweet tooth, bourbon balls offer a unique taste of Kentucky's spirit industry. Vegan options might be more plentiful in Illinois, but Kentucky's beer beer cheese provides an innovative local twist for plant-based diets.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Illinois vs. Kentucky Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, analyzing real estate between Illinois and Kentucky enlightens you on crucial living differences and expectations. Knowing this can significantly shape your decision, highlighting affordability, lifestyle, and community conveniences that each state offers.

Illinois
Kentucky
Typical Architecture Style
Prairie and Chicago School
Colonial, Craftsman
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Hardwood floors, Granite countertops
Spacious backyard, Hardwood floors

In your decision to move from Illinois to Kentucky, you'll find Kentucky's housing market notably more affordable, with the median home price significantly lower than Illinois'. However, this lower cost does come with aspects to consider such as slightly lower walkability and bikeability scores, indicating a potential need for a car in Kentucky. Despite this, the appeal of a spacious backyard often highlighted in Kentucky real estate listings points towards a trade-off many find worthwhile for more space and nature. Additionally, the typical architectural styles reflect the cultural and historical differences of each state, from the Prairie and Chicago School styles prominent in Illinois to the Colonial and Craftsman influences found in Kentucky homes. Choosing Kentucky could mean embracing a slower, more spacious lifestyle amidst rich history and crafted architecture.

Illinois vs. Kentucky Weather Considerations

Moving between states necessitates an understanding of how climate can shift. This comparison is vital for those relocating from Illinois to Kentucky, focusing on how the weather patterns and environmental conditions will change. Knowing this information prepares you for a seamless transition to your new surroundings.

Illinois
Kentucky
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes, floods
Tornadoes, floods
Air Quality
Good
Varies
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85/65
87/66
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35/18
44/23


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

39
49
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

22
12


Illinois and Kentucky share some similarities in weather, but notable differences exist. Kentucky tends to have milder winters with higher average temperatures and slightly more days of sunshine annually. However, Kentucky experiences more rainfall which contributes to its lush landscapes, but also means you may encounter more humid days. Air quality in Kentucky can vary, influenced by its topography and industries, something to consider if you're sensitive to environmental conditions. Understanding these differences will help you adjust more comfortably to your new home in Kentucky.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand the financial landscape you're moving into. How will the cost of living, taxes, and income in Illinois compare to Kentucky? This comparison is designed to highlight the key monetary differences to anticipate in your new home.

Illinois
Kentucky
Avg. Household Income
$76,708
$59,341
Cost of Living Index
94.25
87.8
State Income Tax
4.95 (flat)
5.0 (flat)
Avg. Property Tax
2.16
0.86
Avg. Sales Tax
8.82
6.00
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Services, Agriculture
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture
Affluence
Moderate
Lower
Poverty
High
Moderate
Homelessness
Noticeable
Lower

While Illinois presents a higher average household income at $65,886 compared to Kentucky's $52,295, it's important to consider the overall cost of living and taxation that accompanies this. Illinois has a higher cost of living index and notably higher average property tax at 2.16% versus Kentucky's more modest 0.86%. This suggests a significant difference in homeownership costs between the states. Moreover, despite having a slightly lower state income tax, Kentucky's lower cost of living and sales tax rate may leave residents with more disposable income, significantly impacting day-to-day and long-term financial planning. Considering these factors can help ensure a smoother transition and financial stability in your new Kentucky home.

Illinois vs. Kentucky Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one state to another brings changes beyond just your address; it introduces you to a new community with distinct characteristics. This quick comparison aims to give you an insight into the political and religious makeup comparing Illinois & Kentucky , providing a snapshot of what to expect from your new neighbors.

Illinois
Kentucky
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Lean Republican
Local Politics
Liberal urban centers
Conservative rural areas
Religion
Mixed, with a large Catholic population
Primarily Southern Baptist

When making the move from Illinois to Kentucky, you'll encounter a diverse cultural shift, especially in political and religious landscapes. Illinois, with its Democratic-leaning urban centers, contrasts against Kentucky's predominantly Republican, conservative rural areas. Understanding local politics is crucial as it can influence your community's priorities and initiatives. Additionally, Illinois hosts a variety of religious beliefs with a significant Catholic presence, but once you cross into Kentucky, you'll find a stronger emphasis on Southern Baptist traditions. This conversion not only enriches your social tapestry but also encourages a broader perspective on community values and beliefs.

Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to Kentucky

To assist in making a well-informed decision about your family's educational future after a move, we've compared schools and education options. This chart contrasts the differences between school options in Illinois and Kentucky, providing a clearer picture of what each state offers.

IllinoisKentucky

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago
University of Kentucky
University of Louisville
Western Kentucky University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Skinner North Classical School (Chicago)
Lincoln Elementary School (River Forest)
Edison Regional Gifted Center (Chicago)
Ashland Elementary (Lexington)
Greathouse/Shryock Traditional (Louisville)
Beechwood Elementary (Fort Mitchell)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Skinner North Classical School (Chicago)
Kennedy Junior High (Lisle)
Daniel Wright Junior High School (Lincolnshire)
Barret Traditional Middle School (Louisville)
Morton Middle School (Lexington)
Beechwood High School (Fort Mitchell)

Top 3 High Schools

Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Payton College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora)
DuPont Manual High (Louisville)
Beechwood High School (Fort Mitchell)
Highlands High School (Fort Thomas)

Top 3 private high schools

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Sacred Heart Academy (Louisville)
Trinity High School (Louisville)
Lexington Catholic High (Lexington)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
British International School of Chicago (Chicago)
The Lexington School (Lexington)
Louisville Collegiate School (Louisville)
Sayre School (Lexington)

Top 3 School Districts

New Trier Township High School District 203
Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Community High School District 128
Fort Thomas Independent Schools
Beechwood Independent School District
Oldham County Schools

When comparing the top educational options, it's evident that both Illinois and Kentucky have strong programs across all levels of education. Illinois boasts prestigious universities and highly rated public and private schools, with a concentration of top-rated schools in the Chicago area. Kentucky, on the other hand, offers excellent educational institutions as well, with its top universities drawing students statewide and its high schools, both public and private, providing quality education. Notably, the Beechwood Independent School District in Kentucky consistently receives high marks for K-12 education, paralleling the high performance of districts like New Trier in Illinois. These comparisons show that both states are committed to providing high-quality education to their residents.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Illinois to Kentucky Movers Featured Image