Best Kentucky to Illinois Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Kentucky to Illinois and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 409 mile KY to IL move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 144 Kentucky 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 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky to Illinois Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
2Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
3From Here to There9.178.82Authorized For Property, HHG
4Smooth Move Relocation Services9.109.64Authorized For Property, HHG
5BG Home Movers8.988.48Authorized For Property, HHG
6UNITS of Kentucky8.989.13Active
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 409 miles from Kentucky to Illinois will cost on average $2,129 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom KY to IL move is roughly $5,094. 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky to Illinois movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,434300 ft³$4.78
1 Bedroom$2,129450 ft³$4.73
2 Bedrooms$3,511750 ft³$4.68
3 Bedrooms$5,0941100 ft³$4.63
4 Bedrooms$7,3301600 ft³$4.58
5+ Bedrooms$8,1561800 ft³$4.53
*Please note: These Kentucky to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Kentucky & 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 KY to IL mover.
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Compare the 6 Best KY to IL 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
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
3
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
4
BG Home Movers Logo

BG Home Movers

Superb8.98/10
based on 255+ data points

1025 Lovers Ln

Bowling Green, KY, 42103

About BG Home Movers

BG Home Movers is a full-service moving company in Bowling Green, KY, offering flexible service options to meet your needs. Backed...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3967219 / 1481382

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
5
UNITS of Kentucky Logo

UNITS of Kentucky

Superb8.98/10
based on 159+ data points

1841 Taylor Ave Building # 32

Louisville, KY, 40213

About UNITS of Kentucky

UNITS of Kentucky is a locally-owned and operated moving and portable storage company founded in 2004. The company offers convenient moving...

Services

  • Storage
  • Moving
  • Moving & Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 2/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

439414 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
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 Kentucky to Illinois

When considering a move from {state_fr} to {state_to} , it's essential to have an objective look at the situation. These charts aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes associated with this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • High taxes
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited outdoor activities
  • Expensive housing
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Lower taxes
  • Better public transport
  • Abundant parks and trails
  • Affordable housing options
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Cold winters
  • Fewer dining options
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • No ski resorts
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Warm climate
  • Famous food scene
  • Strong job market
  • Adventure sports

The contrast between {state_fr} and {state_to} lies in both environmental and lifestyle factors. While {state_fr} offers a warm climate and immense culinary delights with its renowned food scene, it also suffers from heavy traffic and a high cost of living. On the other hand, {state_to} presents a fantastic change with its lower taxes and affordable housing, although you might find yourself bundling up during cold winters. You'll enjoy exploring its national parks and trails, which are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Don't miss visiting the vibrant downtown areas, full of diverse restaurants and community events.

Kentucky vs. Illinois Food Guide

As you relocate, understanding the local cuisine of Kentucky & Illinois is crucial, as food deeply reflects the cultural ambiance of where you'll call home. This comparison will illuminate the culinary landscape, ensuring you're well-acquainted with the flavors and traditions awaiting you.

Kentucky
Illinois
Most iconic local food item
Fried Chicken
Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dish
Bourbon BBQ Ribs
Italian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Hot Brown Sandwich
Chicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit
Deep Dish Vegan Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
    • Corbett's: An American Place
    • 610 Magnolia
    • The Brown Hotel
    • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
    • Portillo's
    • Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Kentucky, the aroma of bourbon BBQ ribs fills the air, especially in areas known for their rich culinary traditions like Louisville. Here, you can find 610 Magnolia, a beacon of fine dining offering a fusion of Southern and modern American cuisine. On the other hand, Illinois, particularly Chicago, is a haven for food lovers craving diverse flavors. The iconic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria or the unique take on vegan dishes at various eateries demonstrates the state's vibrant food scene. In both states, the commitment to delicious, hearty meals is apparent, though the flavors and specialties differ greatly.

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Kentucky vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor in the decision to move. This comparison aims to illuminate how Kentucky and Illinois contrast in terms of real estate aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle options. Knowing these differences will pave the way for a smoother transition.

Kentucky
Illinois
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Cape Cod
Prairie, Chicago School
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, scenic views
Proximity to public transport, modern amenities

While Kentucky offers more affordable housing with its lower median home prices and rent, Illinois presents a slightly more urban lifestyle, reflected in its higher walkability and bikeability scores. The architectural styles also highlight the regions' unique characteristics, with Kentucky favoring traditional Colonial and Cape Cod designs, while Illinois is home to the Prairie style and iconic Chicago School architecture. Another significant difference is the emphasis on modern amenities and public transport in Illinois' real estate listings compared to Kentucky's spacious yards and scenic views, showcasing the distinct living experiences each state offers.

Kentucky vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Kentucky to Illinois, comparing the weather is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison is aimed at helping you understand how the weather impacts your move and adaptation between Kentucky and Illinois. Adjusting to a new climate can significantly influence your day-to-day life, making this information vital.

Kentucky
Illinois
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Floods, Tornadoes
Tornadoes, Blizzards
Air Quality
Moderate
Moderate to Low
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87/66
85/65
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

44/23
35/20


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

50
39
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

12
22


While both Kentucky and Illinois enjoy four distinct seasons, the transitions and intensity can vary. You might find winters in Illinois colder and snowier, which could impact your daily routine and travel plans. The slightly lower annual sunshine days in Illinois could also affect mood and outdoor activities. Considering the higher snowfall in Illinois, it's important to prepare for more significant snow removal and cold-weather driving. Additionally, natural disaster preparedness should shift from concerns over floods in Kentucky to preparing for the more frequent blizzards and tornadoes in Illinois. Understanding these differences will help ensure you are well-prepared for your new home's seasonal challenges.

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

Moving between states involves adjusting to new financial landscapes. Understanding how costs like housing, taxes, and income differ can ease the transition. This comparison highlights key financial differences you'll encounter when relocating from Kentucky to Illinois, focusing on metrics crucial to managing your budget effectively.

Kentucky
Illinois
Avg. Household Income
$59,341
$76,708
Cost of Living Index
87.8
94.25
State Income Tax
5.0
4.95
Avg. Property Tax
0.86
2.16
Avg. Sales Tax
6.0
6.25
Top 3 Industries
Automotive, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Manufacturing, Agriculture, Services
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Significant
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
Moderate

Your move from Kentucky to Illinois will bring several financial changes. The average household income is higher in Illinois, suggesting potential for greater earning but comes with a cost; the living cost and property taxes are significantly higher than in Kentucky. However, Illinois' slightly lower state income tax rate and a comparable sales tax rate offer slight reprieve. Additionally, the economic landscapes differ; Illinois' diversification into manufacturing, agriculture, and services might offer broader employment opportunities compared to Kentucky's focus on automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your new financial environment in Illinois.

Kentucky vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome! If you're considering a move from Kentucky to Illinois, understanding the social landscape is key. This quick comparison provides insights into the political and religious makeup of each state, giving you a snapshot of the communities you'll encounter.

Kentucky
Illinois
Political Make-up
Traditionally Republican
Traditionally Democratic
Local Politics
Mixed, with a strong Republican presence in rural areas
Diverse, Democratic stronghold in urban areas like Chicago
Religion
Primarily Christian, with a significant Baptist population
Mixed, but with a large Catholic community particularly in Chicago and surrounding areas

When transitioning from Kentucky to Illinois, you'll notice a shift in both the political and religious landscapes. Kentucky's political scene is generally rooted in conservative values, especially evident in its rural areas, while Illinois, driven by the populous and diverse city of Chicago, leans more toward progressive ideals, embodying its Democratic strength. The religious makeup in both states is primarily Christian, but while Kentucky has a substantial Baptist community, Illinois showcases a broader religious diversity, with a significant Catholic presence, especially in metropolitan regions. This vibrant mix shapes the cultural fabric of each state, offering a varied societal experience.

Education Guide When Moving from Kentucky to Illinois

When planning a move from Kentucky to Illinois, one critical aspect to consider is the education system for your children or future family. This comparison will enable you to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Kentucky and Illinois , ensuring a smoother transition for your family's educational needs.

KentuckyIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

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

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Greathouse/Shryock Traditional
Louisville; Beechwood Elementary
Fort Mitchell; Ashland Elementary
Lexington
Lincoln Elementary School
River Forest; South Park Elementary School
Deerfield; Meadow Glens Elementary School
Naperville

Top 3 Middle Schools

Barret Traditional Middle
Louisville; Highlands Middle School
Fort Thomas; Oldham County Middle
Buckner
Wood Oaks Junior High School
Northbrook; Marie Murphy School
Wilmette; Kennedy Junior High School
Lisle

Top 3 High Schools

DuPont Manual High
Louisville; Highlands High School
Fort Thomas; Beechwood High School
Fort Mitchell
Northside College Preparatory High School
Chicago; Adlai E. Stevenson High School
Lincolnshire; Payton College Preparatory High School
Chicago

Top 3 private high schools

Sacred Heart Academy
Louisville; Lexington Catholic High
Lexington; Trinity High School
Louisville
University of Chicago Lab School
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago; Lake Forest Academy
Lake Forest

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Lexington School
Lexington; Kentucky Country Day School
Louisville; Sayre School
Lexington
Lake Forest Country Day School
Lake Forest; Morgan Park Academy
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago

Top 3 School Districts

Oldham County Schools
Beechwood Independent School District
Fort Thomas Independent Schools
New Trier Township High School District
Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Barrington Community Unit School District 220

In comparing education between Kentucky and Illinois, a few highlights stand out. For example, Illinois boasts renowned universities such as the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Chicago, indicating a strong higher education presence. On the other hand, Kentucky offers unique educational environments with highly rated traditional and magnet schools like DuPont Manual High in Louisville. Also noteworthy are the private education options, with Illinois housing prestigious institutions like the University of Chicago Lab School and Francis W. Parker School, which are known for their rigorous academic programs and comprehensive K-12 education. These comparisons illustrate that both states are equipped with high-quality educational systems, providing varied and exceptional opportunities for students.

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