Best Michigan to Illinois Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Michigan to Illinois and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 408 mile MI to IL move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 181 Michigan 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 Pro-Low Moving), 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 Michigan 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 Michigan to Illinois Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pro-Low Moving9.699.73Authorized For HHG
2606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
3Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
4Handle With Care Moving & Delivery 9.078.91Authorized For Property, HHG
5MASS Movers9.049.15Authorized For Property, HHG
6Kingsley Moving Systems8.999.19Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 408 miles from Michigan to Illinois will cost on average $2,128 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom MI to IL move is roughly $5,092. 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 Michigan 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 Michigan 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$2,128450 ft³$4.73
2 Bedrooms$3,509750 ft³$4.68
3 Bedrooms$5,0921100 ft³$4.63
4 Bedrooms$7,3271600 ft³$4.58
5+ Bedrooms$8,1531800 ft³$4.53
*Please note: These Michigan to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & 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 MI to IL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to Michigan guide.

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Compare the 6 Best MI to IL Movers

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

Pro-Low Moving Logo

Pro-Low Moving

Exceptional9.69/10
based on 1,140+ data points

665 136th Ave

Holland, MI, 49424

About Pro-Low Moving

Pro-Low Moving is a trusted moving company located in Holland, MI, with services available in Grand Haven and surrounding areas. Its...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3508434 / 1160481

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved105,000 (2023)
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
Handle With Care Moving & Delivery  Logo

Handle With Care Moving & Delivery

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 822+ data points

4260 Varsity Dr

Ann Arbor, MI, 48108

About Handle With Care Moving & Delivery

Our company, Handle With Care Moving & Delivery, aims to provide you with professional, courteous, and helpful movers at an affordable...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

808976 / 359936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
MASS Movers Logo

MASS Movers

Exceptional9.04/10
based on 458+ data points

Lansing, MI, 48910

About MASS Movers

MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...

Services

  • Packing Service
  • Large Item Moving
  • Small to Medium Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3333210 / 1062576

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved32,500 (2024)
View Full Review
5
Kingsley Moving Systems Logo

Kingsley Moving Systems

Superb8.99/10
based on 533+ data points

610 Detroit St

Lansing, MI, 48912

About Kingsley Moving Systems

Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Statewide Moving
  • Interstate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1890987 / 682343

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved140,000 (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 Michigan to Illinois

Moving from Michigan to Illinois presents a mix of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison offers an honest reflection of both the good and the bad aspects, helping you navigate the transition between Michigan and Illinois with an informed perspective.

CONs
PROs
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Harsh winters
  • Limited job market
  • Rural isolation
  • Lesser cultural events
  • Higher property taxes
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Milder winters
  • Diverse job opportunities
  • Urban conveniences
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Competitive property taxes
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Limited lake access
  • Flat terrain
  • Higher cost of living
  • Busier lifestyle
  • Less community focused
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Great Lakes access
  • Beautiful landscapes
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Community feel

As you transition from Michigan to Illinois, you will notice substantial differences in lifestyle and environment. While Michigan provides easy access to the Great Lakes and boasts stunning natural landscapes, you might find the urban vibrancy of Chicago and its range of diverse job opportunities compelling in Illinois. Areas like Lincoln Park or the Loop offer bustling neighborhood parks and a myriad of dining options. However, be prepared for a busier lifestyle and consider neighborhoods that suit your pace, such as those in Evanston or Oak Park. Adjusting to a new state means discovering both its challenges and unique opportunities.

Michigan vs. Illinois Food Guide

Food significantly shapes the local culture and living experience in any area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Michigan & Illinois, aiming to better inform you about what the food scene is like where you are moving to.

Michigan
Illinois
Most iconic local food item
Pasties
Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dish
Detroit-style Coney Dogs
Italian Beef Sandwiches
Most popular street food item
Food Truck Tacos
Chicago-style Hot Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Pasties
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Au Cheval
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Michigan, pasties and Detroit-style Coney Dogs stand out as quintessential elements of local cuisine, reflecting the state's rich history and culture. Cities like Ann Arbor and Detroit are great places to explore this diversity, with Zingerman's Deli in Ann Arbor offering a taste of Michigan's finest. Moving to Illinois, especially Chicago, introduces you to a world-renowned food scene. Chicago-style deep dish pizza from places like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and the uniquely prepared Italian Beef Sandwiches at Portillo's highlight the city's culinary identity. Furthermore, both states boast a rising number of vegan options and food trucks, though Illinois, particularly Chicago, leads with its vibrant foodie scene, offering diverse and rich culinary experiences.

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Michigan vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating, making it crucial to comprehend how Michigan and Illinois fare in this domain. By comparing housing cost, architectural styles, walkability , and more, you can make an informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.

Michigan
Illinois
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman, Ranch
Prairie Style, Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lakefront, spacious yards
Historical features, proximity to transit

When delving deeper into the housing aspect, it's noteworthy that Illinois generally showcases a higher cost of living, evident from its greater median home price and monthly rent. However, Illinois compensates with its stronger urban lifestyle rating and better walkability, particularly in cities like Chicago, renowned for its historical architecture and extensive public transit system. Michigan, on the other hand, often highlights its lakefront properties and spacious yards, catering to those seeking more natural scenery or outdoor space. Each state's typical architectural style reflects its unique cultural heritage, with Michigan favoring functional Craftsman and Ranch styles, while Illinois boasts Prairie Style and Victorian homes, indicative of its rich architectural history.

Michigan vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Michigan to Illinois, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these two states. This comparison will help you prepare for the climate changes and adjustments needed as you transition from one environment to another.

Michigan
Illinois
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Tornadoes, Floods
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

81°F / 59°F
85°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

31°F / 17°F
35°F / 22°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

32.76"
39.2"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

60.66"
22"


Moving from Michigan to Illinois, you'll find that winters are slightly milder, albeit with less annual snowfall, which might appeal to those who prefer less snowy conditions. However, summers in Illinois tend to be warmer and more humid, a factor worth considering for outdoor activities and general comfort. Both states share similar challenges with top seasonal allergies due to mold and pollen and face risks from different natural disasters, highlighting the importance of preparedness for new residents.

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

When deciding to move, comparing financial aspects between your current and future home is crucial. This guide highlights the financial differences between Michigan and Illinois , focusing on key economic factors. Understanding these differences will ease your transition and financial planning.

Michigan
Illinois
Avg. Household Income
$66,986
$76,708
Cost of Living Index
91.2
94.25
State Income Tax
4.25
4.95
Avg. Property Tax
1.54
2.31
Avg. Sales Tax
6
6.25
Top 3 Industries
Automotive, Manufacturing, Agriculture
Finance, Manufacturing, Services
Affluence
Moderate
Higher
Poverty
Moderate
Moderate to High
Homelessness
Lower
Higher

When comparing Michigan to Illinois, it's evident that Illinois has a higher average household income, but this comes with a higher cost of living and higher taxation rates. Property taxes are significantly higher in Illinois, which impacts homeownership costs. The top industries in each state reflect the economic focus, with Michigan known for automotive and manufacturing, while Illinois has a strong finance sector. Despite Illinois' higher affluence, both states face moderate poverty levels, with homelessness being a more pronounced issue in Illinois. These financial insights are key to preparing for your move.

Michigan vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

When contemplating a move from Michigan to Illinois, understanding how your neighbors may perceive the world politically and religiously can be insightful. This brief comparison will offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents between Michigan & Illinois, aiding in setting your expectations for your new home.

Michigan
Illinois
Political Make-up
Mixed, leans Democratic
Leans Democratic
Local Politics
Diverse, varying from conservative rural areas to liberal cities
Liberal in metropolitan areas such as Chicago, more conservative in rural regions
Religion
Christianity dominant, with a notable presence of other faiths
Primarily Christian, with diversity in urban areas

While both Michigan and Illinois lean towards the Democratic side politically, the nuances in local politics reveal a tapestry of beliefs and voting patterns. For instance, Michigan's political landscape is marked by a sharper contrast between its urban and rural areas, similar to Illinois, where cities like Chicago are known for their liberal stance, yet this perspective gradually shifts as one moves into the state's less urbanized areas. Religion, mainly Christianity, plays a significant role in both states, but the greater diversity found in their urban centers invites a broader range of cultural and religious practices. This blend of political and religious views forms a dynamic community landscape that can provide a rich and varied social environment for newcomers.

Education Guide When Moving from Michigan to Illinois

Deciding to move to a new state is a significant life change, especially when education for you or your family is a consideration. By comparing educational options in both states, you'll better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Michigan and Illinois . This guide aims to provide a clear picture of what each state offers, helping you make an informed decision.

MichiganIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Michigan
Michigan State University
Wayne State University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Harlan Elementary School (Birmingham)
Muskegon Montessori Academy for Environmental Change (Muskegon)
Okemos Public Montessori at Central (Okemos)
Lincoln Elementary School (River Forest)
South Loop Elementary School (Chicago)
Willowbrook Elementary School (Glenview)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Central Middle School (Midland)
Meads Mill Middle School (Northville)
West Middle School (Rochester Hills)
Marie Murphy School (Wilmette)
McClure Junior High School (Western Springs)
Woodlawn Middle School (Long Grove)

Top 3 High School Schools

International Academy (Bloomfield Hills)
Troy High School (Troy)
Northville High School (Northville)
Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)
New Trier High School (Winnetka)
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora)

Top 3 private high schools

Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills)
Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills)
The Roeper School (Birmingham)
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills)
Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills)
Greenhills School (Ann Arbor)
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)

Top 3 School Districts

Okemos Public Schools
Birmingham Public Schools
Troy School District
New Trier Township High School District 203
Community High School District 128
Naperville Community Unit School District 203

When delving into the educational comparisons between Michigan and Illinois, one notes distinct offerings that cater to varied preferences. Michigan's top universities, such as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, are known for their broad array of programs and significant research contributions. In Illinois, prestigious institutions like the University of Chicago and Northwestern University attract students worldwide, notable for their academic excellence and research facilities. The top public and private schools in both states, such as Cranbrook Schools in Michigan and University of Chicago Laboratory Schools in Illinois, offer rigorous academic programs and a multitude of extracurricular activities. This variety ensures that whether you're looking for a top-tier public school district like Okemos Public Schools in Michigan or an affluent district such as New Trier Township in Illinois, there are ample high-quality educational options to consider in both states.

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