Best Alabama to Illinois Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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AL to IL Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks the start of an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. Transitioning from Alabama's warm southern charm and vibrant football culture to Illinois, the Land of Lincoln, where dynamic cities like Chicago meet the tranquil beauty of the Midwest plains, entails leaving familiar comforts for new discoveries. It's crucial in this journey to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers; we, at Great Guys Moving, are dedicated to connecting you with the best, ensuring your move is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

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Best Alabama to Illinois Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.42A+ActiveContact
MoveDaddy9.38A+Authorized For HHGContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
New Latitude Movers9.26A+Authorized For HHGContact
Black Tie Moving9.25A+Authorized For HHGContact
Pink Zebra Moving9.17FAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to Alabama guide.

6 Best AL to IL Moving Companies

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

Happ Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
based on 1,118+ data points

About Happ Movers, Inc.

Happ Movers, Inc. has provided residential and commercial moving services in Chicago’s North Shore area for more than half a century. Locate...Read More >>

Services

  • Professional Moving Services
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/24/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2970282 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
MoveDaddy Logo
Exceptional9.38/10
based on 1,858+ data points

About MoveDaddy

Move Daddy offers a wide variety of moving services in Birmingham, including full-service residential and commercial moves, moving labor onl...Read More >>

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
2
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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 movi...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

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
3
New Latitude Movers Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,265+ data points

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 compa...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Storage Facilities

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

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
Exceptional9.25/10
based on 816+ data points

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 from Forbes, NBC, CBS, ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local relocation
  • Nationwide moving services
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

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
Exceptional9.17/10
based on 259+ data points

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 exper...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/19/2024)

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

Moving can be a significant life change, and it's crucial to weigh both the benefits and challenges it brings. This guide provides a balanced view by comparing the cons of living in Alabama with the pros of moving to Illinois, and vice versa, to offer an honest reflection on what this relocation entails.

CONs
PROs
Alabama iconAlabama
  • Higher humidity
  • Lower income levels
  • Less public transit
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Milder summers
  • Better job opportunities
  • Extensive public transit
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Higher taxes
  • Colder winters
  • Denser population
Alabama iconAlabama
  • Lower cost of living
  • Warmer winters
  • Space and privacy

For individuals moving from Alabama to Illinois, the transition presents an opportunity to enjoy milder summers and access to better job markets, such as those in Chicago. While the cost of living may rise due to higher taxes in Illinois, the expansive public transit system simplifies commuting across cities like Chicago and Springfield. Moreover, Illinois' diverse culinary scene, from the legendary Lou Malnati's deep-dish pizza in Chicago to the innovative dishes at Avec, offers a thrilling adventure for food enthusiasts. Conversely, while Alabama offers a warmer winter climate, those moving to Illinois will experience colder winters but with the charm of seasonal snowfall and winter activities in areas like Millennium Park.

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.

AlabamaIllinois
Most iconic local food itemBarbecue RibsChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemConecuh SausageChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodOkra StewVegan 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.

ComparisonAlabamaIllinois
Typical Architecture StyleAntebellum, CraftsmanPrairie School, Chicago-style
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, PrivacyProximity 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.

Summer icon
90°F / 70°F

Alabama

85°F / 65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 36°F

Alabama

35°F / 20°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
58"

Alabama

39"

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
1.6"

Alabama

22"

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonAlabamaIllinois
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesTornadoes, Severe Winter Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

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.

ComparisonAlabamaIllinois
Avg. Household Income$59,674$76,708
Cost of Living Index91.294.25
State Income Tax2-54.95
Avg. Property Tax0.422.16
Avg. Sales Tax9.118.8
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, RetailManufacturing, Services, Agriculture
AffluenceLowerHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessModerateModerate

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.

AlabamaIllinois
Political Make-upRepublican-leaningDemocratic-leaning
Local PoliticsConservative policies prevailProgressive policies more common
ReligionProtestant Christian majorityDiverse, 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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