Trusted. Licensed. Insured.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.
Moving from Alabama to Illinois?
6 Best AL to IL Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
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6 Best Alabama to Illinois Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
#1
| Glenview, IL | |
| Professional Moving Services, Residential Moving, Commercial Moving See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 7/24/2023) | |
| USDOT: 2970282 Verify |
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 >>
#2
| Birmingham, AL | |
| Long Distance moving, Local moving, Cross-country moving See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/5/2024) | |
| USDOT: 2521318 Verify |
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 >>
#3
6
| Chicago, IL | |
| Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/6/2024) | |
| USDOT: 3476069 Verify |
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 >>
#4
| Birmingham, AL | |
| Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Storage Facilities See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/5/2024) | |
| USDOT: 2179652 Verify |
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 >>
#5
| Huntsville, AL | |
| Local relocation, Nationwide moving services, Packing See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/5/2024) | |
| USDOT: 3381623 Verify |
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 >>
#6
| Montgomery, AL | |
| Home Moving Services, Apartment/Condo/Townhome Moving Services, Furniture Rearranging Services See More | |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/4/2024) | |
| USDOT: 3976058 Verify |
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 >>
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- Higher humidity
- Lower income levels
- Less public transit
Illinois- Milder summers
- Better job opportunities
- Extensive public transit
Illinois- Higher taxes
- Colder winters
- Denser population
Alabama- 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.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from Alabama to Illinois
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 RibsChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza | |
Most popular meat dish Pulled PorkItalian Beef Sandwich | |
Most popular street food item Conecuh SausageChicago-style Hot Dog | |
Most popular vegan food Okra StewVegan Deep Dish Pizza | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 78 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 69 | |
Foodie Scene 79 | |
Vegan Friendly 68 | |
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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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Alabama to Illinois
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.
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.
Weather Considerations for Moving from Alabama to Illinois
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.
90°F / 70°F
Alabama
85°F / 65°F
Illinois
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
57°F / 36°F
Alabama
35°F / 20°F
Illinois
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
58"
Alabama
39"
Illinois
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
1.6"
Alabama
22"
Illinois
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
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.
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.
Political & Religious Comparison between Alabama and Illinois
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-leaningDemocratic-leaning | |
Local Politics Conservative policies prevailProgressive policies more common | |
Religion Protestant 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.
| Alabama | Illinois |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Alabama Auburn University University of Alabama at BirminghamUniversity of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Northwestern University University of Chicago | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Heritage Oak School Tuscaloosa; Rock Quarry Elementary Tuscaloosa; Greystone Elementary HooverLincoln 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 HooverMaple 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 HomewoodIllinois 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 SpringsUniversity 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 HuntsvilleUniversity 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 SchoolsNew 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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Popular Alabama to Illinois Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
