Best Connecticut to Illinois Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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CT to IL Moving Specialists

Moving from the Constitution State to the Land of Lincoln is an adventure filled with new opportunities and life changes. While you may be swapping Connecticut's picturesque coastlines and historic charm for Illinois’s vibrant cities and rich cultural tapestry, it's an exciting journey ahead. For such a significant transition, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, and we at Great Guys Moving use an unbiased algorithm to ensure you’re matched with the best, making your move seamless and stress-free.

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Best Connecticut to Illinois Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.43A+ActiveContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Smooth Move & Delivery9.19A+Authorized For HHGContact
Expert Movers & Storage Inc9.15A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Expert Movers, LLC9.08A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Adams Moving Company9.02A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to Connecticut guide.

6 Best CT 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
Exceptional9.43/10
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
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 12/5/2024)

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
2
Smooth Move & Delivery Logo
Exceptional9.19/10
based on 1,459+ data points

About Smooth Move & Delivery

Located in Stamford, CT, Smooth Move & Delivery offers residential and commercial moving services within a 70-mile radius of Westchester...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2723982 / 29434

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Expert Movers & Storage Inc Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.15/10
based on 775+ data points

About Expert Movers & Storage Inc

Expert Movers & Storage Inc is a family-owned and operated moving company serving Connecticut since 2000. It’s a full-service mover that...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 2/23/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2097824 / 731755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Expert Movers, LLC Logo
Exceptional9.08/10
based on 586+ data points

About Expert Movers, LLC

Expert Movers, LLC is a family-owned moving company that has been providing exceptional moving services since 2000. Based in Danbury, CT, th...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2097824 / 731755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Adams Moving Company Logo
Superb9.02/10
based on 614+ data points

About Adams Moving Company

Based in Branford, Connecticut, Adams Moving Company is known for providing reliable moving services. Accumulating over 20+ years of moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Junk removal

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/6/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3631786 / 1244398

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (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 Connecticut to Illinois

Moving can be a complex decision, especially when it involves changing your state of residence. This guide is designed to give you an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Connecticut to Illinois . We compare the pros and cons through detailed charts to help you make an informed decision about your next big move.

CONs
PROs
Connecticut iconConnecticut
  • Higher Living Costs
  • Smaller Job Market
  • Colder Winters
  • Less Cultural Diversity
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Lower Living Costs
  • Larger Job Market
  • Milder Winters
  • More Cultural Diversity
Illinois iconIllinois
  • No Coastal Access
  • Fewer Historic Sites
  • Busier Cities
  • Larger Population
Connecticut iconConnecticut
  • Coastal Access
  • Historic Sites
  • Quieter Suburbs
  • Tighter Communities

Choosing between Connecticut and Illinois comes with significant lifestyle changes. In Connecticut, you might be accustomed to the picturesque seascapes of Mystic Seaport or the history-rich streets of Hartford. Illinois offers a different charm. Chicago's vibrant cultural scene, with its world-class museums like The Art Institute of Chicago and thriving neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park, provides a stark contrast to Connecticut's quieter, coastal life. Cuisine enthusiasts moving from Connecticut will find solace in Chicago's diverse gastronomy landscape, from the Michelin-starred restaurants to the legendary deep-dish pizzas at places like Lou Malnati's. Meanwhile, for those concerned about winter sports and activities, locations near Illinois like Starved Rock State Park offer refreshing natural escapes, showcasing the state's distinct beauty.

Connecticut vs. Illinois Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Connecticut & Illinois, showcasing how food is an essential aspect of local culture and what living in each area could taste like. Whether you're a food lover or just curious about your future culinary surroundings, this guide will help you understand the distinct flavors each state has to offer.

ConnecticutIllinois
Most iconic local food itemLobster RollDeep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishSteamed CheeseburgerItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemApizzaChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosVegan Deep Dish Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
  • Sally's Apizza
  • Louis' Lunch
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In the move from Connecticut to Illinois, you'll notice a distinct shift in iconic foods and culinary experiences. In Connecticut, the tradition of seafood and unique spins on American classics like the lobster roll from the coastal areas and steamed cheeseburgers from central locations highlight the state's diverse palate. On the other hand, Illinois, particularly Chicago, is synonymous with deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. Foodies will delight in exploring Chicago's extensive food truck scene, rated higher than Connecticut's. Both states offer robust vegan options, but Illinois's larger, more diverse population provides a slightly more vegan-friendly environment. Iconic eateries such as Alinea in Illinois present an unparalleled dining experience, showcasing why the state's foodie scene scores higher.

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Connecticut vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Connecticut and Illinois focuses on key housing aspects to help you make an informed decision. From costs to lifestyle , see how these states measure up.

ComparisonConnecticutIllinois
Typical Architecture StyleColonialPrairie Style
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront, Stainless Steel AppliancesEnergy Efficient, Hardwood Floors

When examining the housing differences between Connecticut and Illinois, several factors stand out. Historically, Connecticut leans towards Colonial architecture, reflecting its East Coast heritage, while Illinois favors Prairie Style, championed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This architectural contrast underscores the broader lifestyle differences between these states. In Illinois, notably Chicago, neighborhoods typically offer higher walkability and bikeability scores, aligning with a more urban lifestyle that can be appealing if you're seeking accessibility and convenience. The median home prices and rent also indicate Illinois’s slightly more affordable living options, an important factor to consider alongside lifestyle preferences such as proximity to waterfronts in Connecticut or the emphasis on energy efficiency and hardwood floors in Illinois listings.

Connecticut vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Connecticut to Illinois, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp how the climate varies between these two states, aiding in your transition. By examining Connecticut and Illinois weather characteristics , you are better prepared for what to expect in terms of temperature, humidity, and natural events .

Summer icon
82°F / 62°F

Connecticut

85°F / 65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 18°F

Connecticut

32°F / 18°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Connecticut

39"

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
37"

Connecticut

22"

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonConnecticutIllinois
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersNor'easters, HurricanesTornadoes, Blizzards
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Connecticut and Illinois experience a mix of hot summers and cold winters, there are some notable differences to be aware of. For instance, summers tend to be slightly hotter in Illinois, which could affect your daily comfort and activities. Additionally, Illinois typically sees fewer days of sunshine compared to Connecticut, which might influence your mood or outdoor plans. It's also important to consider that Illinois experiences more extreme weather conditions, like tornadoes, in contrast to Connecticut's nor'easters and hurricanes. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for and adapt to your new environment in Illinois.

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

Understanding the financial landscape of your new home is essential when moving. This comparison will highlight the key economic differences to anticipate when relocating from Connecticut to Illinois. It focuses on various aspects, such as income, taxation, and the cost of living, to provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect financially.

ComparisonConnecticutIllinois
Avg. Household Income$88,429$76,708
Cost of Living Index122.194.25
State Income Tax3.0 - 6.994.95 (flat)
Avg. Property Tax2.142.31
Avg. Sales Tax6.356.25 + local
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, Real EstateManufacturing, Services, Agriculture
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessModerateHigh

When moving from Connecticut to Illinois, you'll find that the average household income is lower, but the cost of living significantly drops, reflecting in the lower Cost of Living Index in Illinois. This could mean that, despite the apparent reduction in income, your purchasing power might not dramatically decrease. Illinois applies a flat state income tax rate, which simplifies financial planning compared to Connecticut's progressive tax rates. However, Illinois has slightly higher property taxes, which could impact homeowners. Both states have their unique financial landscapes, influenced by dominant industries, with Connecticut being more tilted towards high-value sectors like Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate, while Illinois boasts a diverse economy with Manufacturing, Services, and Agriculture.

Connecticut vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Connecticut to Illinois, understanding the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Connecticut & Illinois is crucial. This quick snapshot will offer insights into the political climate and religious landscape, providing you with a better grasp of the social environment you're moving into.

ConnecticutIllinois
Political Make-upLargely DemocraticLargely Democratic
Local PoliticsLiberal policies in urban areas, mixed in ruralLiberal in Chicago, varies outside
ReligionChristianity predominant, diverse religious communitiesChristianity predominant, diverse in urban areas

In both Connecticut and Illinois, the political landscape is predominantly Democratic, particularly in major urban areas such as Hartford and Chicago. However, the local political nuances can influence daily life differently. For instance, while Connecticut has liberal policies throughout, you might find a broader mix in Illinois, especially outside of Chicago. Religiously, both states host diverse communities, with a strong presence of Christianity. Illinois shows a higher religious diversity in urban areas, likely reflective of its larger population and Chicago's role as a cultural melting pot. Moving from Connecticut to Illinois, you'll find similarities in the overarching political and religious makeup, with local nuances that make each state unique.

Education Guide When Moving from Connecticut to Illinois

Moving states can be a big decision, especially when it comes to education for you or your family. To help ease this transition, we've created a comparison chart to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Connecticut and Illinois . This will guide you in making an informed decision on where the best educational opportunities lie.

ConnecticutIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Yale University
University of Connecticut
Wesleyan University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

West School
New Canaan; North Mianus School
Greenwich; International School At Dundee
Greenwich
South Park Elementary
Deerfield; Walden Elementary School
Deerfield; Lincoln Elementary School
River Forest

Top 3 Middle Schools

Eastern Middle School
Riverside; Middlesex Middle School
Darien; Tomlinson Middle School
Fairfield
Marie Murphy School
Wilmette; Wood Oaks Junior High School
Northbrook; Maple School
Northbrook

Top 3 High Schools

Staples High School
Westport; Greenwich High School
Greenwich; Darien High School
Darien
Northside College Preparatory High School
Chicago; Adlai E. Stevenson High School
Lincolnshire; New Trier Township High School
Winnetka

Top 3 private high schools

Choate Rosemary Hall
Wallingford; The Hotchkiss School
Lakeville; The Loomis Chaffee School
Windsor
University of Chicago Lab School
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago; Lake Forest Academy
Lake Forest

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Brunswick School
Greenwich; Greens Farms Academy
Westport; King School
Stamford
Latin School of Chicago
Chicago; The British International School of Chicago
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago

Top 3 School Districts

New Canaan School District; Greenwich School District; Darien School DistrictNew Trier Township High School District 203; Naperville Community Unit School District 203; Niles Township Community High School District 219

When analyzing the educational landscapes between Connecticut and Illinois, noteworthy differences emerge, particularly in terms of the variety and prestige of institutions available. Connecticut boasts prestigious universities like Yale and has several high-ranking private schools such as Choate Rosemary Hall. Illinois presents a robust public school system, highlighted by the acclaimed University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Chicago's top-tier private schools like the University of Chicago Lab School. Additionally, Illinois offers unique educational opportunities such as the Latin School of Chicago, which enhances the diversity of educational paths available to residents. This analysis underlines the importance of considering the specific educational needs and preferences of your family when choosing between these enriching and diverse educational landscapes.

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