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Florida to Illinois Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from state to state embodies an incredible journey of change and fresh starts, brimming with excitement and new possibilities. Leaving behind Florida's sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and the laid-back lifestyle colloquially known as the "Sunshine State" vibe, you're embarking on an adventure to Illinois, the "Land of Lincoln," renowned for its bustling cities, rich history, and diverse communities. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance move, it's imperative to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we take pride in connecting you with the best, ensuring a seamless transition with peace of mind.

6 Best Movers for Moving from Florida to Illinois

#1
Sebastian Moving and More Logo
Exceptional

based on 5,993+ data points

Orlando, FL
Full Service Moves in Orlando, Air-Conditioned Storage, Packing and Unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1575104 Verify

About Sebastian Moving and More

Sebastian Moving has over 15 years of experience in the moving business. It will provide shrink wrapping, packing, crating, loading, unloadi...Read More >>

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#2
Easy Florida Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,064+ data points

Hallandale Beach, FL
Long Distance Relocation, Local Moving, Long Distance Moving (in State) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3064335 Verify

About Easy Florida Moving LLC

Easy Florida Moving LLC is a licensed and insured full-service moving company based in South Florida. Established in 2017, the company provi...Read More >>

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#3
Our Family Moving and Storage LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,112+ data points

Hollywood, FL
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Local Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3374772 Verify

About Our Family Moving and Storage LLC

Based in Hollywood, FL, Our Family Moving and Storage is a local and family-owned moving business specializing in local and long-distance mo...Read More >>

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#4
Dixie Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,045+ data points

Hallandale Beach, FL
Local moving services, Long distance moving services, Commercial moving services
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3080327 Verify

About Dixie Movers

When it was founded in 2015, Dixie Movers handpicked all of the good things about the moving industry and left out all of the bad. It runs i...Read More >>

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#5
F
Exceptional

based on 738+ data points

Chicago, IL
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/25/2024)

USDOT: 3893107 Verify

About Fresh Start Movers Chicago

Website Information: Fresh Start Movers Chicago is a professional moving company headquartered in Chicago, IL, serving both residential and ...Read More >>

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#6
Happ Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,118+ data points

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 >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Florida to Illinois

Moving from one state to another can be a major life decision, often filled with both opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Florida to Illinois. By comparing the cons of staying in Florida against the pros of moving to Illinois—and vice versa—we hope to offer you a balanced perspective to help in your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Florida iconFlorida
  • High humidity
  • Hurricane risk
  • Flat landscape
  • Higher insurance costs
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Four seasons
  • Lower natural disaster risk
  • More varied geography
  • Lower insurance costs
Illinois iconIllinois
  • State income tax
  • Cold winters
  • Limited in winter
  • No beaches
Florida iconFlorida
  • No state income tax
  • Warm winters
  • Year-round outdoor activities
  • Beach access

When considering the move from Florida to Illinois, it's essential to weigh the changes in environmental and economic factors. Illinois offers a distinct four-season climate that introduces a vibrant fall and a snowy winter, which can be a delightful change for those used to Florida's tropical weather. Cities like Chicago are renowned for their incredible architecture, world-class museums like The Art Institute of Chicago, and bustling neighborhoods such as Wicker Park, which brim with unique restaurants and shops. Conversely, Florida's year-round warmth and beach lifestyle are irreplaceable for some. Each state presents a unique set of pros and cons, varying from weather conditions to financial implications such as no state income tax in Florida versus Illinois' tax. When making your decision, consider not just the immediate benefits but how each state aligns with your longer-term lifestyle preferences and financial objectives.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Florida to Illinois

Food significantly shapes the cultural fabric of a place, influencing your living experience. In this brief guide, we're diving into a comparison of local cuisine between Florida & Illinois to arm you with delightful insights into the eating scenes of these states.

FloridaIllinois

Most iconic local food item

Key Lime PieChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Cuban SandwichItalian Beef Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Cuban SandwichChicago-style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Acai BowlVegan Deep Dish Pizza

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

    1. Joe’s Stone Crab
    2. Versailles Restaurant
    3. Bern’s Steak House
    1. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
    2. Alinea
    3. Portillo’s

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

76

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

87

When moving from Florida to Illinois, you'll notice some exciting shifts in the local food landscape. In Florida, the freshness and vibrancy of Cuban influences stand out, best experienced through the iconic Cuban Sandwich found in Tampa or Miami's vibrant Little Havana. Meanwhile, Illinois, specifically Chicago, is a haven for those who relish hearty, comforting dishes. Chicago's deep-dish pizza, a revered local specialty, can be savored in its many pizzerias, with Lou Malnati's being a notable mention. For those with a penchant for vegan cuisine, both states offer compelling options, albeit with Florida leading slightly in the health and vegan-friendliness stakes. Both states have a rich food truck culture, ensuring that delicious, on-the-go eating options are never far away.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Florida to Illinois

When planning a move, diving into the real estate differences between Florida and Illinois is crucial. This comparison sheds light on housing costs, styles, and lifestyle attributes, providing essential insights to inform your decision.

The transition from Florida's Mediterranean and ranch-style homes to Illinois' prairie and craftsman architecture showcases not just a change in design but also in lifestyle. Though the median home price in Florida is higher, reflecting its desirable coastal locations and warmer climate, Illinois offers urban dwellers a more affordable entry point into homeownership, particularly in vibrant cities such as Chicago. Illinois' slightly higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores indicate a denser, more pedestrian-friendly environment, contrasting with Florida's car-centric culture. However, Florida excels in terms of waterfront living and outdoor life, with many homes featuring pools and water access, aspects less commonly found in Illinois listings.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Florida to Illinois

When relocating from one state to another, understanding how the weather differs from your current environment is crucial. For those moving from Florida to Illinois, this guide compares the climate and weather patterns to help you prepare for your new surroundings.

Summer icon
90°F / 75°F

Florida

85°F / 65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 48°F

Florida

35°F / 20°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50

Florida

39

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Florida

36

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Florida's warm, humid climate to Illinois' more variable weather conditions requires some adjustment. In Illinois, you'll experience a distinct four-season climate with hot summers and cold, snowy winters, a stark contrast to Florida's mild winters and hot, humid summers. The notable difference in sunshine days and the presence of snow in Illinois may affect your outdoor activities and lifestyle choices. Preparing for winter in Illinois involves more than a wardrobe change; consider winterizing your home and vehicle to navigate snowy conditions safely. The shift in natural disaster threats from hurricanes to tornadoes and blizzards also requires familiarizing yourself with new safety protocols and preparedness measures.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, grasping the financial implications is essential. This comparison reveals how the cost of living, income, and taxes in Florida and Illinois could impact your wallet. Understanding these differences will better prepare you for what lies ahead.

When comparing the financial landscapes of Florida and Illinois, several key differences emerge. While the average household income in Illinois is higher, the cost of living in Florida might actually be slightly higher due to its cost of living index. Perhaps the most significant distinction comes in the form of state income tax; Florida has none, offering an immediate financial advantage over Illinois' 4.95% rate. However, Illinois' lower cost of living might offset the income tax disadvantage for some. Property taxes in Illinois are also notably higher, which could impact long-term homeownership costs. Understanding these nuances will help you make an informed decision about your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Florida and Illinois

Moving from Florida to Illinois brings about a significant shift in the environment you'll find yourself in. This guide offers a quick snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup between Florida & Illinois, providing you with a clear understanding of the communities you’re transitioning between.

FloridaIllinois

Political Make-up

Mixed, with a slight Republican lean in recent electionsPrimarily Democratic, especially in urban areas

Local Politics

Varies significantly from urban to rural areasUrban areas strongly Democratic, rural areas can lean Republican

Religion

Christianity predominant, with a significant Catholic presence in South FloridaDiverse, with a strong presence of Christianity, and significant Jewish and Muslim communities in the larger cities

When moving from Florida to Illinois, you'll notice certain shifts in the political landscape and social fabric. Florida's political disposition is quite mixed, offering a slight Republican inclination in recent elections, but this varies greatly between rural and urban settings. In contrast, Illinois tends to lean more Democratic, particularly in urban areas such as Chicago. Regarding religion, both states present a dominant Christian presence, yet it's worth noting that Illinois boasts a more diverse religious landscape, with larger Jewish and Muslim communities in its major cities. Understanding these differences will help you acclimate more smoothly to your new home.

Education Guide When Moving from Florida to Illinois

Moving states can be a big decision, especially when it comes to education for you or your children. To help you make an informed decision, we've compared schooling options in two states. This chart aims to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Florida and Illinois.

FloridaIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Florida
Florida State University
University of Central Florida
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Pine View School (Osprey)
Doral Academy Charter School (Doral)
Archimedean Academy (Miami)
Lincoln Elementary School (River Forest)
South Loop Elementary School (Chicago)
Skinner North Classical School (Chicago)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Pine View School (Osprey)
Archimedean Middle Conservatory (Miami)
Doral Academy Charter Middle School (Doral)
Wolcott School (Chicago)
Kennedy Junior High (Lisle)
Marie Murphy School (Wilmette)

Top 3 High Schools

Pine View School (Osprey)
School for Advanced Studies (Miami)
Design and Architecture Senior High (Miami)
Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora)
Payton College Preparatory High School (Chicago)

Top 3 private high schools

Ransom Everglades School (Coconut Grove)
Bolles School (Jacksonville)
American Heritage School (Plantation)
University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)
Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Ransom Everglades School (Coconut Grove)
American Heritage School (Plantation)
Bolles School (Jacksonville)
University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)

Top 3 School Districts

St. Johns County School District
Sarasota County Schools
School District of Indian River County
New Trier Township High School District 203
Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Community High School District 128 (Libertyville/Vernon Hills)

When comparing Florida and Illinois regarding educational opportunities, several key differences emerge. Notably, Illinois boasts prestigious universities such as the University of Chicago and Northwestern University which are highly ranked nationally and globally, offering top-tier higher education options. In contrast, Florida's University of Florida and Florida State University are also well-regarded, especially for their strong programs in business, engineering, and the sciences. Considering K-12 education, schools like Pine View School in Florida and Northside College Preparatory High School in Illinois are highly regarded for their strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities, reflecting the high educational standards and diverse opportunities available in both states. Each state offers unique elite private institutions such as the Ransom Everglades School in Florida and the University of Chicago Lab School in Illinois, catering to distinct educational philosophies and community needs.

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