Best Illinois to New Jersey Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

IL to NJ Moving Specialists

Moving from the Land of Lincoln to the Garden State is an adventure that promises a significant change in scenery—from expansive prairies to bustling urban landscapes. You're leaving behind Illinois' iconic flatlands and deep-dish pizzas for New Jersey's diverse neighborhoods, famous shorelines, and dynamic culture. Recognizing the magnitude of this transition emphasizes why it's critical to choose trusted and reliable professional movers; we at Great Guys Moving utilize an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you partner with the best for a seamless move.

Illinois iconArrow iconNew Jersey icon

Best Illinois to New Jersey Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Big G Movers, INC9.53A+Authorized For HHGContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.43A+ActiveContact
Cimply Labor, LLC9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
A1 Movers, Inc9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from New Jersey to Illinois guide.

6 Best IL to NJ Moving Companies

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

Big G Movers, INC Logo
Exceptional9.53/10
based on 1,636+ data points

About Big G Movers, INC

Located in Metuchen, Big G Movers is one of the top-rated hometown movers in New Jersey. This family-owned and operated business has a years...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Residential Moving
  • East Coast Long Distance Moving
  • Office & Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2358159 / 807903

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved19,500 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Cimply Labor, LLC Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,172+ data points

About Cimply Labor, LLC

Cimply Labor, LLC is a moving company based in New Jersey that aims to make the moving process simple and easy for its customers. They offer...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2988167 / 68577

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>

Services

  • Full Moves
  • Truck Loading and Unloading
  • Interstate Moving Assistance

Interstate Moving License

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

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
5
A1 Movers, Inc Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 776+ data points

About A1 Movers, Inc

A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company offers ...Read More >>

Services

  • LOCAL MOVES
  • LONG DISTANCE MOVES
  • PACKING SERVICES

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
6
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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 Illinois to New Jersey

Moving between states is a significant decision that requires weighing the bad and the good. This comprehensive comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Illinois to New Jersey, shedding light on both the drawbacks and benefits to help you make an informed choice.

CONs
PROs
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Higher crime rates
  • Flat landscape
  • Less public transit
  • Higher property taxes
New Jersey iconNew Jersey
  • Lower crime rates
  • Varied geography
  • Extensive public transit
  • Competitive property taxes
New Jersey iconNew Jersey
  • Higher cost of living
  • Dense population areas
  • Competitive job market
  • High living expenses
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Lower cost of living
  • Vibrant Chicago city
  • Broad employment opportunities
  • Culturally rich

When moving from Illinois to New Jersey, you're trading the scenic skyline and vibrant culture of Chicago for New Jersey's diverse geography and bustling communities like Hoboken and Jersey City. New Jersey's extensive public transit system, including NJ Transit, makes navigating between cities like Newark and Trenton, or even a day trip to NYC, both viable and convenient. The Garden State also boasts lower crime rates in numerous towns, and despite a generally higher cost of living, offers competitive property taxes in cities such as Princeton. With its rich historical sights, from the revolutionary war battlegrounds to the famed Jersey Shore, transitioning to New Jersey introduces a blend of urban living and natural beauty not as readily available in Illinois. Whether you're exploring the arts at the Newark Museum of Art or enjoying waterfront dining in Hoboken, New Jersey offers a dynamic lifestyle amidst its unique landscapes.

Illinois vs. New Jersey Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Illinois & New Jersey, highlighting the importance of food in understanding local culture. Recognizing these culinary distinctions will better prepare you for the food scene in your new home.

IllinoisNew Jersey
Most iconic local food itemChicago-style Deep Dish PizzaTaylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich
Most popular meat dishItalian Beef SandwichPork Roll
Most popular street food itemChicago-style Hot DogSalt Water Taffy
Most popular vegan foodChicago-style Vegan PizzaJersey Fresh Tomato Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
  • Portillo’s
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Illinois, particularly Chicago, is famous for its deep-dish pizza, a must-try for newcomers, with Lou Malnati's being a legendary spot to indulge. On the other hand, New Jersey prides itself on Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese Sandwiches, particularly found in local diners like Don's Deli. For vegan residents, Chicago's scene, featuring options like vegan pizza, demonstrates the city's growing inclusivity in dining. New Jersey's fresh produce, epitomized by the Jersey Fresh Tomato Salad, showcases the state's commitment to fresh, local ingredients. The culinary scene in both states is vibrant and diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Illinois vs. New Jersey Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a vital component of your relocation journey. Knowing how Illinois and New Jersey compare in terms of housing can significantly impact your decision-making process. This comparison aims to shed light on each state's real estate landscape, focusing on cost, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle.

ComparisonIllinoisNew Jersey
Typical Architecture StylePrairie SchoolColonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, basementsProximity to transit, open floor plans

When comparing the cost of living between Illinois and New Jersey, it's clear that New Jersey has a higher median home price and rent. However, these costs contribute to a more urban lifestyle, as indicated by New Jersey's higher scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle. Additionally, architectural styles differ significantly, with Illinois homes often embodying the Prairie School style, characterized by its connection with the landscape and use of horizontal lines. In contrast, New Jersey homes frequently showcase the historic and versatile Colonial style, reflecting the state's rich history. Furthermore, the emphasis on proximity to transit and open floor plans in New Jersey's real estate listings highlights a preference for convenience and modern living spaces, responding to the demands of a fast-paced urban lifestyle.

Illinois vs. New Jersey Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Illinois to New Jersey, understanding how the weather compares is essential. This comparison will help you adjust to the new climate and know what to expect in terms of temperature, humidity, sunshine, and more.

Summer icon
85/65

Illinois

85/66

New Jersey

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/20

Illinois

40/25

New Jersey

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39

Illinois

47

New Jersey

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Illinois

26

New Jersey

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIllinoisNew Jersey
Air QualityModerateGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsHurricanes, Nor'easters
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Illinois and New Jersey experience a range of temperatures with hot summers and cold winters, moving to New Jersey, you'll notice milder winters and slightly more days of sunshine. New Jersey's proximity to the coast explains its higher annual rainfall and the risk of hurricanes and Nor'easters compared to Illinois' susceptibility to tornadoes. While both states share common allergens like pollen and mold, New Jersey offers slightly better air quality. Preparing for the humidity levels and understanding the primary natural disasters of your new home state will help you transition smoothly.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one state to another requires a careful examination of finances and economy. Understanding how the cost of living in Illinois compares to New Jersey is paramount for your financial health and planning.

ComparisonIllinoisNew Jersey
Avg. Household Income$76,708$96,346
Cost of Living Index94.25129.7
State Income Tax4.951.4-10.75
Avg. Property Tax2.162.42
Avg. Sales Tax6.256.625
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Agriculture, ServicesPharmaceuticals, Finance, Technology
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyLowLower
HomelessnessModerateLow

While considering a move from Illinois to New Jersey, it's vital to note that although New Jersey boasts a higher average household income, it also comes with a significantly higher cost of living. The progressive state income tax in New Jersey can greatly vary depending on your earnings. Additionally, the state's higher property tax rate is something to keep in mind, especially if you plan to buy a home. However, the economic landscape in New Jersey, dominated by pharmaceuticals, finance, and technology, could offer lucrative opportunities for career advancements and financial growth.

Illinois vs. New Jersey Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison aims to provide a quick snapshot of the politics between Illinois & New Jersey , alongside religious backgrounds, offering a glimpse at the cultural nuances that could affect your adaptation to your new home.

IllinoisNew Jersey
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsChicago's influence is significantNorth vs. South divide
ReligionChristian, Non-affiliatedChristian, Jewish communities

In both Illinois and New Jersey, the political landscape leans Democratic, but the local political climates offer interesting contrasts. Illinois' politics are heavily influenced by the powerhouse city of Chicago, whereas New Jersey experiences a distinct North versus South divide, which can affect local policies and community vibes. Another notable difference is in the religious landscape; New Jersey has prominent Jewish communities in addition to Christian ones, providing a vibrant interfaith culture. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate more seamlessly into your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to New Jersey

Moving from Illinois to New Jersey can mark a significant change in your life, especially when it comes to education for you or your family. To better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Illinois and New Jersey , this guide will break down the key aspects of educational quality and offerings in both states.

IllinoisNew Jersey

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Illinois
Northwestern University
University of Chicago
Rutgers University
Princeton University
Stevens Institute of Technology

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Lincoln Elementary (Springfield)
South Loop Elementary (Chicago)
Avery Coonley School (Downers Grove)
Littlebrook Elementary School (Princeton)
Riverside Elementary (Princeton)
Mendham Township Elementary (Mendham)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Woodlawn Middle School (Long Grove)
Marie Murphy School (Wilmette)
Kennedy Junior High (Lisle)
Thomas Grover Middle School (West Windsor)
William Annin Middle School (Basking Ridge)
Community Middle School (Plainsboro)

Top 3 High Schools

Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)
Northside College Prep (Chicago)
Walter Payton College Prep (Chicago)
High Technology High School (Lincroft)
Bergen County Academies (Hackensack)
Princeton High School (Princeton)

Top 3 private high schools

University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)
The Lawrenceville School (Lawrenceville)
The Pingry School (Basking Ridge)
Delbarton School (Morristown)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Lake Forest Country Day School (Lake Forest)
Avery Coonley School (Downers Grove)
Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
Princeton Day School (Princeton)
The Pennington School (Pennington)
Morristown-Beard School (Morristown)

Top 3 School Districts

New Trier Township HSD 203 (Northfield)
Highland Park/Deerfield District 113
Naperville District 203
Princeton Public Schools
Millburn Township Schools
Summit Public Schools

When comparing the educational landscape of Illinois and New Jersey, one can't help but notice the impressive credentials both states hold. Illinois boasts prestigious universities such as the University of Chicago and Northwestern University, where a significant number of the state's high school seniors aspire to attend. Meanwhile, New Jersey is home to the renowned Princeton University, drawing students from all over the country. The elementary and secondary schools in both states hold high standards, with institutions like Lincoln Elementary in Illinois and Littlebrook Elementary in New Jersey leading the charts for younger students. Notably, private education also stands out in both states, with the University of Chicago Lab School and The Lawrenceville School offering top-tier learning environments. These distinctions underline the strategic importance of choosing a state that not only aligns with your educational goals but also provides a supportive and enriching environment for academic success.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Illinois to New Jersey Movers Featured Image