Best Illinois to South Dakota Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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IL to SD Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state embodies a thrilling adventure and a significant life change, all wrapped in one. You might be swapping the Land of Lincoln, with its deep-dish pizzas and bustling Chicago life, for South Dakota's Mount Rushmore, wide-open spaces, and a slower pace of life. When embarking on such a long-distance journey, it's essential to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, which is why we at Great Guys Moving utilize an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers in the country, ensuring your move is smooth and stress-free.

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Best Illinois to South Dakota Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.43A+ActiveContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
Murphy Family Movers9.29A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Dial-A-Move Inc.8.94A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck8.91A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from South Dakota to Illinois guide.

6 Best IL to SD 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
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 12/5/2024)

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
3
Murphy Family Movers Logo
Exceptional9.29/10
based on 1,271+ data points

About Murphy Family Movers

Murphy Family Movers has over 25 years of combined moving experience in Aurora, Illinois. This Aurora, IL mover promises the highest level o...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Interstate Moving
  • Professional Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2965334 / 7122

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo
Superb8.94/10
based on 483+ data points

About Dial-A-Move Inc.

Family-run Dial-A-Move is a professional moving company incorporated in 2001. It has a location in Aberdeen, SD, offering a wide range of af...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

885778 / 386322

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb8.91/10
based on 843+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

Launched in the 1980s, Two Men and a Truck serves residential and commercial customers all over the country. The company opened its Sioux Fa...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2575221 / 904586

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved170,000 (2022)
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 Illinois to South Dakota

Moving from one state to another can be an emotional roller coaster filled with exciting opportunities and daunting challenges. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of relocating from Illinois to South Dakota, showcasing both the enticing advantages and potential drawbacks of such a significant transition.

CONs
PROs
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Higher taxes
  • Heavy traffic
  • Dense population
  • Limited natural landscapes
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Lower taxes
  • Less congestion
  • Spacious living
  • Rich natural beauty
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Quieter cultural scene
  • Less variety in dining
  • Smaller job market
  • Limited public transport
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Vibrant culture
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Abundant job market
  • Extensive public transit

Moving to South Dakota from Illinois, you'll transition from a bustling urban atmosphere to a more tranquil and spacious living environment. Illinois offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and dining options, from the renowned deep-dish pizzas of Giordano's to the eclectic vibes of neighborhoods like Wicker Park. In contrast, South Dakota presents a peaceful retreat, boasting the breathtaking landscapes of the Badlands and the serene beauty of Custer State Park. While South Dakota may not have Chicago's Magnificent Mile, it offers unique attractions like Mount Rushmore and historical sites that honor Native American culture, promising a distinct lifestyle of its own. The shift could mean adapting to a quieter cultural scene and a more close-knit community, yet for many, the scenic beauty and the slower pace of life in South Dakota provide a refreshing change.

Illinois vs. South Dakota Food Guide

Understanding the local food scene is essential in immersing oneself into the culture of a new place. Here, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Illinois & South Dakota to help you get a taste of what your new home will offer. Whether you're a foodie or just interested in the culinary diversity, this guide aims to give you a glimpse into the dining landscape you're about to explore.

IllinoisSouth Dakota
Most iconic local food itemChicago-style Deep Dish PizzaChislic
Most popular meat dishItalian BeefPheasant
Most popular street food itemHot DogIndian Taco
Most popular vegan foodChicago-style Vegan PizzaLentil Soup
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Aurelio's Pizza
  • Portillo's
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Illinois, the Chicago-style deep dish pizza, recognized for its thick crust and generous toppings, is a must-try, with iconic eateries like Lou Malnati's leading the scene. Illinois, particularly Chicago, is renowned for its vibrant street food scene, including world-famous hot dogs served "dragged through the garden" style. On the other hand, South Dakota offers a unique blend of cuisine that incorporates the state's hunting culture, including dishes like chislic—cubed meat, traditionally lamb, deep-fried and seasoned. The state's restaurant scene, though less extensive than Illinois', includes gems like Minerva's in Sioux Falls, offering a taste of local flavors and Midwest hospitality. For vegans moving from Illinois to South Dakota, the transition might involve a search for new favorite eateries, given the slight difference in the vegan-friendly ratings of both states.

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Illinois vs. South Dakota Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning your move, understanding the real estate market is crucial. This comparison between Illinois and South Dakota will give you insight into housing costs, style, and lifestyle options, ensuring you make an informed decision on where to call home.

ComparisonIllinoisSouth Dakota
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, Chicago BungalowRanch, Split-level
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, Granite countertopsFireplaces, Large yards

Comparing housing in Illinois and South Dakota shows notable differences. Illinois, with its higher median home prices and monthly rents, offers a more urban lifestyle, reflected in its slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores. Chicago's iconic bungalows and Victorian-style homes contrast with the ranch and split-level homes prevalent in South Dakota. The latter, however, boasts larger yards and fireplaces, a nod to its more spacious and natural setting. While both states present unique attractions, your choice might hinge on whether you prefer the bustling city life of Illinois or the serene, open landscapes of South Dakota.

Illinois vs. South Dakota Weather Considerations

Are you considering moving from Illinois to South Dakota? It's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these two locations. Knowing the differences will help you prepare for changes in temperature, sunshine, and the potential for natural disasters. This guide provides an overview to make your transition smoother.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Illinois

85°F / 60°F

South Dakota

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 20°F

Illinois

30°F / 10°F

South Dakota

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39

Illinois

20

South Dakota

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Illinois

39

South Dakota

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIllinoisSouth Dakota
Air QualityGoodVery Good
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsBlizzards, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Illinois and South Dakota experience hot summers, South Dakota typically has colder winters and more snowfall, which could be a significant change if you're accustomed to milder Illinois winters. The increased number of sunny days in South Dakota may appeal to those who prefer more clear skies. However, be aware of South Dakota's lower annual rainfall but higher potential for blizzards, which contrasts with Illinois' higher humidity and frequent tornadoes. These elements impact not only daily life but also considerations such as home maintenance, driving conditions, and outdoor recreational activities.

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

Moving from one state to another is a significant decision, particularly when it comes to finances. Understanding how the cost of living and financial factors in Illinois compare to South Dakota can prepare you for the transition and help manage expectations.

ComparisonIllinoisSouth Dakota
Avg. Household Income$76,708$69,728
Cost of Living Index94.2594.1
State Income Tax4.950
Avg. Property Tax2.271.22
Avg. Sales Tax8.826.40
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Services, AgricultureAgriculture, Services, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateModest
PovertyHighLower
HomelessnessNoticeableLess Noticeable

When moving from Illinois to South Dakota, you'll find significant financial adjustments, particularly in terms of taxes. Illinois residents face a state income tax, which South Dakotans are exempt from, potentially offering greater take-home pay despite the lower average household income in South Dakota. The cost of living index and property taxes are also lower in South Dakota, which could mean more disposable income and savings for homeowners. While both states share important industries, their economic profiles and social challenges differ, reflected in their respective levels of affluence, poverty, and homelessness. This highlights the importance of considering your financial circumstances and priorities when planning your move.

Illinois vs. South Dakota Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Illinois to South Dakota, it's useful to quickly understand the comparison of the politics between Illinois & South Dakota and the religious makeup of their residents. This brief look will give you a snapshot of what to expect in your potential new home.

IllinoisSouth Dakota
Political Make-upDemocratic-leaningRepublican-leaning
Local PoliticsMix of urban and suburban, progressive policies in citiesRural and conservative, with local governance mirroring state-level Republican preferences
ReligionChristian, with significant Catholic and Protestant communitiesPrimarily Christian, with a large Protestant majority

In more detail, Illinois tends to be a patchwork of urban Democrat strongholds, notably Chicago, against a backdrop of more conservative rural areas. This diversity creates a mixed bag of local politics and policies. In contrast, South Dakota's political landscape is more uniformly Republican, reflecting its rural character and conservative values. Religion plays a significant role in both states, with Christianity being the most prevalent. However, Illinois's larger cities bring a wider religious diversity than you might find in the more homogeneous communities of South Dakota. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare for the social and political climate of your potential new home.

Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to South Dakota

To better understand the key differences in educational opportunities between Illinois and South Dakota, we compare various aspects of their school systems. This overview aims to help you make an informed decision on where you might want to relocate, taking into consideration the quality and prestige of education available in both states.

IllinoisSouth Dakota

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago
University of South Dakota
South Dakota State University
Black Hills State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Lincoln Elementary School
Naperville; South Loop Elementary School
Chicago; Willowbrook Elementary School
Glenview
Challenge Center
Sioux Falls; Discovery Elementary
Sioux Falls; Harvey Dunn Elementary
Sioux Falls

Top 3 Middle Schools

Woodlawn Middle School
Long Grove; Daniel Wright Junior High School
Lincolnshire; Maple School
Northbrook
Pierre Indian Learning Center
Pierre; George S. Mickelson Middle School
Brookings; Vermillion Middle School
Vermillion

Top 3 High School Schools

Adlai E. Stevenson High School
Lincolnshire; Northside College Preparatory High School
Chicago; Whitney M. Young Magnet High School
Chicago
Lincoln High School
Sioux Falls; Washington High School
Sioux Falls; Roosevelt High School
Sioux Falls

Top 3 private high schools

Latin School of Chicago
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago; Lake Forest Academy
Lake Forest
O'Gorman High School
Sioux Falls; Sioux Falls Christian Schools
Sioux Falls; Roncalli High School
Aberdeen

Top 3 private K-12 schools

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
Chicago; North Shore Country Day School
Winnetka; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago
Sioux Falls Christian Schools
Sioux Falls; Great Plains Lutheran High School
Watertown; Aberdeen Christian School
Aberdeen

Top 3 School Districts

New Trier Township High School District
Northfield; Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Naperville; Community High School District 128
Vernon Hills
Sioux Falls School District
Sioux Falls; Harrisburg School District
Harrisburg; Brookings School District
Brookings

When considering the move from Illinois to South Dakota, you'll notice distinct differences in educational landscapes. Illinois tends to boast a broader selection of highly prestigious universities and a variety of top-rated public and private schools, particularly in the Chicago area. For instance, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago are nationally recognized for their academic excellence. On the other side, South Dakota offers reputable education through its universities, such as the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University, with a focus on community and smaller class sizes. Additionally, both states offer excellent K-12 education options, though Illinois presents a wider variety in highly urbanized areas. These distinctions underline the importance of considering your educational priorities when planning your move.

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