Moving from Illinois to Virginia?

6 Best IL to VA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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IL to VA Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state is not just a journey across the map, but a thrilling leap into a new chapter of your life. Trading Illinois’ vibrant Windy City and expansive cornfields for Virginia’s rich historical tapestry and the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains signifies a profound shift in surroundings and lifestyle. Given the considerable distance and the life change you’re embarking on, it’s crucial to ensure that you partner with trusted and reliable professional movers, like us at Great Guys Moving, who use an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers for your Illinois to Virginia move.

Illinois iconArrow iconVirginia icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia to Illinois guide.

6 Best Illinois to Virginia Movers

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

#1
ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,704+ data points

Herndon, VA
Local Moving (Residential Moving), Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving), Office Moving (Commercial Moving) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT: 3260258 Verify

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>

top 3 alexandria 2024 ars movers image
top 10 ranked movers in leesburg 2023 ars movers image
#2
A
Exceptional

based on 925+ data points

Hopewell, VA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 1293943 Verify

About A Change of Place Movers

The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever meet. They genuinel...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in newport news 2023 a change of place movers image
top 10 ranked movers in newport news 2022 a change of place movers image
#3
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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top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2023 happ movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2022 happ movers inc image
#4
6
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

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 >>

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#5
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional

based on 10,649+ data points

Chicago, IL
Full Moves, Truck Loading and Unloading, Interstate Moving Assistance See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1906350 Verify

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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#6
Murphy Family Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,271+ data points

St. Charles, IL
Local Moving, Interstate Moving, Professional Packing See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2965334 Verify

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 >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Illinois to Virginia

Moving from one state to another is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. This comparison aims to give you a bold and honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Illinois to Virginia. By weighing the pros against the cons (and vice versa), you can make a more informed decision about this potentially life-changing move.

CONs
PROs
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Higher taxes
  • Colder winters
  • Less historical sites
  • Flat geography
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Lower taxes
  • Milder winters
  • Rich history
  • Diverse landscapes
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Smaller cities
  • More suburban
  • Fewer farmlands
  • Different sports focus
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Larger cities
  • Vibrant city life
  • Extensive farmlands
  • Great sports culture

When considering the move from Illinois to Virginia, it's essential to delve deeper into the charts' highlights. While Illinois offers the vibrant city life of Chicago, complete with its renowned restaurants like Au Cheval and bustling neighborhoods like Wicker Park, Virginia counters with a quieter, yet richly historical setting. Cities like Williamsburg and Alexandria offer a glimpse into America's past, with sites like the Colonial Williamsburg drawing history buffs from all over. Additionally, the change in geography from Illinois' flatlands to Virginia's varied coastal, mountainous, and urban landscapes presents new opportunities for outdoor adventures—whether that be hiking in Shenandoah National Park or enjoying the beaches of Virginia Beach. Considering these factors among others can provide a fuller picture of what to expect with such a move.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Illinois to Virginia

When relocating, understanding the essence of local cuisine is pivotal as food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area . This comparison between Illinois & Virginia will equip you with insights into the food scene of your new home.

IllinoisVirginia

Most iconic local food item

Chicago-style deep-dish pizzaVirginia ham

Most popular meat dish

Italian BeefCountry Ham Biscuits

Most popular street food item

Hot DogsPeanuts

Most popular vegan food

Deep-dish vegan pizzaVegan Brunswick Stew

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Au Cheval
  • Portillo's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)

78

Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)

76

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

87

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

76

In Illinois, the Chicago-style deep-dish pizza stands as a testament to the state's rich cultural heritage in culinary arts, with places like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria being a must-visit for any food aficionado. On the other hand, Virginia celebrates its history and local agriculture through its iconic Virginia ham, which can be savored in dishes across the state but is exceptionally highlighted at The Inn at Little Washington. Both states offer unique dining experiences that reflect their local culture, history, and preferences, making the move between Illinois and Virginia an exciting journey for your palate.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Illinois to Virginia

Real estate greatly influences the experience of relocating. It's crucial to understand how housing in Illinois and Virginia compares, focusing on costs, styles, accessibility, and the everyday urban lifestyle. This comparison will help you make an informed decision tailored to your preferences and needs.

Reviewing the table highlights the distinctions between Illinois and Virginia in terms of real estate. The median home price and rent are notably higher in Virginia, reflective of its proximity to the nation's capital and the high demand for housing in areas like Northern Virginia. Architecture in Illinois favors the historic Prairie style and bungalow designs, indicative of its rich architectural heritage. In contrast, Virginia homes often feature Colonial and Cape Cod styles, echoing the state's colonial past. While Illinois generally offers a more urban lifestyle, especially in Chicago, Virginia counters with an emphasis on energy-efficient features and outdoor spaces in its real estate listings, catering to those who value sustainability and nature. Considering these factors can greatly influence your choice, based on what aspects of housing and lifestyle are most important to you.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Illinois to Virginia

When planning a move from Illinois to Virginia, understanding how the weather will compare is crucial. This guide provides a clear comparison to help you anticipate changes and prepare accordingly.

Summer icon
85/65

Illinois

87/68

Virginia

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/20

Illinois

48/30

Virginia

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39

Illinois

44

Virginia

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Illinois

14

Virginia

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

The transition from Illinois to Virginia weather-wise involves adapting to milder winters and enjoying more days of sunshine annually. In Virginia, while summers can be slightly warmer, the overall climate boasts less humidity than Illinois. Notably, Virginia is prone to different natural disasters, with hurricanes and flooding replacing the tornadoes and winter storms more common in Illinois. Such insights into the climatic differences should help you better prepare for your move, from wardrobe changes to emergency planning.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one state to another, grasping the financial landscape is crucial. Understanding how costs such as housing, taxes, and general living expenses compare can significantly impact your decision-making process. This comparison will emphasize the financial differences between moving from Illinois to Virginia, highlighting key areas like income, taxes, and the cost of living to help you make an informed transition.

While Illinois offers a more affordable cost of living index, Virginia boasts higher average household incomes which could offset the higher living costs found there. The significantly lower property tax rate in Virginia compared to Illinois can make homeownership more attainable and less burdensome in the long run. Moreover, Virginia's progressive state income tax may benefit lower income earners in contrast to Illinois' flat rate. Considering the major industries, the move could present new job opportunities especially if your profession aligns with Virginia's leading sectors like technology and military. Finally, understanding the socio-economic landscape, such as the lower levels of poverty and homelessness, can provide a broader picture of life in Virginia.

Political & Religious Comparison between Illinois and Virginia

This guide offers a quick glimpse into the fundamental differences between Illinois and Virginia, focusing on the comparison of the politics between Illinois & Virginia , and the religious landscape. It's designed to provide you with an at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect from the communities in both states.

IllinoisVirginia

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticModerate, with a slight lean towards Democratic in recent years

Local Politics

Democratic strongholds in major cities like ChicagoMixed; Northern Virginia leans Democratic, while rural areas are more Republican

Religion

Christian (Catholic & Protestant); also diverse in urban areasPrimarily Christian (Evangelical Protestant), with a growing diversity in urban centers

Delving deeper, you'll find that the political composition of Illinois largely anchors around its major urban centers like Chicago, which predominantly votes Democratic, reflecting in state-wide policies tending towards liberal ideologies. Conversely, Virginia presents a more complex tapestry of political beliefs, with Northern Virginia substantially influencing its recent swing towards Democratic, yet still harboring a strong Republican presence in its vast rural areas. Religious practices in both states are primarily Christian, but with significant urban centers such as Chicago and Richmond, both Illinois and Virginia showcase a rich tapestry of faiths and communities, mirroring their broader national heritage.

Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to Virginia

Moving can be a daunting process, especially when it involves finding the best educational options for your family. To assist in this transition, we have prepared a comparison to help you better understand the differences between school options in Illinois and Virginia. This comparison aims to make your decision-making process a bit easier.

IllinoisVirginia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
Illinois State University
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
James Madison University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Lincoln Elementary
Skokie; South Park Elementary
Deerfield; Walden Elementary
Deerfield
Arlington Traditional School
Arlington; Stenwood Elementary School
Vienna; Westbriar Elementary School
Vienna

Top 3 Middle Schools

Marie Murphy School
Wilmette; Twin Groves Middle School
Buffalo Grove; Maple School
Northbrook
Longfellow Middle School
Falls Church; Frost Middle School
Fairfax; Henley Middle School
Crozet

Top 3 High Schools

Adlai E. Stevenson High School
Lincolnshire; Northside College Preparatory High School
Chicago; New Trier High School
Winnetka
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Alexandria; McLean High School
McLean; Langley High School
McLean

Top 3 private high schools

University of Chicago Lab School
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago; Lake Forest Academy
Lake Forest
Thomas Jefferson School for Science and Technology
Alexandria; The Potomac School
McLean; St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School
Alexandria

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Latin School of Chicago
Chicago; The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago
The Potomac School
McLean; Norfolk Academy
Norfolk; Collegiate School
Richmond

Top 3 School Districts

New Trier Township High School District 203
Northfield; Adlai E. Stevenson High School District 125
Lincolnshire; Hinsdale Township High School District 86
Hinsdale
Fairfax County Public Schools
Falls Church; Arlington Public Schools
Arlington; Loudoun County Public Schools
Ashburn

When you look beyond the basics, the contrasts in educational opportunities between Illinois and Virginia begin to stand out. Illinois boasts top-ranked universities and highly acclaimed public and private schools throughout the state, including the renowned University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the prestigious Adlai E. Stevenson High School. Virginia counters with its own prestigious education institutions like the University of Virginia and the nationally acclaimed Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, highlighting the state's focus on science and technology education. Notably, both states offer strong educational foundations, yet Virginia's emphasis on technology and innovation may appeal to those seeking cutting-edge educational opportunities. Each state's unique offerings reflect the diverse educational landscapes across the U.S., illustrating the richness of choices available to you and your family.

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