Best Illinois to Wisconsin Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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IL to WI Moving Specialists

Moving state to state marks an exhilarating chapter in your life, brimming with new possibilities and adventures. Illinois, often hailed as the "Land of Lincoln," is famous for its bustling cities and rich history, whereas Wisconsin, the revered "Dairy State," boasts lush landscapes and a warm, community-focused atmosphere. Recognizing the importance of this significant transition, it's crucial to entrust your move to reliable and experienced movers, ensuring your journey from the urban expanse of Illinois to the welcoming arms of Wisconsin is smooth and stress-free.

Illinois iconArrow iconWisconsin icon

Best Illinois to Wisconsin Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Elite Movers9.57NRAuthorized For HHGContact
MACS Moving and Storage9.43A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.42A+ActiveContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
A1 Movers, Inc9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Wisconsin to Illinois guide.

6 Best IL to WI Moving Companies

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

Elite Movers Logo
Exceptional9.57/10
based on 788+ data points

About Elite Movers

Elite Movers is a professional moving service in Eau Claire that provides full-service moving solutions for local and long-distance relocati...Read More >>

Services

  • Full Service Move
  • Labor Only (Loading/Unloading Help)
  • Single Item Move

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3579816 / 1208798

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved45,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
MACS Moving and Storage Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 1,047+ data points

About MACS Moving and Storage

Lake Geneva-based MACS Moving and Storage is a full-service moving company that has served Southeastern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois for ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2386699 / 820142

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans13
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved216,309 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Happ Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
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
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
Exceptional9.33/10
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
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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 Wisconsin

Moving from one place to another always brings a mixed bag of feelings and outcomes. By comparing the experience of relocating from Illinois to Wisconsin, we aim to showcase an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Let's dive into the specifics and see how the cons of living in Illinois stack up against the pros of embracing life in Wisconsin—and vice versa.

CONs
PROs
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Higher taxes
  • Urban congestion
  • Winter extremes
  • Limited public land
Wisconsin iconWisconsin
  • Lower taxes
  • More open space
  • Milder winters
  • Abundant public land
Wisconsin iconWisconsin
  • Less diversity
  • Smaller cities
  • Car-dependent
  • Fewer dining options
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Rich culture
  • Vibrant cities
  • Better public transit
  • Diverse cuisine

While the prospect of lower taxes and more open spaces in Wisconsin is appealing, it's essential to consider what one might miss about Illinois. Illinois, with its thriving metropolis such as Chicago, offers an unparalleled richness in cultural experiences and dining options. You'll find everything from the world-famous Art Institute of Chicago to a diverse array of restaurants that are hard to match elsewhere. On the other hand, Wisconsin's abundant public land offers new recreational opportunities, with places like Devil’s Lake State Park providing breath-taking natural beauty and outdoor activities. While each state has its unique charm, it's the mix of urban and natural attractions that defines the real difference in lifestyle between Illinois and Wisconsin.

Illinois vs. Wisconsin Food Guide

Comparing the local cuisine between Illinois & Wisconsin is essential for understanding the food scene where you're moving to. Food deeply influences the local culture and living experience. This comparison will help you get a taste of what each state offers, making your transition smoother.

IllinoisWisconsin
Most iconic local food itemDeep-dish pizzaCheese curds
Most popular meat dishItalian beefBratwurst
Most popular street food itemChicago-style hot dogFried cheese curds
Most popular vegan foodChicago-style vegan pizzaVegetarian chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Lou Malnati's
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
  • The Cookery
  • Mader's
  • Culver's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to Illinois, you'll find that Chicago's food scene dominates with its iconic deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, which are a must-try for any newcomer. Featured establishments like Lou Malnati's for pizza and Portillo's for a true taste of Chicago-style hot dog showcase the city's rich culinary heritage. On the other hand, Wisconsin's love for dairy is unmatched, with cheese curds standing out as a local favorite, often enjoyed fried at local events or available fresh at farmers' markets across the state. Madison and Milwaukee are great cities to explore the diverse food scene, from bratwurst at local tailgates to innovative vegetarian chili options, highlighting Wisconsin's traditional and emerging culinary trends.

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Illinois vs. Wisconsin Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when contemplating a move. This comparison aims to provide clarity on Illinois vs. Wisconsin living spaces , addressing costs, architectural styles, and life quality measures such as walkability and bikeability. Understanding these distinctions can greatly inform your decision.

ComparisonIllinoisWisconsin
Typical Architecture StylePrairie and Chicago SchoolCraftsman and Cape Cod
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, stainless steel appliancesLakefront views, spacious backyards

When moving from Illinois to Wisconsin, you’ll find that the typical architecture shifts from the Prairie and Chicago School styles predominant in Illinois urban areas to the Craftsman and Cape Cod styles that are much loved in Wisconsin. This indicates not just aesthetic differences but also points towards the distinct cultural identities of each state. Moreover, while Illinois offers a slightly more urban lifestyle, as reflected in its higher urban lifestyle rating, Wisconsin compensates with superior bikeability and unique real estate features like lakefront views, hinting at a more nature-oriented lifestyle. Understanding these nuances can be key in making an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.

Illinois vs. Wisconsin Weather Considerations

When considering a move from one location to another, understanding the differences in climate can greatly impact your experience. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather in Illinois and Wisconsin will differ from what you are accustomed to, ensuring a smoother transition for those relocating.

Summer icon
85/65

Illinois

82/62

Wisconsin

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/20

Illinois

28/13

Wisconsin

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39

Illinois

32

Wisconsin

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Illinois

48

Wisconsin

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIllinoisWisconsin
Air QualityGood with occasional issuesGenerally good
Natural DisastersTornadoes, floodsSnowstorms, cold waves
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Illinois to Wisconsin means preparing for colder winters and more snowfall, with Wisconsin experiencing an average annual snowfall of 48 inches compared to Illinois's 22 inches. While both states enjoy roughly the same number of sunny days, Wisconsin's summers are slightly cooler. Air quality is generally good across both states, but potential movers should be aware of the higher likelihood of snow-related natural disasters in Wisconsin. Understanding these differences can help in acclimating to your new environment and ensuring your comfort year-round.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand how financial aspects such as cost of living and taxes in Illinois vs. Wisconsin will affect your budget. This comparison will help you grasp the economic landscape you're moving into.

ComparisonIllinoisWisconsin
Avg. Household Income$76,708$70,996
Cost of Living Index94.2595.65
State Income Tax4.95Up to 7.65
Avg. Property Tax2.161.94
Avg. Sales Tax8.825.46
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Health Services, Retail TradeManufacturing, Agriculture, Health Services
AffluenceModerateModerate to High
PovertyModerateLower than Illinois
HomelessnessConcerningLess than Illinois

While both Illinois and Wisconsin offer a blend of economic strengths, there are distinct differences to be aware of. Illinois has a higher average household income compared to Wisconsin, which may reflect the cost of living and employment opportunities in each state. However, Wisconsin boasts a lower average cost of living and generally lower taxes, particularly in terms of property and sales tax, which could mean more disposable income in your pocket. Moreover, the industry landscape between the two states reveals a focus on manufacturing, yet Wisconsin has a notable emphasis on agriculture. Considering these aspects can help you make an informed decision and prepare financially for your move.

Illinois vs. Wisconsin Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Illinois to Wisconsin? To help you understand your potential new home, we've prepared a quick overview comparing the politics between Illinois & Wisconsin and the religious landscape of both states. This snapshot will give you an at-a-glance view of what to expect from the local communities.

IllinoisWisconsin
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticSwing State
Local PoliticsChicago's influence strongly DemocraticMix of liberal urban centers & conservative rural areas
ReligionDiverse, with Christianity being predominantPrimarily Christian, mixed denominations

When delving deeper into these comparisons, you'll find that Illinois, notably influenced by the urban center of Chicago, has a more pronounced Democratic leaning in its politics. On the other hand, Wisconsin's political landscape offers a more nuanced blend, with its urban centers leaning liberal and rural areas holding conservative views. Religion across both states is predominantly Christian, but you will encounter a diverse range of denominations and religious practices due to the rich tapestry of cultures present in each state. Understanding these facets can help ease your transition and integrate into your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to Wisconsin

Moving from one state to another can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to ensuring a quality education for your family. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in school options between Illinois and Wisconsin, giving you a clearer understanding of what each state has to offer.

IllinoisWisconsin

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Illinois
Northwestern University
University of Chicago
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Marquette University
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Lincoln Elementary School (Springfield)
South Loop Elementary School (Chicago)
Eisenhower Academy (Joliet)
Swallow School (Hartland)
Elm Lawn Elementary (Middleton)
Shorewood Hills Elementary (Shorewood Hills)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Kennedy Junior High (Lisle)
Daniel Wright Junior High (Lincolnshire)
Maple School (Northbrook)
Bayside Middle School (Bayside)
Pilgrim Park Middle School (Elm Grove)
Kromrey Middle School (Middleton)

Top 3 High School Schools

Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)
Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Walter Payton College Prep (Chicago)
Whitefish Bay High School (Whitefish Bay)
Brookfield East High School (Brookfield)
Cedarburg High School (Cedarburg)

Top 3 private high schools

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora)
University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago)
The Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
University School of Milwaukee (Milwaukee)
Marquette University High School (Milwaukee)
Brookfield Academy (Brookfield)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

University of Chicago Lab Schools (Chicago)
The Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
University School of Milwaukee (Milwaukee)
Brookfield Academy (Brookfield)
Prairie School (Racine)

Top 3 School Districts

New Trier Township High School District 203 (Winnetka)
Naperville Community Unit School District 203 (Naperville)
Community High School District 128 (Vernon Hills)
Elmbrook School District (Brookfield)
Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District (Middleton)
Cedarburg School District (Cedarburg)

When comparing the educational opportunities in Illinois and Wisconsin, it's evident that both states offer highly reputable institutions at all levels. For families prioritizing collegiate preparation, Illinois boasts the internationally recognized University of Chicago and Northwestern University, drawing students globally. On the other hand, Wisconsin's top colleges, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison with its comprehensive programs, cater to a wide range of academic interests and professional paths. At the pre-collegiate level, Illinois is notable for its specialized high schools like Adlai E. Stevenson High School and the selective Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, both fostering environments for advanced learning. Wisconsin counters with a strong showing in public education, exemplified by the consistently top-ranked Elmbrook and Middleton-Cross Plains School Districts, ensuring excellence from elementary through to high school. Families moving between these two states will find distinct strengths in their educational systems, allowing for a tailored approach to meeting their academic needs and aspirations.

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