Best Indiana to Illinois Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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IN to IL Moving Specialists

Moving from Indiana to Illinois marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. You’re leaving behind the Hoosier State, known for its basketball heritage and crossroads of America, to embrace Illinois, the Land of Lincoln, renowned for its vibrant cities like Chicago and rich cultural heritage. To make this transition as smooth as possible, it’s crucial you choose trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased algorithm to ensure you're matched with the best movers, taking the guesswork out of who to trust for your long-distance move.

Indiana iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best Indiana to Illinois Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.42A+ActiveContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
MVM Moving & Storage9.22A+Authorized For HHGContact
Bulldogs Moving Co.9.12NRAuthorized For HHGContact
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Merrillville8.86NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Mi-Box NWI8.83NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to Indiana guide.

6 Best IN to IL Moving Companies

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

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
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 12/18/2024)

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
2
MVM Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.22/10
based on 1,395+ data points

About MVM Moving & Storage

Since 2006, MVM Moving and Storage has been assisting residents of Fort Wayne, IN, streamline their relocation process with its cost-effecti...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Commercial Move
  • Local Move

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/29/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3098388 / 76046

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved75,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Bulldogs Moving Co. Logo
Exceptional9.12/10
based on 553+ data points

About Bulldogs Moving Co.

Bulldogs Moving Co., based in Lapel, Indiana, is a local moving company dedicated to providing high-quality services for residential and com...Read More >>

Services

  • Full-service Moves
  • Packing / Unpacking
  • Loading / Unloading

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3784131 / 1472268

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Merrillville Logo
Superb8.86/10
based on 232+ data points

About College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Merrillville

College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving, established in 2005, is a full-service moving and junk removal company with over 200 locations across...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Hourly Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/19/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4110434 / 1569877

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Mi-Box NWI Logo
Superb8.83/10
based on 346+ data points

About Mi-Box NWI

MI-BOX is a nationwide company specializing in cost-effective, convenient solutions to help you move and store your belongings in Hammond, I...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Cross-Country Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2644131 / 921937

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2020)
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 Indiana to Illinois

Moving from one state to another can be a drastic change, not just in location but also in lifestyle, culture, and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Indiana to Illinois . By carefully considering the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and aspirations.

CONs
PROs
Indiana iconIndiana
  • Higher sales tax
  • Less natural scenery
  • Lower minimum wage
  • More conservative
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Richer culture
  • More job opportunities
  • Higher minimum wage
  • More liberal policies
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Higher cost of living
  • More urbanized
  • Faster pace of life
  • More individualistic
Indiana iconIndiana
  • Lower cost of living
  • Wide-open spaces
  • Relaxed pace
  • Community-focused

While Indiana boasts a lower cost of living and an abundance of wide-open spaces perfect for those who enjoy a slower, community-focused lifestyle, Illinois offers a richer cultural scene and more job opportunities, particularly in bustling cities like Chicago. Illinois’s higher minimum wage can be a strong drawing card for those looking to improve their financial situation. Chicago, with its iconic skyline, world-class Art Institute of Chicago, and vibrant neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, contrasts starkly with Indiana’s more laid-back, natural setting. Meanwhile, foodies moving to Illinois will delight in exploring renowned restaurants such as Alinea and indulging in deep-dish pizza at local favorite Lou Malnati’s. This move doesn’t just represent a change of scenery but a step into a varied and richly textured lifestyle.

Indiana vs. Illinois Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indiana & Illinois, highlighting how food can deeply influence your experience of settling into a new area. By examining the local food scene, you can get a taste—literal and metaphorical—of what life will be like in your new home.

IndianaIllinois
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishHoosier ChiliItalian Beef
Most popular street food itemSugar Cream PieChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodSeitan BBQ RibsDeep Dish Vegan Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • The Milky Way
  • Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Indiana and Illinois share a geographic border, their culinary landscapes offer distinct experiences. In Indiana, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich reigns supreme as a must-try local delicacy, often enjoyed at iconic restaurants like St. Elmo Steak House. Across the border in Illinois, the Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza is a culinary icon, with places like Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria leading the charge. Illinois boasts a vibrant foodie scene, highlighted by its 9 out of 10 rating, with neighborhoods like the West Loop in Chicago being a gastronomic paradise. Specifically, the abundance and variety of vegan options, such as Deep Dish Vegan Pizza, along with the higher ranking in foodie scene and vegan-friendliness, reflect Illinois’ diverse culinary culture.

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Indiana vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison examines key housing aspects between Indiana and Illinois, spotlighting costs, typical architecture, and lifestyle metrics to assist in your decision-making process.

ComparisonIndianaIllinois
Typical Architecture StyleRanchPrairie, Chicago
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious backyards, quiet neighborhoodsEco-friendly features, proximity to transit

Moving from Indiana to Illinois, you'll find variations in housing costs, with Illinois generally being higher in both home prices and rent. However, Illinois compensates with its urban lifestyle rating, reflecting the active, accessible nature of its cities, like Chicago, famed for its architectural innovations. Indiana, with its ranch-style homes, appeals for its spacious and quiet living conditions. Both states offer unique living experiences, but for those prioritizing an urban lifestyle and walkability, Illinois may be more enticing.

Indiana vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Indiana to Illinois, appreciating the differences in weather can be crucial. Understanding how the climate shifts will impact your daily life ensures a smoother transition. By comparing these states side-by-side, you can discern what to expect, emphasizing Indiana and Illinois weather comparison.

Summer icon
85/64

Indiana

85/65

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36/18

Indiana

35/20

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Indiana

39

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Indiana

24

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIndianaIllinois
Air QualityModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsTornadoes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While the weather in Indiana and Illinois is quite similar, with both enjoying mild summers and cold winters, there are subtle differences to be aware of when relocating. For example, Illinois typically experiences a slightly higher number of sunshine days per year compared to Indiana, which could be a plus for those who love the outdoors. However, Illinois has a higher possibility of experiencing conditions that are 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups' in terms of air quality. Both states share common natural disaster risks such as tornadoes and floods, making it essential to prepare accordingly. Understanding these nuances can help you adapt more effectively to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial aspects compare. This chart offers a comparison between Indiana and Illinois, highlighting essential money and finance considerations. Whether you're budgeting for daily expenses or planning for long-term financial health, knowing these differences can help you prepare for your new life.

ComparisonIndianaIllinois
Avg. Household Income$66,785$76,708
Cost of Living Index92.9594.25
State Income Tax3.234.95
Avg. Property Tax0.872.16
Avg. Sales Tax7.008.74
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Health Care, RetailTrade, Transportation & Utilities, Professional & Business Services
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessLowerHigher

While Illinois boasts a higher average household income compared to Indiana, it comes with a higher cost of living index, reflecting the more expensive day-to-day expenses in Illinois. Notably, Illinois has significantly higher property taxes, which is a crucial factor if you're planning to buy a home. The differences in state income tax rates also highlight the financial adjustments you'll need to make. Indiana offers a more uniform tax rate, whereas Illinois applies a flat rate that could take a more considerable chunk out of your paycheck if you're earning more. These factors, combined with variations in sales tax and the dominant industries, can significantly impact your lifestyle and financial health when relocating.

Indiana vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Indiana to Illinois, it's insightful to compare the political and religious landscapes of both states. This comparison of the politics between Indiana & Illinois offers a quick glimpse into what you might expect from your potential new neighbors.

IndianaIllinois
Political Make-upLean ConservativeLean Liberal
Local PoliticsRepublican Dominance in Rural AreasDemocratic Stronghold in Urban Centers
ReligionHigher evangelical Christian presenceGreater diversity in religious beliefs

In Indiana, the stronger conservative lean is felt across many counties, with a significant presence of evangelical Christians influencing local politics and social issues. Contrastingly, Illinois, particularly in its urban areas like Chicago, demonstrates a liberal tilt, with a broader spectrum of religious beliefs and political views. The political landscape in Illinois is more varied, with a notable division between the liberal-driven policies in cities and more conservative views in some rural areas. This diversity in Illinois could offer a welcoming environment for newcomers with a wide range of perspectives.

Education Guide When Moving from Indiana to Illinois

Moving from Indiana to Illinois brings a myriad of changes, especially when it comes to education. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Indiana and Illinois, we've compiled an informative chart and detailed analysis. This will guide you in making the best decision for your family's educational needs.

IndianaIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Indiana University
Purdue University
Ball State University
University of Illinois
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

School 84
Indianapolis
School 91
Indianapolis
West Clay Elementary
Carmel
Lincoln Elementary
River Forest
South Park Elementary
Deerfield
Willowbrook Elementary
Glenview

Top 3 Middle Schools

West Lafayette Jr/Sr High
West Lafayette
Brown County Junior High
Nashville
Fall Creek Junior High
Fishers
Marie Murphy School
Wilmette
Twin Groves Middle School
Buffalo Grove
Maple School
Northbrook

Top 3 High School Schools

Carmel High School
Carmel
Signature School
Evansville
West Lafayette Jr/Sr High
West Lafayette
Northside College Prep
Chicago
Payton College Prep
Chicago
Stevenson High School
Lincolnshire

Top 3 private high schools

Culver Academies
Culver
Park Tudor School
Indianapolis
Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School
Indianapolis
University of Chicago Lab School
Chicago
Latin School of Chicago
Chicago
Francis W. Parker School
Chicago

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Traders Point Christian Academy
Whitestown
Heritage Christian School
Indianapolis
Park Tudor School
Indianapolis
University of Chicago Lab School
Chicago
Lake Forest Country Day School
Lake Forest
Francis W. Parker School
Chicago

Top 3 School Districts

Carmel Clay Schools
Carmel
West Lafayette Community School Corporation
West Lafayette
Zionsville Community Schools
Zionsville
New Trier Township High School District 203
Northfield
North Shore School District 112
Highland Park
Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Naperville

As you can see, both Indiana and Illinois offer a wealth of educational opportunities, from top-tier universities to prestigious private K-12 schools. For instance, students aiming for a robust college preparatory experience might consider the Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indiana or the University of Chicago Lab School in Illinois, both of which are noted for their rigorous academics and comprehensive extracurricular programs. Similarly, the public school districts in Carmel, Indiana, and Naperville, Illinois, boast high rankings due to their consistent performance and innovative educational programs, indicating promising options for families prioritizing top-notch public schooling. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the specific needs and preferences of your family, but it's clear that both states are equipped to offer exceptional educational journeys.

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