Moving from state to state embodies an exhilarating journey, opening a new chapter in your life with its own unique adventures. Leaving behind Massachusetts, "The Bay State," known for its rich history and savory seafood, for Illinois, "The Prairie State," famous for deep-dish pizza and vibrant cities, symbolizes not just a change in scenery but a leap into a diverse cultural experience. To ensure this significant transition is smooth and stress-free, it's crucial to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers like us at Great Guys Moving, where we harness an unbiased algorithm to identify the best movers, guaranteeing you peace of mind on your trek from coast to coast.
Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois?
6 Best MA to IL Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
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6 Best Massachusetts to Illinois Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
![Paradise Moving & Storage Logo](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/logos/paradisemove.com.png?format=webp&width=256)
![claimed company icon](/_next/image/?url=%2Fimages%2Fmovers%2Fclaimed.png&w=48&q=75)
based on 1,118+ data points
Framingham, MA | |
Affordable insured local and long distance movers, Hourly Charges only with no hidden fees, Furniture wrapping See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/6/2024) | |
USDOT: 3619865 Verify |
About Paradise Moving & Storage
Paradise Moving & Storage is a fully licensed and insured moving company based in Massachusetts, with locations in Framingham, Boston, a...Read More >>
![top worcester 2024 paradise moving storage image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2024/city/top-worcester-2024-paradise-moving-storage.png?format=webp&width=256)
![Stairhopper Movers Logo](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/logos/stairhoppers.com.png?format=webp&width=256)
Boston, MA | |
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/5/2024) | |
USDOT: 1696867 Verify |
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>
![top 3 boston 2024 stairhopper movers image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2024/city/top-3-boston-2024-stairhopper-movers.png?format=webp&width=256)
![top 3 ranked movers in america 2023 image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2023/nationwide/top-3-ranked-movers-in-america-2023.png?format=webp&width=256)
![top ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2023/city/top-ranked-movers-in-boston-2023-stairhopper-movers.png?format=webp&width=256)
![Varsity Movers LLC Logo](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/logos/varsitymoversllc.com.png?format=webp&width=256)
![claimed company icon](/_next/image/?url=%2Fimages%2Fmovers%2Fclaimed.png&w=48&q=75)
based on 794+ data points
Hopkinton, MA | |
Local Moving, Apartment/Townhome/Condo Moving, Small Job Moving See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/6/2024) | |
USDOT: 3751873 Verify |
About Varsity Movers LLC
Varsity Movers LLC is a moving company based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, offering services in the New England area. Established by a mother...Read More >>
![top 10 worcester 2024 varsity movers llc image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2024/city/top-10-worcester-2024-varsity-movers-llc.png?format=webp&width=256)
![Centaur Moving Logo](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/logos/centaur-moving.com.png?format=webp&width=256)
Cambridge, MA | |
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Relocations See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/4/2024) | |
USDOT: 3638077 Verify |
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>
![top 3 boston 2024 centaur moving image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2024/city/top-3-boston-2024-centaur-moving.png?format=webp&width=256)
![Happ Movers, Inc. Logo](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/logos/happmovers.com.jpg?format=webp&width=256)
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 >>
![top 10 waukegan 2024 happ movers inc image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2024/city/top-10-waukegan-2024-happ-movers-inc.png?format=webp&width=256)
![top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2023 happ movers inc image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2023/city/top-10-ranked-movers-in-waukegan-2023-happ-movers-inc.png?format=webp&width=256)
![top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2022 happ movers inc image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2022/city/top-10-ranked-movers-in-waukegan-2022-happ-movers-inc.png?format=webp&width=256)
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 >>
![top 10 chicago 2024 606 movers inc image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2024/city/top-10-chicago-2024-606-movers-inc.png?format=webp&width=256)
![top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2023/city/top-10-ranked-movers-in-kankakee-2023-606-movers-inc.png?format=webp&width=256)
![top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image](https://images.greatguysmoving.com/movers/2022/city/top-10-ranked-movers-in-park-forest-2022-606-movers-inc.png?format=webp&width=256)
Pros and Cons of Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois
Moving from one state to another offers a mix of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Massachusetts and Illinois to help you navigate the transition. By understanding the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to weigh your options and make an informed decision about your relocation.
- Higher cost of living
- Harsh winters
- Dense traffic
- Smaller state parks
- More affordable housing
- Milder winters
- Less congested
- Larger state parks
- Fewer top-ranked universities
- Less colonial history
- Smaller tech industry
- No ocean access
- Renowned universities
- Rich historical sites
- Vibrant tech scene
- Coastal access
When moving from Massachusetts to Illinois, you'll be trading the robust education and tech hubs of Boston and Cambridge for the vibrant culture and dynamic cities like Chicago. Illinois's affordable housing market in cities like Springfield and Naperville can offer more spacious living options compared to the Boston area’s high costs. You’ll miss Massachusetts’ coastal charm and rich historical sites like the Freedom Trail, but Illinois offers its own enrichments. For example, the vast expanses of Starved Rock State Park and the cultural wealth of Chicago with iconic destinations like The Art Institute of Chicago and deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati's offer unique experiences that make Illinois an enticing place to call home.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Massachusetts & Illinois, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the culture of a place you're planning to move to. Whether you're a foodie or simply curious about your future local diet, this side-by-side look will help you get a taste of what's to come.
Massachusetts | Illinois |
---|---|
Most iconic local food item Clam ChowderChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza | |
Most popular meat dish Lobster RollItalian Beef Sandwich | |
Most popular street food item Codfish BallsChicago-style Hot Dog | |
Most popular vegan food Samphire GreensChicago Diner’s Vegan Shake | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 87 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 78 | |
Foodie Scene 99 | |
Vegan Friendly 88 |
When moving to Illinois, you're entering a food lover's paradise, especially if you're a fan of hearty, comforting meals. The iconic Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a must-try, with Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria being a beloved spot among locals. For a taste of something uniquely Chicago, checking out the vegan shake at Chicago Diner is a great way to dive into the increasingly popular vegan scene. Illinois's food trucks offer an impressive variety, from the classic Chicago-style hot dog found in neighborhoods like Wicker Park to innovative vegan eats throughout the city. This richness in food culture is a testament to Illinois's diverse culinary scene that awaits you.
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Ready to start your move?
Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois
Real estate is a pivotal component of any relocation, making it essential to understand how Massachusetts and Illinois stand in comparison. This section's charts and detailed analysis offer insights into housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to aid in your decision-making process.
You might notice from the table how Massachusetts typically sports higher living costs compared to Illinois, reflected in the median home prices and monthly rent. Massachusetts homes often boast Colonial or Cape Cod architecture, showcasing the state's rich history, while Illinois frequently features Prairie or Ranch styles, reflecting its variation in urban and rural settings. However, both states offer their unique takes on walkability and urban lifestyle, significantly influencing your daily life experience. Massachusetts tends to edge out in terms of urbanity, often highlighted by real estate listings emphasizing proximity to public transit and modern amenities like granite countertops. Conversely, Illinois listings prioritize comfort and space, with mentions of hardwood floors and spacious backyards being common—factors that might weigh heavily depending on your lifestyle preferences.
Weather Considerations for Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois
Relocating involves adapting to new environments, and understanding the weather comparison between Massachusetts and Illinois is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison sheds light on various weather aspects you will experience, helping you prepare for your move.
Massachusetts
Illinois
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Massachusetts
Illinois
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Massachusetts
Illinois
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Massachusetts
Illinois
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois, you'll find that both states experience four distinct seasons, but there are notable differences. Illinois tends to have hotter summers and enjoys slightly less sunshine annually. Despite this, Illinois experiences a higher average UV index, making sun protection a bit more crucial in your daily routine. You'll also find a significant difference in winter weather; while both states get cold, Massachusetts sees more than double the annual snowfall of Illinois. However, Illinois is more prone to severe weather like tornadoes, so it's important to be prepared for different types of natural disasters. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust more comfortably to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois
When planning a move from one state to another, comparing financial aspects is crucial. This comparison will help you understand how the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment in Massachusetts and Illinois will affect your finances.
While Massachusetts boasts a higher average household income compared to Illinois, it also comes with a higher cost of living index, indicating that your salary might not stretch as far as you'd hope. On the other hand, Illinois offers a more moderate cost of living but also faces higher poverty and homelessness rates. Taxes in both states are comparable, though property taxes are significantly higher in Illinois. Understanding these differences is key to financial planning for your move.
Political & Religious Comparison between Massachusetts and Illinois
When preparing for a move from Massachusetts to Illinois, it's useful to get a quick understanding of the different communal landscapes you'll encounter, especially in terms of this is a comparison of the politics between Massachusetts & Illinois and religious makeup. This overview gives you a snapshot of what to expect in your new home.
Massachusetts | Illinois |
---|---|
Political Make-up Liberal/Democratic-leaningLiberal/Democratic-leaning | |
Local Politics Progressive policies in urban areasMixture of progressive and moderate policies depending on the region | |
Religion Strong Catholic presence but diverse religious landscapeDiverse with significant Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish communities |
Massachusetts and Illinois share a liberal, Democratic-leaning political stance, with both states demonstrating strong support for progressive policies, especially in urban centers like Boston and Chicago. However, you'll notice that local politics in Illinois can show more variation between regions compared to Massachusetts. The religious makeup in both states is quite diverse, with a substantial presence of Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish communities. This diversity reflects the broad spectrum of cultures and beliefs that have flourished in both states, offering a rich tapestry of community engagement and religious practice for newcomers to explore.
Education Guide When Moving from Massachusetts to Illinois
Making the move from Massachusetts to Illinois, you might wonder how the education systems compare. This comparison will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Massachusetts and Illinois . Whether you're looking for public or private institutions, our chart illuminates the key differences to assist in making the best decision for your family's educational needs.
Massachusetts | Illinois |
---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) Harvard University Massachusetts Institute of Technology Boston CollegeUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Northwestern University University of Chicago | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Joseph E. Fiske Elementary (Wellesley) Vinson-Owen Elementary (Winchester) Chickering School (Dover)Greeley Elementary School (Winnetka) South Park Elementary School (Deerfield) Tripp School (Buffalo Grove) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools William Diamond Middle School (Lexington) Jonas Clarke Middle School (Lexington) Wellesley Middle School (Wellesley)Marie Murphy School (Wilmette) Wood Oaks Junior High School (Northbrook) Maple School (Northbrook) | |
Top 3 High Schools Boston Latin School (Boston) Lexington High School (Lexington) Brookline High School (Brookline)Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire) New Trier Township H.S. (Winnetka) Northside College Prep (Chicago) | |
Top 3 private high schools Phillips Academy (Andover) Milton Academy (Milton) Noble and Greenough School (Dedham)Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest) University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago) Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Boston University Academy (Boston) The Cambridge School of Weston (Weston) Dana Hall School (Wellesley)Francis W. Parker School (Chicago) Latin School of Chicago (Chicago) Morgan Park Academy (Chicago) | |
Top 3 School Districts Lexington Newton WellesleyNew Trier Township North Shore School District 112 Naperville Community Unit School District 203 |
Massachusetts and Illinois both offer diverse and high-quality educational options. In Massachusetts, schools like Lexington High School and Boston Latin School consistently rank among the best in the nation for their rigorous academic standards and stellar college matriculation rates. Meanwhile, Illinois boasts institutions such as Adlai E. Stevenson High School and the University of Chicago Lab School, known for their innovative teaching methods and strong STEM programs. The presence of top-tier universities in both states, like Harvard University and the University of Chicago, not only influences the academic culture but also provides ample opportunities for advanced studies and partnerships. Choosing between these states may come down to specific academic programs, the proximity to leading universities, or the availability of specialized public or private school options that best fit your child's needs.
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Popular Massachusetts to Illinois Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes