Best Massachusetts to Illinois Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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MA to IL Moving Specialists

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.

Massachusetts iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best Massachusetts to Illinois Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Paradise Moving & Storage9.70A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Stairhopper Movers9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Varsity Movers LLC9.65NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Centaur Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.43A+ActiveContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to Massachusetts guide.

6 Best MA to IL Moving Companies

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

Paradise Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.70/10
based on 1,118+ data points

About Paradise Moving & Storage

Paradise Moving & Storage is a fully licensed and insured moving company based in Massachusetts, with locations in Framingham, Boston, and A...Read More >>

Services

  • Affordable insured local and long distance movers
  • Hourly Charges only with no hidden fees
  • Furniture wrapping

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3619865 / 1236088

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved81,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Varsity Movers LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.65/10
based on 794+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Apartment/Townhome/Condo Moving
  • Small Job Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3751873 / 1401511

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved31,270 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
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
5
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
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 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.

CONs
PROs
Massachusetts iconMassachusetts
  • Higher cost of living
  • Harsh winters
  • Dense traffic
  • Smaller state parks
Illinois iconIllinois
  • More affordable housing
  • Milder winters
  • Less congested
  • Larger state parks
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Fewer top-ranked universities
  • Less colonial history
  • Smaller tech industry
  • No ocean access
Massachusetts iconMassachusetts
  • 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.

Massachusetts vs. Illinois Food Guide

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.

MassachusettsIllinois
Most iconic local food itemClam ChowderChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishLobster RollItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemCodfish BallsChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodSamphire GreensChicago Diner’s Vegan Shake
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Legal Sea Foods
  • Union Oyster House
  • Summer Shack
  • Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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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Massachusetts vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

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.

ComparisonMassachusettsIllinois
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodPrairie, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingNear public transit, Granite countertopsHardwood floors, Spacious backyards

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.

Massachusetts vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

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.

Summer icon
80°F/60°F

Massachusetts

85°F/65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F/22°F

Massachusetts

35°F/20°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
48"

Massachusetts

39"

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
51"

Massachusetts

22"

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMassachusettsIllinois
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersNor'easters, BlizzardsTornadoes, Severe Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

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.

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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.

ComparisonMassachusettsIllinois
Avg. Household Income$94,488$76,708
Cost of Living Index121.5594.25
State Income Tax54.95
Avg. Property Tax1.22.16
Avg. Sales Tax6.256.25
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Education, TechnologyManufacturing, Agriculture, Services
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowHigher
HomelessnessLowHigher

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.

Massachusetts vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

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.

MassachusettsIllinois
Political Make-upLiberal/Democratic-leaningLiberal/Democratic-leaning
Local PoliticsProgressive policies in urban areasMixture of progressive and moderate policies depending on the region
ReligionStrong 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.

MassachusettsIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

Harvard University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Boston College
University 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
Wellesley
New 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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