Moving from Michigan to Illinois?

6 Best MI to IL Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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MI to IL Moving Specialists

Moving from Michigan to Illinois marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind Michigan's Great Lakes and robust automotive heritage for Illinois's vibrant Windy City life and rich historical tapestry is both a farewell and a warm welcome. It's critical in this transition to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers; that's where we come in, ensuring your move is smooth with the best movers, handpicked by Great Guys Moving using an unbiased ranking algorithm.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to Michigan guide.

6 Best Michigan to Illinois Movers

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

#1
Pro-Low Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,255+ data points

Holland, MI
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 3508434 Verify

About Pro-Low Moving

Pro-Low Moving is a trusted moving company located in Holland, MI, with services available in Grand Haven and surrounding areas. Its license...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in kalamazoo 2023 pro low moving image
top 3 ranked movers in kalamazoo 2022 pro low moving image
#2
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 >>

top 10 waukegan 2024 happ movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2023 happ movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2022 happ movers inc image
#3
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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top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#4
Handle With Care Moving & Delivery  Logo
Exceptional

based on 898+ data points

Ann Arbor, MI
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 808976 Verify

About Handle With Care Moving & Delivery

Our company, Handle With Care Moving & Delivery, aims to provide you with professional, courteous, and helpful movers at an affordable r...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in warren 2023 handle with care moving delivery image
top 10 ranked movers in warren 2022 handle with care moving delivery image
#5
MASS Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 503+ data points

Lansing, MI
Packing Service, Large Item Moving, Small to Medium Business Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3333210 Verify

About MASS Movers

MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in ann arbor 2023 mass movers image
top 10 ranked movers in ann arbor 2022 mass movers image
#6
Kingsley Moving Systems Logo
Superb

based on 592+ data points

Lansing, MI
Local Moving, Statewide Moving, Interstate Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1890987 Verify

About Kingsley Moving Systems

Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its profess...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in grand rapids 2023 kingsley moving systems image
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Michigan to Illinois

Moving from one state to another is a monumental decision filled with various factors to consider. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Michigan to Illinois . By comparing the cons and pros in this particular move, you can weigh your options more clearly and make a decision that best suits your needs and preferences. Let's dive into the specifics to understand what this move entails.

CONs
PROs
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Harsher winters
  • Higher auto insurance
  • Less public transit
  • Fewer job opportunities
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Milder winters
  • Lower auto insurance
  • Better public transit
  • More job opportunities
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Flatter landscapes
  • Limited water access
  • Higher property taxes
  • Higher cost of living
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Natural beauty
  • Great Lakes access
  • Lower property taxes
  • Lower cost of living

Moving from Michigan to Illinois offers a mixed bag of changes, especially regarding the living environment and economic opportunities. For instance, while you'll miss Michigan's picturesque Great Lakes and vibrant autumn landscapes, Illinois' more temperate winters and robust public transit system, notably in Chicago, provide tangible daily living benefits. Chicago's CTA offers extensive bus and rail connections unlike anything available in Michigan. Job seekers might find solace in Illinois' bustling job market, particularly in thriving industries in Chicago, such as finance, technology, and manufacturing. Despite facing higher property taxes and cost of living, particularly in sought-after neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and The Loop, the state's rich cultural scene, including renowned institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and a diverse culinary scene featuring everything from deep-dish pizza to global cuisines, showcases the vibrant community and lifestyle awaiting you in Illinois.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Michigan to Illinois

Food significantly shapes the local culture and living experience in any area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Michigan & Illinois, aiming to better inform you about what the food scene is like where you are moving to.

MichiganIllinois

Most iconic local food item

PastiesChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Detroit-style Coney DogsItalian Beef Sandwiches

Most popular street food item

Food Truck TacosChicago-style Hot Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Vegan PastiesSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

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

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

68

In Michigan, pasties and Detroit-style Coney Dogs stand out as quintessential elements of local cuisine, reflecting the state's rich history and culture. Cities like Ann Arbor and Detroit are great places to explore this diversity, with Zingerman's Deli in Ann Arbor offering a taste of Michigan's finest. Moving to Illinois, especially Chicago, introduces you to a world-renowned food scene. Chicago-style deep dish pizza from places like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and the uniquely prepared Italian Beef Sandwiches at Portillo's highlight the city's culinary identity. Furthermore, both states boast a rising number of vegan options and food trucks, though Illinois, particularly Chicago, leads with its vibrant foodie scene, offering diverse and rich culinary experiences.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Michigan to Illinois

Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating, making it crucial to comprehend how Michigan and Illinois fare in this domain. By comparing housing cost, architectural styles, walkability , and more, you can make an informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.

When delving deeper into the housing aspect, it's noteworthy that Illinois generally showcases a higher cost of living, evident from its greater median home price and monthly rent. However, Illinois compensates with its stronger urban lifestyle rating and better walkability, particularly in cities like Chicago, renowned for its historical architecture and extensive public transit system. Michigan, on the other hand, often highlights its lakefront properties and spacious yards, catering to those seeking more natural scenery or outdoor space. Each state's typical architectural style reflects its unique cultural heritage, with Michigan favoring functional Craftsman and Ranch styles, while Illinois boasts Prairie Style and Victorian homes, indicative of its rich architectural history.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Michigan to Illinois

When considering a move from Michigan to Illinois, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these two states. This comparison will help you prepare for the climate changes and adjustments needed as you transition from one environment to another.

Summer icon
81°F / 59°F

Michigan

85°F / 65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 17°F

Michigan

35°F / 22°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
32.76"

Michigan

39.2"

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
60.66"

Michigan

22"

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Michigan to Illinois, you'll find that winters are slightly milder, albeit with less annual snowfall, which might appeal to those who prefer less snowy conditions. However, summers in Illinois tend to be warmer and more humid, a factor worth considering for outdoor activities and general comfort. Both states share similar challenges with top seasonal allergies due to mold and pollen and face risks from different natural disasters, highlighting the importance of preparedness for new residents.

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

When deciding to move, comparing financial aspects between your current and future home is crucial. This guide highlights the financial differences between Michigan and Illinois , focusing on key economic factors. Understanding these differences will ease your transition and financial planning.

When comparing Michigan to Illinois, it's evident that Illinois has a higher average household income, but this comes with a higher cost of living and higher taxation rates. Property taxes are significantly higher in Illinois, which impacts homeownership costs. The top industries in each state reflect the economic focus, with Michigan known for automotive and manufacturing, while Illinois has a strong finance sector. Despite Illinois' higher affluence, both states face moderate poverty levels, with homelessness being a more pronounced issue in Illinois. These financial insights are key to preparing for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Michigan and Illinois

When contemplating a move from Michigan to Illinois, understanding how your neighbors may perceive the world politically and religiously can be insightful. This brief comparison will offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents between Michigan & Illinois, aiding in setting your expectations for your new home.

MichiganIllinois

Political Make-up

Mixed, leans DemocraticLeans Democratic

Local Politics

Diverse, varying from conservative rural areas to liberal citiesLiberal in metropolitan areas such as Chicago, more conservative in rural regions

Religion

Christianity dominant, with a notable presence of other faithsPrimarily Christian, with diversity in urban areas

While both Michigan and Illinois lean towards the Democratic side politically, the nuances in local politics reveal a tapestry of beliefs and voting patterns. For instance, Michigan's political landscape is marked by a sharper contrast between its urban and rural areas, similar to Illinois, where cities like Chicago are known for their liberal stance, yet this perspective gradually shifts as one moves into the state's less urbanized areas. Religion, mainly Christianity, plays a significant role in both states, but the greater diversity found in their urban centers invites a broader range of cultural and religious practices. This blend of political and religious views forms a dynamic community landscape that can provide a rich and varied social environment for newcomers.

Education Guide When Moving from Michigan to Illinois

Deciding to move to a new state is a significant life change, especially when education for you or your family is a consideration. By comparing educational options in both states, you'll better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Michigan and Illinois . This guide aims to provide a clear picture of what each state offers, helping you make an informed decision.

MichiganIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Michigan
Michigan State University
Wayne State University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Harlan Elementary School (Birmingham)
Muskegon Montessori Academy for Environmental Change (Muskegon)
Okemos Public Montessori at Central (Okemos)
Lincoln Elementary School (River Forest)
South Loop Elementary School (Chicago)
Willowbrook Elementary School (Glenview)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Central Middle School (Midland)
Meads Mill Middle School (Northville)
West Middle School (Rochester Hills)
Marie Murphy School (Wilmette)
McClure Junior High School (Western Springs)
Woodlawn Middle School (Long Grove)

Top 3 High School Schools

International Academy (Bloomfield Hills)
Troy High School (Troy)
Northville High School (Northville)
Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)
New Trier High School (Winnetka)
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora)

Top 3 private high schools

Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills)
Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills)
The Roeper School (Birmingham)
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills)
Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills)
Greenhills School (Ann Arbor)
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)

Top 3 School Districts

Okemos Public Schools
Birmingham Public Schools
Troy School District
New Trier Township High School District 203
Community High School District 128
Naperville Community Unit School District 203

When delving into the educational comparisons between Michigan and Illinois, one notes distinct offerings that cater to varied preferences. Michigan's top universities, such as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, are known for their broad array of programs and significant research contributions. In Illinois, prestigious institutions like the University of Chicago and Northwestern University attract students worldwide, notable for their academic excellence and research facilities. The top public and private schools in both states, such as Cranbrook Schools in Michigan and University of Chicago Laboratory Schools in Illinois, offer rigorous academic programs and a multitude of extracurricular activities. This variety ensures that whether you're looking for a top-tier public school district like Okemos Public Schools in Michigan or an affluent district such as New Trier Township in Illinois, there are ample high-quality educational options to consider in both states.

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