Best Virginia to Illinois Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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VA to IL Moving Specialists

Moving from one state to another can be an exhilarating journey, marking a significant chapter in your life. You might be swapping the history-rich landscapes of Virginia, often revered as the "Mother of Presidents," for the bustling, wind-swept streets of Illinois, the "Land of Lincoln." Realizing the challenges of such a vast move, it's crucial to lean on trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring a smooth transition through every mile. We at Great Guys Moving provide you with the best options by ranking the country's top movers using an unbiased algorithm, making your choice clear and secure.

Virginia iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best Virginia to Illinois Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
ARS Movers9.63A+Authorized For HHGContact
A Change of Place Movers9.59NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Matthew's Nationwide Moving9.49NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
STAR Movers9.47A+Authorized For PropertyContact
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 Virginia guide.

6 Best VA to IL Moving Companies

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

ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,704+ data points

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving (Residential Moving)
  • Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
  • Office Moving (Commercial Moving)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3260258 / 1027666

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved3 (2022)
View Full Review
1
A
Exceptional9.59/10
based on 925+ data points

About A Change of Place Movers

The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever meet. They genuinel...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1293943 / 503371

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved290,815 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Matthew's Nationwide Moving Logo
Exceptional9.49/10
based on 1,392+ data points

About Matthew's Nationwide Moving

Matthew's Nationwide Moving is a family-owned and operated company founded in 2012 in Annandale, Virginia. With over 20 seasoned moving cont...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Nationwide Moving Services
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2375124 / 819110

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved400,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
STAR Movers Logo
Exceptional9.47/10
based on 609+ data points

About STAR Movers

STAR Movers prides itself on being a non-franchise moving company. It is not associated with any nationwide moving chain, which makes it mor...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Home and Apartment Moving
  • Labor Only Moves / Loading / Unloading
  • Commercial Business Relocation Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2890159 / 970912

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved14,809 (2023)
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 10/18/2024)

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 Virginia to Illinois

Moving from Virginia to Illinois represents a significant life change, encompassing both challenges and advantages. This comparison aims to provide a balanced perspective by evaluating the shift between Virginia and Illinois , allowing you to consider and weigh the differences they offer in terms of lifestyle, climate, and opportunities. Let's delve into the specifics of how this relocation might affect your life for both better and worse.

CONs
PROs
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Higher living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Mild winters
Illinois iconIllinois
  • More affordable housing
  • Efficient public transport
  • Distinct seasons
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Colder winters
  • Higher taxes
  • Less ocean access
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Proximity to D.C.
  • Historic sites
  • Coastal access

Moving to Illinois from Virginia invites the opportunity for you to enjoy the vibrant city life of places like Chicago, with its famous Art Institute of Chicago and bustling Navy Pier, without the heavy burden of Virginia's cost of living. Illinois’ distinct seasons offer a picturesque winter wonderland – a stark contrast to Virginia's milder winters – though it may require an adjustment to the colder climate. However, Illinois compensates with efficient public transport options, such as the Chicago Transit Authority, making it easier to explore renowned restaurants like Avec and scenic neighborhoods. Whether it's the urban charm of Chicago or the quieter, suburban areas, Illinois provides a rich array of experiences, from natural sights in Starved Rock State Park to the historical landmarks throughout the state, promising a fulfilling lifestyle with something for everyone.

Virginia vs. Illinois Food Guide

Comparing the local cuisine between Virginia & Illinois is essential to understanding the variety and richness of the food scene where you're relocating. Food is a vibrant part of local culture and offers a taste of what life is like in a new area. Let this comparison guide you to be better informed about the culinary delights awaiting you.

VirginiaIllinois
Most iconic local food itemHamDeep-dish pizza
Most popular meat dishBarbecueItalian Beef
Most popular street food itemFood TrucksHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Inn at Little Washington
  • Lemaire
  • Zynodoa
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Al's Beef
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Virginia, you'll find a rich history reflected in its most iconic dishes like ham and barbecue. Exploring neighborhoods like Richmond's Carytown or Norfolk's Ghent, you'll stumble upon a variety of food trucks offering everything from traditional Southern fare to innovative vegan options. Contrastingly, Illinois, and particularly Chicago, is a juggernaut of the Midwest food scene, renowned for its deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. Neighborhoods such as Logan Square and the West Loop are bustling with eateries that cater to all, from meat-lovers to vegans, with a particularly strong representation of food from around the globe. Both states offer unique dining experiences but Illinois edges ahead slightly, especially for those who prioritize a diverse and vibrant food scene.

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Virginia vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

When moving between states, understanding the real estate market is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing considerations, focusing on Virginia and Illinois, providing you with essential insights for your relocation decision.

ComparisonVirginiaIllinois
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodPrairie, Farmhouse
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, waterfront viewsHardwood floors, energy efficiency

In Virginia, the emphasis on waterfront views in real estate listings reflects the state's vast array of rivers and coastal areas, making it a prime location for those who love water-based activities. Illinois, known for its energy-efficient homes, showcases a commitment to sustainability and cost-saving in residential designs, a nod to the state's progressive stance on environmental care. The interesting contrast in preferred architecture—Virginia's Colonial and Cape Cod styles versus Illinois's Prairie and Farmhouse designs—speaks to the distinct historical and cultural influences shaping each state's aesthetic. While Virginia offers a slightly more traditional living experience, Illinois leans towards a more urban lifestyle, as depicted in its higher urban lifestyle, walkability, and bikeability scores.

Virginia vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

If you're moving from one location to another, understanding how the weather compares is vital. This guide will help you grasp the differences in climate between Virginia and Illinois, providing insights into temperature, sunlight, and more to ease your transition.

Summer icon
85°F / 66°F

Virginia

85°F / 65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 27°F

Virginia

35°F / 18°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44"

Virginia

39"

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
14"

Virginia

22"

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonVirginiaIllinois
Air QualityModerateVariable
Natural DisastersHurricanes, floodsTornados, floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In moving from Virginia to Illinois, you'll experience a similar summer climate but a significant difference in winter temperatures, with Illinois winters being considerably colder. While both states enjoy a fair amount of sunshine, Virginia edges out with more sunny days per year. Despite similar levels of annual humidity, Illinois tends to have more severe winters, leading to higher annual snowfall. Understanding these differences will help you prepare better for your move and adjust to your new home with ease.

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

When considering a move from one state to another, evaluating the financial implications is crucial. This chart aims to highlight the differences in money and finance-related aspects between Virginia and Illinois . By comparing factors such as income, taxes, and cost of living, you can better prepare for your relocation.

ComparisonVirginiaIllinois
Avg. Household Income$85,873$76,708
Cost of Living Index96.694.25
State Income Tax2-5.754.95 (flat)
Avg. Property Tax0.802.16
Avg. Sales Tax5.36.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Military, AgricultureManufacturing, Services, Agriculture
AffluenceMore affluentLess affluent
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessLowerHigher

Moving from Virginia to Illinois, you'll find significant transformations in your financial landscape. Illinois offers a lower average household income but compensates with a more manageable cost of living index. However, the state's flat income tax rate and notably higher property taxes may affect your budgeting. While Virginia is generally more affluent, boasting sectors like technology and military as economic drivers, Illinois' strengths lie in manufacturing and services. Understanding these differences provides a clear picture of what to expect and how you can effectively manage your finances post-move.

Virginia vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup between Virginia & Illinois, providing insights for those considering a move. Understand the culture and values that define each state's residents at a glance.

VirginiaIllinois
Political Make-upMixed, leans slightly DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsVaries widely by regionUrban areas lean Democratic, rural areas more Republican
ReligionChristianity predominant, with a mix of other faithsPrimarily Christian, diverse religious communities in urban centers

In Virginia and Illinois, the political landscape varies notably, especially when comparing local politics. Virginia's more balanced political stance is evident in its history of fluctuating between Democratic and Republican influences, depending on the region. In contrast, Illinois, while diverse, sees a strong Democratic preference, particularly in its urban centers like Chicago. The religious scenes in both states also offer a variety of communities and establishments, ranging from the traditional churches in Virginia's countryside to the vibrant and diverse religious centers found in Illinois's bustling cities. This diversity in both politics and religion reflects the rich tapestry of American life that you'll encounter, should you decide to make the move.

Education Guide When Moving from Virginia to Illinois

Moving can be an overwhelming process, especially when considering the educational opportunities available to your family. To assist with this transition, a detailed comparison has been created to better understand what the comparisons are between school options from Virginia to Illinois . This guide will help you narrow down your choices by directly comparing key educational features.

VirginiaIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
James Madison University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Arlington Science Focus School (Arlington)
Stenwood Elementary (Vienna)
Lucketts Elementary (Leesburg)
Lincoln Elementary School (River Forest)
Prairieview-Ogden North Elementary (Flatville)
Meadow Glens Elementary School (Naperville)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Longfellow Middle School (Falls Church)
Cooper Middle School (McLean)
Frost Middle School (Fairfax)
Woodlawn Middle School (Long Grove)
Daniel Wright Junior High School (Lincolnshire)
Maple School (Northbrook)

Top 3 High Schools

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
McLean High School (McLean)
Langley High School (McLean)
Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)
New Trier Township High School (Winnetka)

Top 3 private high schools

The Potomac School (McLean)
Episcopal High School (Alexandria)
St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School (Alexandria)
University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Madeira School (McLean)
Norfolk Academy (Norfolk)
Collegiate School (Richmond)
Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Morgan Park Academy (Chicago)

Top 3 School Districts

Loudoun County Public Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools
Arlington Public Schools
New Trier Township High School District 203 (Northfield)
Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Community High School District 128 (Vernon Hills)

When you're deciding where to move, the quality of education is often a deciding factor. Both Virginia and Illinois boast distinguished educational institutions, but they offer distinct experiences and opportunities. Virginia's Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is nationally recognized for its STEM focus, while Illinois' Northside College Preparatory High School is known for its comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. If you're considering private education, Virginia's Potomac School and Illinois's University of Chicago Lab School are both excellent options, each with a unique approach to learning that fosters academic excellence and personal growth. This comparison should provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from schools in both states, helping to ease your transition.

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