Best Washington to Illinois Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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WA to IL Moving Specialists

Moving from one state to another isn't just a change of scenery; it's embarking on an exciting adventure that promises new experiences and opportunities. From the lush evergreen landscapes of Washington, known affectionately as the Evergreen State, to the rich history and vibrant cultural tapestry of Illinois, the Prairie State, you're not just moving homes—you're transitioning between two worlds. Understanding the significance of this long journey, it's crucial to entrust your move to professionals. That’s why we dedicate ourselves to connecting you with the best, most reliable movers for this significant transition.

Washington iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best Washington to Illinois Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Seattle Moves & More9.54A+Authorized For HHGContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.42A+ActiveContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
First Due Movers9.25A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Help-U-Move9.21A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to Washington guide.

6 Best WA to IL Moving Companies

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

S
Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
4
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional9.25/10
based on 1,542+ data points

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Help-U-Move Logo
Exceptional9.21/10
based on 1,091+ data points

About Help-U-Move

Help-U-Move is a veteran-owned, locally operated small business in Pasco that handles over 4,000 moves yearly. It has provided residential a...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Statewide Moving
  • Out of State Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

482337 / 252568

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
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 Washington to Illinois

Moving across state lines is a significant life decision. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of Washington to Illinois relocation , highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of such a move. Understanding the pros and cons will help you make a more informed choice about your upcoming transition.

CONs
PROs
Washington iconWashington
  • Higher cost of living
  • Frequent rain
  • Heavy traffic in cities
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Lower cost of living
  • More diverse seasons
  • Less traffic congestion
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Flat landscapes
  • Fewer tech industries
  • Less outdoor variety
Washington iconWashington
  • Natural beauty
  • Tech job opportunities
  • Outdoor activities

Relocating from Washington to Illinois offers a mix of changes in your daily experience, particularly when it comes to the climate and cost of living. In Illinois, you'll find yourself enjoying a variety of seasons - a pleasant change for those who might find Washington's frequent rain and overcast skies monotonous. Illinois' more affordable living can be a significant relief financially, offering opportunities to explore local gems without the financial strain experienced in some parts of Washington. Cities like Chicago are rich with cultural landmarks, vibrant parks, and acclaimed restaurants that offer a bustling urban life contrasted with the more laid-back charm of Washington's natural landscapes. While outdoor activities may seem less varied, the historical sights and midwestern charm of Illinois provide a unique appeal that new residents come to love.

Washington vs. Illinois Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington & Illinois, highlighting how food plays a crucial role in understanding local culture and lifestyle. By analyzing both, you can better grasp what culinary delights await in your new home.

WashingtonIllinois
Most iconic local food itemSalmonDeep-dish pizza
Most popular meat dishGrilled SalmonItalian Beef Sandwiches
Most popular street food itemTacosChicago-style hot dogs
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladDeep-dish vegan pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Canlis
  • The Herb Farm
  • Salumi
  • Lou Malnati's
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Washington, the vibrant food scene is best illustrated by the state's affinity for salmon, available in various forms from grilled dishes to sushi, often found in coastal cities like Seattle. Food trucks offering diverse cuisines, including mouth-watering tacos, are a common sight in bustling neighborhoods. In contrast, Illinois, particularly Chicago, is famous for its hearty deep-dish pizzas and Italian beef sandwiches. The state's love for food is palpable in iconic establishments like Lou Malnati’s for Pizza or Portillo's for a quintessential Chicago-style hot dog. Whether you’re diving into the sophisticated dining scene or exploring vegan offerings, both states offer unique and fulfilling culinary experiences tailored to diverse palates.

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Washington vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of Washington and Illinois is crucial. This comparison illuminates differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle, helping make informed decisions.

ComparisonWashingtonIllinois
Typical Architecture StyleModern & CraftsmanColonial & Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingNatural light, energy efficiencyClassical features, ample parking

Moving between states, it's important to note the stark differences in housing costs. For example, Washington's median home price is significantly higher than in Illinois, reflecting its booming tech sector and desirability among employees in that industry. Meanwhile, Illinois offers a more classical appeal in terms of architecture, with Colonial and Ranch styles prevalent in its listings. This diversity can provide a breath of fresh air for those moving from the modern and Craftsman-heavy design seen in Washington. Additionally, the emphasis on features like "natural light" and "energy efficiency" in Washington contrasts with Illinois's appreciation for "classical features" and "ample parking," reflecting different lifestyle and environmental priorities in each state.

Washington vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

When planning a move, understanding how the weather compares between Washington and Illinois is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for the climatic changes that come with your new locale. Below, a chart details key weather differences to consider.

Summer icon
75°F/55°F

Washington

85°F/65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F/37°F

Washington

35°F/22°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38"

Washington

39"

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5"

Washington

22"

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashingtonIllinois
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanoesTornadoes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In comparing the climates of Washington and Illinois, it's evident there are significant differences that could impact your daily life. For instance, Illinois summers are warmer than those in Washington, which could affect your leisure activities and how you cool your home. While Washington experiences more rainy days, Illinois deals with more snow, requiring readiness for snowy commutes. Additionally, the higher number of sunny days in Illinois might be a welcome change for those moving from the typically cloudier Washington. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for your move both practically and mentally.

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

When contemplating a move from one state to another, grasping the financial and economic differences is crucial. This comparison serves as a guide to how the cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities between Washington and Illinois might affect your wallet. Understanding these disparities can significantly ease your transition and financial planning.

ComparisonWashingtonIllinois
Avg. Household Income$91,306$76,708
Cost of Living Index104.194.25
State Income Tax04.95 (flat rate)
Avg. Property Tax1.032.16
Avg. Sales Tax9.218.82
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Aerospace, AgricultureManufacturing, Services, Agriculture
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessVisibleModerate

While Washington boasts a higher average household income and no state income tax, its cost of living is significantly above the national average, primarily driven by the housing market. In contrast, Illinois presents a more affordable living cost with a moderate affluence level; however, it counters with a flat state income tax rate and one of the highest average property taxes in the nation. These financial nuances are pivotal to consider for your economic well-being, as the savings or expenses incurred can be substantial over time. Additionally, the dominant industries suggest potential employment opportunities relative to your career path, which could influence your decision.

Washington vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Washington & Illinois , offering a glimpse into the environments you're transitioning from and into. It aims to highlight how regional characteristics might influence your new lifestyle.

WashingtonIllinois
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticModerately Liberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive urban centers, conservative rural areasDiverse, with liberal urban areas and conservative rural regions
ReligionLess religiously affiliated overallHigher religious affiliation, diverse religious communities

Both Washington and Illinois share a Democratic lean at the state level, with significant urban centers like Seattle and Chicago driving much of the local political landscapes. However, outside these large cities, you might find a more diverse political sentiment that swings from progressive to conservative, depending on the locality. Religion plays a different role in each state, with Washington being one of the least religious states in the U.S., whereas Illinois has a higher rate of religious affiliation, hosting a wide array of faiths and places of worship like the Archdiocese of Chicago. This contrast might influence not just your social circles but local policy and the public discourse you encounter.

Education Guide When Moving from Washington to Illinois

When planning your move from Washington to Illinois, it's important to consider how the educational landscape differs between the two. To better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Washington and Illinois, this chart and subsequent details aim to provide valuable insights. Let’s explore to ensure you make the best decision for your family's educational needs.

WashingtonIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Washington
Washington State University
Seattle University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Cascade K-8 (Shoreline)
Challenge Elementary (Bellevue)
Bertschi School (Seattle)
Lincoln Elementary (River Forest)
South Park Elementary (Deerfield)
Prairieview-Ogden North Elementary (Flatville)

Top 3 Middle Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Washington Middle School (Olympia)
Lakeside Middle School (Seattle)
Maple School (Northbrook)
Daniel Wright Junior High School (Lincolnshire)
Kennedy Junior High (Lisle)

Top 3 High Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Newport High School (Bellevue)
Camas High School (Camas)
Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)
New Trier Township High School (Winnetka)

Top 3 private high schools

Lakeside School (Seattle)
The Overlake School (Redmond)
The Bush School (Seattle)
University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day School (Winnetka)
Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Bear Creek School (Redmond)
Eastside Preparatory School (Kirkland)
Seattle Academy (Seattle)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
Morgan Park Academy (Chicago)

Top 3 School Districts

Bellevue School District
Lake Washington School District
Mercer Island School District
New Trier Township HSD 203
Northfield Township HSD 225
Naperville Community Unit School District 203

In comparing the educational opportunities between Washington and Illinois, there are notable highlights. For instance, the University of Washington and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign are both highly regarded institutions, reflecting the quality of higher education students gravitate towards in each state. In terms of K-12 education, the Bellevue School District in Washington and the New Trier Township HSD 203 in Illinois are recognized for their excellence. These districts house some of the top-ranked schools in their respective states, such as the Bellevue International School and Northside College Preparatory High School in Chicago, catering to students' diverse talents and ambitions. Whether you're considering public or private education, these states offer robust educational landscapes that promise to nurture and challenge students.

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