Best West Virginia to Illinois Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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WV to IL Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state symbolizes an exhilarating chapter in your life, brimming with new possibilities and adventures. Leaving behind West Virginia's rugged mountains and charming small-town vibes for Illinois's bustling cities, such as the Windy City, and fertile prairies can feel like stepping into a different world. It's crucial to ensure this transition is as smooth as possible by choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we've meticulously ranked at Great Guys Moving, to navigate this exciting long-distance move.

West Virginia iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best West Virginia to Illinois Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Happ Movers, Inc.9.43A+ActiveContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Country Roads Moving LLC9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Abates Moving Services LLC8.55NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Xclusive Movers8.51B-Authorized For PropertyContact
Central Van Lines8.17A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to West Virginia guide.

6 Best WV to IL Moving Companies

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

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
1
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
2
Country Roads Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional9.27/10
based on 714+ data points

About Country Roads Moving LLC

Country Roads Moving is a Morgantown-based moving company that serves the greater North Central West Virginia area. It is licensed, insured,...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3094022 / 73556

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved210,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
A
Fabulous8.55/10
based on 347+ data points

About Abates Moving Services LLC

With Abates Moving Services LLC, you can expect your relocation to be stress-free and quick without feeling hurried at all. This local Morga...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving services
  • Packing and unpacking services
  • Short-term and long-term storage options

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3679007 / 1278788

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Xclusive Movers Logo
Fabulous8.51/10
based on 216+ data points

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4252111 / 1648375

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Central Van Lines Logo
Very Good8.17/10
based on 347+ data points

About Central Van Lines

Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where they need to be...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving services
  • Residential moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1243887 / 11266

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans44
Registered Drivers35
Total Annual Miles Moved487,000 (2019)
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 West Virginia to Illinois

Moving states is a significant life decision filled with various factors to consider. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the West Virginia to Illinois relocation , highlighting both the challenges and the advantages. Explore the aspects of this move through tailored charts, detailing the cons of West Virginia contrasted with the pros of Illinois and vice versa. This comprehensive insight will aid in making a well-informed decision about your transition.

CONs
PROs
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Limited job market
  • Lower average income
  • Less diverse environment
  • Scarce urban amenities
  • Smaller population
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Broader career opportunities
  • Higher median income
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • More entertainment options
  • Larger, vibrant communities
Illinois iconIllinois
  • More urban, less greenery
  • Can feel overwhelming
  • Higher living expenses
  • Faster-paced lifestyle
  • More traffic congestion
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Rich natural landscapes
  • Close-knit communities
  • Lower cost of living
  • Peaceful, slower pace
  • Easier road navigation

While the transition from West Virginia to Illinois may bring about career enhancement opportunities due to Illinois' more substantial job market, particularly in bustling cities like Chicago, where companies such as IBM and Boeing have significant operations, the cost of living is one major factor to consider. Illinois, especially areas like Chicago, offers a vast array of entertainment and dining options, from renowned spots like Shedd Aquarium to lively music scene at City Winery. However, the serene, bucolic settings of West Virginia, boasting vast expanses of unspoiled nature and tight-knit communities, narrate a story of simplicity and tranquility that might be less prevalent amidst the urban sprawl of Illinois. Each state presents a distinct living experience that caters to different priorities and lifestyles, making this relocation journey a path paved with varied opportunities and considerations.

West Virginia vs. Illinois Food Guide

When considering a move, it's not just the scenery and job opportunities that make a place feel like home. The local cuisine plays a crucial role in the cultural fabric of a region. In this guide, we will explore this comparison of the local cuisine between West Virginia & Illinois, providing insights into the food scene to help you settle into your new surroundings more deliciously.

West VirginiaIllinois
Most iconic local food itemPepperoni RollChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishSmoked Pork BBQItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemHot DogsChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodMorel MushroomsSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Tudor's Biscuit World
  • Sternwheel Regatta
  • Bluegrass Kitchen
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Transitioning from West Virginia's homey flavors to Illinois's diverse culinary scene can be an adventure. In Illinois, especially in cities like Chicago, the foodie scene thrives with an amazing array of options. Here, the iconic Lou Malnati's Pizzeria offers a taste of the famed Chicago-style deep dish pizza, a must-try for any newcomer. If you're venturing into street food, the Chicago-style hot dog, complete with its unique toppings, can be found throughout the city, showcasing local flavors and ingenuity. For those with a vegan lifestyle, Illinois provides a plethora of options, including innovative dishes like seitan wings, showcasing the state's forward-thinking and inclusive food scene. Whether you're dining at a high-end restaurant or grabbing a bite from a food truck, Illinois's culinary landscape is as diverse and welcoming as the state itself.

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West Virginia vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts the decision to move, making it essential to understand how West Virginia and Illinois compare in terms of housing. From costs to the local lifestyle, this comparison will guide your decisions.

ComparisonWest VirginiaIllinois
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, RanchPrairie, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingNatural Scenery, PrivacyPublic Transport, Cultural attractions

Moving from West Virginia to Illinois, you'll find the housing market quite different, reflecting not just in costs but in lifestyle as well. Illinois boasts a higher urban lifestyle score, indicating a more vibrant urban environment likely due to cities like Chicago. This urban setting offers better public transport and access to cultural attractions, aspects highly valued and often mentioned in real estate listings. However, those who favor privacy and natural scenery might find West Virginia's real estate market more appealing, despite its lower walkability and bikeability scores.

West Virginia vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison is designed to highlight how the weather in West Virginia stacks up against Illinois, helping you prepare for what's ahead. From sunshine days to snowfall, see how your new home's climate compares.

Summer icon
85°F / 62°F

West Virginia

85°F / 65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
41°F / 26°F

West Virginia

35°F / 20°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
45"

West Virginia

39"

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33"

West Virginia

22"

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWest VirginiaIllinois
Air QualityGenerally goodVariable, urban areas poor
Natural DisastersFloods, landslidesTornadoes, severe storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from West Virginia to Illinois, you'll notice a few key differences in climate. Illinois enjoys more days of sunshine but also faces colder winters with lower high/low averages. Be prepared for greater extremes in Illinois, from hotter summers due to higher urban heat to the increased risk of tornadoes and severe storms. The variation in air quality, especially in urban areas of Illinois, could affect those with respiratory issues, making air purifiers a good investment for your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp how your finances might shift. This comparison aims to outline the variations in money and finance from West Virginia to Illinois, illuminating crucial economic factors that could affect your transition. Understanding these differences will help you navigate your move more smoothly.

ComparisonWest VirginiaIllinois
Avg. Household Income$54,329$76,708
Cost of Living Index9594.25
State Income Tax3% to 6.5%4.95% flat
Avg. Property Tax0.59%2.16%
Avg. Sales Tax6.1%8.8%
Top 3 IndustriesEnergy, Healthcare, ManufacturingManufacturing, Services, Agriculture
AffluenceLowerHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessLowerHigher

Moving from West Virginia to Illinois, you'll notice a significant jump in your cost of living due to higher average household income, property, and sales tax rates in Illinois. Despite the increased cost, Illinois boasts a higher affluence level and a lower poverty rate compared to West Virginia, largely attributed to its diversified economy that includes manufacturing, services, and agriculture. Additionally, while property taxes are considerably higher in Illinois, the flat rate income tax could simplify your financial planning. Each state has its unique challenges and advantages, and understanding these can help make your transition smoother.

West Virginia vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one state to another can bring about significant changes in the environment you'll live in. This quick comparison aims to provide an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between West Virginia & Illinois , helping you get accustomed to your new surroundings.

West VirginiaIllinois
Political Make-upLean ConservativeLean Liberal
Local PoliticsRepublican DominanceDemocratic Dominance
ReligionChristian MajorityChristian Majority with Diverse Religious Communities

When you move from West Virginia to Illinois, you'll notice a shift in political and religious landscapes. West Virginia tends to lean more conservative with a strong Republican presence, while Illinois leans liberal, predominantly dominated by Democrats. This is particularly evident in local politics where the governance and policy-making process could differ significantly. While both states have a Christian majority, Illinois offers a more diverse religious community, reflecting its broader demographic diversity. Understanding these differences can aid you in smoothly transitioning into your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from West Virginia to Illinois

When deciding to relocate, comparing educational opportunities for your family is crucial. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in West Virginia and Illinois, guiding you in making an informed decision for your loved ones.

West VirginiaIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

West Virginia University
Marshall University
West Virginia State University
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Suncrest Primary School (Morgantown)
Steenrod Elementary School (Wheeling)
North Elementary School (Morgantown)
Lincoln Elementary School (Springfield)
South Loop Elementary School (Chicago)
Prairieview-Ogden North Elementary (Flatville)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Suncrest Middle School (Morgantown)
Mountaineer Middle School (Clarksburg)
Bridgeport Middle School (Bridgeport)
Woodlawn Middle School (Long Grove)
Daniel Wright Junior High School (Lincolnshire)
Maple School (Northbrook)

Top 3 High School Schools

George Washington High School (Charleston)
Morgantown High School (Morgantown)
Bridgeport High School (Bridgeport)
Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)
Payton College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)

Top 3 private high schools

Charleston Catholic High School (Charleston)
Parkersburg Catholic High School (Parkersburg)
Wheeling Central Catholic High School (Wheeling)
University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Linsly School (Wheeling)
Greenbrier Episcopal School (Lewisburg)
Mercer Christian Academy (Princeton)
Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
Lake Forest Country Day School (Lake Forest)

Top 3 School Districts

Monongalia County Schools
Ohio County Schools
Harrison County Schools
New Trier Township High School District 203 (Northfield)
Naperville Community Unit School District 203 (Naperville)
Community High School District 128 (Vernon Hills)

In a deeper look, schools like West Virginia University and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign stand out in their respective states for excellence in higher education, drawing students not just from the local area, but nationally. High-quality elementary education is also notable, with schools like Steenrod Elementary in Wheeling having an exceptional reputation. Meanwhile, in Illinois, the Francis W. Parker School represents the pinnacle of private education across K-12, showcasing the diverse and high-standard educational opportunities available if you're moving from West Virginia to Illinois. Considering these insights could be pivotal in deciding on the right school environment for your children.

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