The bottom line: If you’re planning a move from Illinois to California, expect to spend anywhere from $715 to as much as $6,008.
How much you have to pay for your move to the Golden State will vary depending on several factors, including how much stuff you have and when you plan to move. The way you decide to move from Illinois — whether full-service, DIY, or somewhere in between — also affects pricing.
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This guide outlines what to expect when moving the 2,083 miles from Illinois to California. We cover budgeting basics, share cost-saving strategies, and help you identify the right mover for your goals.
- Best Long-Distance Movers
- Best Moving Containers
- Best Moving Truck Rentals
- Best Small Load Movers
Check out these options to narrow down your search:
Going the other way? Check out our moving from California to Illinois guide.
Cost To Move From Illinois to California
You’re starting a new chapter, moving from Illinois to California — memories, keepsakes, and all.
Expect professional moving services for this route to cost anywhere from $715 to $6,008. On average, movers in Illinois charge $192 per hour for packing, loading, and transporting your items safely.
Below, you’ll find an estimated cost breakdown for your move to the Golden State.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $3,245 – $6,122 | $2,305 – $3,873 | $1,586 – $2,940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,813 – $7,144 | $2,480 – $4,440 | $1,602 – $2,882 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,348 – $8,494 | $3,065 – $5,535 | $1,815 – $3,165 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,901 – $12,079 | $3,541 – $5,970 | $2,041 – $3,541 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $8,697 – $13,200 | $3,805 – $6,764 | $2,092 – $4,244 |
Cost Factors When Moving From Illinois to California
Moving from Illinois to California? These factors will shape your total costs:
- Quantity being moved: More possessions mean a higher cost. A few boxes and furniture from a studio are much cheaper to move than the contents of a multi-bedroom home with large, heavy items.
- Move timing: Costs surge in summer due to high demand. Scheduling in the less busy spring or fall months can help you save.
- Distance covered: The longer the move—from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA—the more it’s likely to cost because of added mileage charges.
- DIY or pro movers: Want to save 20%–30%? Handle the move yourself. Just be ready for the workload of transporting everything without help.
- Specialty services: Additional charges come into play if you need things like fragile item packing, piano moving, or disassembly services.
Get Accurate Estimates for Your Move From IL to CA
Planning a move from Illinois to California? Getting solid estimates is a must for budgeting smartly.
Review sites are full of cautionary tales about unexpected costs from bad estimates. Vague or overly simple quotes can lead to headaches later.
To avoid surprises and get an accurate quote, follow these steps:
- Schedule a home or video survey. Remote quotes are convenient but imprecise. A video or in-home estimate ensures the movers see what you’re moving and provide a more exact quote.
- Choose a binding quote. This guarantees your price won’t skyrocket later unless you change your inventory. Avoid surprises by locking in your cost upfront.
- Gather quotes from three or more movers. This gives you price transparency and helps weed out too-good-to-be-true offers, which may lead to service issues or surprise fees.
- Scrutinize your quote. Know what’s included, and check for fine-print costs like stairs, elevator access, or long-distance carrying. Understand your responsibilities to avoid extra charges.
- Confirm all logistics. Make sure dates, times, and locations are correct and coordinated for your interstate move.
Learn more about the average cost of movers in Illinois.
Best Illinois to California Full-Service Moving Companies
Moving from Illinois to California means crossing state lines—and that usually means added stress.
Your best bet for a smooth experience is to hire a trusted and cost-effective interstate mover.
We researched dozens of companies and found these top-rated movers to be the best picks for your journey from Illinois to California, thanks to stellar reputations and reliable service:
- Safeway Moving
- International Van Lines
- Mayzlin Relocation
- North American Van Lines
- JK Moving Services
1. Safeway Moving
Safeway Moving locks in pricing upfront, so you won’t get hit with surprise charges on long-distance moves. The company handles relocations across all 50 states and includes 30 days of free storage with every move, which can be helpful if your new home isn’t ready right away.
Safeway is known for its military-grade packing standards and commitment to price transparency. If you want a predictable, hands-off move with no hidden fees, it’s a solid option.
2. International Van Lines (IVL)
International Van Lines (IVL) provides full-service long-distance moving across all 50 states, offering everything from packing and storage to furniture disassembly and reassembly. If you’re moving overseas, IVL also has air and ocean freight options.
The company requires a deposit to book, but its flexible cancellation policy allows you to adjust plans if needed. With virtual estimates available, you can get a quote without scheduling an in-home walkthrough.
3. Mayzlin Relocation
Mayzlin Relocation focuses on long-distance moves with a personal touch, offering binding estimates so you know your total cost upfront. The company provides packing, storage, and furniture disassembly, with the option to add white-glove handling for fragile or high-value items.
Unlike some movers, Mayzlin doesn’t hand off jobs to outside crews, ensuring consistency from start to finish. It handles moves across the lower 48 states and builds customized moving plans to fit your needs.
4. North American Van Lines (NAVL)
North American Van Lines (NAVL) has been handling long-distance moves since 1933, with services available in all 50 states. The company provides binding estimates, so you’ll know your cost upfront, and offers full-value protection for extra peace of mind.
One of its standout features is real-time shipment tracking, which lets you follow your move every step of the way. Whether you need full packing services or just transportation, NAVL gives you the flexibility to plan your move your way.
5. JK Moving Services
JK Moving Services lets you customize your long-distance move, whether you want full-service packing or just transportation. The company offers financing — something most movers don’t — so you can pay in installments instead of all at once. GPS tracking, trained crews, and 24/7 customer support help keep everything on schedule
With experience handling moves since 1982 and service across the US, JK Moving is a strong choice for a flexible and stress-free relocation.
Learn more about the best movers in Illinois.
DIY Illinois to California Moving Options
Illinois to California Moving Containers
Choosing a moving container is a cost-effective solution for relocating across Illinois without the hassle of driving a rental truck.
You can take your time loading your items, while the container company handles the long-haul transport. It’s ideal if you want more flexibility and built-in storage in case your new home isn’t move-in ready.
Here are our top picks for moving container companies for your interstate journey from Illinois to California:
1. PODS
PODS gives you flexibility with long-distance moves by letting you pack at your own pace. You can keep the container in your driveway, store it at a PODS facility, or have it delivered straight to your new home. Pricing is transparent, with month-to-month rental options, and there’s no rush to unload since you keep the container as long as needed.
2. U-Pack
With U-Pack, you only pay for the space you use on a moving trailer or in a ReloCube, making it a budget-friendly choice for interstate moves. Unlike PODS, you have just three days to load and unload, but transportation is included in the price. There’s no deposit required, and U-Pack regularly offers discounts, including savings for military members and students.
Illinois to California Moving Truck Rentals
Looking for the cheapest way to move from Illinois to California? If you don’t mind driving, a rental truck is your best bet.
You take care of the packing, loading, and driving—but you get to move on your own timeline. Most rental companies offer a range of trucks for different home sizes, so you can find the right fit for your move.
These are our top picks for truck rentals in Illinois:
1. Budget Truck Rental
Budget Truck Rental keeps costs low with frequent discounts, including deals for students, military members, and AARP members. One-way rentals for interstate moves include unlimited miles, so you won’t get hit with extra fees for going over a mileage cap. Budget’s fleet isn’t as big as U-Haul’s, but if you find a location near you, it’s often one of the cheapest ways to move.
2. Penske Truck Rental
Penske trucks are well-maintained and newer than most competitors, reducing the chances of breakdowns on a long drive. Unlimited mileage is included on all one-way moves, making it ideal for cross-country trips where you don’t want to worry about tracking every mile. Penske also partners with AAA to offer discounts, and there are additional savings for college students and military members.
3. U-Haul
U-Haul has the largest truck rental network in the U.S., which means there’s a good chance you’ll find a location nearby. One-way rentals don’t include unlimited mileage like some competitors, but U-Haul often beats other companies on base rental prices. If you need flexibility, U-Haul also offers trailer rentals and the option to hire loading help through its Moving Help marketplace.
Illinois to California Small Load Movers
If you’re moving a smaller home or apartment from Illinois to California, some full-service companies might not be the right fit due to minimum load sizes.
We’ve rounded up the best movers that focus on smaller, more flexible moves for people headed from Illinois to California:
1. MovingYourself
MovingYourself is a cost-effective option for small moves, since you pay only for the truck space you need. Instead of renting an entire moving truck, you load your belongings into a designated section of a commercial trailer, keeping costs low. The company handles transportation, so you don’t have to drive a rental truck across state lines.
2. MiniMoves
MiniMoves specializes in small interstate moves, making it a solid option if you’re relocating a studio apartment or just shipping a few pieces of furniture. Unlike most full-service movers, MiniMoves doesn’t have high weight minimums, so you’re not stuck paying for space you don’t need. Packing and loading services are available, and the company offers custom crating for fragile or high-value items.
Living in Illinois vs. California
Every state is unique, from the economy to the weather to the people who live there. Here are a few key differences between living in Illinois and California to consider before your move.
Cost of living
| Metric | Illinois | California |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,179 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $91,905 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 134 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 5.4% |
| Average sales tax | Not available | Not available |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 13.3% |
Weather
| Metric | Illinois | California |
|---|---|---|
| Summer high | 86ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 17ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 40″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 22″ | 7″ |
Demographics
| Metric | Illinois | California |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,549,689 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 55-45 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Crime index | 19.7 | 28.43 |
Things To Do in California
Moving can be overwhelming, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to explore a brand-new place, with new things to do.
Luckily, there’s plenty to discover in California.
Popular Attractions in California
- Yosemite National Park
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Disneyland Park
- Big Sur Coastline
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Death Valley National Park
- San Diego Zoo
- Lake Tahoe
- Santa Catalina Island
- Redwood National and State Parks
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
- Griffith Observatory
- Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
- Norton Simon Museum
- Mission San Luis Rey
- Tallac Historic Site
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
- MacKerricher State Park
- Tilden Regional Park
- Dinosaur Caves Park
- Greystone Mansion and Park
- Rancho San Antonio County Park
FAQs
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to California?
Some of the benefits of moving from Illinois to California include:
- Ample economic opportunity
- Pleasant weather
- Abundant recreational options
- High quality of life
- Fresh and healthy foods
Who regulates interstate moves out of Illinois?
For interstate moves, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency that oversees all safety regulations for moving companies that handle moves out of Illinois.
The FMCSA also makes sure all moving companies are registered through the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and maintain a USDOT number.
When is the worst time to move to California?
The worst time to move to California is during the summer months, when the weather is at its hottest and moving costs are at their highest due to the peak season.
How far in advance should I book movers from Illinois to California?
You should book your move from Illinois to California as far in advance as possible, but the rule of thumb is between three and six months ahead of moving day.
This will help ensure you get the moving date you want, and some companies may even offer an early-bird discount for booking early.
Should I get in-home estimates for a move from Illinois to California?
It’s a lot easier to get an online estimate for your move from Illinois to California, but this could cost you in the long run.
Taking a little extra time for an in-home or virtual walkthrough of your home will help ensure your mover accurately quotes you a price based on the amount of items you have and the size and layout of your home.
What’s the cheapest way to move from Illinois to California?
The cheapest way to move from Illinois to California is likely to rent a moving truck and handle the move yourself.
While this can save you some money, keep in mind that a DIY move means you’ll be doing the heavy lifting and driving on your own.
If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of moving, a full-service company, while more expensive, might be the better option.
What should you do when you arrive in California?
Moving is more than just getting your stuff from Illinois to California. You also need to handle logistics to settle into your new home.
Here’s what to add to your to-do list for a seamless move:
- Forward your mail and change your address for things like banks, credit cards, tax agencies, and insurance companies.
- Contact local utility companies in California to get your internet, cable, electricity, water, and gas set up.
- Plan for a safe transition by installing a security system, testing smoke detectors, and changing the locks on your new home.
- Register your car and visit the California DMV for a new driver’s license.
- Plan a housewarming party and start exploring your new neighborhood in California!
How We Chose the Top Illinois to California Moving Companies
To ensure we provide accurate and reliable recommendations, we use a thorough evaluation process to rate and review local and long-distance movers across the U.S. in these key categories:
- Pricing and payment options: Transparent pricing is a major factor. We assess whether companies offer flat-rate pricing and binding estimates to help customers avoid unexpected fees and stay within budget. We also look for multiple payment options (credit card, cash, and check).
- Services: We examine a company’s packages to see which services come standard and which ones come at an added cost, helping customers find the most comprehensive services at the most affordable rate.
- Customer feedback: We analyze online reviews from consumer review sites like the BBB, Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google and look for common praises and complaints.
- Reputation: A company’s reputation is crucial. We look at industry ratings, compliance with regulations, and whether they carry sufficient insurance to protect customers’ belongings.
- Add-on options: We evaluate optional services that carry an extra fee — like fragile-only packing, custom crates, and specialized handling of electronics — can make a move easier, especially if they’re not commonly offered by other companies.
- State availability: The number of states a company serves is key. Companies with a national reach are ranked higher than those within just the contiguous U.S. or with more limited availability.
- Ease of scheduling: We give higher ratings to companies that offer straightforward and accessible scheduling options to get things moving quickly.