Best Illinois to Tennessee Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Illinois to Tennessee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 508 mile IL to TN move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 188 Illinois to Tennessee moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Alpha Moving & Storage LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Illinois compared to Tennessee. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Illinois to Tennessee Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alpha Moving & Storage LLC | 9.40 | 9.29 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Boundless Moving & Storage | 9.33 | 9.36 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Murphy Family Movers | 9.29 | 9.35 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Illinois to Tennessee
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 508 miles from Illinois to Tennessee will cost on average $2,213 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IL to TN move is roughly $5,300. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup in Illinois and dropoff in Tennessee as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve Illinois to Tennessee movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,490 | 300 ft³ | 4.97 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,213 | 450 ft³ | 4.92 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,651 | 750 ft³ | 4.87 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,300 | 1100 ft³ | 4.82 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,629 | 1600 ft³ | 4.77 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,493 | 1800 ft³ | 4.72 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tennessee to Illinois guide.
Popular Illinois to Tennessee Moving Destinations
Make an easier move when you book with the best.
See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Illinois to Tennessee
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Illinois to Tennessee Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best IL to TN Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Alpha Moving & Storage LLC
605 Providence Blvd
Clarksville, TN, 37042
About Alpha Moving & Storage LLC
You can’t trust just anyone with your household belongings. That’s where Alpha Moving & Storage comes in. This company, founded in...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Short-Term Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3378094 / 1193307 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
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 moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
Boundless Moving & Storage
5595 N. Lee Hwy
Cleveland, TN, 37312
About Boundless Moving & Storage
Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2798532 / 934519 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 358,520 (2022) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (2024) |
Murphy Family Movers
4N951 Old Lafox Rd Unit C
St. Charles, IL, 60175
About Murphy Family Movers
Murphy Family Movers has over 25 years of combined moving experience in Aurora, Illinois. This Aurora, IL mover promises the highest...
Services
- Local Moving
- Interstate Moving
- Professional Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2965334 / 7122 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2023) |
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.
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 Illinois to Tennessee
Moving from one state to another is a big decision. This guide aims to provide an honest comparison between living in Illinois and relocating to Tennessee. Through our charts, we'll highlight the cons of Illinois compared to the pros of moving to Tennessee, and vice versa, to give you a well-rounded perspective on your potential new home.
Illinois- Higher taxes
- Harsh winters
- High cost of living
Tennessee- No state income tax
- Milder winters
- Lower cost of living
Tennessee- Less urban
- Car dependent
- Fewer cultural venues
Illinois- Vibrant city life
- Better public transit
- Rich cultural scene
Moving from the bustling city life of Chicago with its renowned Art Institute of Chicago, vibrant neighborhoods, and extensive public transportation system to the scenic landscapes of Tennessee might feel like a big change. Tennessee, however, offers its own unique appeal with lower living costs and the absence of state income tax. Cities like Nashville and Memphis are rich in music history, housing iconic spots such as Country Music Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Although you might find yourself relying more on a car than public transit, the natural beauty of places like the Great Smoky Mountains and numerous state parks more than makes up for it, presenting a serene setting that's hard to find in Illinois.
Illinois vs. Tennessee Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Illinois & Tennessee is essential for anyone considering a move. Food deeply reflects the local culture and living experience. This comparison will give you a better idea of what to expect from the food scene in your new state.
| Illinois | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Chicago-style deep dish pizza | Memphis-style barbecue |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Hot Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style hot dog | Pulled Pork Sandwich |
| Most popular vegan food | Deep dish vegan pizza | BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Tennessee, you're entering a world renowned for its rich culinary traditions, especially in the realm of barbecues and the famous Nashville hot chicken. Neighborhoods such as East Nashville and Downtown Memphis are culinary hotspots, where establishments like Prince's Hot Chicken and Central BBQ have left significant marks on the local food scene. For vegans, Tennessee's urban areas are increasingly accommodating, with options like BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches gaining popularity. Exploring Tennessee's food scene offers a savory glimpse into the state's culture and community.
Ready to start your move?
Illinois vs. Tennessee Real Estate & Living Facts
Considering a move can be a significant life decision, and comparing Illinois and Tennessee in terms of real estate can provide crucial insights into this process. This comparison aims to highlight the essential housing differences between these two states, assisting you in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Illinois | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Victorian | Colonial, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, granite countertops | Outdoor living spaces, large kitchens |
When delving into the housing details between Illinois and Tennessee, some contrasting features become evident. Illinois, with its rich history, showcases a variety of architectural styles including Prairie and Victorian, reflecting the state's cultural heritage. On the other hand, Tennessee homes often highlight Colonial and Craftsman architecture, emphasizing traditional American values and craftsmanship. An interesting aspect of Tennessee real estate is the emphasis on outdoor living spaces, which is indicative of the state’s pleasant climate and residents' desire to enjoy the outdoors. Meanwhile, in Illinois, home listings often boast about hardwood floors and granite countertops, pointing to the residents' preferences for durable and timeless materials. Both states offer unique living experiences tailored to varying tastes and lifestyles.
Illinois vs. Tennessee Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires adjusting to a new climate. Understanding how the weather in Illinois compares to Tennessee is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison offers insight into what you can expect in terms of temperatures, sunshine, and more in your new home.
Illinois
Tennessee
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Illinois
Tennessee
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Illinois
Tennessee
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Illinois
Tennessee
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Illinois | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Illinois to Tennessee, you'll notice a warmer climate overall, with higher average temperatures in both summer and winter. Tennessee enjoys more days of sunshine per year, which could enhance your outdoor activities. Despite the similarities in annual humidity levels, Tennessee experiences a higher average UV index, meaning sun protection becomes even more critical. Besides the weather, understanding the difference in natural disasters, such as Illinois' snowstorms versus Tennessee's floods, is vital for preparedness. Also noteworthy is the significant decrease in annual snowfall when moving to Tennessee, indicating milder winters.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Illinois to Tennessee
When relocating, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in Illinois compares to Tennessee. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly, ensuring a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Illinois | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $76,708 | $65,254 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94.25 | 88.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95% | 0% (on wage income) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.16% | 0.71% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.8% | 9.45% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Agriculture, Services | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail Trade |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Moderate |
While the average household income in Illinois is higher, Tennessee offers a lower cost of living and significant tax advantages, such as no state income tax on wages, which can be particularly beneficial for your finances. However, despite the lower expenses in Tennessee, the state has higher poverty rates compared to Illinois. This contrast underscores the importance of considering not just income but also the cost-related benefits when moving. Notably, Tennessee's lower property tax rate is an attractive factor for homeowners, while the slightly higher sales tax reflects on everyday spending.
Illinois vs. Tennessee Political & Religious Comparison
Relocating from Illinois to Tennessee offers a unique opportunity to immerse in diverse cultural and social environments. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Illinois & Tennessee, helping you understand the community you're about to join.
| Illinois | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic leaning | Republican leaning |
| Local Politics | Liberal urban centers | Conservative rural and suburban areas |
| Religion | Mixed, with a slightly higher population of non-religious people | Strongly religious, Christian predominant |
When moving from Illinois to Tennessee, you'll notice a shift from a state with Democratic leanings to one that generally supports Republican candidates, reflecting in both states' local governance and community values. Illinois, especially in urban areas like Chicago, tends to be more liberal, whereas Tennessee displays a conservative tilt, especially evident outside of its cities like Nashville and Memphis. Religion plays a more central role in Tennessee, where Christianity, particularly Evangelical Protestantism, deeply influences social and political landscapes. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your new surroundings with greater ease.
Education Guide When Moving from Illinois to Tennessee
To better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Illinois and Tennessee, it’s crucial to dive into various educational aspects. This overview aims to offer insights into where most seniors attend college, the top-rated schools across different levels, and the highest-performing school districts within each state.
| Illinois | Tennessee |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Northwestern University University of ChicagoUniversity of Tennessee Vanderbilt University Tennessee State University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Lincoln Elementary School (Chicago) South Loop Elementary School (Chicago) Edison Regional Gifted Center (Chicago)Lockeland Elementary School (Nashville) New Hope Christian Academy (Memphis) Franklin Elementary School (Franklin) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Skinner North Classical School (Chicago) Kennedy Middle School (Plainfield) Daniel Wright Junior High School (Lincolnshire)Meigs Magnet Middle School (Nashville) Brentwood Middle School (Brentwood) Houston Middle School (Germantown) | |
Top 3 High School Schools Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago) Payton College Preparatory High School (Chicago) Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)Hume-Fogg Academic High School (Nashville) Central Magnet School (Murfreesboro) Franklin High School (Franklin) | |
Top 3 private high schools University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago) North Shore Country Day School (Winnetka) Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)Baylor School (Chattanooga) Montgomery Bell Academy (Nashville) The Harpeth Hall School (Nashville) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Latin School of Chicago (Chicago) The British International School of Chicago (Chicago) Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)Baylor School (Chattanooga) Ensworth School (Nashville) Evangelical Christian School (Cordova) | |
Top 3 School Districts New Trier Township High School District 203 (Northfield) Community High School District 128 (Vernon Hills) Naperville Community Unit School District 203 (Naperville)Williamson County Schools (Franklin) Maryville City Schools (Maryville) Oak Ridge School District (Oak Ridge) | |
In comparing the educational landscapes of Illinois and Tennessee, one notable aspect is the emphasis both states place on both public and private educational institutions. For instance, Illinois boasts highly prestigious universities such as Northwestern University and the University of Chicago, which draws many of its high school seniors. Similarly, Tennessee presents strong higher education options like Vanderbilt University. On the K-12 front, cities like Chicago and Nashville harbor some of the most reputed schools, such as the Latin School of Chicago and Baylor School in Chattanooga. Additionally, the quality of the school districts, such as Naperville Community Unit School District 203 in Illinois and Williamson County Schools in Tennessee, showcases each state's commitment to providing top-notch education across all levels.
Additional Resources
Illinois Moving Services
Popular Illinois Routes
Popular Moving Resources
