Best Kentucky to Illinois Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Kentucky to Illinois and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 409 mile KY to IL move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 146 Kentucky to Illinois moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Kentucky compared to Illinois. 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 Kentucky to Illinois Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Kentucky to Illinois Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHGContact
3Keep On Moving Company9.179.57Authorized For HHGContact
4From Here to There9.148.82Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5BG Home Movers8.958.48Authorized For Property, HHGContact
6UNITS of Kentucky8.949.13ActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Kentucky to Illinois

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 409 miles from Kentucky to Illinois will cost on average $2,129 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom KY to IL move is roughly $5,094. 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 Kentucky and dropoff in Illinois 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 Kentucky to Illinois movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,434300 ft³4.78
1 Bedroom$2,129450 ft³4.73
2 Bedrooms$3,511750 ft³4.68
3 Bedrooms$5,0941100 ft³4.63
4 Bedrooms$7,3301600 ft³4.58
5+ Bedrooms$8,1561800 ft³4.53
*Please note: These Kentucky to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Kentucky & Illinois. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed KY to IL mover.
Kentucky iconArrow iconIllinois icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to Kentucky guide.

Popular moving destinations background image

Popular Kentucky to Illinois Moving Destinations

Make an easier move when you book with the best.

See All Routes >

Trusted moving guides helping you move from Kentucky to Illinois

Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.

Compare the 6 Best KY to IL Movers

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

606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

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
1
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Keep On Moving Company Logo

Keep On Moving Company

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 833+ data points

Independence, KY, 41051

About Keep On Moving Company

Keep On Moving Company is a family-owned and operated business serving Cincinnati and the Greater Tri-State area of KY, OH, and...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Delivery Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3468627 / 1134607

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2019)
View Full Review
3
From Here to There Logo

From Here to There

Exceptional9.14/10
based on 715+ data points

Lexington, KY, 40507

About From Here to There

From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive...

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
  • Commercial/Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3481118 / 1254688

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,500 (2022)
View Full Review
4
BG Home Movers Logo

BG Home Movers

Superb8.95/10
based on 275+ data points

1025 Lovers Ln

Bowling Green, KY, 42103

About BG Home Movers

BG Home Movers is a full-service moving company in Bowling Green, KY, offering flexible service options to meet your needs. Backed...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3967219 / 1481382

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
5
UNITS of Kentucky Logo

UNITS of Kentucky

Superb8.94/10
based on 186+ data points

1841 Taylor Ave Building # 32

Louisville, KY, 40213

About UNITS of Kentucky

UNITS of Kentucky is a locally-owned and operated moving and portable storage company founded in 2004. The company offers convenient moving...

Services

  • Storage
  • Moving
  • Moving & Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 2/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

439414 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
6
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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 Kentucky to Illinois

Moving from one state to another can bring significant changes to your lifestyle. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Kentucky to Illinois . By examining the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits you in your new home.

CONs
PROs
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Lower average income
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Limited public transportation
  • Fewer major universities
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Higher average income
  • More job opportunities
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Better public transportation
  • More major universities
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Higher cost of living
  • Busier lifestyle
  • More urban environment
  • More traffic congestion
  • Can feel impersonal
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Natural landscapes
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Strong community feel

While moving from Kentucky to Illinois can mean access to a higher average income and more diverse job opportunities, it's also important to consider the lifestyle adjustments. Illinois, particularly in cities like Chicago, offers a vibrant mix of cultures, including a wide array of restaurants like Girl & The Goat and iconic sights like Millennium Park. However, the transition to a busier lifestyle and the higher cost of living, especially in popular areas such as Lincoln Park or The Loop, can be a significant change. Kentucky's quieter, community-oriented lifestyle, with its natural beauty and slower pace, contrasts with Illinois's more urban environment. Overall, relocating offers a blend of new opportunities and challenges that will vary based on personal preferences and lifestyle.

Kentucky vs. Illinois Food Guide

As you relocate, understanding the local cuisine of Kentucky & Illinois is crucial, as food deeply reflects the cultural ambiance of where you'll call home. This comparison will illuminate the culinary landscape, ensuring you're well-acquainted with the flavors and traditions awaiting you.

KentuckyIllinois
Most iconic local food itemFried ChickenChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishBourbon BBQ RibsItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemHot Brown SandwichChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitDeep Dish Vegan Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
    • Corbett's: An American Place
    • 610 Magnolia
    • The Brown Hotel
    • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
    • Portillo's
    • Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Kentucky, the aroma of bourbon BBQ ribs fills the air, especially in areas known for their rich culinary traditions like Louisville. Here, you can find 610 Magnolia, a beacon of fine dining offering a fusion of Southern and modern American cuisine. On the other hand, Illinois, particularly Chicago, is a haven for food lovers craving diverse flavors. The iconic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria or the unique take on vegan dishes at various eateries demonstrates the state's vibrant food scene. In both states, the commitment to delicious, hearty meals is apparent, though the flavors and specialties differ greatly.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Kentucky vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor in the decision to move. This comparison aims to illuminate how Kentucky and Illinois contrast in terms of real estate aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle options. Knowing these differences will pave the way for a smoother transition.

ComparisonKentuckyIllinois
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodPrairie, Chicago School
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, scenic viewsProximity to public transport, modern amenities

While Kentucky offers more affordable housing with its lower median home prices and rent, Illinois presents a slightly more urban lifestyle, reflected in its higher walkability and bikeability scores. The architectural styles also highlight the regions' unique characteristics, with Kentucky favoring traditional Colonial and Cape Cod designs, while Illinois is home to the Prairie style and iconic Chicago School architecture. Another significant difference is the emphasis on modern amenities and public transport in Illinois' real estate listings compared to Kentucky's spacious yards and scenic views, showcasing the distinct living experiences each state offers.

Kentucky vs. Illinois Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Kentucky to Illinois, comparing the weather is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison is aimed at helping you understand how the weather impacts your move and adaptation between Kentucky and Illinois. Adjusting to a new climate can significantly influence your day-to-day life, making this information vital.

Summer icon
87/66

Kentucky

85/65

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
44/23

Kentucky

35/20

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50

Kentucky

39

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
12

Kentucky

22

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonKentuckyIllinois
Air QualityModerateModerate to Low
Natural DisastersFloods, TornadoesTornadoes, Blizzards
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Kentucky and Illinois enjoy four distinct seasons, the transitions and intensity can vary. You might find winters in Illinois colder and snowier, which could impact your daily routine and travel plans. The slightly lower annual sunshine days in Illinois could also affect mood and outdoor activities. Considering the higher snowfall in Illinois, it's important to prepare for more significant snow removal and cold-weather driving. Additionally, natural disaster preparedness should shift from concerns over floods in Kentucky to preparing for the more frequent blizzards and tornadoes in Illinois. Understanding these differences will help ensure you are well-prepared for your new home's seasonal challenges.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving between states involves adjusting to new financial landscapes. Understanding how costs like housing, taxes, and income differ can ease the transition. This comparison highlights key financial differences you'll encounter when relocating from Kentucky to Illinois, focusing on metrics crucial to managing your budget effectively.

ComparisonKentuckyIllinois
Avg. Household Income$59,341$76,708
Cost of Living Index87.894.25
State Income Tax5.04.95
Avg. Property Tax0.862.16
Avg. Sales Tax6.06.25
Top 3 IndustriesAutomotive, Healthcare, ManufacturingManufacturing, Agriculture, Services
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertySignificantModerate
HomelessnessModerateModerate

Your move from Kentucky to Illinois will bring several financial changes. The average household income is higher in Illinois, suggesting potential for greater earning but comes with a cost; the living cost and property taxes are significantly higher than in Kentucky. However, Illinois' slightly lower state income tax rate and a comparable sales tax rate offer slight reprieve. Additionally, the economic landscapes differ; Illinois' diversification into manufacturing, agriculture, and services might offer broader employment opportunities compared to Kentucky's focus on automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your new financial environment in Illinois.

Kentucky vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome! If you're considering a move from Kentucky to Illinois, understanding the social landscape is key. This quick comparison provides insights into the political and religious makeup of each state, giving you a snapshot of the communities you'll encounter.

KentuckyIllinois
Political Make-upTraditionally RepublicanTraditionally Democratic
Local PoliticsMixed, with a strong Republican presence in rural areasDiverse, Democratic stronghold in urban areas like Chicago
ReligionPrimarily Christian, with a significant Baptist populationMixed, but with a large Catholic community particularly in Chicago and surrounding areas

When transitioning from Kentucky to Illinois, you'll notice a shift in both the political and religious landscapes. Kentucky's political scene is generally rooted in conservative values, especially evident in its rural areas, while Illinois, driven by the populous and diverse city of Chicago, leans more toward progressive ideals, embodying its Democratic strength. The religious makeup in both states is primarily Christian, but while Kentucky has a substantial Baptist community, Illinois showcases a broader religious diversity, with a significant Catholic presence, especially in metropolitan regions. This vibrant mix shapes the cultural fabric of each state, offering a varied societal experience.

Education Guide When Moving from Kentucky to Illinois

When planning a move from Kentucky to Illinois, one critical aspect to consider is the education system for your children or future family. This comparison will enable you to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Kentucky and Illinois , ensuring a smoother transition for your family's educational needs.

KentuckyIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Kentucky
University of Louisville
Western Kentucky University
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Greathouse/Shryock Traditional
Louisville; Beechwood Elementary
Fort Mitchell; Ashland Elementary
Lexington
Lincoln Elementary School
River Forest; South Park Elementary School
Deerfield; Meadow Glens Elementary School
Naperville

Top 3 Middle Schools

Barret Traditional Middle
Louisville; Highlands Middle School
Fort Thomas; Oldham County Middle
Buckner
Wood Oaks Junior High School
Northbrook; Marie Murphy School
Wilmette; Kennedy Junior High School
Lisle

Top 3 High Schools

DuPont Manual High
Louisville; Highlands High School
Fort Thomas; Beechwood High School
Fort Mitchell
Northside College Preparatory High School
Chicago; Adlai E. Stevenson High School
Lincolnshire; Payton College Preparatory High School
Chicago

Top 3 private high schools

Sacred Heart Academy
Louisville; Lexington Catholic High
Lexington; Trinity High School
Louisville
University of Chicago Lab School
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago; Lake Forest Academy
Lake Forest

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Lexington School
Lexington; Kentucky Country Day School
Louisville; Sayre School
Lexington
Lake Forest Country Day School
Lake Forest; Morgan Park Academy
Chicago; Francis W. Parker School
Chicago

Top 3 School Districts

Oldham County Schools
Beechwood Independent School District
Fort Thomas Independent Schools
New Trier Township High School District
Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Barrington Community Unit School District 220

In comparing education between Kentucky and Illinois, a few highlights stand out. For example, Illinois boasts renowned universities such as the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Chicago, indicating a strong higher education presence. On the other hand, Kentucky offers unique educational environments with highly rated traditional and magnet schools like DuPont Manual High in Louisville. Also noteworthy are the private education options, with Illinois housing prestigious institutions like the University of Chicago Lab School and Francis W. Parker School, which are known for their rigorous academic programs and comprehensive K-12 education. These comparisons illustrate that both states are equipped with high-quality educational systems, providing varied and exceptional opportunities for students.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Kentucky to Illinois Movers Featured Image