Best South Carolina to Illinois Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from South Carolina to Illinois and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 828 mile SC to IL move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 145 South Carolina to Illinois 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in South Carolina 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 South Carolina to Illinois Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Swamp Rabbit Moving | 9.34 | 9.45 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC | 9.33 | 9.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Smooth Move | 9.20 | 9.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from South Carolina to Illinois
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 828 miles from South Carolina to Illinois will cost on average $2,485 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom SC to IL move is roughly $5,965. 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina to Illinois movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,672 | 300 ft³ | 5.57 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,485 | 450 ft³ | 5.52 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,105 | 750 ft³ | 5.47 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,965 | 1100 ft³ | 5.42 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,597 | 1600 ft³ | 5.37 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,581 | 1800 ft³ | 5.32 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Illinois to South Carolina guide.
Popular South Carolina to Illinois Moving Destinations
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular South Carolina to Illinois Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best SC to IL Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Swamp Rabbit Moving
2106 Airport Rd
Greer, SC, 29651
About Swamp Rabbit Moving
Swamp Rabbit Moving is a South Carolina business specializing in local and long-distance moves. From its location in Greer, this company...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Packing/Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3449704 / 1163908 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 300,000 (2023) |
Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC
178 Sago Palm Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC, 29579
About Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC
Luxury Movers Moving Company is a Myrtle Beach-based moving company that serves all surrounding areas, including Horry, Georgetown, Marion, and Dillion...
Services
- Local Move
- Long-Distance Move
- Apartment Move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3288750 / 1041081 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
Smooth Move Charleston
4767 Rivers Ave
North Charleston, SC, 29405
About Smooth Move Charleston
With locations in Rock Hill and Charleston, South Carolina, Smooth Move is a locally owned and operated moving company that is...
Services
- Full Service Packing and Unpacking
- Short or Long Distance Moves
- Residential or Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2357653 / 834668 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Smooth Move
1461 Dave Lyle Blvd
Rock Hill, SC, 29730
About Smooth Move
Smooth Move is a family-owned local business, providing its services to the local community. Known to be a reliable option among...
Services
- Full Service Packing and Unpacking
- Short or Long Distance Moves
- Residential or Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2823802 / 942089 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 125,000 (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 South Carolina to Illinois
Moving homes is a significant life event that requires careful consideration of both the positive and negative aspects. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from South Carolina to Illinois , allowing for an informed decision. Below, find charts that juxtapose the cons of leaving South Carolina against the pros of moving to Illinois, and vice versa.
South Carolina- Higher humidity
- Less public transport
- Smaller cities
- Fewer job opportunities
Illinois- Seasonal climates
- Improved transit options
- Larger urban areas
- Diverse career options
Illinois- Higher taxes
- Colder climate
- Faster pace of life
- No beaches
South Carolina- Lower cost of living
- Warmer winters
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Beach access
While the move from South Carolina to Illinois comes with the trade-off of losing access to cozy, sun-soaked beaches like those near Myrtle Beach, it offers the excitement and opportunities found in bustling Illinois cities like Chicago, with its vibrant nightlife, renowned restaurants like Girl & The Goat, and iconic parks such as Millennium Park. The transition might mean saying goodbye to the laid-back, warm winters of the South for Illinois' picturesque snowy scenes and crystal-clear seasonal changes, offering a whole new array of activities from ice skating in Maggie Daley Park to summer festivals that light up the cities. It's essential to weigh these factors thoroughly to make the best decision for your lifestyle and career aspirations.
South Carolina vs. Illinois Food Guide
Food plays a crucial role in depicting the local culture and the lifestyle of a place. By understanding the culinary differences, you'll get a sneak peek into what life could taste like in your new locale. This guide provides a comparison of the local cuisine between South Carolina & Illinois, equipping you with insights into the food scene you're about to dive into.
| South Carolina | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork BBQ | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Boiled Peanuts | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | Deep-Dish Vegan Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from South Carolina to Illinois, you'll find a vibrant food scene awaiting you, especially in cities like Chicago where the culinary landscape is diverse and mouthwatering. Shrimp and Grits, a comfort food classic in South Carolina, will transition to the iconic Deep Dish Pizza, a testament to Illinois' rich and indulgent tastes. Neighborhoods like the Loop in Chicago are famed for their food trucks and restaurants like Lou Malnati's, where you can indulge in traditional Illinois flavors. The health and foodie scenes in Illinois offer a variety of options for every palate, including a stronger focus on vegan alternatives such as Deep-Dish Vegan Pizza. Whether you're dining in the historic neighborhoods of Charleston or the bustling streets of Chicago, you're in for a delightful culinary journey.
Ready to start your move?
South Carolina vs. Illinois Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's pivotal to compare the real estate markets of South Carolina and Illinois . This includes not just prices, but aspects such as architecture, walkability, and overall lifestyle to gain a comprehensive understanding of what each state offers.
| Comparison | South Carolina | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Traditional | Prairie Style and Bungalows |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, porches | Energy efficiency, public transit access |
In comparing South Carolina and Illinois, it's evident that while both have relatively similar median home prices, the costs of living and lifestyle markedly differ. Illinois, particularly in urban areas like Chicago, emphasizes a more bike-friendly and walkable environment, ranking higher in urban lifestyle. This is reflected in its higher median monthly rent, indicating a demand for amenities such as public transit access. On the other hand, South Carolina's real estate listings often highlight large yards and porches, catering to those seeking spacious outdoor living. Moreover, the state’s architecture reflects its rich history, with a prevalent style that includes Colonial and Traditional homes. These differences map out a significant contrast in living standards and preferences between the two states.
South Carolina vs. Illinois Weather Considerations
Knowing the climate differences is crucial when relocating. This comparison will illuminate how the weather varies from South Carolina to Illinois, equipping you with essential insights for your move. Understanding these distinctions will help you adjust more seamlessly to your new surroundings.
South Carolina
Illinois
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
South Carolina
Illinois
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
South Carolina
Illinois
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
South Carolina
Illinois
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | South Carolina | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, floods | Tornadoes, floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from the warmer climates of South Carolina to the more variable weather in Illinois, you'll find the transition from hot, humid summers to cold, snowy winters notably stark. Illinois experiences fewer days of sunshine annually and a significant increase in snowfall—something South Carolina residents may find requires an adjustment. Moreover, while both states face their unique natural disaster risks, it's the shift from hurricanes to tornadoes that often stands out. This move also involves adapting to a change in seasonal allergies, as the types of pollen and mold may differ.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from South Carolina to Illinois
Moving between states is a significant decision, and knowing the financial landscape of your new location is crucial. This comparison provides a clear view of the economic differences you might face when moving from South Carolina to Illinois, highlighting factors such as income, taxes, and living costs.
| Comparison | South Carolina | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,115 | $76,708 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.85 | 94.25 |
| State Income Tax | 0-7% | 4.95% flat |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 2.16% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.46% | 8.74% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Tourism, Agriculture | Manufacturing, Services, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
While South Carolina and Illinois both boast diverse economies, Illinois generally has a higher average household income. However, this comes with a higher cost of living and significantly higher property taxes, which might impact your budget differently than in South Carolina. Illinois's flat income tax rate might also affect you differently depending on your income level. Considering these financial factors, along with the state-specific dynamics of affluence, poverty, and homelessness, can help you make a more informed decision about your move.
South Carolina vs. Illinois Political & Religious Comparison
This brief comparison offers a quick snapshot of the comparison of the politics between South Carolina & Illinois , aiming to provide insights into the political, and religious landscapes of the states you're moving from and to. Understanding these dynamics will help you grasp the community you'll be joining.
| South Carolina | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Traditionally conservative | Lean towards liberalism |
| Local Politics | Significant Republican dominance | Diverse, with a Democratic stronghold |
| Religion | Evangelical Protestantism prevalent | More religiously diverse |
In terms of political makeup, South Carolina has a traditionally conservative landscape, with local politics often reflecting a significant Republican dominance. This contrasts with Illinois, which leans more liberal, especially in urban areas like Chicago, where there is a strong Democratic presence. Religion in South Carolina is dominated by Evangelical Protestantism, a factor that can influence local politics and community values. In comparison, Illinois offers a more religiously diverse environment, which can be observed through its variety of places of worship, from local Illinois churches to mosques and synagogues, reflecting its multicultural population.
Education Guide When Moving from South Carolina to Illinois
Moving from one state to another can significantly impact your family's education choices. This comparison will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in South Carolina and Illinois, ensuring you make informed decisions for your children's future.
| South Carolina | Illinois |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of South Carolina Clemson University College of CharlestonUniversity of Illinois Northwestern University University of Chicago | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Buist Academy (Charleston) Mount Pleasant Academy (Mount Pleasant) Forest Lake Elementary (Columbia)Lincoln Elementary (River Forest) South Loop Elementary (Chicago) Meadow Glens Elementary (Naperville) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Hand Middle School (Columbia) Thomas C. Cario Middle (Mount Pleasant) Blythewood Middle (Blythewood)Skinner North Classical School (Chicago) Maple School (Northbrook) Kennedy Junior High (Lisle) | |
Top 3 High Schools Academic Magnet High School (North Charleston) Charleston School of the Arts (North Charleston) Wando High School (Mount Pleasant)Payton College Preparatory (Chicago) Northside College Preparatory (Chicago) Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora) | |
Top 3 private high schools Porter-Gaud (Charleston) Hammond School (Columbia) Ashley Hall (Charleston)University of Chicago Lab School (Chicago) Francis W. Parker School (Chicago) Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Charleston Day School (Charleston) Heathwood Hall Episcopal School (Columbia) Hilton Head Preparatory School (Hilton Head Island)Loyola Academy (Wilmette) Morgan Park Academy (Chicago) North Shore Country Day (Winnetka) | |
Top 3 School Districts Charleston County School District Greenville County School District Lexington 1 School DistrictNew Trier Township High School District Naperville Community Unit School District 203 Community High School District 128 | |
When comparing the top schools and educational opportunities in South Carolina versus Illinois, it's evident that Illinois boasts nationally renowned universities including the University of Chicago and Northwestern University, offering outstanding tertiary education prospects for high school graduates. Meanwhile, South Carolina is home to the prestigious Academic Magnet High School, recognized nationally for its rigorous academics. Elementary and middle schools in both states offer superb educational environments, with South Carolina's Charleston and Illinois's Chicago area schools frequently cited for excellence. This contrast in educational landscapes underscores the importance of considering educational quality and opportunities when moving, ensuring your family's needs and aspirations are thoroughly matched with the right environment.
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