Moving from Madison, WI to Illinois: Top Movers & Cost Guide
If you're moving from Madison to Illinois, you're probably weighing your options on which mover to trust and what this relocation will actually cost. I've reviewed hundreds of moving companies over the years, and I've pulled together the data on the ones that handle Madison-to-Illinois moves. Let's cut through the noise.
Best Moving Companies in Madison for Interstate Moves
Out of the movers actively serving the Madison area for out-of-state relocations, here are the five that show up most consistently in customer feedback:
- Above Average Moving LLC — 4.56 / 5
- The Armstrong Company — 4.44 / 5
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.44 / 5
- Top Notch Moving and Storage — 4.28 / 5
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving — 4.26 / 5
Above Average Moving LLC
1416 Parkside Drive, Madison, WI 53704
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB profile
Review breakdown: 92% positive, 7% negative out of 226 reviews
Above Average lives up to its name. Customers consistently praise fast, efficient moves with careful handling and lower prices than competitors. What stands out is that jobs often finish ahead of schedule, and the team handles everything from furniture to pianos to fragile items without incident. The crew is known for being attentive and courteous.
The downside: a small slice of feedback mentions item damage, inaccurate estimates, and spotty communication when delays happen. But the majority experience is reliable and cost-effective.
Services: Local moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating, storage
Contact: (608) 556-7980
License #: 26753 | DOT #: 2595339 | Years in business: 9
The Armstrong Company
4505 Helgesen Dr, Madison, WI 53718
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB profile
Review breakdown: 77% positive, 23% negative out of 57 reviews
Armstrong has been in business since 1985, and it shows. Customers praise responsive, professional staff who handle belongings carefully and communicate clearly. Many note friendly movers who make the experience less stressful than typical services, with accurate estimates and competitive rates.
Negative feedback centers on item damage during moves, slow claims resolution, and occasional lowballed estimates that don't hold up. The company could strengthen claims handling and estimate accuracy.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, storage, fragile-only packing
Contact: (608) 838-5940
DOT #: 1170867 | Years in business: 39
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
3817 Kipp Street, Madison, WI 53718
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB profile
Review breakdown: 78% positive, 21% negative out of 286 reviews
Nearly 80% of feedback highlights smooth moves, professional crews, and careful handling. Customers mention seamless scheduling, prompt arrivals, and respectful treatment of property. Communication is responsive, and the teams move fast.
Over one-fifth raise red flags: damage to items, inaccurate estimates, and unexpected charges. Some report broken furniture or billing surprises, with a few experiencing higher-than-expected costs or slower responses. The takeaway: watch your inventory closely and confirm pricing details before booking.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes
Contact: (608) 340-1557
DOT #: 2527384 | Years in business: 31
Top Notch Moving and Storage
905 Dempsey Rd, Madison, WI 53716
Rating: 4.2 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB profile
Review breakdown: 95% positive, 5% negative out of 234 reviews
This one earns its name. Nearly 95% of reviews praise efficient service, professional staff, and careful handling. Customers highlight friendly movers, consistent communication, prompt arrivals, and safe delivery even of delicate items and heavy furniture. The crew is approachable and good at what they do—return customers make up a notable portion of feedback.
A very small percentage report property damage, higher-than-expected charges, or unprofessional interactions. Some mention additional fees not clearly outlined upfront. But the company's consistency and customer focus make it a reliable choice for local and interstate moves.
Services: Local moves, interstate moves, packing, unpacking, crating, storage
Contact: (608) 590-3710
DOT #: 3322160 | Years in business: 5
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
1412 Parkside Drive, Suite 1226, Madison, WI 53714
Rating: 4.2 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews
Review breakdown: 89% positive, 11% negative out of 248 reviews
89% of customers praise efficient work, quick process, and professional, polite crews. Many highlight the stress-free, friendly experience and note promptness. Attention to detail is strong.
Around 11% report damage to belongings, late or missing arrivals, and unexpected charges. The company executes well and delivers good customer experience, but consistency on careful handling and accurate billing would help it match top performers.
Services: Local moves, packing, unpacking, offices, storage
Contact: (336) 810-1801
DOT #: 2378173
Madison Movers by Service Type
At a glance, here's what specialty services are available among Madison moving companies:
- Interstate moves: 60% (3 out of 5)
- Small moves: 20% (1 out of 5)
- Pianos: 60% (3 out of 5)
- Antiques & art: 20% (1 out of 5 each)
- Fragile-only packing: 20% (1 out of 5)
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Madison, WI to Illinois?
The table below shows average cost ranges for a 204-mile move from Madison to Illinois, depending on home size and service type.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $717–$2,591 | $504–$1,293 | $209–$395 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,364–$3,972 | $936–$1,838 | $224–$462 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,908–$5,260 | $1,252–$2,163 | $286–$549 |
*Note: These are approximate estimates based on current market data. Your actual cost will vary based on load size, extra services, access challenges, fuel prices, and your move date. Compare quotes from multiple movers to validate pricing for your specific move.
Full-Service Moving Company Costs
For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $717 to $2,591. A two- or three-bedroom typically runs $1,364 to $3,972. For larger homes (four bedrooms or more), budget $1,908 to $5,260. Prices reflect professional packing, loading, transport, and unloading.
Moving Container Costs
Moving containers offer flexibility—you pack at your own pace, and they transport your belongings. For a small move, expect $504 to $1,293. Two to three bedrooms run $936 to $1,838. Four or more bedrooms: $1,252 to $2,163. Containers sit at your place until you're ready, then get picked up and delivered.
Rental Truck Costs
Truck rentals are the budget option, but you handle all packing, loading, driving, and unloading yourself. Studio or one-bedroom: $209 to $395. Two to three bedrooms: $224 to $462. Four or more: $286 to $549. Fuel is already factored into these estimates.
What Affects Your Moving Cost from Madison to Illinois
Several factors swing the price up or down:
- Move size: More items and larger homes cost more. Layout and floor plan matter too—ground-floor access costs less than navigating stairs or elevators.
- Time of year: Summer is peak season. Moving in July or August means higher rates. Off-season moves (fall, winter, early spring) tend to be cheaper.
- DIY vs. professional: Renting a truck yourself cuts costs but adds physical labor and stress. Hiring movers costs more but saves time and effort.
- Packing services: Full packing (where movers handle everything) costs more than if you pack yourself.
- Distance and route: 204 miles to Illinois is a straightforward haul. Longer distances or moves to remote areas cost more.
What You Should Know Before Moving to Illinois
Relocating from Madison to Illinois could mean a lifestyle shift—and potentially savings. Madison's cost of living is generally higher, so a move might open up your budget. But it's not just about money; Illinois has different weather, community feel, and job market dynamics.
Cost of Living Comparison: Madison vs. Illinois
| Metric | Madison, WI | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,600 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $367,934 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,919 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 103 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 7.65% | 4.95% |
The numbers:
- Rent is about 26% lower in Illinois, giving you extra breathing room each month.
- Home prices are roughly 32% lower, which eases your mortgage burden if you're buying.
- Average income is about 25% higher in Illinois, so you'll likely have more discretionary money.
- Overall cost of living is around 13% lower, freeing up funds for savings or quality of life.
- Unemployment is about 61% higher in Illinois, meaning the job market is more competitive for newcomers—factor this in if you're job-hunting.
- Illinois's income tax is about 35% lower, so you'll keep more of what you earn.
How Life Differs: Madison vs. Illinois
| Factor | Madison, WI | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 12,549,689 |
| Political lean | Democratic (76–23) | Democratic (55–45) |
| Summer high | 82°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 10°F | 17°F |
| Annual rainfall | 36" | 40" |
| Annual snowfall | 42" | 22" |
| Crime index | 34.57 | 19.7 |
What to expect:
- Both cities lean Democratic, so the political environment will feel familiar.
- Summer temps are nearly the same—Illinois averages 86°F vs. Madison's 82°F. You won't notice much difference, but factor in humidity and energy bills.
- Winters in Illinois are milder. At 17°F average, it's 7 degrees warmer than Madison's 10°F. That means less snow to clear, easier commutes, and lower heating costs.
- Rainfall is similar—40 inches in Illinois vs. 36 in Madison—so your umbrella routine stays about the same.
- Snow is significantly less in Illinois. Expect only 22 inches annually compared to Madison's 42 inches. That's half as much, which means easier winters and less maintenance headaches.
- Crime is lower in Illinois (index 19.7 vs. 34.57 in Madison), suggesting safer neighborhoods overall.
Before You Move to Illinois: Key Logistics
Moving isn't just about hiring movers. There are regulations, permits, and practical details that affect your move:
- HOA or community rules: Check with your new neighborhood about moving day rules or restrictions. Some associations have specific requirements.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, reserve it in advance. Elevators fill up fast on move weekends.
- Truck parking permits: Some Illinois cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Check your specific city's rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: Illinois requires movers handling household goods to hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission. Verify your mover has a current license before hiring.
- Check the regulator: You can verify any Illinois mover's license on the state's regulatory site.
- Moving permits: Illinois doesn't require statewide moving permits, but local parking restrictions vary by city. Check ahead.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Go to usps.com and set your official move date so mail forwards without a hitch.
- Moving insurance: Coverage varies by state. Released Value Protection (basic, free option) covers 60 cents per pound. For full-value protection, ask your mover about alternatives or third-party insurance providers.
- Use a moving checklist: Stay organized with our moving checklist, which covers every detail and helps you stress less.
Things to Do in Illinois
Whether you're into museums, parks, sports, or college culture, Illinois has plenty to explore.
Museums
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
Parks & Outdoor
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee River State Park
Sports
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
Universities
- University of Chicago
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois at Chicago
- Northern Illinois University
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a move from Madison to Illinois take?
The timeline depends on your moving method. On average, expect one to two days for the actual move and delivery. Summer months tend to be slower due to higher volume. Ask your mover for an estimated delivery window before booking.
Do Madison movers offer custom crating services?
Yes—two movers in our top five list custom crating, which is useful for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped items. Ask about crate specifications and whether they can customize builds to your needs.
What's the best way to ship my car from Madison to Illinois?
If you need to move a vehicle, work with a car shipping company that emphasizes professionalism and has a track record of careful handling. Get quotes from multiple providers.
Why are people moving to Madison to Illinois?
People often relocate for Chicago's job market and cultural draw, plus the lower cost of living across the state.
Where do I find long-distance movers in Madison?
Start by comparing quotes from the top five movers listed above. Use our moving cost calculator to get estimates tailored to your move size and date.
Can I pay in cash?
Most Madison movers don't accept cash—the industry prefers payment methods that create a clear record, like credit cards or ACH transfers. You'll typically pay a deposit to confirm your booking, then settle the balance at pickup or after delivery. Confirm payment options with your chosen mover.
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Didn't find what you needed?
Check out these other resources to help with your move:
- Moving Cost Calculator
- Long-Distance Movers
- Best Full-Service Movers
- Moving Containers
- Truck Rentals
- Local Movers
- International Movers
- Self-Storage Companies
- Moving Labor Services
- Corporate Relocation Services