Moving from Tucson to Illinois: Companies, Costs & Guide
If you're moving from Tucson, Arizona to Illinois, you're looking at a 1,616-mile haul with real weight behind the decision. I've reviewed the movers actually handling this route, pulled the cost data, and laid out what you need to know before you go. Let's cut through it.
Top 5 Moving Companies in Tucson for Interstate Moves to Illinois
Out of 13 Tucson movers capable of state-to-state relocations, these five stand out for the Illinois route based on verified customer feedback and service track records.
- Abba & Sons Moving LLC — 4.58 / 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.56 / 5 stars
- Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc. — 4.52 / 5 stars
- Daniel's Moving and Storage, Inc. — 4.52 / 5 stars
- E-Z Move — 4.48 / 5 stars
Abba & Sons Moving LLC
Address: 237 W Fort Lowell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB Profile
Years in Business: 16 | DOT #: 1921793
What customers say: Abba & Sons shows up, works hard, and keeps the stress manageable. Of 295 reviews, nearly 90% rated their experience positively. Customers consistently praise prompt, efficient service, polite crews, excellent communication, and genuine care for belongings. Pricing is honest. The main complaints center on damage to items and occasional surprise charges, but these are less frequent than at many competitors. They're known for flexibility on short notice and smooth bookings.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, piano and hot tub moving, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, and specialty packing for fragile items.
Get a Quote: (520) 444-3133
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Address: 3773 W Ina Rd Ste 174, Tucson, AZ 85741
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB Profile
Years in Business: 19 | DOT #: 2527384
What customers say: Quick, efficient, professional—that's the thread across reviews. Eighty-one percent of customers praised their on-time arrivals, careful handling, and strong communication. Many note that final bills came in below estimates, which is rare. The downside: about 16% report damaged items as the primary complaint—broken furniture, mishandled valuables, and disputes over refund claims. Some experienced surprise charges or poor office communication. If you prioritize punctuality and professionalism, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK delivers, but lock down cost details upfront and inspect items on arrival.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano and safe moving, storage, and credit card payments accepted.
Get a Quote: (520) 277-5825
Nicolosi Moving & Storage Inc.
Address: 501 S Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB Profile
Years in Business: 35 | DOT #: 667348
What customers say: Eighty-six percent of 202 reviews were positive. Customers frequently praise efficient service, careful handling, professional staff, and strong communication. Repeat business and referrals are common—these crews know what they're doing. The negatives cluster around lost or missing items, property damage, and occasionally delayed responses to damage claims. Neutral feedback points to unexpected extra costs and communication lapses. Nicolosi wins high marks for speed and skill, but stay alert during the move and document everything if damage concerns you.
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; office relocations; piano, hot tub, pool table, antique, and grandfather clock moving; crating; full-valuation coverage; storage; and credit card payments.
Get a Quote: (520) 722-0456
Daniel's Moving and Storage, Inc.
Address: 3135 S Dodge Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85713
Rating: 4.5 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB Profile
Years in Business: 47 | DOT #: 1293335
What customers say: Out of 174 reviews, 83% praise Daniel's for professional conduct, careful handling, excellent communication, and helpful crews. Customers describe staff as courteous and attentive. The experience feels smooth during stressful moves. Where it breaks down: about 16% report damaged or missing items, with some complaints about unprofessional conduct. Communication lapses and lost items drive most negative feedback. When things go right, Daniel's earns strong recommendations and repeat customers—but property damage issues can seriously undermine the experience. Their track record for professionalism places them ahead of most competitors.
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; office relocations; piano, hot tub, pool table, and antique moving; grandfather clocks; crating; crane vans; shipment tracking; full-valuation coverage; storage; fragile-only packing; safes; and credit card payments. DOD certified.
Get a Quote: (520) 314-3686
E-Z Move
Address: 890 W Grant Rd Ste J, Tucson, AZ 85705
Rating: 4.4 / 5 | Yelp reviews | Google reviews | BBB Profile
Years in Business: 25 | DOT #: 1966983
What customers say: Nearly 68% of 290 reviews reflect a positive experience. Customers highlight efficient service, polite teams, careful handling, speed, and crews that go above and beyond. On the flip side, about 31% report major problems: surprise costs, inaccurate quotes, and unprofessional conduct from management or movers. Concerns over shifting prices mid-process appear frequently in neutral feedback. E-Z Move has quick, reliable crews and pays attention to your belongings, but transparency and upfront pricing aren't their strong suits. Confirm everything in writing before booking.
Services: Local, interstate, and international moves; packing; unpacking; office relocations; piano, pool table, art, and antique moving; crating; storage; and credit card payments.
Get a Quote: (520) 808-0347
What Movers in Tucson Actually Offer
Here's a snapshot of how many Tucson movers provide specialty services:
- Interstate moves: 100% (13 of 13)
- Pianos: 85% (11 of 13)
- Antiques & Art: 69% (9 of 13)
- Small moves: 62% (8 of 13)
- Fragile-only packing: 23% (3 of 13)
Cost to Move from Tucson to Illinois
Ready to see what this move will actually cost? I've broken it down by home size and service type. These are averages based on a 1,616-mile haul, compiled from thousands of verified quotes as of January 2026. Your final price depends on move size, added services, access challenges, fuel rates, and season.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,148 – $4,606 | $961 – $2,463 | $923 – $1,719 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,049 – $6,205 | $1,715 – $3,526 | $958 – $2,149 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,319 – $9,231 | $2,481 – $4,528 | $1,246 – $2,551 |
Pro tip: Get quotes from at least three movers to lock in the best rate. Use the calculator for a quick starting estimate.
Professional Moving Companies
A studio or one-bedroom move runs $1,148 to $4,606. Two or three bedrooms? Expect $3,049 to $6,205. For a larger home with four or more bedrooms, budget $5,319 to $9,231.
Moving Containers
If you're relocating just a few items, containers typically cost $961 to $2,463 for a studio. Two or three bedrooms range from $1,715 to $3,526. A large four-plus bedroom home runs $2,481 to $4,528. These portable storage units let you pack at your pace. See our guide to affordable moving containers for more details.
DIY Truck Rentals
A rental truck is the cheapest option, but you handle all driving and labor. Studio/one-bedroom costs around $923 to $1,719 (including estimated fuel). Two to three bedrooms: $958 to $2,149. Four or more bedrooms: $1,246 to $2,551. Check out truck rental options if you're going this route.
Factors That Affect Your Moving Cost
Several variables shift the final price:
- Move size: A studio move is far less expensive than relocating a large household.
- Time of year: Summer demand pushes rates higher. Winter moves tend to be cheaper.
- Service level: DIY options are budget-friendly but labor-intensive. Hiring full-service movers costs more but eliminates the heavy lifting.
Cost of Living: Tucson vs. Illinois
If you're moving from Tucson to Illinois, here's how the two stack up financially:
| Category | Tucson, AZ | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,295 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $327,203 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $61,749 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 97 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.4% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 2.5% | 4.95% |
The takeaway:
- Rent in Illinois runs roughly 9% less than Tucson—real monthly savings.
- Home prices are about 24% cheaper in Illinois, so your mortgage payment should drop.
- Salaries in Illinois are typically 27% higher, making expenses easier to cover.
- Overall cost of living is around 7% cheaper in Illinois.
- Job market is stronger in Illinois, with an unemployment rate 28% lower than Tucson.
- Income tax is 98% higher in Illinois, which cuts into take-home pay.
What Life Is Different: Tucson vs. Illinois
| Factor | Tucson, AZ | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 542,629 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 52-48 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 101°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 38°F | 17°F |
| Annual rainfall | 12″ | 40″ |
| Annual snowfall | 0″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 54.43 | 19.7 |
What to expect:
- Climate shock: Illinois summers hit around 86°F (much cooler than Tucson's 101°F). Winters plunge to 17°F—you'll need proper heating and snow gear. Prepare for roughly 40 inches of rain annually and 22 inches of snow, compared to Tucson's bone-dry 12 inches and zero snow.
- Winter costs: Heating bills in Illinois will be higher. Snow removal, winter maintenance, and seasonal clothing are new expenses.
- Politics: Illinois leans Democratic; Tucson is more Republican. You'll notice the difference in local culture and policy.
- Safety: Illinois's crime index (19.7) is significantly lower than Tucson's (54.43), so you're moving to a safer environment.
- Size: Illinois's population of 12.5 million dwarfs Tucson's 543,000. Expect more urban density, traffic, and people.
Pros of Moving from Tucson to Illinois
Why Illinois wins over Tucson:
- Home of Chicago: World-class dining, museums, architecture, and nightlife. The city is a genuine hub.
- Economic opportunity: Better job market, higher average salaries, and lower unemployment.
- Recreational opportunities: More parks, cultural events, sports, and outdoor activities than Tucson offers.
- Lower cost of living: Cheaper housing, rent, and overall expenses (despite higher taxes).
- World-class sports culture: Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Bears, and Sky all call Illinois home.
- Food scene: Incredible restaurants, neighborhoods, and culinary diversity.
Cons of Moving from Tucson to Illinois
What to miss about Tucson, or what awaits in Illinois:
Leaving Tucson behind:
- Beautiful desert nature and landscapes
- Mild winters with minimal heating costs
- Renowned Southwestern cuisine
- Lower crime rate
- Abundant outdoor activities (hiking, climbing)
Illinois challenges:
- Harsh winters: 17°F lows, 22 inches of snow, higher heating bills, and snow removal headaches.
- Bad traffic: Chicago's congestion rivals major coastal cities.
- Higher taxes: State income tax is 4.95%, nearly double Arizona's.
- Dull landscape: Flat terrain and fewer dramatic natural features compared to Arizona's mountains and desert.
- High crime in some areas: While Illinois's overall crime index is lower, urban crime is concentrated in specific neighborhoods.
Before You Move: Important Illinois Regulations & Logistics
When relocating to Illinois, don't just book movers and load the truck. Check these details:
HOA & Building Rules
- Some neighborhoods have move-in day restrictions. Verify with your HOA.
- Many apartment buildings require advance elevator reservation. Book early.
Permits & Parking
- Truck parking permits: Some Illinois cities require permits for moving trucks. Check local regulations.
- Moving permits: You won't need a moving permit in Illinois, but verify local parking rules with your city or county.
State Regulations & Licensing
- Illinois regulates moves through the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC).
- Companies moving household goods locally and intrastate must hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity. Verify your mover's license before booking. Check the ICC website for current status.
Insurance & Liability
- Insurance rules differ by state. Ask your mover about Released Value Protection (basic coverage at 60 cents per pound) or purchase additional third-party insurance if your items are valuable.
USPS & Mail Forwarding
- File your USPS change of address at least one week before your move. Visit USPS.com to set your official move date and avoid mail delays.
Moving Checklist
- Peace of mind comes from preparation. Use our moving checklist to ensure you've covered everything.
Things to Do in Illinois
No matter your interests—nature, culture, sports, or education—Illinois delivers.
Museums:
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
Parks:
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee River State Park
Sports Teams:
- 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
FAQ
How long does a move from Tucson to Illinois take?
Timing depends on your service choice. Most moves take four to 15 days. Summer moves often take longer due to higher demand. Ask about the delivery timeframe when you book—it matters for your timeline.
Are there movers in Tucson who build custom crates?
Yes. Eleven movers in Tucson offer custom crating, perfect for artwork, antiques, and fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask specifically about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What's the best way to ship a car from Tucson to Illinois?
Professional auto transport keeps your vehicle protected and removes the stress. Compare quotes from reputable carriers before you move.
Why do people move from Tucson to Illinois?
People relocate for Chicago's economic opportunities, cultural attractions, and stronger job market. Others leave Tucson due to high crime, low job prospects, and extreme summer heat.
Where do I find long-distance movers in Tucson?
Start with the five companies ranked above—they all handle this route. Get quotes from at least three to compare rates and services.
Can I pay with cash?
Currently, no Tucson movers accept cash. The moving industry prefers traceable digital payments. You'll typically place a deposit to secure your date, then pay the balance at pickup or after delivery. Ask your mover about card, ACH, or cashier's check options.
Ready to move from Tucson to Illinois?
The companies above are proven performers on this route. Get quotes from at least three—use the calculator to ballpark your costs, then compare. Lock down pricing, clarify what's included, and inspect items when they arrive in Illinois. Your move is too big to wing it.