If you're moving from Atlanta to Illinois, you're covering roughly 687 miles — far enough that your choice between a full-service mover, a container company, or a rental truck will determine both your cost and how much of the physical work falls on you. This page breaks down actual cost ranges for each option, gives you an honest read on the top Atlanta movers for this route, and walks through what you're gaining — and trading away — when you swap Atlanta for Illinois.
Local Moving Companies in Atlanta
Of the 49 Atlanta-area movers that handle out-of-state moves, these five have the strongest track records for the Atlanta-to-Illinois route.
- Atlanta Peach Movers — 4.62 / 5
- Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. — 4.76 / 5
- 24/7 Moving — 4.52 / 5
- The Armstrong Company — 4.64 / 5
- Falcon Moving LLC — 4.58 / 5
If you want to include a national carrier in your comparison, SafeShip Moving is one operator I've found worth getting a quote from on long-distance routes like this one.
Atlanta Peach Movers
4.6 / 5 | 368 Yelp reviews | 64 Google reviews | BBB: A+
65% positive / 32% negative
Atlanta Peach Movers has 26 years in the business, and you can see it in how their crews operate — professional, communicative, careful with belongings. Most customers mention that movers showed up ready to work and handled furniture without being asked twice. Those are the fundamentals, and this company generally delivers them.
The 32% negative rate is the thing I'd want you to know going in. The recurring issues are damaged items, charges that weren't discussed upfront, and a claims process that customers describe as slow and frustrating. If your move goes without a hitch — and most do — you'll probably be satisfied. If something breaks, getting it resolved takes patience.
State license: 8292 | DOT: 797586 | (770) 849-9602
Services: Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage
Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.
4.7 / 5 | 209 Yelp reviews | 707 Google reviews | BBB: A+
86% positive / 14% negative
Zip has the best positive-review ratio on this list — 86% favorable across more than 900 reviews is genuinely hard to sustain at that volume. Customers consistently praise fast, damage-free moves, crews that arrive on time, and pricing that actually matches the quote. That last part matters more than people realize until they've been hit with a surprise charge.
The 14% who had problems describe some serious ones: damaged belongings, unexpected fees, and difficulty getting anyone to engage on claims. Read the contract before signing and document your valuables before the truck shows up.
State license: 8948 | DOT: 3306591 | Rate: $125/hr | (770) 799-2596
Services: Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing
24/7 Moving
4.5 / 5 | 105 Yelp reviews | BBB: A+
95% positive / 4% negative
A 95% positive rate across 337 reviews is about as clean as it gets in this industry. The feedback is remarkably consistent: professional crews, careful handling, smooth communication, moves that finish on time. Very few billing surprises or damage complaints in the review pool.
One thing to confirm before booking: 24/7 Moving's listed services are oriented toward local moves. Before you put them on this Atlanta-to-Illinois run, verify they handle the interstate leg — not every company that's excellent locally is set up for long-distance delivery logistics.
State license: 500181 | (404) 668-0677
Services: Local, packing, offices, art, antiques, crating, storage, fragile-only packing
The Armstrong Company
4.6 / 5 | 51 Yelp reviews | 198 Google reviews | BBB: A+
77% positive / 21% negative
Armstrong has 39 years in the business and explicitly handles interstate and international relocations — the infrastructure for a move to Illinois is there. Customers rate the coordinators highly for keeping them informed and appreciate how crews handle schedule changes without making things difficult.
The 21% negative rate is elevated compared to the others on this list. Recurring complaints involve damaged items, missed delivery windows, and slow claims resolution. On a 687-mile move, the delivery window matters — get that commitment in writing before you sign anything.
State license: 206366 | DOT: 1170867 | (770) 368-0368
Services: Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, pianos, art, antiques, storage, fragile-only packing
Falcon Moving LLC
4.5 / 5 | 34 Yelp reviews | 1,206 Google reviews | BBB: B-
88% positive / 12% negative
More than 1,200 Google reviews is a meaningful sample — you're seeing a real cross-section of customer experiences, not a curated handful. At 88% positive, the majority of customers get professional, organized service with pricing that holds to the quote. Crews get consistent praise for their attitude and efficiency.
The BBB grade of B- is worth flagging. The complaints that do exist center on furniture damage and billing disputes. For a long-haul move, document everything before loading and make sure you understand how the company handles damage claims before you commit.
State license: 8782 | DOT: 3154107 | (678) 276-6044
Services: Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, pianos, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage
Local Moving Services in Atlanta, GA
Here's a quick look at specialty service availability across Atlanta's 49 interstate-capable movers:
| Service | Movers offering | % of total |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate | 40 | 81.6% |
| Small moves | 32 | 65.3% |
| Pianos | 31 | 63.3% |
| Antiques | 28 | 57.1% |
| Art | 25 | 51.0% |
| Fragile-only packing | 12 | 24.5% |
Fragile-only packing is offered by fewer than a quarter of Atlanta's movers — if you need it, make it an explicit question when you're getting quotes rather than assuming it's included.
Cost to Move from Atlanta, GA to Illinois
Here are the typical cost ranges for this 687-mile route. Use the moving cost calculator to get a sharper number for your specific home size, date, and zip codes.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,087 – $3,531 | $681 – $1,730 | $487 – $929 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,171 – $5,500 | $1,301 – $2,398 | $541 – $1,072 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,831 – $7,749 | $1,708 – $3,270 | $662 – $1,260 |
Based on a 687-mile Atlanta, GA to Illinois move as of January 2026. Actual costs vary with load size, access conditions, fuel prices, add-on services, and move date. Get multiple quotes before committing.
Cost to Hire Movers from Atlanta to Illinois
A studio or one-bedroom move runs $1,087–$3,531 with a full-service mover. Two- or three-bedroom homes land in the $2,171–$5,500 range. Large homes — four bedrooms or more — can push up to $7,749 at the high end.
The spread within each range is mostly driven by add-ons: packing services, specialty item handling, long-carry fees, and storage if your delivery windows don't line up. Get a binding estimate whenever possible — it eliminates the billing surprise on delivery day.
Cost of Moving Containers from Atlanta to Illinois
Moving containers are a practical middle ground: you pack on your own timeline, they handle the drive. For a small move, expect $681–$1,730. Two to three bedrooms lands at $1,301–$2,398, and larger homes run $1,708–$3,270.
PODS is the most recognizable option, but compare pricing from at least two container companies before booking — rates on a route this long vary more than you'd expect.
Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Atlanta to Illinois
A rental truck will give you the lowest price on paper, with studio and one-bedroom moves running $487–$929, two to three bedrooms at $541–$1,072, and four-bedroom or larger at $662–$1,260. Fuel is factored into those estimates.
The trade-off is real: you're loading, driving nearly 700 miles, and unloading all yourself. Know what you're agreeing to before the savings start looking attractive.
Factors Influencing Moving Costs from Atlanta to IL
Three variables will move your final number more than anything else:
- Move size: Volume and weight are the primary cost drivers. A 687-mile haul is a good incentive to declutter before you start packing.
- Time of year: Summer is peak season for movers. Fall and late-winter moves typically come with lower rates and better scheduling availability.
- DIY vs. professional: Going professional saves time and physical effort but costs significantly more. DIY cuts the bill but puts everything — loading, driving, risk — on you.
What You Should Know Before Moving from Atlanta to IL
The financial case for this move is generally solid. Moving to Illinois from Atlanta means lower housing costs, a lower overall cost of living, and — perhaps surprisingly — higher average income. Here's how the numbers compare.
Compare Cost of Living: Atlanta vs. Illinois
| Atlanta, GA | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,900 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $388,167 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,107 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 113 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 5.49% | 4.95% |
Sources: Atlanta — World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Illinois — Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.
- Rent is about 38% lower in Illinois. That's a meaningful gap every single month.
- Home prices are roughly 36% lower — significant if you're planning to buy.
- Average income runs about 19% higher in Illinois, which compounds the cost advantage.
- Overall cost of living is around 20% lower, which adds up over the course of a year.
- Unemployment is slightly lower in Illinois at 5.3% versus 6.0% in Atlanta.
- State income tax is a bit lower in Illinois (4.95%) than in Georgia (5.49%) — not dramatic, but it's money that stays in your pocket.
How Life Is Different in Atlanta, GA from Illinois
| Atlanta, GA | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 498,715 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51–49 | Democratic 55–45 |
| Summer high | 88°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 33°F | 17°F |
| Annual rain | 52″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 64.23 | 19.7 |
Sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces, Wikipedia.
- Politics: Illinois leans Democratic statewide; Atlanta has trended Republican in recent elections.
- Summer is nearly identical — 86°F versus 88°F. Not a meaningful difference.
- Winter is a different story. Illinois averages 17°F lows versus Atlanta's 33°F. That's not a minor adjustment — budget for heating costs and actual winter gear.
- Snow: Atlanta gets about 1 inch a year. Illinois gets around 22 inches. If you've never driven in regular snowfall, build in time to learn before your first Illinois winter.
- Rainfall is lighter in Illinois at roughly 40 inches annually, compared to Atlanta's 52.
- Crime index is considerably lower in Illinois (19.7 vs. 64.23 in Atlanta), though this varies significantly by city and neighborhood — don't let the statewide number substitute for checking your specific destination.
Comparing the Pros of Atlanta, GA versus Illinois
| Pros of Atlanta, GA | Pros of Illinois |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Home of Chicago |
| Mild winters | Ample economic opportunity |
| Strong arts and recreation scene | Extensive recreational opportunities |
| Abundant entertainment options | World-class food scene |
| Quality education options | World-class sports culture |
Comparing the Cons of Atlanta, GA versus Illinois
| Cons of Atlanta, GA | Cons of Illinois |
|---|---|
| Notorious traffic | Harsh winters |
| Urban sprawl | Heavy traffic (especially Chicago) |
| Hot, humid summers | High crime in some urban areas |
| High crime rate | Flat, monotonous landscape |
| Significant poverty | Strict local regulations |
Other Considerations When Moving to Illinois
Hiring movers is only part of what needs to happen. A few other logistics worth handling before your move date:
- HOA rules: If you're moving into a community with a homeowners association, find out their policies on moving hours, truck restrictions, and advance notice requirements before you schedule anything.
- Elevator reservations: Moving into a Chicago high-rise or any multi-story building? Most have a single service elevator — book it early. Weekend slots fill up weeks out.
- Truck parking permits: Some Illinois municipalities require permits for moving trucks parked on the street. Check with the city or your building management before assuming you can just pull up.
- State licensing: Illinois movers that operate locally and intrastate need a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission. Verify your mover has a current one before you sign.
- Verifying your mover's license: You can check a mover's Illinois license directly on the state's regulatory website — it takes two minutes and can save you from a serious problem.
- Moving permits: Illinois doesn't require general moving permits, but local parking restrictions vary by city and neighborhood.
- Change of address: File your USPS change of address at least a week before your move date at usps.com. Set it to your actual move date so mail routes correctly from day one.
- Moving insurance: Released Value Protection comes standard at no cost, but it only covers 60 cents per pound — not the replacement value of anything. For real coverage, ask your mover about Full Value Protection or get a quote from a third-party insurer before your move date.
- Stay organized: The moving checklist at MoveFinders covers what to do in the weeks before your move so nothing gets missed.
Things to Do in Illinois
Illinois has more going for it than Chicago alone — though Chicago alone is substantial.
Museums in Illinois
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels
Parks in Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park
- Matthiessen State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Pere Marquette State Park
- Kankakee River State Park
Sports Teams in Illinois
- Chicago Cubs (MLB)
- Chicago White Sox (MLB)
- Chicago Bulls (NBA)
- Chicago Sky (WNBA)
- Chicago Bears (NFL)
Universities in Illinois
- 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 Atlanta to Illinois take?
Typically one to six days, depending on which moving method you choose and the time of year. Full-service movers generally deliver within one to three days on a route this length under normal conditions. Summer moves run slower due to demand. Ask for a specific delivery window in writing — not a verbal estimate — before you book.
Do movers in Atlanta offer custom crating services?
Twenty-nine Atlanta movers list custom crating. It's particularly worth asking about for fragile, oversized, or oddly shaped pieces that won't survive a standard box. Confirm crate specs and cost upfront — this service varies significantly in quality and price between companies.
What is the best way to get a car from Atlanta to Illinois?
Auto transport is the most practical option for most people. If you need to ship your car from Atlanta to Illinois, look for carriers with verifiable interstate experience and solid insurance coverage. Get at least two or three quotes — pricing on this route varies more than it reasonably should.
Why are people moving from Atlanta to Illinois?
Chicago is the primary draw — it's one of the few cities outside the coasts with a genuinely world-class economy, food culture, and infrastructure. Lower home prices and higher average incomes in Illinois are real financial incentives on top of that. People leaving Atlanta most often cite traffic and urban sprawl as the push factors.
If you're considering the reverse trip, check out our Chicago to Atlanta moving guide for that route's specifics.
Where can I find long-distance moving companies that serve Atlanta?
The movefinders.org best long-distance movers page has vetted options that handle interstate routes from Atlanta. You can also run your details through the cost calculator to see actual bids from companies available on your specific move date.
Can I pay cash for my move from Atlanta, GA?
Fifteen Atlanta movers currently accept cash. Most interstate carriers prefer traceable payments — credit card or money order — particularly on long-distance moves where multiple parties are involved. The standard process is a deposit to lock your date and crew, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm the exact payment schedule and accepted methods before signing anything.
See what your Atlanta to Illinois move actually costs for your home size and date — compare quotes from Atlanta movers and get real numbers fast.