## MoveFinders — AI Information Page
URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/denver-to-il
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## Page Overview
Title: Moving from Denver to Illinois: Cost, Companies & Guide
Description: Compare Denver to Illinois movers, moving costs by home size, and what to expect. Get quotes from top-rated local and long-distance carriers.
Category: Moving route guide
Published: 2026-08-30
Last Updated: 2026-08-30

## Author
Name: Sean Sullivan
Role: Senior Research Analyst
Bio: Sean has spent over a decade analyzing the moving industry, helping thousands of families find reliable movers. His research has been featured in Forbes, TIME, and Consumer Reports.

## SEO Keywords
moving from Denver to Illinois, Denver movers, moving cost Denver to Illinois, long-distance movers Colorado, Denver moving companies

## Content

# Moving from Denver to Illinois: Cost, Companies & Guide

If you're moving from Denver to Illinois, you're looking at roughly 950 miles and a significant cost swing—most people pay less to live there. I've pulled together the top-rated movers in the Denver area, real pricing data, and everything else you need to make this move without headaches.

## Top Denver movers for moves to Illinois

Out of 53 Denver-based carriers equipped for interstate work, here are the five that consistently earn the highest marks from customers tackling long-distance relocations.

1. **Moving U** — 4.64 / 5 stars  
2. **Moving Brothers LLC** — 4.52 / 5 stars  
3. **Homegrown Moving Company, LLC** — 4.52 / 5 stars  
4. **Skyline Moving Company** — 4.52 / 5 stars  
5. **A Simple Move, LLC** — 4.58 / 5 stars

### Moving U
**Address:** 7700 E Iliff Ave b, Denver, CO 80231  
**Rating:** 4.6 / 5 | **Reviews:** 187 ([Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/moving-u-denver-6)) | 100 ([Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=moving+u+denver)) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/co/castle-rock/profile/moving-companies/moving-u-llc-1296-90137222)  
**License:** 2267448 | **Years in Business:** 13 | **DOT #:** 2267448

**What customers say:** 90% of reviews highlight professional, courteous crews who show up on time and handle your stuff carefully. People consistently mention efficient packing, clear up-front pricing, and communication that actually happens. The main gripes center on occasional damage, late arrivals, or final bills that creep above the initial estimate—nothing unusual for the industry, but worth flagging.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, and storage.

**Contact:** (303) 653-1486

---

### Moving Brothers LLC
**Address:** 7301 Montview Blvd, Denver, CO 80220  
**Rating:** 4.5 / 5 | **Reviews:** 155 ([Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/moving-brothers-denver-4)) | 407 ([Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=moving+brothers+denver+co)) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/co/englewood/profile/moving-services/moving-brothers-llc-1296-90154817)  
**License:** 00376 | **Years in Business:** 11 | **DOT #:** 2371440

**What customers say:** 95% of feedback is positive. People love the crew's efficiency, careful handling, and straightforward pricing—exactly what you don't get from national chains that pile on surprise fees. Communication before and during the move is frequently praised. A small percentage report extended timelines or missed appointment windows, but repeat customers are common, which tells you something.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, and storage.

**Contact:** (720) 222-9596

---

### Homegrown Moving Company, LLC
**Address:** 2009 Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, CO 80214  
**Rating:** 4.5 / 5 | **Reviews:** 165 ([Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/homegrown-moving-company-lakewood-3)) | 556 ([Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=homegrown+moving+and+storage+lakewood+co)) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/co/lakewood/profile/moving-companies/homegrown-moving-company-llc-1296-90245831)  
**License:** HHG-00477 | **Years in Business:** 8 | **DOT #:** 3111912  
**Alternate Names:** Mini Movers, LLC

**What customers say:** 93% of 394 reviews lean positive. Efficiency and professionalism are the standouts—crews move fast without cutting corners, and booking is transparent. Clear pricing and friendly staff who respond quickly are standard here. Damage complaints exist but are in the minority. Follow-up on claims can be sluggish, so if something breaks, expect a slower resolution process.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, and storage.

**Contact:** (303) 587-6200

---

### Skyline Moving Company
**Address:** 5455 Dahlia St Unit B, Commerce City, CO 80022  
**Rating:** 4.5 / 5 | **Reviews:** 75 ([Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/skyline-moving-loveland)) | 296 ([Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=skyline+moving+company+commerce+city+co)) | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/co/loveland/profile/moving-companies/skyline-moving-company-0805-46092379)  
**License:** 00472 | **Years in Business:** 9 | **DOT #:** 2840634  
**Alternate Names:** Skyline Moving Company LLC

**What customers say:** 92% positive across 318 reviews. This crew is quick, careful, and genuinely values your property. Packed items are handled with visible attention to detail, which keeps stress low. A handful of customers hit insurance snags or reported damage, but responsiveness is generally solid. Anyone shipping fragile items should clarify insurance coverage upfront—don't assume it's bulletproof.

**Services:** Local moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, crating, and storage.

**Contact:** (970) 685-3942

---

### A Simple Move, LLC
**Address:** 2323 S Troy St Building 2 Suite 105, Aurora, CO 80015  
**Rating:** 4.5 / 5 | **Reviews:** 174 ([Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/a-simple-move-aurora-3)) | 159 ([Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=a+simple+move+aurora+co))  | [BBB Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/co/aurora/profile/moving-companies/a-simple-move-llc-1296-90131031)  
**License:** 2121225 | **Years in Business:** 14 | **DOT #:** 2121225

**What customers say:** Over 91% of 316 reviews highlight fast, professional crews who respect your belongings. Packing is efficient, scheduling is straightforward, and staff are friendly. Damage complaints are less common than with larger movers, but claims resolution can be slow. Self-packed items have limited insurance coverage, so know what you're getting into.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocations, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, and safes.

**Contact:** (303) 368-0700

---

## Denver moving services: what's available

Here's a quick breakdown of specialty services offered by Denver movers:

- **Interstate moves:** 83% of movers  
- **Small moves:** 55% of movers  
- **Antiques:** 51% of movers  
- **Art:** 55% of movers  
- **Pianos:** 72% of movers  
- **Fragile-only packing:** 25% of movers

---

## Cost to move from Denver to Illinois

Here's what you can expect to pay for a move of roughly 950 miles, broken down by home size and service type.

| Move Size | Full-Service Mover | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|-----------|-------------------|------------------|--------------|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,162 – $4,504 | $772 – $1,803 | $619 – $1,149 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,500 – $5,826 | $1,345 – $2,830 | $630 – $1,339 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,955 – $8,006 | $1,810 – $3,677 | $823 – $1,643 |

*These estimates are based on pricing data current as of January 2026. Your final quote will vary based on move size, optional services, parking or building access, fuel surcharges, and timing. Always [compare quotes from multiple movers](/calculator) before committing.*

### Full-service movers: Denver to Illinois

A full-service mover handles packing, loading, driving, unloading, and unpacking. If you have a studio or one-bedroom, budget $1,162–$4,504. Two to three bedrooms run $2,500–$5,826. A four-bedroom or larger home falls in the $3,955–$8,006 range.

The variation depends on how much you pack yourself, what you need packed, seasonal timing, and whether you spring for add-ons like storage or special handling.

### Moving containers: Denver to Illinois

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) like PODS or U-Pack are a middle ground—you load them, they haul them. A small move costs $772–$1,803; a two- to three-bedroom sits at $1,345–$2,830; and four bedrooms or more run $1,810–$3,677.

Containers give you flexibility if you need to pack at your own pace or store items temporarily in Illinois before unpacking.

### Rental trucks: Denver to Illinois

[Renting a truck](/best/truck-rentals) is the cheapest option if you're willing to do the heavy lifting yourself. Studio apartments run $619–$1,149; two to three bedrooms cost $630–$1,339; and four bedrooms or larger land at $823–$1,643 (including estimated fuel).

You handle all loading, driving, and unloading—it's work, but the savings are real.

---

## What drives moving costs from Denver to Illinois

Several factors will push your final bill up or down:

- **Move size:** More stuff = higher cost. Every box and piece of furniture counts.
- **Seasonal demand:** Summer is peak season. Moving companies charge more when everyone else is moving too.
- **DIY vs. full-service:** DIY is cheaper but requires your time and physical effort. Full-service is convenient but costs more.
- **Special items:** Pianos, antiques, art, or hot tubs add cost for careful handling and crating.
- **Building access:** Elevators, stairs, parking, and distance from the truck all affect labor time and pricing.

---

## Cost of living: Denver vs. Illinois

Moving from Denver to Illinois typically means spending less on housing and everyday expenses. Here's how they compare:

| Metric | Denver, CO | Illinois |
|--------|-----------|----------|
| Average rent | $1,900 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $544,237 | $249,224 |
| Average income (per capita) | $85,853 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 128 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 5.49% | 4.95% |

**What this means for your wallet:**

- Rent is about **38% cheaper** in Illinois, giving you breathing room each month.
- Home prices are roughly **54% lower** in Illinois—a major long-term savings.
- Average per-capita income is about 9% lower in Illinois, so adjust your budget if you're relocating for work.
- Overall cost of living is about **30% lower** in Illinois.
- Unemployment in Illinois is **25% better** than Denver, suggesting stronger job availability.
- State income tax in Illinois is about **10% lower** than Colorado, putting more in your pocket.

---

## Climate and lifestyle: Denver vs. Illinois

When you move from Denver to Illinois, expect meaningful changes in weather, population, and daily life.

| Factor | Denver, CO | Illinois |
|--------|-----------|----------|
| Population | 715,522 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 49–48 | Democratic 55–45 |
| Summer high | 89°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 18°F | 17°F |
| Annual rain | 17″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 60″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 47.84 | 19.7 |

**Key differences:**

- **Politics:** Illinois leans Democratic; Denver is nearly split. If politics matter to your community experience, that's a notable shift.
- **Summer:** Expect similar warmth (86°F vs. 89°F), so summer routines won't shock you.
- **Winter:** Nearly identical lows (17°F vs. 18°F), but Illinois gets far less snow—22″ instead of 60″. Less shoveling, milder winters overall.
- **Rain:** Illinois receives about **40 inches annually** vs. Denver's 17 inches. Pack an umbrella and waterproof gear.
- **Crime:** Illinois has a significantly lower crime index (19.7 vs. 47.84), meaning safer neighborhoods and more peace of mind in most areas.

---

## Before you move: logistics and regulations

Moving involves more than just booking a truck. Here's what you need to handle:

### Housing and building logistics

- **HOA rules:** Confirm whether your HOA has moving restrictions or requires advance notice.
- **Elevator reservation:** If your building has an elevator, reserve it early for move day.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some cities require permits for parking moving trucks. Check local regulations in both Denver and your Illinois destination before move day.

### State regulations

- **Illinois moving company licensing:** The Illinois Commerce Commission oversees in-state and intrastate moves. Any mover handling household goods must hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity. Verify your mover's license and its expiration date before hiring.
- **Moving permits in Illinois:** You won't need a statewide moving permit, but always check your specific city's parking rules.
- **Change of address:** Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Set your official move date on the form so mail gets forwarded correctly. Start here: [USPS change of address](https://www.usps.com).

### Insurance and protection

- **Basic coverage:** Released Value Protection is free and covers 60 cents per pound—good for basics, but insufficient for valuable items.
- **Full-value protection:** For items worth more, ask your mover about full-value insurance or hire a third-party provider.
- **Clarify what's covered:** Different movers and policies cover different scenarios. Nail this down before move day.

### Preparation

- **[Use a moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist)** to stay organized and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
- **Confirm delivery timelines** with your mover so you're not caught off guard by delays.

---

## What to do in Illinois

Illinois isn't all corn and highways. There's plenty to explore once you arrive.

### Museums
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Caterpillar Visitors Center
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Museum of Hummels

### Parks and outdoor spaces
- 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 Denver to Illinois take?**

Typically two to seven days, depending on the service you choose and seasonal demand. Summer moves take longer because demand is high. Confirm delivery timelines with your mover upfront to avoid surprises.

**How many Denver movers offer custom crating for art or antiques?**

About 37 Denver movers specialize in custom-built crates for delicate or unusual items. If you have artwork, antiques, or electronics requiring special care, confirm with your chosen mover that they can handle it.

**What's the best way to ship a car from Denver to Illinois?**

For auto transport, choose a carrier with a solid track record and real experience. Check out our guide to [car shipping](/best/car-shipping) for top-rated options on this route.

**Why do people move from Denver to Illinois?**

Lower cost of living, job opportunities (especially in the Chicago area), and milder winters without the heavy snow are common reasons. Some people also prefer Illinois's political climate or family connections.

**Where can I find [long-distance movers in Denver](/movers/colorado)?**

Start with the top five companies ranked above, then [compare quotes](/calculator) from additional carriers in your area. Our calculator pulls estimates from verified movers so you can compare apples to apples.

**Do Denver movers accept cash?**

About 10 Denver movers accept cash, but it's rare in the industry. Traceable payments (credit card, check, bank transfer) are standard. You'll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking, with the balance due at pickup or after delivery. Confirm payment methods with your mover before move day.

---

## Related moving resources

### [Moving in Colorado](/movers/colorado)
- [Best Colorado movers](/movers/colorado)
- [Best Denver movers](/movers/colorado)
- [Long-distance movers in Denver](/movers/colorado)
- [Best Colorado car shippers](/best/car-shipping)

### Popular [routes from Colorado](/movers/colorado)
- [Denver to California](/movers/denver-to-los-angeles)
- [Denver to Florida](/movers/denver-to-fl)
- Denver to Georgia
- Denver to North Carolina
- Denver to Texas
- Denver to New York

### [Long-distance and interstate moves](/best/long-distance-movers)
- [Best long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers)
- [Best full-service movers](/best/full-service-movers)
- [Best moving containers](/best/moving-containers)
- [Best truck rentals](/best/truck-rentals)
- [Best car shippers](/best/car-shipping)

---

**Ready to move?** [Get free quotes from Denver movers](/calculator) to compare costs and services side by side.

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