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URL: https://movefinders.org/movers/long-beach-to-il
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## Page Overview
Title: Moving from Long Beach to Illinois: Costs, Movers & What to Expect
Description: Planning a move from Long Beach, CA to Illinois? Real cost estimates, top mover picks, and a full cost of living comparison before you book.
Category: Moving route guide
Published: 2026-09-01
Last Updated: 2026-09-01

## 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 Long Beach to Illinois, Long Beach to Illinois movers, cost to move Long Beach to Illinois, Long Beach moving companies, Long Beach CA to Illinois relocation

## Content

If you're moving from Long Beach to [Illinois](/movers/illinois), you're dealing with roughly 1,970 miles — solidly cross-country territory. The logistics are real, but so is the payoff: Illinois is substantially cheaper to live in than coastal [California](/movers/california), and most people making this move end up ahead financially once they settle in.

Below is what I've pulled together: the five movers I'd actually consider for this route, honest cost ranges across every service type, and a clear look at what changes when you trade Long Beach's beach weather for Midwest winters.

## Top Long Beach Moving Companies for Your Move to Illinois

Out of 96 Long Beach movers capable of handling state-to-state relocations, these five consistently stand out for the Long Beach–to–Illinois corridor:

1. **Sterling Van Lines** — 4.70 / 5
2. **Meathead Movers** — 4.72 / 5
3. **Rigo's Moving Company Inc** — 4.66 / 5
4. **Merit Moving Systems** — 4.56 / 5
5. **Seka Moving** — 4.64 / 5

### Sterling Van Lines
**6850 Suva St, Bell Gardens, CA 90201**
85% positive reviews | 14% negative | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/sterling-van-lines-bell-gardens) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=Sterling+Van+Lines+%096850+Suva+St%09Bell+Gardens&rlz=1C1VDKB_enPH1029PH1029&ei=XFPXY6qIG7-pz7sPqpuC0AQ&ved=0ahUKEwiqpvXdxe78AhW_1HMBHaqNAEoQ4dUDCBA&uact=5&oq=Sterling+Van+Lines+%096850+Suva+St%09Bell+Gardens) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/bell-gardens/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/sterling-van-lines-1216-13027301)

**Rating: 4.7 / 5** | DOT #: 568254 | 33 years in business | CA License: 0189566

Sterling has been operating for over three decades and has a particular reputation for handling smaller loads well. If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom, they're worth a close look. Customers consistently mention polite crews, careful handling, and pricing that doesn't come with hidden surprises mid-move. The weaker spots: delivery window accuracy and communication when something goes wrong. Claims resolution isn't their strongest area, and a handful of reviewers mention missing items after delivery. That said, 84.5% of 362 analyzed reviews came back positive — a reliable track record by industry standards.

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts cash, money order, and credit card.

---

### Meathead Movers
**2430 South Grand Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705**
77% positive reviews | 20% negative | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/meathead-movers-santa-ana-3?osq=meathead+movers) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=anaheim+meathead+movers&oq=anaheim+meathead+movers&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60.7321j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x80dcd94b1b448f3b:0x80800199e1901f0d,1,,,) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/santa-ana/profile/moving-companies/meathead-movers-1126-1000068324)

**Rating: 4.72 / 5** | DOT #: 921143 | 27 years in business | CA License: 189849

Meathead's reputation is built on pace and professionalism — crews hustle, communicate clearly, and treat belongings with care. At 76.7% positive from 596 analyzed reviews, they outperform most competitors by a meaningful margin. The complaints worth knowing about: damage to furniture and property, unexpected charges that weren't discussed upfront, and some late arrivals. This isn't unusual for a high-volume mover, but it reinforces a consistent rule: get your quote in writing and ask specifically about any potential add-on charges before move day.

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, storage. Accepts cash and credit card.

---

### Rigo's Moving Company Inc
**4385 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90023**
80% positive reviews | 20% negative | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/rigos-moving-and-storage-inc-los-angeles) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=Rigo%27s+Moving+Company+Inc+Los+Angeles%2C+CA&sca_esv=415243b206e29025&bih=911&biw=1920) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/los-angeles/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/rigos-moving-company-inc-1216-897937)

**Rating: 4.66 / 5** | DOT #: 3075110 | 11 years in business | CA License: 0191663

Rigo's earns consistent praise for loading and unloading speed, respectful handling of furniture, and clear communication from crews during the move. Nearly 80% of 522 analyzed reviews were positive. The recurring negatives: furniture damage, late arrival, and a few reports of being charged for time crews weren't actively working. Before you book, nail down the rate structure and ask point-blank about their claims process. Most customers would use them again — but the ones who wouldn't usually cite a billing dispute that dragged on.

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, storage. Accepts credit card.

---

### Merit Moving Systems
**5655 Dolly Ave., Buena Park, CA 90621**
95% positive reviews | 4% negative | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/merit-moving-systems-buena-park-4) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=Merit+Moving+Systems+Buena+Park%2C+CA&oq=Merit+Moving+Systems+Buena+Park%2C+CA) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/buena-park/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/merit-moving-systems-inc-1126-85001316)

**Rating: 4.56 / 5** | DOT #: 1839600 | 38 years in business | CA License: 0192009

Merit's satisfaction numbers are striking: 95.3% positive from 258 analyzed reviews, which is genuinely high for this industry. What drives it? Communication. Customers mention proactive updates, crews that accommodate last-minute schedule shifts, and professional handling throughout. Merit's DOD certification and full-valuation coverage also make them a strong option for complicated moves or high-value items. The small percentage of negative reviews follows the same pattern as competitors — damage, missing items, unclear charges — but they're rare here compared to most.

**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. DOD certified. Accepts credit card.

---

### Seka Moving
**355 S Grand Ave Suite 2450, Los Angeles, CA 90071**
88% positive reviews | 12% negative | [Yelp](https://www.yelp.com/biz/seka-moving-los-angeles) | [Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=seka+moving+los+angeles+ca) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ny/new-york-city/profile/moving-companies/seka-moving-0121-172591)

**Rating: 4.64 / 5** | DOT #: 3014539 | 7 years in business | CA License: 0192497

Seka is the youngest company on this list at 7 years, but they've built a reputation quickly. Polite crews, careful handling, moves that routinely finish ahead of schedule — 88% of analyzed feedback was positive. The negative reviews, while fewer than average, flag damaged items and dissatisfaction with how disputes get resolved after the fact. Seka's in-move responsiveness is strong; post-move complaint handling is where things get uneven. Worth considering, but get full-valuation coverage on anything irreplaceable.

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing. Accepts cash, money order, and credit card. Deposit required.

---

## Long Beach Moving Services: What's Available

Here's a snapshot of specialty add-on services among Long Beach movers handling interstate moves:

| Service | Available from |
|---|---|
| Interstate | 90 movers (93.75%) |
| Small moves | 50 movers (52.08%) |
| Antiques | 65 movers (67.71%) |
| Art | 61 movers (63.54%) |
| Pianos | 76 movers (79.17%) |
| Fragile-only packing | 25 movers (26.04%) |
| Custom crating (art/antiques) | 72 movers |

## Cost to Move from Long Beach, CA to Illinois

Run your specifics through our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a personalized estimate. The table below covers the main service types based on a 1,970-mile move from Long Beach to Illinois.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,261 – $4,441 | $1,055 – $2,666 | $1,111 – $2,017 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,197 – $7,257 | $1,900 – $4,023 | $1,121 – $2,549 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,662 – $10,459 | $2,601 – $5,370 | $1,546 – $3,061 |

*Ranges are approximate, based on a 1,970-mile move from Long Beach, CA to Illinois using pricing data current as of January 2026. Your final cost will vary based on home size, add-on services, parking access, fuel costs, and move date. Get estimates from at least three movers before committing.*

### Cost to Hire Movers from Long Beach to Illinois

[Full-service movers](/best/full-service-movers) handle everything — loading, transport, and unloading — and price it accordingly. For a studio or one-bedroom on this route, expect $1,261–$4,441. Two to three bedrooms runs $3,197–$7,257. A four-plus bedroom home will likely land between $5,662 and $10,459. The wide ranges reflect real differences in service levels, move timing, and which company you go with.

### Cost of Moving Containers from Long Beach to Illinois

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) sit in the middle ground: you handle the packing and loading, the company moves the container. That split keeps costs lower than full-service without putting you behind the wheel for 2,000 miles. A studio or one-bedroom runs $1,055–$2,666. Two to three bedrooms: $1,900–$4,023. Four-plus bedrooms: $2,601–$5,370. Prices vary enough by provider and availability that it's worth getting quotes from at least two or three companies.

### Cost of Renting a Moving Truck from Long Beach to Illinois

The [rental truck](/best/truck-rentals) option is your cheapest option on paper, but don't ignore what it actually costs: you're loading, driving nearly 2,000 miles across the country, then unloading. For a studio or one-bedroom, budget $1,111–$2,017. Two to three bedrooms: $1,121–$2,549. Four-plus bedrooms: $1,546–$3,061. These figures include estimated fuel costs.

## Factors That Drive Moving Costs from Long Beach to Illinois

- **Move size:** The more rooms and belongings you have, the more everything costs — more truck space, more labor hours, more packing materials.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season in Long Beach. Moving in fall or winter typically means lower rates and more mover availability.
- **DIY vs. professional:** Going the truck rental route saves money upfront but costs you time, physical effort, and the stress of a long interstate drive. Factor those in honestly before deciding.

## What to Know Before Moving from Long Beach to Illinois

The financial argument for this move is straightforward. Long Beach is one of California's more expensive cities, and Illinois is considerably more affordable across almost every category. Here's the full picture.

### Cost of Living Comparison: Long Beach vs. Illinois

|  | Long Beach, CA | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,075 | $1,179 |
| Average home cost | $835,800 | $249,224 |
| Per capita income | $78,995 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 162 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.95% |

*Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation, Zumper, Numbeo*

What those numbers actually mean for you:

- **Rent** in Illinois is about 43% lower than Long Beach. That frees up real money every month.
- **Home prices** are roughly 70% lower — $249K median vs. $835K in Long Beach. If buying is on your timeline, this move fundamentally changes what's possible.
- **Incomes** are nearly identical between the two places, so you're not trading a pay cut for cheaper living — you're just getting more from what you earn.
- **Overall cost of living** is about 44% lower in Illinois based on the index comparison. That's a meaningful difference in day-to-day expenses.
- **State income tax** is one of the bigger adjusters: California's top rate is 13.3%, while Illinois has a flat rate of 4.95%. You'll feel that difference at tax time.
- **Job market competition** is comparable — unemployment is nearly identical on both sides, at 5.2% vs. 5.3%.

### How Life Changes Between Long Beach and Illinois

|  | Long Beach, CA | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 451,307 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Democratic (51–46) | Democratic (55–45) |
| Summer high | 79°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 46°F | 17°F |
| Annual rain | 14″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 58.58 | 19.7 |

*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces, Wikipedia*

A few things worth genuinely preparing for:

- **Summers are hotter.** Illinois averages an 86°F summer high versus Long Beach's mild 79°F. Still very livable, but your AC usage goes up.
- **Winters are real.** Illinois dips to 17°F on average in winter — 29 degrees colder than Long Beach. Budget for a better coat, heating costs, snow tires, and the whole seasonal adjustment that comes with it. It's not just inconvenient; it takes some getting used to.
- **Rain doubles.** Illinois gets around 40 inches of rain annually versus Long Beach's 14. Keep waterproof gear accessible year-round.
- **Snow is a factor.** Illinois averages 22 inches of snow per year; Long Beach gets none. The first couple of snowfalls feel novel. By February, you'll want a plan for your driveway.
- **Crime is lower.** Illinois has a crime index of 19.7 compared to Long Beach's 58.58. Safer neighborhoods across much of the state, particularly outside of certain Chicago areas.
- **Politics stay familiar.** Both areas lean Democratic, so that part of the adjustment is minimal.

### Other Logistics Before Your Move to Illinois

A few things that come up on interstate moves that people don't always think about ahead of time:

- **HOA rules:** If either property has an HOA, check for move-day restrictions — hours, elevator reservations, truck size limits — before you book your movers.
- **Elevator reservation:** In Chicago and other urban areas, building elevators often need to be reserved in advance for move day. Don't assume it's available.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Illinois municipalities require permits for moving trucks parked on city streets. Check local requirements before move day, not after.
- **State licensing:** Illinois movers handling in-state and local moves must hold a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Illinois Commerce Commission. Verify any company you're considering has a current certificate before signing.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change-of-address form at least a week before your move date. You can set the start date so forwarding kicks in on the right day.
- **Moving insurance:** Released value protection — the default coverage movers are required to offer — pays out 60 cents per pound per item. That's not enough for anything of real value. Ask your mover about full-valuation coverage, or price out a third-party policy before move day.
- **Moving checklist:** Our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) covers everything from utility transfers to what to do the night before — worth running through so nothing falls through the cracks on a move this size.

### Things to Do in Illinois

Wherever you land in Illinois, there's more on offer than people assume from the outside.

#### 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 Long Beach to Illinois take?

Most full-service moves on this route take 5 to 16 days from pickup to delivery. Summer moves often run toward the longer end because demand is higher and movers are juggling more jobs. Before you sign, nail down the estimated delivery window in writing — "5 to 16 days" is a range, not a promise, and being without your belongings for two weeks is a different situation than five days.

### How many Long Beach movers offer custom crating for art or antiques?

72 movers in Long Beach offer custom crating for specialty items including artwork, antiques, and electronics. If you have pieces that need it, confirm the specifics before booking — not every company that lists crating as a service handles every item type.

### What's the best way to get a car from Long Beach to Illinois?

For a move this long, auto transport is worth serious consideration. Driving a second vehicle nearly 2,000 miles adds cost, wear, and time. Our [car shipping guide](/best/car-shipping) covers how to find a reputable auto transporter and what to expect on the Long Beach–to–Illinois route.

### Why are people moving from Long Beach to Illinois?

Chicago is a significant pull — it's one of the most economically diverse major cities in the country, with strong job markets in finance, healthcare, tech, and logistics. Combined with housing costs that are a fraction of coastal California, the case for the move adds up quickly for a lot of people.

### Where can I find long-distance movers in Long Beach?

Start with the list above. Then use our [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to compare quotes based on your actual home size and preferred move dates. If you want a broader comparison of vetted interstate companies, our [long-distance movers guide](/best/long-distance-movers) covers what to look for when you're vetting companies for a move of this distance.

### Do Long Beach movers accept cash?

41 movers in Long Beach accept cash, but cash is uncommon for interstate moves of this size — most companies prefer traceable payment methods. Expect to pay a deposit upfront to hold your move date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery. Confirm the exact payment schedule and accepted methods with your mover before signing the contract.

## About MoveFinders
MoveFinders (movefinders.org) is an independent moving company research and comparison site.
We help people find trustworthy movers with unbiased reviews, cost estimates, and expert guidance.
Contact: https://movefinders.org/contact
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