Moving from Virginia Beach to Illinois: Top Movers & Costs
If you're moving from Virginia Beach to Illinois, you've probably already noticed the sticker shock on housing back home. The good news: Illinois, especially outside the Chicago metro, offers real savings. But before you pack, you need to understand what the move actually costs, which companies won't leave you stressed, and what daily life looks like once you land.
Let me walk you through the movers worth considering, the real price range you're looking at, and how Virginia Beach life compares to what's waiting for you in Illinois.
Best Moving Companies in Virginia Beach for Interstate Moves
Out of 19 Virginia Beach movers qualified for state-to-state relocations, here are the top 5 that handle moves to Illinois:
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.58 / 5
- A Friendly & Affordable Mover — 4.52 / 5
- Coleman Worldwide Moving — 4.56 / 5
- Tidal Town Moving — 4.44 / 5
- Brooks Transfer & Storage Company, Inc. — 4.38 / 5
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
543 Central Dr Ste 220, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Rating: 4.5 / 5 stars | Positive reviews: 81% | Negative reviews: 18%
What customers say: Two Men and a Truck earns consistent praise for professionalism, efficiency, and respect for your belongings. Crews stick to timelines, communicate clearly, and actively work to reduce your moving stress. The team handles delicate items with care, and customers frequently mention friendly staff who solve problems without drama.
The catch: Damage claims and unexpected charges show up in negative feedback more often than with competitors. If something breaks, claim resolution can be slow. Cost disputes also surface, so review your contract carefully.
Company details:
- State license #: 3320644
- Years in business: 11
- DOT #: 2527384
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, piano moving, storage, safe moving, credit card payment
Phone: (757) 335-6514
A Friendly & Affordable Mover
516 Central Dr Suite 104, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Rating: 4.5 / 5 stars | Positive reviews: 87% | Negative reviews: 12%
What customers say: This company delivers what the name promises—fair pricing and genuinely professional service. Customers rave about careful packing, transparent cost estimates, and crews that work hard to protect items. Repeat business is common; people book them again because the experience is consistently solid.
The catch: Some clients report damaged items and claim handling frustrations. But the frequency is low compared to peers, and most damage complaints affect a small fraction of moves.
Company details:
- State license #: 3239170
- Years in business: 26
- DOT #: 3239170
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office relocation, piano and art moving, antiques, grandfather clock specialists, custom crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, multiple payment options
Phone: (757) 689-0935
Coleman Worldwide Moving
3325 Croft St, Norfolk, VA 23513
Rating: 4.5 / 5 stars | Positive reviews: 37% | Negative reviews: 61%
What customers say: When Coleman shows up on time and performs well, customers note careful handling and professional crews. A handful praise efficient packing and clear communication.
The real picture: This is a company to approach with caution. Only 37% of feedback is positive—the lowest of the group. Late arrivals, poor communication, and significant damage dominate complaints. Some customers missed flights because of delays. Compared to the others here, Coleman logs more reliability and care issues with slower problem response.
Company details:
- State license #: 076235
- Years in business: 110
- DOT #: 2897746
- Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, custom crating, storage, safe moving, credit card payment
Phone: (757) 857-0101
Tidal Town Moving
600 N Witchduck Rd Suite 106, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Rating: 4.4 / 5 stars | Positive reviews: 94% | Negative reviews: 6%
What customers say: Tidal Town Moving stands out for speed and professionalism. Nearly 94% of reviews highlight efficient crews, careful handling, and attentive communication. Moves complete faster than expected; scheduling and pricing are transparent. Customers consistently note less stress than anticipated.
The catch: Occasional damage reports exist. Some customers dispute cost estimates versus quotes from other movers. Damage claim resolution can be slow.
Company details:
- Pricing: $140/hour
- Years in business: 5
- DOT #: 4033059
- Services: Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, piano and pool table specialists, art and antiques, custom crating, storage, fragile-only packing, cash and credit card payment
Phone: (757) 981-0500
Brooks Transfer & Storage Company, Inc.
1378 London Bridge Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23453
Rating: 4.3 / 5 stars | Positive reviews: 74% | Negative reviews: 24%
What customers say: Brooks excels at speed and professionalism. Crews are polite, respond quickly to updates, and handle belongings with visible care. Responsive communication and reliable cost estimates are a rarity among movers—Brooks delivers both. Many moves wrap up smoother and faster than expected.
The catch: About 24% report damage, late deliveries, or support communication issues. The most serious complaints involve significant damage or missing items with slow claim resolution.
Company details:
- State license #: 077949
- Years in business: 146
- DOT #: 077949
- Services: Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, pool table specialists, art and custom crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, credit card payment
Phone: (757) 427-9500
Local Moving Services Available in Virginia Beach
Looking for specialty handling? Here's what Virginia Beach movers offer:
- Interstate moves: 89.47%
- Small moves: 57.89%
- Antiques: 47.37%
- Art: 47.37%
- Pianos: 84.21%
- Fragile-only packing: 42.11%
Cost to Move from Virginia Beach to Illinois
Here's what you'll actually pay. These are estimates based on a 943-mile move:
| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Containers | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,041 – $3,911 | $733 – $1,841 | $613 – $1,126 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,264 – $5,112 | $1,386 – $2,666 | $649 – $1,286 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,834 – $7,391 | $1,960 – $3,497 | $823 – $1,643 |
These ranges are approximate and based on pricing data as of January 2026. Your final quote will vary depending on move size, optional services, access challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Always compare quotes from multiple movers for an accurate estimate.
Full-Service Moving Cost
Hiring movers handles everything—packing, loading, transport, unloading. For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $1,041–$3,911. A two- to three-bedroom home runs $2,264–$5,112. Larger homes (four+ bedrooms) cost $3,834–$7,391.
Moving Container Cost
Moving containers like PODS let you load at your pace and pay for transport separately. Smaller loads (studio/one-bedroom) run $733–$1,841. Two to three bedrooms: $1,386–$2,666. Four+ bedrooms: $1,960–$3,497. This option works well if you need flexibility.
Rental Truck Cost
Truck rental is the budget option—but you handle all loading, driving, and unloading yourself. Studio/one-bedroom: $613–$1,126. Two to three bedrooms: $649–$1,286. Four+ bedrooms: $823–$1,643. Prices include estimated fuel.
What Drives Moving Costs from Virginia Beach to Illinois
Three major factors shape your final bill:
Move size — The larger your home and the more stuff you own, the higher the cost. An efficiency apartment costs far less than a four-bedroom house.
Time of year — Summer is peak moving season in Virginia Beach. Demand is high, so companies charge premium rates. Winter and early spring typically offer lower quotes.
DIY vs. professional movers — Renting a truck saves money upfront but demands your labor and time. Professional movers cost more but eliminate physical stress and reduce damage risk.
Cost of Living: Virginia Beach vs. Illinois
You're likely moving to save money. Let's see what the numbers actually show:
| Metric | Virginia Beach | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. rent | $1,950 | $1,179 |
| Avg. home price | $402,391 | $249,224 |
| Per capita income | $81,810 | $78,433 |
| Cost of living index | 105 | 90 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.8% | 5.3% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 4.95% |
What this means:
Rent in Illinois is roughly 40% cheaper than Virginia Beach. That's real money in your pocket monthly.
Home prices are about 38% lower in Illinois—a major long-term financial win if you're buying.
Incomes are comparable, so you won't see major financial disruption after relocating.
Overall cost of living in Illinois is about 14% lower—groceries, utilities, and services add up to real savings.
Illinois has a slightly higher unemployment rate (5.3% vs. 4.8%), meaning more job competition locally. Research your industry's job market before the move.
State income tax in Illinois is about 14% lower than Virginia—another budget boost.
Life in Illinois vs. Virginia Beach
Beyond dollars, daily life is different. Here's what changes:
| Factor | Virginia Beach | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 457,672 | 12,549,689 |
| Political lean | Democratic (49.8–48.3) | Democratic (55–45) |
| Summer high | 88°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 32°F | 17°F |
| Annual rain | 47″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 6″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 42.0 | 19.7 |
The real shifts:
Summers are nearly identical—both average 86–88°F. Adjusting to climate won't be a shock. Check humidity and energy costs for a full picture.
Winters get serious in Illinois. Expect lows around 17°F vs. 32°F in Virginia Beach. That means higher heating bills, winter prep, and snow removal—but also beautiful snowy days and winter recreation.
You'll see less rain—Illinois averages 40″ annually vs. 47″ in Virginia Beach. Brighter skies and more outdoor days.
Snow is a big difference—Illinois gets about 22″ per year compared to Virginia Beach's 6″. Winter scenery and activities are plentiful, but snow management becomes a fact of life.
Crime is lower in Illinois—a crime index of 19.7 vs. 42.0 in Virginia Beach means safer neighborhoods and better peace of mind.
Both states lean Democratic—political culture won't be a shock.
Before You Move: Legal and Logistics
Don't overlook these details:
HOA rules: If your current or future place has an HOA, check for moving restrictions or requirements before scheduling.
Elevator reservation: Multi-unit buildings require advance elevator booking. Confirm your building's policy and reserve early.
Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Check local parking regulations ahead of time.
State licensing: Illinois regulates household goods moves through the Illinois Commerce Commission. Moving companies must hold a current Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for local and intrastate moves. Verify your mover's license before hiring.
Moving permits: Illinois doesn't require a moving permit, but always confirm local parking rules before move day.
Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Set an official move date so mail forwarding works smoothly. Start here.
Moving insurance: Standard Released Value Protection (60 cents per pound) is included free—but it's minimal. For full-value coverage matching your items' actual worth, ask your mover about additional insurance or use a third-party provider.
Moving checklist: Use a moving checklist to stay organized and ensure nothing gets forgotten.
Things to Do in Illinois
Once you land, there's 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
State 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
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a move from Virginia Beach to Illinois take?
Typically two to seven days, depending on the service level you choose. Summer moves may take longer due to higher demand. Confirm delivery timelines with your movers in advance to avoid surprise delays.
How many Virginia Beach movers offer custom crating for art or antiques?
About 15 movers in Virginia Beach offer custom crating for delicate or unusual items. If you need specialty crating, confirm capabilities with your chosen mover before booking.
What's the best way to ship a car from Virginia Beach to Illinois?
Choose a service that prioritizes vehicle care and professionalism. Look for auto transport companies with solid experience and customer reviews.
Why are people moving from Virginia Beach to Illinois?
Chicago's economic opportunity and Illinois's lower cost of living (especially outside metro areas) drive relocation. More affordable housing and reduced living expenses attract families and professionals.
Do Virginia Beach movers accept cash?
Only two movers in Virginia Beach accept cash payment. Traceable payment methods (credit card, check) are standard in the moving industry. You'll typically pay a deposit to secure your booking, with the balance due at pickup or after delivery. Confirm payment terms with your mover.
Ready to Move?
Start by comparing quotes from rated movers in Virginia Beach. Get at least three estimates—costs vary significantly, and side-by-side comparison reveals the best value.
If you want to explore long-distance moving options or moving container alternatives, both are worth considering depending on your timeline and budget.
Your move from Virginia Beach to Illinois is a major financial decision. Take time to vet your mover, understand your costs upfront, and plan the logistics. The payoff—lower living costs and a fresh start—is worth the effort.