If the Prairie State is calling to you, it might be time to start exploring the differences between Texas and Illinois. Known for its major city of Chicago (And the two baseball teams that call the city home), Illinois has a lot to offer Texans. To prepare for a successful move, check out these 10 aspects of moving from Texas to Illinois.
Moving Cost From Texas to Illinois
Moving from Texas to Illinois can be an exciting time, but blowing your moving budget will not be. That is why Ward North American provides you with a dependable, accurate, and comprehensive moving quote. Examine the average cost of moving with us, and then contact us for a free quote tailored to your specific needs. We are excited to provide you with professional-grade moving services for a stress-free move!
Moving Estimates
| FROM | TO | Studio Apartment | 1 Large Bedroom | 2 Bedrooms | 3 Bedrooms | 4 Bedrooms |
| TO | IL | $1,590-$1,710 | $1,720-$2,988 | $1,920-$3,450 | $2,650-$4,100 | $3,455-$5,950 |
Chicago
With a population of more than 2,700,000, Chicago is the biggest city in Illinois and the third-largest in the entire nation. This bustling urban center boasts a relatively high rate of diversity. Just about half of all its residents are white, with about 30 percent of residents reporting an African-American heritage and 18 percent reporting a Hispanic ethnicity.
These demographics make Chicago both larger and more diverse than even Texas’ biggest cities. Dallas and Austin, for example, have populations that are predominantly white. While the weather in Chicago is colder than Texas (See “Weather” below), it still offers an exciting and welcoming place for you to enjoy Illinois life.
Driver’s License Transfer
Illinois gives you a generous 90 days to turn your Texas driver’s license into an Illinois license, and charges a low fee to do so. However, the process to get your new Illinois license is a bit more complex than the process in other states. You will need to follow these steps:
- Visit a Secretary of State location near you.
- Bring the appropriate documentation, including your out-of-state license, identification, and fee.
- Take an eye exam.
- Take a written exam.
- Possibly undergo a driving test.
- Surrender your out-of-state license.
Since you will need to take a written exam, you may want to read the Illinois Driver Manual and/or take online practice exams to make sure you are familiar with Illinois road rules.
Gun Law Reciprocity
Some states have reciprocity agreements, meaning that they will honor the concealed carry permits of other states. Unfortunately, Illinois does not have any such agreement with any other state, including Texas. In addition, they require residents to have a concealed carry permit when carrying a gun in the state.
As a result, if you are moving to Chicago from Texas, you should plan to apply for a concealed carry permit from the state for any weapons you possess. This means you may have to complete the following tasks:
- 16 hours of training from an Illinois State Police approved instructor.
- Provide a copy of your Texas concealed carry permit.
- A photo
- A notarized affidavit regarding your eligibility and knowledge of applicable laws
- Other relevant documents as required
Progressive Politics
Texas is known for its staunchly conservative stance on most political issues. Moving from Texas to Illinois will, however, land you in a place that is much more liberal than the Lone Star State.
As a whole, Illinois is widely considered to be one of the most liberal states in the nation, with political leanings similar to Democratic strongholds such as New York and California. Chicago in particular tends to be strongly progressive in its politics. Prepare for a difference in election outcomes, laws, and perspectives on a wide array of political issues.
Higher Taxes
Illinois’ overall tax burden of 9.7 percent places it 10th in the nation overall. Texas, on the other hand, ranks 32nd with an overall tax burden of 8.22 percent. This means that you will pay significantly more in taxes as a resident of Illinois than as a resident of Texas.
If you choose to move to Chicago, you may face even higher taxes. The city has a total sales tax rate of 10.25 percent. Budget wisely when planning your move.
Exciting Sports
Texas sports are legendary. College teams, professional teams, baseball, football, and more all earn the devotion and loyalty of their fans. You may not find that same loyalty and passion everywhere in Illinois, but you will find some legendary sports teams in the heart of Chicago.
Chicago is home to two Major League Baseball teams: The Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Cubs. Both teams have a strong history of loyalty and excitement surrounding them, and Wrigley Field has a historic fame and ambiance that make it an incredible place to enjoy some sports.
Chicago is also home to professional basketball, football, soccer, and hockey teams, so if you live anywhere near this famous Illinois city, plan to check out the exciting sports culture that resides within.
Strong Educational Opportunities
Texas has solid educational opportunities to offer students of any age, from kindergarten through graduate school. Consider, for example, the reputations of schools such as Texas A&M University, the University of Texas, Baylor University, and Highland Park ISD.
However, Illinois also has some rich educational opportunities to offer. Its public school system is highly-rated and currently sits at 15th in the nation for quality. You can also get an incredible education at schools such as the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and Principia College.
Job Availability
The availability of jobs and the strength of the economy depends upon where you choose to live in Illinois. However, in many areas of the state, you can expect to find economic growth that generates well-paying jobs. Some of the biggest industries in the state include the following:
- Finances
- Real Estate
- Insurance
- Rentals and Leases
- Manufacturing
Choose the right location, and you can easily find a job that supports your Illinois life and positions you to enjoy financial stability throughout your time in the state.
Cost of Living
One of the advantages of moving from Texas to Illinois is that your cost of living will probably not change very much. Known for a low cost of living, Texas will cost you 6.1 percent less than the national average for essentials such as housing and healthcare. Illinois will cost you 6.6 percent less. The only thing you may need to pay more than the national average for in Illinois is transportation, which is about 6 percent higher than the national average.
Of course, these numbers can change based on where in Illinois you move. Chicago tends to cost more than rural areas of the state, and housing may cost you slightly more than the national average there. With some smart research, however, you can find a place in Illinois that suits your budget and leaves room left over for the extras you enjoy in your life.
Weather
One of the biggest differences you can expect to find when moving to Chicago from Texas is the weather. From the mild winters and hot summers of Texas, you will be moving to a climate that is characterized by long, cold winters and warm but not hot summers. You can also expect an abundance of snow in almost any part of the state. Chicago receives, on average, more than 38 inches of snow a year, while the southern part of Illinois averages less than 14 inches per year.
Illinois, and Chicago, have lots to offer in terms of lifestyle, fun, jobs, and education. If you are planning to move from Texas to Illinois, choose the movers who have a lot to offer in the way of reliability and excellence. Contact Ward North American today to get started!
