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Moving from Illinois to Mississippi
Mississippi's median home value of $169,800 sits well below Illinois's $280,700, and the state's income tax rate of 4.00% undercuts Illinois's flat 4.95% rate - a combination that makes this 738-mile southbound move financially compelling, especially for retirees drawn to milder winters and 223 annual sunshine days. Full-service moves on this corridor start at $2,760 for a studio or one-bedroom and reach $6,612 for four-plus-bedroom homes. Star Van Lines is a USDOT-licensed interstate carrier (USDOT #4176875, MC #1607491), moving households from Chicago, Peoria, and Rockford to Jackson, Gulfport-Biloxi, and Hattiesburg. Call us at (855) 822-2722 to get started.
| Move size | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $2,760 |
| 2-3 Bedrooms | $4,428 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $6,612 |
| Average cost |
|---|
| $2,760 |
| $4,428 |
| $6,612 |
What's Included in Your Move
Furniture Disassembly & Reassembly
Our team carefully disassembles large furniture for safe transport and reassembles it at your new home.
Professional Packing Materials
We provide shrink wrap, bubble wrap, furniture blankets, and protective padding - packing materials excluding boxes are included in your quote.
Furniture Protection
Every piece of furniture is wrapped in blankets and shrink wrap to prevent scratches, dents, and damage during transit.
Secure Loading & Transport
Items are loaded by trained movers into clean, climate-appropriate trucks with securing mechanisms to prevent shifting.
Room-by-Room Placement
At your destination, we place each item in the room you designate - no pile of boxes in the hallway.
Post-Move Cleanup
We remove all packing debris and leftover materials, leaving your new home clean and move-in ready.
Living in Mississippi vs Illinois: the numbers
Beyond the logistics, this move shifts your tax jurisdiction, cost of living, climate, and daily routine in meaningful ways. Mississippi's income tax rate, housing costs, and sunshine days all differ from Illinois's - the comparison tables on this page break down housing, taxes, weather, and demographics so you can plan realistically.
Cost of Living
| Benefits | Illinois | Mississippi |
|---|---|---|
Median home value | Median home value$280,700 | Median home value$169,800 |
Median monthly rent | Median monthly rent$1,322 | Median monthly rent$954 |
Median household income | Median household income$83,211 | Median household income$56,447 |
State income tax | State income taxflat 4.95% | State income tax4.00% |
Average sales tax | Average sales tax8.96% | Average sales tax7.1% |
Cost of living index (US=100) | Cost of living index (US=100)98.9 | Cost of living index (US=100)87.0 |
Climate
| Benefits | Illinois | Mississippi |
|---|---|---|
Average summer high | Average summer high85 F | Average summer high92 F |
Average winter low | Average winter low15 F | Average winter low37 F |
Annual rainfall | Annual rainfall40 in | Annual rainfall59 in |
Annual snowfall | Annual snowfall22 in | Annual snowfall1 in |
Days of sunshine | Days of sunshine198 | Days of sunshine223 |
Population & Demographics
| Benefits | Illinois | Mississippi |
|---|---|---|
Population | Population12,710,158 | Population2,954,160 |
Population density | Population density229.2/sq mi | Population density63.1/sq mi |
Median age | Median age39.4 | Median age38.3 |
Major metros | Major metrosChicago-Naperville-Elgin, St. Louis (IL side), Peoria, Rockford | Major metrosJackson, Gulfport-Biloxi, Hattiesburg |
Sources: compiled from public records (US Census, Tax Foundation, BEA, NOAA, and state agencies). Figures are current estimates; confirm specifics with official sources before relying on them.
Mississippi's median home value of $169,800 compares to Illinois's $280,700, and the income tax rate drops from Illinois's flat 4.95% to Mississippi's 4.00% - a combination that reshapes the long-term household budget. Median rent also shifts, from $1,322 in Illinois to $954 in Mississippi, which matters whether you rent before buying or stay a renter long-term.
Illinois summers peak around 85F with cold winters that regularly dip to 15F and bring roughly 22 inches of snow, while Mississippi summers push to 92F with winters that rarely fall below 37F and average just 1 inch of snow. The tradeoff is higher annual rainfall - 59 inches in Mississippi versus 40 in Illinois - and elevated humidity along the Gulf Coast, along with seasonal risks including hurricanes on the coast, tornadoes, and flooding.
Illinois carries a population of roughly 12.7 million spread across a density of 229.2 people per square mile, anchored by major metros including Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, while Mississippi's 2.95 million residents settle at a far lower density of 63.1 per square mile across metros like Jackson, Gulfport-Biloxi, and Hattiesburg. The median age is close - 39.4 in Illinois versus 38.3 in Mississippi - but the scale and pace of daily life shift considerably between the two states.

Dennis has 15+ years of experience in interstate moving and has coordinated over 1,000 relocations across the United States.
First week in Mississippi: what to do after you arrive
After moving from Illinois to Mississippi, several tasks carry state-specific deadlines. Mississippi requires new residents to transfer their driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency, and vehicle registration must be completed within 30 days. Mississippi has no mandatory safety or emissions inspection. Here is a prioritized checklist to keep you on track.
- Update your driver's license
Mississippi requires new residents to apply at the Mississippi DPS within 60 days. Bring proof of residency and your out-of-state license. See driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov.
- Register your vehicle
within 30 days at the Mississippi DPS.
- Transfer your auto insurance
contact your insurer to re-rate your policy for Mississippi. Minimum coverage requirements may differ.
- Register to vote
Mississippi offers voter registration: DPS, mail, in-person (NO online).
- Update homeowner's or renter's insurance
Mississippi's regional risks - Hurricanes (coast), tornadoes, flooding - may change your coverage needs.
- Forward your mail
USPS Change of Address (free online at usps.com).
- Transfer medical records
contact current providers before your move and find a new primary care physician in Mississippi.
- Update school records
if you have children, request transcripts from the previous school district and check Mississippi enrollment requirements for transfer students.
Why Star Van Lines for interstate moves
Star Van Lines has been a licensed interstate carrier since 2016, operating under USDOT #4176875 and MC #1607491. We handle full-service relocations between all 50 states, including the Illinois-to-Mississippi corridor, with transparent pricing, a single move coordinator, and our own trained crews - not brokered subcontractors.
Licensed and insured interstate carrier
You can verify Star Van Lines on the FMCSA SAFER website at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov by searching USDOT #4176875. Federal compliance means proper cargo liability coverage, weight documentation, and valuation options on every interstate shipment. That public record is the baseline check any household should run before handing belongings to an interstate mover - and it takes under a minute to confirm we are fully authorized to operate on the Illinois-to-Mississippi corridor.
Verify our operating authority on the FMCSA SAFER website: safer.fmcsa.dot.gov (USDOT #4176875, MC #1607491).
Single coordinator, single crew
One coordinator manages your move from the initial quote through final delivery - a single point of contact for scheduling, access logistics, and any questions along the way. Our own trained crews handle the work; we do not broker your shipment to a third-party carrier. That means consistent accountability across the entire Illinois-to-Mississippi move, whether your origin is Chicago, Peoria, or Rockford and your destination is Jackson, Gulfport, or Hattiesburg.
Real pricing, written in advance
Every estimate we provide is itemized and delivered in writing before you book. Binding and not-to-exceed options are both available, so you know your cost ceiling going in. Shuttle fees, long-carry charges, stair fees, and elevator time are disclosed upfront - there is no surprise invoice waiting at delivery. For this corridor, pricing runs from $2,760 for a studio or one-bedroom up to $6,612 for a four-bedroom home or larger, based on the 738-mile distance.
Trusted by 240+ reviewers
Star Van Lines has earned 240+ reviews across Trustpilot, Google, and Facebook, averaging 4.0 on Trustpilot, 4.5 on Google, and 4.75 on Facebook. Those ratings reflect households across many interstate corridors who chose a licensed carrier with written pricing and a single coordinator. We let the aggregate numbers speak rather than cherry-picking individual comments - you can read them in full on each platform before you decide.
How Your Illinois to Mississippi Move Works
Free Quote & Consultation
Call us at (855) 822-2722 or fill out our online form. We will assess your inventory and provide a transparent, no-obligation estimate for your Illinois to Mississippi move.
Custom Moving Plan
Your dedicated coordinator creates a tailored plan based on your timeline, budget, and specific requirements. Every detail is documented - no surprises on moving day.
Professional Packing & Loading
Our trained crew arrives on schedule, carefully packing and loading your belongings using professional materials and techniques to ensure safe transport.
Secure Interstate Transport
Your items travel in a clean, secure truck from Illinois to Mississippi across 738 miles. You receive updates throughout the journey and can reach us anytime.
Delivery & Setup
We unload and place every item room by room in your new home. Furniture is reassembled, packing materials are removed, and a walkthrough ensures your complete satisfaction.
FAQ
Questions? Look here
Canโt find an answer? Call us
(855) 822-2722 or email
A full-service move from Illinois to Mississippi typically costs between $2,760 and $6,612, depending on home size, shipment weight, and time of year. Studio and one-bedroom moves start at $2,760, two-to-three-bedroom homes run around $4,428, and four-plus-bedroom households reach $6,612 on this 738-mile corridor. Factors like packing services, specialty items, and seasonal demand can also affect your final price. Call (855) 822-2722 to get an itemized estimate based on your specific inventory.
Transit time on this 738-mile corridor depends on carrier availability, the size of your shipment, and the delivery window you select at booking. Your move coordinator will confirm a scheduled delivery window once your inventory and pickup date are established. For questions about timing and scheduling options, call (855) 822-2722 or request a quote online and a coordinator will walk you through the process.
Mississippi requires new residents to obtain a Mississippi driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to visit the Mississippi DPS (driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov) with your current out-of-state license and proof of residency to complete the transfer. Vehicle registration must be completed within 30 days of establishing residency, so it is worth handling both tasks in close succession after your move.
Common additional charges on interstate moves include shuttle fees when a full-size truck cannot access your street, long-carry charges when the distance from the truck to your door exceeds 75 feet, stair fees for multi-floor homes without elevator access, and elevator waiting-time fees at high-rise buildings. These charges are not hidden when you work with a reputable mover - all applicable fees are disclosed in your written estimate before you confirm the booking. Reviewing your estimate line by line before signing is the best way to avoid surprises on moving day.
A binding estimate locks your total cost based on the agreed inventory list, meaning you pay that exact amount even if the actual shipment weight turns out to be different. A not-to-exceed estimate caps your price at the quoted amount but allows the final charge to come in lower if your shipment weighs less than projected. Both binding and not-to-exceed options are available through Star Van Lines, and your coordinator will explain which structure fits your move best. Ask about both when you request your quote so you can compare them side by side.
Federal law requires interstate movers to offer two levels of valuation coverage on every shipment. Released Value Protection is included at no additional charge and covers items at $0.60 per pound per article, while Full Value Protection is a paid upgrade that holds the mover responsible for the repair or replacement value of any lost or damaged item. Star Van Lines is fully insured and operates under USDOT #4176875, so you can verify our coverage status before your move. Ask your coordinator to explain both options in detail so you can choose the level of protection that fits your needs.
Search USDOT number 4176875 on the FMCSA SAFER website at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov to confirm our operating authority, insurance status, and safety record. The database will also display our MC number 1607491, which confirms we hold active motor carrier authority to transport household goods across state lines. Any legitimate interstate mover should be able to provide a verifiable USDOT number and MC number before you sign anything. If a mover cannot supply both, that is a strong warning sign to look elsewhere.
Peak moving demand runs from May through September, when warmer weather and school-year transitions drive the highest volume of relocations on this corridor. The lower-demand window runs from October through April, when carrier availability tends to be better and scheduling is more flexible. Spring and fall are particularly favorable for this Illinois-to-Mississippi corridor because Mississippi weather is milder and humidity is lower during those months, making the move more comfortable on both ends. Booking 6 to 8 weeks ahead of your target date is advisable regardless of the season.
Illinois imposes a flat income tax rate of 4.95%, while Mississippi's income tax rate is 4.00%, which represents a meaningful reduction for most earners. Mississippi also offers retirement-friendly treatment of Social Security benefits and many pension types, which can be a significant advantage for retirees making this move. For the year you relocate, you will likely need to file partial-year returns in both Illinois and Mississippi, so consulting a tax professional about your specific situation is strongly recommended. Property taxes vary significantly by county within Mississippi, so research your destination county before finalizing your budget.
Mississippi requires new residents to register their vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency in the state. You will need your current title, proof of insurance that meets Mississippi requirements, and proof of residency to complete the registration. Mississippi does not require a safety inspection or emissions test for registration, which simplifies the process compared to many other states. Visit the Mississippi DPS at driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov for the complete list of required documents and county tax assessor office locations where registration is processed.
Star Van Lines can hold your shipment in storage at one of our 43 warehouse locations nationwide if your closing date or lease start date does not align with your delivery window. Storage-in-transit is a common solution on interstate moves where timing between the origin and destination does not line up perfectly. Your move coordinator will build flexibility into the delivery window when you discuss your timeline at booking, so there is no need to rush into a situation where your home is not ready. Reach out early so your coordinator has enough lead time to arrange the right storage option for your situation.
Moving Services for Your Illinois to Mississippi Relocation
Long Distance Moving
Full-service interstate moving with professional packing, secure transport, and room-by-room delivery. Licensed and insured for moves across all 50 states.
Learn More โPacking & Unpacking
Professional packing using 15 types of materials. We handle everything from fragile glassware to heavy furniture, with a 100% safety guarantee when we pack.
Learn More โStorage Solutions
Climate-controlled, 24/7 monitored warehouse storage on individual pallets. Flexible short-term and long-term options with barcoding for every item.
Learn More โSpecial Item Moving
Expert handling of pianos, pool tables, safes, hot tubs, and other heavy or fragile items. Custom crating and specialized equipment available.
Learn More โReady to Start Your Illinois to Mississippi Move?
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USDOT #4176875 | MC #1607491 | Licensed & Insured
