Illinois to Florida at a glance
| From Chicago to… | Approx. driving distance | Approx. drive time |
|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville | about 1,060 miles | 15–16 hours |
| Orlando | about 1,150 miles | 17–18 hours |
| Tampa | about 1,160 miles | 17–18 hours |
| Sarasota | about 1,220 miles | 18–19 hours |
| Naples / Fort Myers | about 1,300–1,330 miles | 19–20 hours |
| Miami | about 1,380 miles | 20–21 hours |
Most of the drive follows I-65 and I-75 south through Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia. From Springfield, Peoria or the Quad Cities, add or subtract a couple of hours.
Where Illinois movers are heading in Florida
Southwest Florida: Naples, Fort Myers and Cape Coral
A long-time favorite of Midwest retirees and snowbirds, with Gulf beaches, golf communities and canal homes. Many communities are HOAs with move rules, and many homes sit in flood zones, so look at flood insurance early.
Tampa Bay and Sarasota
Big-city amenities on the Gulf, popular with families and remote workers.
Orlando and Central Florida
Newer suburbs, strong job growth and easy access to both coasts.
Miami and South Florida
For Chicagoans who want to keep the big-city high-rise lifestyle, just warmer. Expect condo elevator rules and certificate-of-insurance requirements.
Chicago and suburban moving logistics
- Truck parking: on many city streets you'll need reserved parking for the truck, often with temporary no-parking signs arranged through the city. Start this a few weeks ahead.
- High-rises: reserve the freight elevator, and get your building's certificate-of-insurance wording to your mover early.
- Basements and garages: suburban Chicagoland homes often have full basements, which is where moving weight hides. Walk through and declutter before you get quotes.
- Winter weather: snow and ice slow loading. Clear walkways and driveways, and protect floors from slush.
Leave the winter gear behind
Snow blowers, shovels, heavy coats, winter tires and salt spreaders add weight and won't get much use in Florida. Sell or donate them before moving day, and you'll pay less to ship what you'll actually use. Keep one jacket for the occasional cool Florida morning.
What affects the cost of an Illinois to Florida move
- Shipment size: priced by weight or volume, so decluttering saves the most.
- Destination: Jacksonville is about 300 miles closer than Miami.
- Season: fall and winter snowbird demand into Florida can tighten availability.
- Packing and extras: full packing, storage and car shipping are priced separately.
See our Florida moving cost guide for rough ranges by home size.
Becoming a Florida resident
- Get a Florida driver license, generally within 30 days of becoming a resident.
- Title and register your vehicle in Florida, generally within 10 days of establishing residency.
- Apply for Florida's homestead exemption with your county property appraiser by March 1 if you buy a primary home.
- Florida has no state personal income tax. Ask a tax professional about your final Illinois part-year return.
- Moving between June and November? Read our hurricane-season checklist.
Get your Illinois to Florida quote
For the most accurate price, show us what's moving: book a free video walk-through, fill out our inventory form, or request a quote online in under a minute.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to move from Chicago to Florida?
Most routes are 1,050 to 1,400 miles, or roughly 16 to 21 hours of driving. Household shipments commonly arrive within a few days to about two weeks after pickup, depending on whether you book a dedicated truck or a shared load.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Florida?
Price depends on shipment size, distance, dates and services. As a rough guide, many 2–3 bedroom moves from Chicagoland to Florida fall in the mid four figures to low five figures. An inventory-based quote gives you an accurate number.
Is it a good idea to move from Chicago to Florida in winter?
It can be. Winter is a slower season for many Midwest movers, but snow and ice can delay loading, and southbound snowbird demand into Florida is high from October through April. Book early and keep a backup date.
Do I need a permit for a moving truck in Chicago?
Many Chicago streets require reserved parking for a moving truck, often arranged with temporary no-parking signs through the city, and many buildings require a certificate of insurance and elevator reservation. Check city and building rules several weeks ahead.
Will I save on taxes moving from Illinois to Florida?
Florida has no state personal income tax, while Illinois has a flat state income tax. Property taxes and insurance also differ, so talk to a tax professional about your final Illinois part-year return.
Get Your Free Moving Quote
Three easy ways, with no obligation: request a quote online, send us your inventory, or book a free video walk-through.