What Changes When You Move From Illinois to the South

Moving from Illinois to the South is one of the biggest lifestyle shifts you can make. Thousands of Illinois residents relocate south every year — trading cold winters, high taxes, and urban density for warmer weather, lower costs, hospitality, and a slower pace. This comprehensive guide explores the key changes in weather, cost of living, taxes, culture, food, and daily life — based on our decade of experience helping Illinois families move to Southern states.

What changes when moving from Illinois to the South - lifestyle cost culture shift

Weather & Climate Changes

The most dramatic difference is weather:

Illinois: Four distinct seasons, harsh winters (22°F average), humid summers, 38 inches snow
The South: Mild winters (50–70°F), hot humid summers, little to no snow
Hurricanes possible in coastal areas (Florida, Carolinas, Texas Gulf)
More sunshine — 200–300+ sunny days vs Illinois’ 189

No more shoveling snow, but prepare for humidity and hurricane season planning.

Cost of Living & Tax Changes

Category	Illinois	Southern States Average	Change
State Income Tax	4.95% flat	0%–7% (many 0%)	Big savings in FL, TX, TN
Property Tax Rate	2.23% (2nd highest)	0.5%–1.2%	Much lower
Median Home Price	$295,000	$320,000–$450,000	Varies by state
Sales Tax	6.25% + local	4%–9%	Mixed
Overall Cost Index	94.5	85–105	Generally lower

        Biggest Win: States like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee have 0% state income tax — a huge savings for retirees and high earners.
    

Culture & Daily Life Changes

The South has its own unique rhythm:

Hospitality: “Southern hospitality” is real — friendlier, slower pace
Food: BBQ, sweet tea, biscuits, seafood vs Chicago deep-dish and hot dogs
Community: Stronger neighborhood and church ties
Driving: More car-dependent, larger highways
Sports: College football passion dominates

Many Illinois movers report feeling welcomed immediately.

Popular Southern States for Illinois Movers

Florida

No income tax, beaches, retirement heaven

Texas

No income tax, jobs, space, BBQ

North Carolina

Mountains, research triangle, mild climate

South Carolina

Coast, history, lower cost

Georgia

Atlanta growth, peaches, diversity

Tennessee

No income tax, music, mountains

Moving Process Changes to the South

Southern routes are among our busiest. Key differences:

Routes: I-57 → I-75 or I-55 → I-40
Climate-controlled trucks essential for humidity
Winter moves popular to escape snow
Many snowbird seasonal moves

Why Illinois Movers Inc. Is Trusted for Southern Routes

We run southern corridors weekly and have helped thousands relocate from Illinois to the South. Direct service, climate protection, and expert crews make the transition seamless.

Licensed USDOT #2628513 | MC #914433 | CMA Certified Trusted Mover | 4.8★ rating.

Frequently Asked Questions – Moving Illinois to the South

Which Southern state has no income tax?

Florida, Texas, Tennessee.

Will I miss Chicago winters?

Most say no — mild Southern winters are a huge plus.

How does humidity compare?

South is more humid in summer; prepare AC and dehumidifiers.

Is the cost of living really lower?

Yes — especially taxes and housing in many areas.

Best time to move south?

October–April for lower rates and weather.

Do you move to all Southern states?

Yes — full coverage across the South.