How we chose the best moving companies for your CO to MT move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 80 Colorado moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Colorado to Montana?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Colorado to Montana.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,212 – $3,977 |
$735 – $1,800 |
$541 – $1,020 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,248 – $5,724 |
$1,362 – $2,625 |
$562 – $1,127 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,689 – $8,090 |
$1,826 – $3,491 |
$689 – $1,411 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 780-mile move from CO to
MT using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Colorado to Montana
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Colorado to Montana typically costs between
$1,212 and
$3,977.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,248
and $5,724
when moving from CO to MT.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Colorado to Montana,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,689
up to $8,090.
Cost of moving containers from Colorado to Montana
If you’re relocating from Colorado to Montana,
you’ll typically spend between $735
and $1,800 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,362 up to
$2,625.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,826 and
$3,491. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Colorado.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Colorado to Montana
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$541 and
$1,020.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$562 to
$1,127.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $689 and
$1,411.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CO to MT
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Colorado to Montana. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Colorado, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from CO to MT
Transitioning from Colorado to Montana gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Colorado vs. Montana
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Colorado and Montana are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Colorado |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$1,594 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$541,072 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$87,598 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
91 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.1% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
7.81% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
5.49% |
6.75% |
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Rent is about 39% less expensive in Montana than in Colorado, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Montana are about 14% lower than in Colorado, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Montana are roughly 24% lower than in Colorado.
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Moving to Montana means you’ll be spending 10% more than you did in Colorado. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 20% lower than Colorado, Montana offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Colorado.
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Income taxes are 23% higher in Montana compared to Colorado. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in Montana vs. Colorado
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Montana and Colorado compare.
|
Montana |
Colorado |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
5,877,610 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Democrat 54-46 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
13ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
16″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
63″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
36.4 |
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With a population roughly 81% smaller than Colorado, Montana gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
-
In the last presidential election, Montana leaned Republican, while Colorado supported Democrat.
-
The average summer high in Montana is 84°F, while Colorado averages 86°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
-
During the coldest months, Montana averages 12°F while Colorado sees lows of 13°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
-
In Montana, you’ll experience about 15 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 16 inches you’re used to in Colorado.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
-
In Montana, it only snows about 49 inches annually while Colorado gets 63 inches.
Moving to Montana, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
-
Montana boasts a lower crime rate than Colorado, with a crime index of 23.37 compared to 36.4.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Colorado vs. Montana
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Montana to Colorado:
| Pros of living in Colorado |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Awesome snow recreational activities |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Quality healthcare |
Ample economic opportunity |
| High quality of life |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| Beautiful outdoors |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Colorado vs. Montana
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Colorado to Montana:
| Cons of living in Colorado |
Cons of living in Montana |
| Extreme weather |
Dangerous wildlife |
| High cost of living |
Remote lifestyle |
| Altitude sickness |
Touristy |
| Overcrowding |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| Bad traffic |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Colorado to Montana move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
State licensing:
In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Montana moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Montana, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Montana. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Montana
Get excited to explore Montana. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Colorado to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Colorado to Montana?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Colorado to
Montana
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Colorado to Montana?
Many people are making the move from Colorado to Montana to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Montana has to offer, like unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in Colorado or Montana?
Living in Colorado usually costs less than in Montana.
Housing
is much more affordable in Montana,
with average rent about 39% less and home prices 14% lower than in Colorado.
However, taxes are
lower in Colorado, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Montana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
Planning to move to Montana? A single adult should aim for an income of around $62,210 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,225 for an individual, or $5,468 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Billings and Missoula usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Colorado?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Colorado:
1 movers offer AAA member savings;
1 provide military discounts;
2 have senior-discount programs;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Colorado to Montana, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,248 to
$5,724, roughly
$1,993 for a container move, and close to
$844
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
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