Lansing, MI to Arlington, VA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Lansing to Arlington typically costs $2,600–$6,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 589 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Lansing to Arlington
Moving from Lansing, MI to Arlington, VA typically costs $2,600–$6,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 589-mile move from Lansing to Arlington, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $3,747 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $3,355 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $5,341 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Lansing to Arlington move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,600 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,200 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Lansing.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $500 to $1,300, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Arlington, VA to Lansing, MI guide.
Best Lansing to Arlington movers by type
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Best professional movers from Lansing to Arlington
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Lansing to Arlington much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
How we chose the best MI→VA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 84 Michigan movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- 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.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Lansing to Arlington
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Arlington runs about 331% higher for singles and 185% higher for families than Lansing.
Singles spend around $6,867 in Arlington versus $1,595 in Lansing; families pay $11,970 compared with $4,199.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Lansing | Arlington | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $901 | $2,475 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,775 | $4,350 |
| Average home value | $148,542 | $810,670 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,729 | $128,145 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,595 | $6,867 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,199 | $11,970 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.4% | 4.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 5.75% |
- Planning a move to Arlington? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 141% higher than in Lansing, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Arlington are about 446% higher than those in Lansing.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 98% higher in Arlington compared to Lansing, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Arlington, as living costs for a single person are 331% higher than in Lansing. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you're moving your family to Arlington, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Arlington is 185% higher than in Lansing.
- The unemployment rate in Arlington is about 46% lower than in Lansing. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Arlington and Lansing (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Income taxes in Virginia are 35% above those in Michigan. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Lansing and Arlington:
| Living Expense | Lansing | Arlington |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $172.97 | $208.70 |
| Cell phone plan | $46.00 | $59.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.52 | $4.26 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.91 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $24.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $68.50 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $31.67 | $77.25 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Lansing than in Arlington, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Lansing than in Arlington.
- Eggs are less expensive in Lansing than in Arlington.
- Bread costs less in Lansing than in Arlington.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Lansing than in Arlington.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Lansing than in Arlington.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Lansing than in Arlington.
How life is different in Lansing vs. Arlington
| Lansing | Arlington | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 112,644 | 238,643 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 46 | 71 |
| Bike friendliness score | 55 | 72 |
| Crime index | 48.66 | 15.67 |
| Safety index | 51.34 | 79.15 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Arlington's population is about 112% greater than Lansing.
- Arlington's public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Lansing's score of 5.
- Arlington is more walkable than Lansing with a score of 71 out of 100 vs Lansing's 46 out of 100.
- With a score of 72 out of 100, Arlington is more bike-friendly than Lansing, which has a score of 55 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Arlington's crime rate is lower than Lansing with a score of 15.67 compared to Lansing's 48.66. This means that Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lansing neighborhoods are safer than 48.66%.
- Arlington is considered to be safer than Lansing with a safety index of 79.15 vs Lansing's 51.34.
- Air quality in Arlington is Good, and in Lansing it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Lansing to Arlington move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Virginia’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Arlington. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Arlington
Planning your move to ? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Arlington.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Aurora Highlands
- Ballston-Virginia Square
- Bluemont
- Clarendon-Courthouse
- Radnor-Ft Myer Heights
Best neighborhoods for families
- Arlington Ridge
- Barcroft
- Chain Bridge Forest
- Cherrydale
- Dominion Hills
- Forest Glen
- Lyon Village
- Penrose
- Westover Village
Things to do in Arlington
After settling into your new Virginia home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Arlington has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Arlington features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the JW Tumbles, Ball-Sellers House Museum, David M. Brown Planetarium, and Arlington Historical Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Gravelly Point Park, Long Bridge Park, Bon Air Park, and Upton Hill Regional Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Arlington Youth Football Club game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Lansing to Arlington?
Planning your move from Lansing to Arlington? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Lansing.
When is the cheapest time to move from Lansing to Arlington?
Because most people are moving from Lansing to Arlington in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Lansing to Arlington take?
The 589-mile journey from Lansing, MI to Arlington, VA, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Lansing offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Arlington.
Are there special savings available from movers in Lansing?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Lansing?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Lansing, 7 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Michigan has 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.