San Francisco, CA to Missoula, MT Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from San Francisco to Missoula typically costs $2,700–$6,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 977 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
|
|
|
 rating
4.2 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
Cost to move from San Francisco to Missoula
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Missoula, MT typically costs $2,700–$6,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 977-mile move from San Francisco to Missoula, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2-3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $2,774 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 01, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from San Francisco to Missoula
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from San Francisco to Missoula might be as low as $2,200, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,600.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in San Francisco.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $700 to $2,100 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Missoula, MT to San Francisco, CA guide.
Best San Francisco to Missoula movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from San Francisco to Missoula
When it comes to handling your interstate move from San Francisco to Missoula, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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
Best overall value
How we chose the best CA→MT movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 372 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from San Francisco to Missoula
Many movers find Missoula easier on the wallet than San Francisco - roughly 47% less for singles and 33% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,011 for one person in Missoula versus $3,781 in San Francisco. For a family of four, it's $5,832 compared with $8,717.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| San Francisco | Missoula | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $3,259 | $1,542 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,475 | $2,983 |
| Average home value | $1,241,003 | $544,475 |
| Average income (per capita) | $136,689 | $59,180 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,781 | $2,011 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $8,717 | $5,832 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.4% |
| Sales tax | 8.63% | 0.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 6.75% |
- Good news! When moving to Missoula from San Francisco, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 59% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 56% cheaper in Missoula, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 57% lower in Missoula than in San Francisco.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Missoula. The cost of living for a single person is 47% less compared to San Francisco.
- Relocating to Missoula could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 33% lower than in San Francisco.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 19% lower than San Francisco, Missoula boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Missoula has no sales tax, so you’ll save money on every taxable purchase compared to San Francisco. This can be especially helpful if you make frequent or larger purchases.
- Income taxes are 49% lower in Montana than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between San Francisco and Missoula, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | San Francisco | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $229.35 | $132.00 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.91 | $59.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.91 | $4.50 |
| Loaf of bread | $5.06 | $2.91 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $125.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $99.96 | $63.33 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Francisco than in Missoula.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Francisco than in Missoula.
- Eggs cost more in San Francisco than in Missoula.
- Bread is more expensive in San Francisco than in Missoula.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in San Francisco than in Missoula.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Francisco than in Missoula.
- Gym memberships cost more in San Francisco than in Missoula.
How life is different in San Francisco vs. Missoula
| San Francisco | Missoula | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 808,988 | 77,757 |
| Transportation score | 10 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 99 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 99 | 60 |
| Crime index | 61.41 | 33.27 |
| Safety index | 38.59 | 66.73 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Missoula's population is about 90% less than San Francisco.
- Missoula's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than San Francisco's score of 10.
- Missoula is less walkable than San Francisco with a score of 45 out of 100 vs San Francisco's 99 out of 100.
- Missoula has a bike-friendliness score of 60 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as San Francisco, which has a score of 99.
- Missoula's crime rate is lower than San Francisco with a score of 33.27 compared to San Francisco's 61.41. This means that Missoula neighborhoods are safer than 33.27% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Francisco neighborhoods are safer than 61.41%.
- Missoula is considered to be safer than San Francisco with a safety index of 66.73 vs San Francisco's 38.59.
- Air quality in Missoula is Good, and in San Francisco it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your San Francisco to Missoula move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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 the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Montana moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Montana, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Missoula without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Missoula
Ready to relocate to The Garden City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Missoula.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Heart Of Missoula
- Lewis And Clark
- Farviews And Pattee
- Canyon River
- Front Lower
- Rattlesnake
Best neighborhoods for families
- Lewis And Clark
- Rose Park
- Miller Creek
- Riverfront Lower
- Rattlesnake
Things to do in Missoula
Now that you've made the move to Montana, it's the perfect time to explore Missoula. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Missoula include museums and art centers like the Fort Missoula Museum, Missoula Art Museum, Montana Natural History Center, and Museum of Mountain Flying.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, Caras Park, and Blue Mountain Recreational Area, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Montana Grizzlies (NCAA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from San Francisco to Missoula?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from San Francisco to Missoula. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in San Francisco.
When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to Missoula?
With many people choosing to move from San Francisco to Missoula in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from San Francisco to Missoula take?
Covering 977 miles, the move from San Francisco, CA to Missoula, MT typically takes two to seven days. Some San Francisco movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Missoula can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in San Francisco offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in San Francisco offer AAA member savings.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in San Francisco can handle specialty items for my move to Missoula?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In San Francisco, 70 movers can handle pianos. 63 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
