How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to MN move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 84 Michigan moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Minnesota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Minnesota.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,198 – $3,677 |
$652 – $1,657 |
$461 – $860 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,232 – $5,502 |
$1,226 – $2,433 |
$478 – $1,001 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,661 – $7,909 |
$1,621 – $3,084 |
$615 – $1,209 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 602-mile move from MI to
MN using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Minnesota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Minnesota,
you can expect prices to land between $1,198
and $3,677.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,232 to
$5,502 for the trip from MI
to MN. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,661 and
$7,909.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Minnesota
Moving containers from Michigan to Minnesota
will cost you $652 to
$1,657 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,226
to $2,433. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,621 to
$3,084.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Minnesota
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$461
and $860
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $478
to $1,001.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$615
to $1,209.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to MN
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to Minnesota. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Michigan generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from MI to MN
Making the move from Michigan to Minnesota means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Minnesota
A clear look at the cost differences between Michigan and Minnesota helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Michigan |
Minnesota |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,178 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$334,119 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$84,313 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
8.03% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
9.85% |
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Rent in Minnesota is about 14% higher than in Michigan. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Minnesota are usually around 36% higher than what you’ll find in Michigan.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 23% higher in Minnesota than in Michigan, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Since living costs in Minnesota and Michigan are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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With an unemployment rate around 28% lower than Michigan, Minnesota offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales taxes are 34% higher in Minnesota than in Michigan, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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State income taxes in Minnesota are 132% higher than in Michigan, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Minnesota vs. Michigan
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Minnesota and Michigan compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Minnesota |
Michigan |
| Population |
5,737,915 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.1-46.9 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
2ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
29″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
22.47 |
19.98 |
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The population of Minnesota is about 43% smaller than that of Michigan.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
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In the latest presidential election, Minnesota voted Democratic, while Michigan chose Republican.
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Summer highs average 81°F in Minnesota, compared to 81°F in Michigan.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, Minnesota reaches lows near 2°F, colder than 14°F in Michigan.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
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You can expect about 29 inches of annual rainfall in Minnesota and 34 inches in Michigan.
Your overall experience with precipitation is unlikely to change much, but how that rain shows up throughout the year can still impact your daily life.
-
In Minnesota, you’ll get about 47 inches of snow each year, far less than Michigan.
That means moving to Minnesota will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
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Minnesota has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with crime indexes at 22.47 and 19.98, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Minnesota
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Minnesota compared to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Minnesota |
| Scenic beauty |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Good higher education |
Bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Multitudinous lakes |
| Low cost of living |
Diverse festivals |
| Beautiful lakes |
Friendly people |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Minnesota
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Michigan to Minnesota:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Minnesota |
| Cold snowy winters |
Bland food |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Cold snowy winters |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Terrible traffic |
| Expensive education |
High tax burden |
| Thick accents |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Minnesota move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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State licensing:
To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Minnesota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Minnesota, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Minnesota right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Minnesota
You’ll have plenty to explore in Minnesota! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Minnesota
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Science Museum of Minnesota
- Mill City Museum
- Minnesota History Center
- Paisley Park
Parks in Minnesota
- Minnehaha Park
- Teddy Bear Park
- Enger Park and Tower
- Canal Park
- Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
Sports teams in Minnesota
- Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
- Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
- Minnesota Twins (MLB)
- Minnesota United FC (MLS)
- Minnesota Vikings (NFL)
Universities in Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Carleton College
- Rasmussen College
- University of St. Thomas
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Minnesota?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Minnesota?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Minnesota?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Michigan for Minnesota, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Minnesota?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Minnesota.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 12% less and home prices 26% lower than in Minnesota.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Minnesota residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Minnesota?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Minnesota, you should aim to make around $73,783.
On average, expect to spend about $3,552 per month, or $5,174 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Many movers in Michigan publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
6 offer military-specific savings;
7 extend deals for seniors;
1 provide student pricing;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Michigan to Minnesota, budget between $2,232–$5,502 for full-service movers, around
$1,829 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$739
for a rental truck.
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