How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to VA move
After studying pricing from 84 Michigan movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Virginia?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Virginia.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,141 – $4,258 |
$764 – $1,729 |
$531 – $950 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,221 – $5,892 |
$1,348 – $2,677 |
$556 – $1,234 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,998 – $8,008 |
$1,720 – $3,558 |
$754 – $1,396 |
*Estimated costs for a 798-mile move from MI to
VA are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Virginia
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Virginia will cost between
$1,141 and
$4,258.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MI to VA will
range from $2,221 to
$5,892, and a large move from Michigan
to Virginia will cost from $3,998
to $8,008.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Virginia
If you’re moving from Michigan to Virginia,
expect to pay between $764
and $1,729 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,348 up to
$2,677.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,720 and
$3,558. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Virginia
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$531 and
$950.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $556
and $1,234. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $754 up to
$1,396 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to VA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Michigan to Virginia. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Michigan is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from MI to VA
A relocation from Michigan to Virginia comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Virginia
Comparing expenses in Michigan and Virginia shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Michigan |
Virginia |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,440 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$392,682 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$87,249 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
5.73% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
5.75% |
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Rent in Virginia is approximately 39% higher than in Michigan, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 60% higher in Virginia than in Michigan.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 27% higher in Virginia compared to Michigan. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Moving to Virginia means you’ll be paying 9% more than you did in Michigan. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
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With an unemployment rate about 38% lower than Michigan, Virginia boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. Michigan and Virginia have similar rates, making your move easier.
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Income taxes are 35% higher in Virginia than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Virginia vs. Michigan
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Virginia stacks up against Michigan across important lifestyle factors:
|
Virginia |
Michigan |
| Population |
8,715,698 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-48 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
14″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
19.3 |
19.98 |
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With a population about 13% smaller than Michigan, Virginia offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
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In the most recent presidential election, Virginia leaned Democratic, while Michigan went with Republican.
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Virginia averages 87°F in summer compared to 81°F in Michigan.
That extra heat means more sunshine and outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
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During the coldest part of the year, Virginia bottoms out around 25°F, compared to 14°F in Michigan.
A move to Virginia with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
-
Expect about 44 inches of rain each year in Virginia, a noticeable difference from the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
In Virginia, you can expect about 14 inches of snow each year, much less than the 64 inches you’d deal with in Michigan.
So, if you’re moving to Virginia, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
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Virginia and Michigan have similar crime rates (19.3 vs. 19.98).
Even with similar state-level crime rates, the distribution of crime can vary widely, so it’s important to research at the city or neighborhood level, as well.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Virginia
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Virginia versus Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Virginia |
| Scenic beauty |
Strong economy |
| Good higher education |
Beautiful scenery |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Abundance of outdoor activities |
| Low cost of living |
Enjoyable four season weather |
| Beautiful lakes |
Strong military presence |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Virginia
Moving from Michigan to Virginia comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Virginia |
| Cold snowy winters |
High cost of living |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Unpredictable weather |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Bad traffic congestion |
| Expensive education |
Lack of public transportation |
| Thick accents |
Air noise pollution |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Virginia move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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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). Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Virginia moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Virginia, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Virginia without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Virginia
Get ready to discover all that Virginia has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Virginia
- Colonial Williamsburg
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- Historic Jamestowne
- Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe
- Military Aviation Museum
Parks in Virginia
- Mill Mountain Star & Park
- Morven Park
- The Mariners’ Museum & Park
- Great Falls Park
- Leesylvania State Park
Sports teams in Virginia
- Fredericksburg Nationals (Low-A East)
- Loudoun United FC (USL Championship)
- Lynchburg Hillcats (Low-A East)
- Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)
- Norfolk Tides Baseball (Triple-A East)
Universities in Virginia
- University of Virginia
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- George Mason University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- College of William & Mary
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Virginia?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Virginia?
The main reasons people are moving from Michigan to Virginia are the amazing upsides of living in Virginia, such as strong economy and beautiful scenery.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Virginia?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Virginia.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 28% less and home prices 37% lower than in Virginia.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Virginia?
You should make approximately $72,647 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Virginia.
The cost of living in Virginia is about $19,977 per month for an individual and $4,783 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Neabsco and Virginia Beach tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Some movers in Michigan provide budget-friendly deals.
In Michigan, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 6 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 7 movers.
Student savings are available through 1 moving providers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Michigan to Virginia, expect to spend between
$2,221–$5,892 if using professional movers, about
$2,012 for a moving container, and around
$895
for a rental truck.
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