Best Movers From Michigan to Washington (2025 Cost Data)
When relocating from Michigan to Washington, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,352 to
$7,494, roughly
$3,197 for a container move, and close to
$2,000
for a rental truck.
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Let’s get moving.
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$1,306 — $7,494 Top local mover
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$1,306 — $11,220 Top long-distance mover
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$1,114 — $5,790 Top container company
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$1,128 — $3,140 Top truck rental
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$60 — $80/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Michigan to Washington
After reviewing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team found that 2,641 (83%) offer interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the list down to the best companies equipped to handle your move from Michigan to Washington.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from Michigan to Washington
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Studio apartment
Nov 21, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 21, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 27, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 11, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Oct 02, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Washington?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,306 – $5,146 | $1,114 – $2,870 | $1,128 – $2,089 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,352 – $7,494 | $2,104 – $4,290 | $1,282 – $2,719 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,090 – $11,220 | $2,855 – $5,790 | $1,587 – $3,140 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,306 – $5,146
- 2–3 bedrooms: $3,352 – $7,494
- 4+ bedrooms: $6,090 – $11,220
How much do moving containers cost from Michigan to Washington?
- Small move: $1,114 – $2,870
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,104 – $4,290
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,855 – $5,790
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,128 – $2,089
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,282 – $2,719
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,587 – $3,140
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option — but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself.
Why are these prices ranges (not exact quotes)?
These are approximate estimates for a 2,028-mile move from MI to WA using moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 17, 2025.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
Compare quotes from multiple movers to dial in a precise number.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from MI to WA?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Michigan | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,037 | $1,900 |
| Average home cost | $245,716 | $588,856 |
| Average income (per capita) | $68,505 | $90,325 |
| Cost of living index | 92 | 115 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 4.8% |
| Average sales tax | 6.0% | 6.5% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 0.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in Washington?
Rent is about 83% higher in Washington than in Michigan.
Avg rent: $1,037 vs. $1,900
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 140% higher in Washington than in Michigan.
Avg home value: $245,716 vs. $588,856
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 32% higher in Washington than in Michigan.
Avg income (per capita): $68,505 vs. $90,325
Is the overall cost of living higher in Washington?
The cost of living is 25% higher in Washington than in Michigan.
Cost of living index: 92 vs. 115
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 8% higher in Washington than in Michigan.
Avg sales tax: 6.0% vs. 6.5%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Washington has no state income tax, so you may keep more of your paycheck compared to Michigan.
State income tax: 4.25% vs. 0.0%
How is daily life different in Washington compared to Michigan?
A move brings shifts that go beyond housing and work — weather, safety, and community size all matter.
| Washington | Michigan | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,812,880 | 10,037,261 |
| Political leaning | Democratic | Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high | 79ºF | 81ºF |
| Winter low | 31ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 38″ | 34″ |
| Annual snow | 18″ | 64″ |
| Crime index | 37.32 | 19.98 |
Will Washington feel more crowded than Michigan?
Washington is about 22% less populous than Michigan — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Washington voted Democratic while Michigan voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (79°F vs. 81°F).
Winter: Washington is milder on average (31°F vs. 14°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Washington?
Rain: Annual rainfall is pretty similar (38″ vs. 34″).
Snow: Washington gets less snow (18 inches vs. 64 inches).
Is Washington safer than Michigan?
Washington has a higher crime index than Michigan (37.32 vs. 19.98). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in Washington?
Museums in Washington
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
- The Museum of Flight
- LeMay – America’s Car Museum
- Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum
- USS Turner Joy Museum Ship
Parks in Washington
- Mount Rainier National Park
- Olympic National Park
- North Cascades National Park
- Deception Pass State Park
- Lake Wenatchee State Park
Sports teams in Washington
- OL Reign Soccer (NWSL)
- Seattle Kraken (NHL)
- Seattle Mariners (MLB)
- Seattle Seahawks (NFL)
- Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)
Universities in Washington
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Western Washington University
- The Evergreen State College
- Seattle University
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Washington 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: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Washington moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Washington, 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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage at no extra cost. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers’ insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Washington?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Washington?
Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Washington moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Washington?
No moving permit is required in Washington.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
By law, interstate movers must include basic insurance at no extra cost. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers’ insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
Some movers in Michigan offer discounts: 1 AAA discounts; 6 military discounts; 7 senior discounts; 1 student discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep your move stress-free with our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
Michigan moving services
Popular Michigan routes
Popular moving resources
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