How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to MT move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 47 Alabama moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Alabama to Montana?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Alabama to Montana.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,238 – $4,968 |
$1,113 – $2,808 |
$1,092 – $2,021 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,229 – $6,975 |
$1,923 – $4,154 |
$1,218 – $2,380 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,271 – $10,569 |
$2,633 – $5,654 |
$1,446 – $2,976 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,957-mile move from AL to
MT using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Alabama to Montana
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Alabama to Montana typically costs between
$1,238 and
$4,968.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,229
and $6,975
when moving from AL to MT.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Alabama to Montana,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,271
up to $10,569.
Cost of moving containers from Alabama to Montana
If you’re relocating from Alabama to Montana,
you’ll typically spend between $1,113
and $2,808 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,923 up to
$4,154.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,633 and
$5,654. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Alabama.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to Montana
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$1,092 and
$2,021.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,218 to
$2,380.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,446 and
$2,976.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AL to MT
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Alabama to Montana. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Alabama, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from AL to MT
Transitioning from Alabama to Montana gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Alabama vs. Montana
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Alabama and Montana are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Alabama |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$925 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$227,508 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$59,609 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
88 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
9.22% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
5.0% |
6.75% |
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Your budget won’t be hit too hard when you move to Montana from Alabama with rent being about the same in each state.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in Montana are roughly 103% higher than in Alabama.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 11% more in Montana than in Alabama. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to Montana means you’ll be spending 14% more than you did in Alabama. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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Unemployment in Montana is about 14% higher than in Alabama. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Alabama.
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Income taxes are 35% higher in Montana compared to Alabama. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in Montana vs. Alabama
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Montana and Alabama compare.
|
Montana |
Alabama |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
5,108,468 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Republican 65-35 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
56″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
21.48 |
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With a population roughly 78% smaller than Alabama, Montana gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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The last presidential election saw both Alabama and Montana siding with the Republican party.
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The average summer high in Montana is 84°F compared to 91°F in Alabama.
A cooler summer climate means less extreme heat, lower energy costs, and more comfortable outdoor time — great for anyone who values comfort.
-
In the coldest months, Montana dips to about 12°F, colder than 33°F in Alabama.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Montana, you’ll get about 15 inches of rain each year, less than the 56 inches you’re used to in Alabama.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
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Each year, Montana gets about 49 inches of snow, far more than the 1 inch you might be accustomed to in Alabama.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
Montana has a higher crime rate than Alabama, with a crime index of 23.37 compared to 21.48.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Alabama vs. Montana
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Montana to Alabama:
| Pros of living in Alabama |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Low cost of living |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Tasty southern comfort food |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Top-notch college football |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| Rich history |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Alabama vs. Montana
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Alabama to Montana:
| Cons of living in Alabama |
Cons of living in Montana |
| Poor quality of life |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Severe weather |
Remote lifestyle |
| Restrictive alcohol laws |
Touristy |
| Poor healthcare |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| Cockroaches |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Alabama to Montana 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:
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 your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Montana moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Montana, 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. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Montana. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Montana
Get excited to explore Montana. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Alabama to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Alabama to Montana?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Alabama to
Montana
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Alabama to Montana?
Many people are making the move from Alabama to Montana to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Montana has to offer, like unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in Alabama or Montana?
Living in Alabama usually costs less than in Montana.
Housing
is much more affordable in Alabama,
with average rent about 5% less and home prices 51% lower than in Montana.
Taxes are also
lower in Alabama, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Montana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
Planning to move to Montana? A single adult should aim for an income of around $62,210 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,225 for an individual, or $5,468 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Billings and Missoula usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Alabama?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Alabama:
2 provide military discounts;
1 have senior-discount programs;
5 list student deals;
1 advertise educator discounts;
1 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Alabama to Montana, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,229 to
$6,975, roughly
$3,038 for a container move, and close to
$1,799
for a rental truck.
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