How we chose the best moving companies for your AR to WV move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 24 Arkansas 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 Arkansas to West Virginia?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Arkansas to West Virginia.
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 |
$1,154 – $4,058 |
$720 – $1,782 |
$504 – $960 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,361 – $5,724 |
$1,362 – $2,547 |
$545 – $1,199 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,767 – $7,390 |
$1,791 – $3,287 |
$682 – $1,454 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 787-mile move from AR to
WV 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 Arkansas to West Virginia
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Arkansas to West Virginia,
you can expect prices to land between $1,154
and $4,058.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,361 to
$5,724 for the trip from AR
to WV. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,767 and
$7,390.
Cost of moving containers from Arkansas to West Virginia
Moving containers from Arkansas to West Virginia
will cost you $720 to
$1,782 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,362
to $2,547. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,791 to
$3,287.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Arkansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arkansas to West Virginia
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
$504
and $960
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $545
to $1,199.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$682
to $1,454.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AR to WV
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Arkansas to West Virginia. 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 Arkansas 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 AR to WV
Making the move from Arkansas to West Virginia means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Arkansas vs. West Virginia
A clear look at the cost differences between Arkansas and West Virginia helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Arkansas |
West Virginia |
| Average rent |
$868 |
$899 |
| Average home cost |
$208,078 |
$168,172 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$56,335 |
$55,217 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.3% |
4.2% |
| Average sales tax |
9.51% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
2.0% |
6.5% |
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No need to worry about your budget, rental rates stay pretty consistent whether you’re moving from Arkansas to West Virginia.
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Home prices in West Virginia are around 19% lower than in Arkansas. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Luckily, the average income is about the same in West Virginia and Arkansas, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
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Since living costs in West Virginia and Arkansas 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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Unemployment in West Virginia is roughly 83% higher than in Arkansas. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
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Sales tax in West Virginia is 37% lower than in Arkansas. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in West Virginia could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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State income taxes in West Virginia are 225% higher than in Arkansas, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in West Virginia vs. Arkansas
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 West Virginia and Arkansas compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
West Virginia |
Arkansas |
| Population |
1,782,959 |
3,067,732 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 69-30 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
21ºF |
28ºF |
| Annual rain |
45″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
33″ |
4″ |
| Crime index |
17.47 |
30.97 |
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The population of West Virginia is about 42% smaller than that of Arkansas.
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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Arkansas and West Virginia both voted Republican in the last election.
-
Summers in West Virginia average 83°F, compared to 91°F in Arkansas.
That cooler climate means less intense summers, easier days outdoors, and lower utility bills.
-
In winter, West Virginia reaches lows near 21°F, colder than 28°F in Arkansas.
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 45 inches of annual rainfall in West Virginia and 50 inches in Arkansas.
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.
-
Each year, West Virginia gets about 33 inches of snow, while Arkansas sees only 4 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
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Moving to West Virginia means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 17.47 versus Arkansas’s 30.97, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Arkansas vs. West Virginia
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in West Virginia compared to Arkansas:
| Pros of living in Arkansas |
Pros of living in West Virginia |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Low cost of living |
Abundant outdoor activities |
| Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
4 distinct seasons of weather |
| Fantastic weather |
Immense natural beauty |
| Natural beauty |
Relaxed small cities and towns |
Comparing the cons of living in Arkansas vs. West Virginia
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Arkansas to West Virginia:
| Cons of living in Arkansas |
Cons of living in West Virginia |
| High crime rate |
Dismal economy |
| Dangerous wildlife |
High rates of crime |
| Poor education |
High rates of drug abuse |
| Pervasive poverty |
Shrinking population |
| Strange laws |
Lack of diversity |
Other things to consider for your Arkansas to West Virginia 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.
-
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:
In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a West Virginia 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 West Virginia, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
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 West Virginia 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. When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers’ insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
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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 West Virginia
You’ll have plenty to explore in West Virginia! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in West Virginia
- West Virginia State Museum
- The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum
- Heritage Farm Museum and Village
- Clay Center
- Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum
Parks in West Virginia
- Oglebay Park
- Ritter Park
- Wheeling Park
- Haddad Riverfront Park
- Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park
Sports teams in West Virginia
- Wheeling Nailers (ECHL)
- West Virginia Mountaineers (NCAA)
Universities in West Virginia
- West Virginia University
- Marshall University
- Shepherd University
- West Virginia State University
- Fairmont State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Arkansas to West Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from Arkansas to West Virginia?
What are the benefits of moving from Arkansas to West Virginia?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Arkansas for West Virginia, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and abundant outdoor activities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Arkansas or West Virginia?
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in West Virginia,
with average rent about 4% less and home prices 19% lower than in Arkansas.
However, taxes are
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by West Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in West Virginia?
To live comfortably as a single adult in West Virginia, you should aim to make around $53,753.
On average, expect to spend about $2,211 per month, or $4,826 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Coalton and Charleston generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Arkansas?
Many movers in Arkansas publish special-rate programs:
1 offer military-specific savings;
1 extend deals for seniors;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Arkansas to West Virginia, budget between $2,361–$5,724 for full-service movers, around
$1,954 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$872
for a rental truck.
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