How we chose the best moving companies for your AZ to MT move
After studying pricing from 98 Arizona 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 Arizona to Montana?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Arizona to Montana.
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 |
$1,132 – $4,828 |
$831 – $2,165 |
$782 – $1,395 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,571 – $6,069 |
$1,520 – $3,117 |
$782 – $1,709 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,338 – $8,074 |
$2,017 – $4,090 |
$994 – $2,064 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,228-mile move from AZ to
MT 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 Arizona to Montana
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Arizona to Montana will cost between
$1,132 and
$4,828.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from AZ to MT will
range from $2,571 to
$6,069, and a large move from Arizona
to Montana will cost from $4,338
to $8,074.
Cost of moving containers from Arizona to Montana
If you’re moving from Arizona to Montana,
expect to pay between $831
and $2,165 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,520 up to
$3,117.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,017 and
$4,090. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Arizona.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arizona to Montana
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
$782 and
$1,395.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $782
and $1,709. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $994 up to
$2,064 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AZ to MT
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Arizona to Montana. 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 Arizona 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 AZ to MT
A relocation from Arizona to Montana comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Arizona vs. Montana
Comparing expenses in Arizona and Montana 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:
|
Arizona |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$1,308 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$428,711 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$72,581 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
107 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.6% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
8.4% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
2.5% |
6.75% |
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Expect to pay around 26% less in rent in Montana than in Arizona, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 8% higher in Montana than in Arizona.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Montana are about 9% lower than in Arizona.
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Living in Montana is about 7% cheaper than Arizona. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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With an unemployment rate about 8% lower than Arizona, Montana boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Arizona.
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Income taxes are 170% higher in Montana than in Arizona. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Montana vs. Arizona
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 Montana stacks up against Arizona across important lifestyle factors:
|
Montana |
Arizona |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
7,431,344 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Democrat 56-44 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
99ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
34ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
12″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
6″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
24.89 |
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With a population about 85% smaller than Arizona, Montana 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, Montana leaned Republican, while Arizona went with Democrat.
-
Montana averages 84°F in summer, a cooler contrast to 99°F in Arizona.
Expect milder summers, lower utility costs, and more time to enjoy being outdoors.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Montana drops to about 12°F while Arizona only reaches 34°F.
Moving to Montana with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
-
In Montana, you’ll get about 15 inches of rain each year, while Arizona sees around 12 inches annually.
So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
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Every year, Montana gets around 49 inches of snow, much more than the 6 inches that Arizona typically sees.
With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
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Montana has a lower crime rate than Arizona with a crime index of 23.37 vs. 24.89.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of Arizona vs. Montana
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Montana versus Arizona:
| Pros of living in Arizona |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Pleasant weather |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Cultural diversity |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| No traffic |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Arizona vs. Montana
Moving from Arizona to Montana comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Arizona |
Cons of living in Montana |
| Extreme weather |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Barren desert land |
Remote lifestyle |
| Health hazards |
Touristy |
| Limited public transportation |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| No winter |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Arizona to Montana 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 Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Montana 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 Montana, 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 Montana 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. 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:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Montana
Get ready to discover all that Montana has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new 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 Arizona to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Arizona to Montana?
What are the benefits of moving from Arizona to Montana?
The main reasons people are moving from Arizona to Montana are the amazing upsides of living in Montana, such as unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in Arizona or Montana?
Living in Montana usually costs less than in Arizona.
Housing
is more affordable in Arizona,
with average rent about 34% less and home prices 7% lower than in Montana.
Taxes are also
lower in Arizona, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by Montana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
You should make approximately $62,210 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Montana.
The cost of living in Montana is about $2,225 per month for an individual and $5,468 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Billings and Missoula tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Arizona?
Some movers in Arizona provide budget-friendly deals.
In Arizona, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 2 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 5 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 Arizona to Montana, expect to spend between
$2,571–$6,069 if using professional movers, about
$2,318 for a moving container, and around
$1,245
for a rental truck.
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