How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to MI move
Using rate data from 37 Iowa movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Michigan?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa
to Michigan with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,163 – $3,188 |
$639 – $1,686 |
$431 – $778 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,001 – $5,151 |
$1,152 – $2,308 |
$464 – $1,002 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,538 – $7,376 |
$1,682 – $3,193 |
$609 – $1,162 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 579-mile move from IA to
MI, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Iowa to Michigan
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to Michigan,
you can expect to spend between $1,163
and $3,188.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,001 to
$5,151 on the same route
(IA to MI). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Iowa to Michigan typically runs between
$3,538 and
$7,376.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to Michigan
Moving from Iowa to Michigan? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $639 and
$1,686. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,152 to
$2,308. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,682 up to
$3,193. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to Michigan
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$431 and
$778.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$464 and
$1,002.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $609 and
$1,162.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to MI
There are many factors that influence Iowa moving costs. The cost to move from Iowa to Michigan will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Iowa fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from IA to MI
Moving between Iowa and Michigan involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. Michigan
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Iowa and Michigan. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Iowa |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$914 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$220,277 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,571 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
89 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.94% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
4.4% |
4.25% |
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Rent costs 13% more in Michigan compared to Iowa. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Michigan to be about 12% more than what you’ll find in Iowa.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Iowa and Michigan.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Iowa and Michigan, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Michigan has a higher unemployment rate than Iowa by about 57%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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Sales tax is 14% lower in Michigan compared to Iowa, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Income taxes are similar in Michigan and Iowa, so your paycheck deductions will stay consistent. You can count on steady finances when moving between these states.
How life is different in Michigan vs. Iowa
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Michigan differs from Iowa in these areas.
|
Michigan |
Iowa |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
3,207,004 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
10ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
35″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
30″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
16.18 |
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If you’re relocating from Iowa to Michigan, you’ll notice that Michigan has about 213% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both Iowa and Michigan voted Republican.
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Summer highs in Michigan average 81°F, almost the same as 84°F in Iowa.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
In Michigan, winter lows are about 14°F, while Iowa averages 10°F.
With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
-
In Michigan, you’ll get about 34 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 35 inches you’ve been used to in Iowa.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In Michigan, it snows about 64 inches annually while Iowa gets only about 30 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
Michigan reports a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 19.98 versus 16.18.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. Michigan
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Michigan stacks up against Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Low cost of living |
Scenic beauty |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Good higher education |
| High quality of education |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| No traffic |
Low cost of living |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. Michigan
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Iowa to Michigan, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Severe weather conditions |
Cold snowy winters |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| High taxes |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| High emphasis on politics |
Expensive education |
| Rustic food |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Michigan move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Michigan moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Michigan does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Michigan 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,” for free. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Michigan
Get ready to discover Michigan. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Iowa to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to Michigan?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Iowa to Michigan
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to Michigan?
More and more folks are relocating from Iowa to Michigan to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Michigan?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Michigan.
Housing
is more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 12% less and home prices 10% lower than in Michigan.
However, taxes are
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 3% less than those paid by Iowa residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Michigan, aim for an income of around $54,934 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,608 if you’re flying solo, or $6,859 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Iowa?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Iowa.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Iowa to Michigan, professional movers typically run between
$2,001 and $5,151, a moving container averages about
$1,730, and a rental truck is around
$733.
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