How we chose the best moving companies for your ID to MI move
After studying pricing from 22 Idaho 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 Idaho to Michigan?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Idaho to Michigan.
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 |
$1,387 – $5,624 |
$1,124 – $2,836 |
$1,059 – $2,021 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,618 – $7,979 |
$1,904 – $4,154 |
$1,171 – $2,580 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,745 – $12,705 |
$2,821 – $5,382 |
$1,417 – $3,130 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,965-mile move from ID to
MI 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 Idaho to Michigan
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Idaho to Michigan will cost between
$1,387 and
$5,624.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from ID to MI will
range from $3,618 to
$7,979, and a large move from Idaho
to Michigan will cost from $6,745
to $12,705.
Cost of moving containers from Idaho to Michigan
If you’re moving from Idaho to Michigan,
expect to pay between $1,124
and $2,836 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,904 up to
$4,154.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,821 and
$5,382. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Idaho.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Idaho to Michigan
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
$1,059 and
$2,021.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,171
and $2,580. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,417 up to
$3,130 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from ID to MI
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Idaho to Michigan. 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 Idaho 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 ID to MI
A relocation from Idaho to Michigan comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Idaho vs. Michigan
Comparing expenses in Idaho and Michigan 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:
|
Idaho |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$1,061 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$451,520 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,214 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
106 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.7% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.03% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
5.8% |
4.25% |
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You don’t have to stress about your housing budget. Rental rates will be about the same if you’re moving from Idaho to Michigan.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 46% lower in Michigan than in Idaho.
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Good news — you won’t need to stress about your finances since average incomes are similar in both Michigan and Idaho.
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Living in Michigan is about 13% cheaper than Idaho. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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Unemployment in Michigan is about 27% higher than in Idaho. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. Idaho and Michigan have similar rates, making your move easier.
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Income taxes are 27% lower in Michigan than in Idaho. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Michigan vs. Idaho
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 Michigan stacks up against Idaho across important lifestyle factors:
|
Michigan |
Idaho |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
1,964,726 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Republican 70-30 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
18″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
47″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
11.68 |
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Michigan is about 411% more populous than Idaho.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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During the last presidential election, both Idaho and Michigan supported the Republican candidate.
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In Michigan, summer highs hover around 81°F, while Idaho sits at 85°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Michigan reaches about 14°F and Idaho gets down to 17°F.
When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
-
Expect about 34 inches of rain each year in Michigan, a noticeable difference from the 18 inches you’re used to in Idaho.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
Every year, Michigan gets around 64 inches of snow, much more than the 47 inches that Idaho 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.
-
Michigan has a higher crime rate than Idaho with a crime index of 19.98 vs. 11.68.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Idaho vs. Michigan
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Michigan versus Idaho:
| Pros of living in Idaho |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Scenic beauty |
| Low cost of living |
Good higher education |
| High quality of life |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Idaho vs. Michigan
Moving from Idaho to Michigan comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Idaho |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Low diversity |
Cold snowy winters |
| Harsh winters |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| Political dominance |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Isolation |
Expensive education |
| Competitive housing |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Idaho to Michigan 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.
-
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:
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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan 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. 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:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Michigan
Get ready to discover all that Michigan has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new 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 Idaho to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Idaho to Michigan?
What are the benefits of moving from Idaho to Michigan?
The main reasons people are moving from Idaho to Michigan are the amazing upsides of living in Michigan, such as scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Idaho or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Idaho.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 2% less and home prices 46% lower than in Idaho.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Idaho residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
You should make approximately $54,934 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Michigan.
The cost of living in Michigan is about $3,608 per month for an individual and $6,859 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Idaho?
Some movers in Idaho provide budget-friendly deals.
In Idaho, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 2 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 1 movers.
Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 1 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Idaho to Michigan, expect to spend between
$3,618–$7,979 if using professional movers, about
$3,029 for a moving container, and around
$1,875
for a rental truck.
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