How we chose the best moving companies for your MA to AR move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 106 Massachusetts movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Massachusetts to Arkansas?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Massachusetts
to Arkansas, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,116 – $4,425 |
$926 – $2,417 |
$862 – $1,553 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,759 – $6,546 |
$1,674 – $3,492 |
$951 – $1,905 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,763 – $9,259 |
$2,298 – $4,474 |
$1,162 – $2,494 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,453-mile relocation from MA to
AR, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Massachusetts to Arkansas
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Massachusetts to Arkansas, you’ll likely pay between
$1,116
and $4,425.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,759 and $6,546
for the same journey (MA to AR).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,763
to $9,259.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to Arkansas
When you’re heading from Massachusetts to Arkansas, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $926 and
$2,417. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,674 and
$3,492. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,298
to $4,474. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Massachusetts easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to Arkansas
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$862
to $1,553.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $951
to $1,905, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Massachusetts to Arkansas costs around
$1,162 to
$2,494.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to AR
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Massachusetts to Arkansas. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Massachusetts when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from MA to AR
If you’re moving to Arkansas from Massachusetts, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. Arkansas
Understanding how costs compare between Massachusetts and Arkansas can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Massachusetts |
Arkansas |
| Average rent |
$1,588 |
$868 |
| Average home cost |
$623,131 |
$208,078 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$96,505 |
$56,335 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.9% |
2.3% |
| Average sales tax |
6.25% |
9.51% |
| State income tax |
9.0% |
2.0% |
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Rent in Arkansas is around 45% less than in Massachusetts, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Arkansas are about 67% lower than in Massachusetts. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Arkansas are about 42% lower than in Massachusetts.
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The cost of living in Arkansas is about 10% lower than in Massachusetts. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
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Arkansas boasts an unemployment rate about 41% lower than Massachusetts. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
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Sales taxes are 52% higher in Arkansas than in Massachusetts. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes in Arkansas are 78% lower than in Massachusetts. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Arkansas vs. Massachusetts
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Arkansas and Massachusetts line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Arkansas |
Massachusetts |
| Population |
3,067,732 |
7,001,399 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64-36 |
Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
28ºF |
16ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
49″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
47″ |
| Crime index |
30.97 |
13.92 |
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The population of Arkansas is approximately 56% lower than the population of Massachusetts.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential election, Arkansas voted Republican, while Massachusetts went Democratic.
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Arkansas averages 91°F in the summer, compared to 82°F in Massachusetts.
Hotter summers bring more sunshine and outdoor opportunities but also more reliance on air conditioning.
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Winter lows in Arkansas average 28°F, milder than 16°F in Massachusetts.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
-
In Arkansas, you’ll see about 50 inches of rain each year — nearly identical to the 49 inches you’re used to in Massachusetts.
While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
-
In Arkansas, you’ll only get about 4 inches of snow each year, much less than Massachusetts.
That means moving to Arkansas brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
-
Arkansas has a higher crime rate than Massachusetts, with a crime index of 30.97 compared to 13.92.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. Arkansas
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Arkansas and Massachusetts:
| Pros of living in Massachusetts |
Pros of living in Arkansas |
| Natural beauty |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Excellent education system |
Low cost of living |
| Delicious seafood |
Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Fantastic weather |
| Home to boston |
Natural beauty |
Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. Arkansas
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Massachusetts for Arkansas:
| Cons of living in Massachusetts |
Cons of living in Arkansas |
| Bad traffic |
High crime rate |
| Poor driving conditions |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Harsh winter weather |
Poor education |
| High cost of living |
Pervasive poverty |
| Peculiar liquor laws |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to Arkansas move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
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State licensing:
Before providing in-state household goods relocation services, Arkansas moving companies must be issued an Intrastate Authority Permit from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Arkansas moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Arkansas, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Arkansas right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection, offered by movers at no extra cost, is the most economical option, albeit with minimal coverage. The mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, the reimbursement would be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure full coverage of your items’ value, explore alternative options with your moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Arkansas
While you’re in Arkansas, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Arkansas
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- Ozark Folk Center State Park
- Daisy Airgun Museum
- Mid-America Science Museum
Parks in Arkansas
- Riverfront Park
- Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
- Craighead Forest Park
- Cadron Settlement Park
- Maumelle Park
Sports teams in Arkansas
- Arkansas Razorbacks (NCAA)
- Arkansas State Red Wolves (NCAA)
- Central Arkansas Bears (NCAA)
- Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans (NCAA)
Universities in Arkansas
- University of Arkansas
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Arkansas State University
- University of Central Arkansas
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Massachusetts to Arkansas?
Do movers transport your car from Massachusetts to Arkansas?
What are the benefits of moving from Massachusetts to Arkansas?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Massachusetts to Arkansas to enjoy all the great benefits Arkansas provides, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Massachusetts or Arkansas?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in Massachusetts.
Housing
is more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 45% less and home prices 67% lower than in Massachusetts.
Taxes are also
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 70% less than those paid by Massachusetts residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arkansas?
Thinking of moving to Arkansas on your own? You’ll want to earn around $56,231 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,422 per month, or around $5,241 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Massachusetts?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 3 movers.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 6 moving companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
Massachusetts moving services
Popular Massachusetts routes
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When moving from Massachusetts to Arkansas, you’ll likely pay between $2,759–$6,546 with professional movers, roughly
$2,583 for a moving container, and about
$1,428
for a rental truck.
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