How we chose the best moving companies for your MA to MI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 106 Massachusetts moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Massachusetts to Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Massachusetts to Michigan.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,160 – $4,020 |
$758 – $1,768 |
$584 – $1,091 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,363 – $5,782 |
$1,362 – $2,825 |
$631 – $1,246 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,830 – $7,263 |
$1,886 – $3,555 |
$736 – $1,467 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 865-mile move from MA to
MI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Massachusetts to Michigan
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Massachusetts to Michigan typically costs between
$1,160 and
$4,020.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,363
and $5,782
when moving from MA to MI.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Massachusetts to Michigan,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,830
up to $7,263.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to Michigan
If you’re relocating from Massachusetts to Michigan,
you’ll typically spend between $758
and $1,768 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,362 up to
$2,825.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,886 and
$3,555. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to Michigan
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$584 and
$1,091.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$631 to
$1,246.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $736 and
$1,467.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to MI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Massachusetts to Michigan. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Massachusetts, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from MA to MI
Transitioning from Massachusetts to Michigan gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. Michigan
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Massachusetts and Michigan are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Massachusetts |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$1,588 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$623,131 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$96,505 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.9% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.25% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
9.0% |
4.25% |
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Rent is about 35% less expensive in Michigan than in Massachusetts, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Michigan are about 61% lower than in Massachusetts, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Michigan are roughly 29% lower than in Massachusetts.
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Moving to Michigan costs about 8% less than living in Massachusetts. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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Unemployment in Michigan is about 21% higher than in Massachusetts. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax rates are similar in Michigan and Massachusetts, so this won’t affect your cost of living when you relocate.
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Income taxes are 53% lower in Michigan compared to Massachusetts. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Michigan vs. Massachusetts
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Michigan and Massachusetts compare.
|
Michigan |
Massachusetts |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
7,001,399 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
16ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
49″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
47″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
13.92 |
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If you’re moving from Massachusetts to Michigan, you’ll find Michigan has about 43% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, Michigan leaned Republican, while Massachusetts supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Michigan is 81°F, while Massachusetts averages 82°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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During the coldest months, Michigan averages 14°F while Massachusetts sees lows of 16°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
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In Michigan, you’ll get about 34 inches of rain each year, less than the 49 inches you’re used to in Massachusetts.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
Each year, Michigan gets about 64 inches of snow, far more than the 47 inches you might be accustomed to in Massachusetts.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
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Michigan has a higher crime rate than Massachusetts, with a crime index of 19.98 compared to 13.92.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. Michigan
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Michigan to Massachusetts:
| Pros of living in Massachusetts |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Natural beauty |
Scenic beauty |
| Excellent education system |
Good higher education |
| Delicious seafood |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Home to boston |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. Michigan
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Massachusetts to Michigan:
| Cons of living in Massachusetts |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Bad traffic |
Cold snowy winters |
| Poor driving conditions |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| Harsh winter weather |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| High cost of living |
Expensive education |
| Peculiar liquor laws |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to Michigan move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
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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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Michigan moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Michigan, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Michigan. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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 your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Michigan
Get excited to explore Michigan. Don’t miss these top spots 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 Massachusetts to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Massachusetts to Michigan?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Massachusetts to
Michigan
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Massachusetts to Michigan?
Many people are making the move from Massachusetts to Michigan to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Michigan has to offer, like scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Massachusetts or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Massachusetts.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 35% less and home prices 61% lower than in Massachusetts.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Massachusetts residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
Planning to move to Michigan? A single adult should aim for an income of around $54,934 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,608 for an individual, or $6,859 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Massachusetts?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Massachusetts:
1 provide military discounts;
3 have senior-discount programs;
6 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Massachusetts moving services
Popular Massachusetts routes
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When relocating from Massachusetts to Michigan, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,363 to
$5,782, roughly
$2,093 for a container move, and close to
$938
for a rental truck.
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