How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to AR move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 84 Michigan 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 Michigan to Arkansas?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Arkansas.
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 |
$1,181 – $4,093 |
$788 – $1,803 |
$549 – $1,099 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,243 – $5,740 |
$1,389 – $2,581 |
$617 – $1,206 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,199 – $8,013 |
$1,739 – $3,337 |
$720 – $1,569 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 847-mile move from MI to
AR 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 Michigan to Arkansas
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Arkansas typically costs between
$1,181 and
$4,093.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,243
and $5,740
when moving from MI to AR.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Michigan to Arkansas,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,199
up to $8,013.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Arkansas
If you’re relocating from Michigan to Arkansas,
you’ll typically spend between $788
and $1,803 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,389 up to
$2,581.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,739 and
$3,337. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Arkansas
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
$549 and
$1,099.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$617 to
$1,206.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $720 and
$1,569.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to AR
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Michigan to Arkansas. 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 Michigan, 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 MI to AR
Transitioning from Michigan to Arkansas gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Arkansas
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Michigan and Arkansas are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Michigan |
Arkansas |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$868 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$208,078 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$56,335 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
2.3% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
9.51% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
2.0% |
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Rent is about 16% less expensive in Arkansas than in Michigan, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Arkansas are about 15% lower than in Michigan, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Arkansas are roughly 18% lower than in Michigan.
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With a similar cost of living in both Michigan and Arkansas, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 51% lower than Michigan, Arkansas offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in Arkansas runs 59% higher than in Michigan, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 53% lower in Arkansas compared to Michigan. 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 Arkansas vs. Michigan
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 Arkansas and Michigan compare.
|
Arkansas |
Michigan |
| Population |
3,067,732 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64-36 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
28ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
30.97 |
19.98 |
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With a population roughly 69% smaller than Michigan, Arkansas gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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The last presidential election saw both Michigan and Arkansas siding with the Republican party.
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The average summer high in Arkansas is 91°F compared to 81°F in Michigan.
A hotter climate brings more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but be prepared for higher cooling bills and a warmer adjustment period.
-
In winter, Arkansas drops only to 28°F, milder than 14°F in Michigan.
That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
-
Get ready for about 50 inches of rain each year in Arkansas.
That’s quite a change from the 34 inches you’re used to back in Michigan. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
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In Arkansas, it only snows about 4 inches annually while Michigan gets 64 inches.
Moving to Arkansas, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
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Arkansas has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with a crime index of 30.97 compared to 19.98.
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 Michigan vs. Arkansas
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Arkansas to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Arkansas |
| Scenic beauty |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Good higher education |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
| Low cost of living |
Fantastic weather |
| Beautiful lakes |
Natural beauty |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Arkansas
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Michigan to Arkansas:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Arkansas |
| Cold snowy winters |
High crime rate |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Poor education |
| Expensive education |
Pervasive poverty |
| Thick accents |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Arkansas 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.
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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:
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 has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Arkansas moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Arkansas, 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 Arkansas. 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. 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:
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 Arkansas
Get excited to explore Arkansas. Don’t miss these top spots 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 Michigan to Arkansas?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Arkansas?
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
Michigan to
Arkansas
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Arkansas?
Many people are making the move from Michigan to Arkansas to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Arkansas has to offer, like bountiful recreational opportunities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Arkansas?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in Michigan.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 16% less and home prices 15% lower than in Michigan.
Taxes are also
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arkansas?
Planning to move to Arkansas? A single adult should aim for an income of around $56,231 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,422 for an individual, or $5,241 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Michigan:
1 movers offer AAA member savings;
6 provide military discounts;
7 have senior-discount programs;
1 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Michigan to Arkansas, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,243 to
$5,740, roughly
$1,985 for a container move, and close to
$911
for a rental truck.
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