How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to AZ move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 84 Michigan moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Arizona?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Arizona.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,324 – $5,114 |
$1,104 – $2,705 |
$1,102 – $2,082 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,241 – $7,016 |
$1,949 – $3,922 |
$1,169 – $2,577 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,215 – $11,251 |
$2,561 – $5,176 |
$1,401 – $3,033 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,929-mile move from MI to
AZ using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Arizona
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Arizona,
you can expect prices to land between $1,324
and $5,114.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,241 to
$7,016 for the trip from MI
to AZ. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$6,215 and
$11,251.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Arizona
Moving containers from Michigan to Arizona
will cost you $1,104 to
$2,705 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,949
to $3,922. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,561 to
$5,176.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Arizona
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$1,102
and $2,082
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,169
to $2,577.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,401
to $3,033.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to AZ
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to Arizona. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Michigan generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from MI to AZ
Making the move from Michigan to Arizona means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Arizona
A clear look at the cost differences between Michigan and Arizona helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Michigan |
Arizona |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,308 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$72,581 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
107 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
8.4% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
2.5% |
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Rent in Arizona is about 26% higher than in Michigan. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Arizona are usually around 74% higher than what you’ll find in Michigan.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 6% higher in Arizona than in Michigan, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in Arizona costs 16% more than in Michigan. If you’re relocating to Arizona, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 23% lower than Michigan, Arizona offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales taxes are 40% higher in Arizona than in Michigan, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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Income taxes in Arizona are 41% lower than in Michigan. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Arizona vs. Michigan
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Arizona and Michigan compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Arizona |
Michigan |
| Population |
7,431,344 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 56-44 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
99ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
34ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
12″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
6″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
24.89 |
19.98 |
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The population of Arizona is about 26% smaller than that of Michigan.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
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In the latest presidential election, Arizona voted Democrat, while Michigan chose Republican.
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Summers in Arizona top out at 99°F, higher than 81°F in Michigan.
Expect more heat, more sunshine, and possibly higher cooling costs.
-
Arizona has winter lows around 34°F, compared to 14°F in Michigan.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect only about 12 inches of annual rainfall in Arizona versus 34 inches of rainfall in Michigan.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
In Arizona, you’ll get about 6 inches of snow each year, far less than Michigan.
That means moving to Arizona will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
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Arizona has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with crime indexes at 24.89 and 19.98, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Arizona
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Arizona compared to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Arizona |
| Scenic beauty |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Good higher education |
Pleasant weather |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Abundant recreational opportunities |
| Low cost of living |
Cultural diversity |
| Beautiful lakes |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Arizona
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Michigan to Arizona:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Arizona |
| Cold snowy winters |
Extreme weather |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Barren desert land |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Health hazards |
| Expensive education |
Limited public transportation |
| Thick accents |
No winter |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Arizona move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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State licensing:
Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Arizona moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Arizona, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Arizona 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,” free of charge. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Arizona
You’ll have plenty to explore in Arizona! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Arizona
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks in Arizona
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park
Sports teams in Arizona
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns Basketball (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
Universities in Arizona
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Arizona?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Arizona?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Arizona?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Michigan for Arizona, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Arizona?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Arizona.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 21% less and home prices 43% lower than in Arizona.
However, taxes are
lower in Arizona, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arizona?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Arizona, you should aim to make around $63,608.
On average, expect to spend about $2,392 per month, or $5,612 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Phoenix and Tucson generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Many movers in Michigan publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
6 offer military-specific savings;
7 extend deals for seniors;
1 provide student pricing;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Michigan to Arizona, budget between $3,241–$7,016 for full-service movers, around
$2,935 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,873
for a rental truck.
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