How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to DE 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 Delaware?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Delaware.
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 |
$1,154 – $4,012 |
$772 – $1,729 |
$543 – $982 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,314 – $5,759 |
$1,282 – $2,604 |
$603 – $1,264 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,019 – $8,010 |
$1,757 – $3,330 |
$749 – $1,459 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 805-mile move from MI to
DE 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 Delaware
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Delaware typically costs between
$1,154 and
$4,012.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,314
and $5,759
when moving from MI to DE.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Michigan to Delaware,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,019
up to $8,010.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Delaware
If you’re relocating from Michigan to Delaware,
you’ll typically spend between $772
and $1,729 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,282 up to
$2,604.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,757 and
$3,330. 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 Delaware
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
$543 and
$982.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$603 to
$1,264.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $749 and
$1,459.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to DE
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Michigan to Delaware. 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 DE
Transitioning from Michigan to Delaware 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. Delaware
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Michigan and Delaware are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Michigan |
Delaware |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,286 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$388,654 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$79,325 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
6.6% |
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Rent is about 24% more expensive in Delaware than in Michigan. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in Delaware are roughly 58% higher than in Michigan.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 16% more in Delaware than in Michigan. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to Delaware means you’ll be spending 9% more than you did in Michigan. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 36% lower than Michigan, Delaware offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Delaware doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Michigan.
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Income taxes are 55% higher in Delaware compared to Michigan. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in Delaware 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 Delaware and Michigan compare.
|
Delaware |
Michigan |
| Population |
1,031,890 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 57-43 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
45″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
13″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
23.48 |
19.98 |
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With a population roughly 90% smaller than Michigan, Delaware 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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In the last presidential election, Delaware leaned Democratic, while Michigan supported Republican.
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The average summer high in Delaware is 87°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, Delaware drops only to 25°F, milder than 14°F in Michigan.
That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
-
Get ready for about 45 inches of rain each year in Delaware.
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 Delaware, it only snows about 13 inches annually while Michigan gets 64 inches.
Moving to Delaware, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
-
Delaware has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with a crime index of 23.48 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. Delaware
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Delaware to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Delaware |
| Scenic beauty |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Good higher education |
High-quality healthcare |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living |
Beautiful beaches |
| Beautiful lakes |
Rich culture |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Delaware
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Michigan to Delaware:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Delaware |
| Cold snowy winters |
Hurricanes |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
High crime rate |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Overcrowding |
| Expensive education |
High cost of living |
| Thick accents |
Limited public transportation |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Delaware 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:
Movers headquartered in Delaware that offer local and intrastate moving services don’t need to be licensed. Still, they must comply with Delaware Department of Transportation (DDOT) regulations on insurance and commercial vehicle safety. 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 Delaware moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Delaware, 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 Delaware. 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. Selecting Released Value Protection is a cost-effective choice, provided at no extra charge by movers, even though it offers limited coverage. Within this option, the mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. If you’re concerned about the value of your possessions and require more extensive coverage, consider discussing alternative options with the moving company you’ve chosen or explore third-party insurance providers. Ensure comprehensive protection for your belongings during the move by exploring these additional coverage choices.
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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 Delaware
Get excited to explore Delaware. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Delaware
- Nemours Estate
- Air Mobility Command Museum
- Hagley Museum And Library
- Johnson Victrola Museum
- Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum at Delaware Seashore State Park
Parks in Delaware
- Glasgow Park
- Battery Park
- First State Heritage Park
- Iron Hill Park
- Browns Branch County Park
Sports teams in Delaware
- Delaware Blue Coats (NBA G League)
- Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens (NCAA)
- Delaware Black Foxes (USARL)
- Southern Delaware Rollergirls (WFTDA)
Universities in Delaware
- University of Delaware
- Delaware State University
- Wilmington University
- Goldey-Beacom College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Delaware?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Delaware?
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
Delaware
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Delaware?
Many people are making the move from Michigan to Delaware to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Delaware has to offer, like bountiful recreational opportunities and high-quality healthcare.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Delaware?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Delaware.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 19% less and home prices 37% lower than in Delaware.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Delaware residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Delaware?
Planning to move to Delaware? A single adult should aim for an income of around $59,688 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,428 for an individual, or $6,148 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Wilmington and Dover 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 Delaware, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,314 to
$5,759, roughly
$1,943 for a container move, and close to
$933
for a rental truck.
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