How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to ID move
After studying pricing from 84 Michigan movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Idaho?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Idaho.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,238 – $5,116 |
$1,080 – $2,863 |
$1,070 – $2,210 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,499 – $7,709 |
$1,904 – $3,912 |
$1,194 – $2,555 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,585 – $10,896 |
$2,687 – $5,491 |
$1,551 – $3,130 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,963-mile move from MI to
ID are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Idaho
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Idaho will cost between
$1,238 and
$5,116.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MI to ID will
range from $3,499 to
$7,709, and a large move from Michigan
to Idaho will cost from $6,585
to $10,896.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Idaho
If you’re moving from Michigan to Idaho,
expect to pay between $1,080
and $2,863 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,904 up to
$3,912.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,687 and
$5,491. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Idaho
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$1,070 and
$2,210.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,194
and $2,555. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,551 up to
$3,130 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to ID
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Michigan to Idaho. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Michigan is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from MI to ID
A relocation from Michigan to Idaho comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Idaho
Comparing expenses in Michigan and Idaho shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Michigan |
Idaho |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,061 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$451,520 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$70,214 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
106 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.03% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
5.8% |
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You don’t have to stress about your housing budget. Rental rates will be about the same if you’re moving from Michigan to Idaho.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 84% higher in Idaho than in Michigan.
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Good news — you won’t need to stress about your finances since average incomes are similar in both Idaho and Michigan.
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Moving to Idaho means you’ll be paying 15% more than you did in Michigan. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
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With an unemployment rate about 21% lower than Michigan, Idaho boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. Michigan and Idaho have similar rates, making your move easier.
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Income taxes are 36% higher in Idaho than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Idaho vs. Michigan
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Idaho stacks up against Michigan across important lifestyle factors:
|
Idaho |
Michigan |
| Population |
1,964,726 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 70-30 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
18″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
11.68 |
19.98 |
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With a population about 80% smaller than Michigan, Idaho offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
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During the last presidential election, both Michigan and Idaho supported the Republican candidate.
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In Idaho, summer highs hover around 85°F, while Michigan sits at 81°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Idaho reaches about 17°F and Michigan gets down to 14°F.
When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
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You’ll enjoy about 18 inches of rain each year in Idaho, compared to 34 inches in Michigan.
With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
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In Idaho, you can expect about 47 inches of snow each year, much less than the 64 inches you’d deal with in Michigan.
So, if you’re moving to Idaho, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
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Idaho has a lower crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 11.68 vs. 19.98.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Idaho
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Idaho versus Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Idaho |
| Scenic beauty |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Good higher education |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of life |
| Low cost of living |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Beautiful lakes |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Idaho
Moving from Michigan to Idaho comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Idaho |
| Cold snowy winters |
Low diversity |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Harsh winters |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Political dominance |
| Expensive education |
Isolation |
| Thick accents |
Competitive housing |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Idaho move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
In Idaho, in-state movers are regulated by and must register with the Idaho Transportation Department.
In cases of unresolvable disputes with local movers, they may help. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Idaho moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Idaho, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Idaho without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection for minimal coverage, provided by movers at no extra charge. With liability capped at 60 cents per pound per article, consider alternative coverage options from your selected moving company or explore third-party insurance for full value protection.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Idaho
Get ready to discover all that Idaho has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Idaho
- Museum of Clean
- Warhawk Air Museum
- Museum of Idaho
- Legacy Flight Museum
- Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Education Center
Parks in Idaho
- Harriman State Park
- Sawtooth Wilderness Area
- Indian Creek Park
- McEuen Park
- Thousand Springs State Park
Sports teams in Idaho
- Idaho Steelheads (ECHL)
- Boise State Broncos (NCAA)
- Idaho State Bengals (NCAA)
- Idaho Vandals Big Sky (NCAA)
Universities in Idaho
- University of Idaho
- Boise State University
- Brigham Young University-Idaho
- Idaho State University
- Northwest Nazarene University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Idaho?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Idaho?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Idaho?
The main reasons people are moving from Michigan to Idaho are the amazing upsides of living in Idaho, such as ample economic opportunity and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Idaho?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Idaho.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 2% less and home prices 46% lower than in Idaho.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Idaho residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Idaho?
You should make approximately $82,425 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Idaho.
The cost of living in Idaho is about $3,700 per month for an individual and $7,442 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Boise and Meridian tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Some movers in Michigan provide budget-friendly deals.
In Michigan, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 6 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 7 movers.
Student savings are available through 1 moving providers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Michigan to Idaho, expect to spend between
$3,499–$7,709 if using professional movers, about
$2,908 for a moving container, and around
$1,874
for a rental truck.
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