How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to KS move
Using rate data from 84 Michigan movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Kansas?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Michigan
to Kansas with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,215 – $5,010 |
$813 – $1,923 |
$626 – $1,235 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,630 – $5,790 |
$1,431 – $2,701 |
$704 – $1,454 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,999 – $8,189 |
$1,851 – $3,813 |
$823 – $1,786 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 995-mile move from MI to
KS, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Kansas
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Kansas,
you can expect to spend between $1,215
and $5,010.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,630 to
$5,790 on the same route
(MI to KS). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Michigan to Kansas typically runs between
$3,999 and
$8,189.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Kansas
Moving from Michigan to Kansas? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $813 and
$1,923. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,431 to
$2,701. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,851 up to
$3,813. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Kansas
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$626 and
$1,235.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$704 and
$1,454.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $823 and
$1,786.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to KS
There are many factors that influence Michigan moving costs. The cost to move from Michigan to Kansas will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Michigan fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from MI to KS
Moving between Michigan and Kansas involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Kansas
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Michigan and Kansas. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Michigan |
Kansas |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$986 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$229,012 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$69,747 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
87 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
8.65% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
5.7% |
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No need to worry about your budget. Rent prices are pretty similar if you’re moving from Michigan to Kansas.
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Home prices in Kansas are roughly 7% less than in Michigan, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Michigan and Kansas.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Michigan and Kansas, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Kansas has a lower unemployment rate than Michigan by about 28%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Shoppers in Kansas pay about 44% more in sales tax than those in Michigan, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Income taxes in Kansas are 34% higher than in Michigan. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in Kansas vs. Michigan
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Kansas differs from Michigan in these areas.
|
Kansas |
Michigan |
| Population |
2,940,546 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 57.1%-41.1 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
33″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
15″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
24.07 |
19.98 |
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With a population about 71% smaller than Michigan, Kansas offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
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In the last presidential election, both Michigan and Kansas voted Republican.
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Summers in Kansas reach 91°F, warmer than 81°F in Michigan.
Expect brighter days and more outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
-
In Kansas, winter lows are about 19°F, while Michigan averages 14°F.
With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
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In Kansas, you’ll get about 33 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 34 inches you’ve been used to in Michigan.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
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In Kansas, you’ll see just 15 inches of snow each year, compared to Michigan, which gets 64 inches annually.
Moving to Kansas means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
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Kansas reports a higher crime rate than Michigan, with a crime index of 24.07 versus 19.98.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Kansas
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Kansas stacks up against Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Kansas |
| Scenic beauty |
Delicious barbecue |
| Good higher education |
Low cost housing |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Cheap living |
| Low cost of living |
Four season living |
| Beautiful lakes |
Ample economic opportunity |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Kansas
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Michigan to Kansas, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Kansas |
| Cold snowy winters |
Extreme weather |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Dull landscape |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
High taxes |
| Expensive education |
Lack of public transportation |
| Thick accents |
Remote small-town lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Kansas move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
In Kansas, the Transportation Division of the Kansas Corporation Commission monitors, licenses, and regulates intrastate motor carriers like movers.
The state’s Corporation Commission issues moving companies operating authority in the form of KCC Numbers, which customers can verify online here before hiring a mover. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Kansas moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Kansas does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Kansas 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,” for free. Released Value Protection is the most economical option because it doesn’t cost anything. It is offered by movers at no additional charge, but the protection is minimal. Under this option, the mover is responsible for no more than 60 cents per pound per article. For example, if your mover lost or damaged a 50 inch TV weighing 25 pounds, you would only receive $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). If you need for the full value of your items to be covered, please consult with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Kansas
Get ready to discover Kansas. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Kansas
- Evel Knievel Museum
- Old Cowtown Museum
- Boot Hill Museum
- Exploration Place
- Flint Hills Discovery Center
Parks in Kansas
- Ernie Miller Nature Center
- Coronado Heights
- Lewis & Clark Historic Park at Kaw Point
- Black Hoof Park and Lake Lenexa
- Gezer Park
Sports teams in Kansas
- Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
- Wichita Thunder (ECHL)
- Wichita Wind Surge (Double-A Central)
- Kansas Jayhawks (NCAA)
- Kansas State Wildcats (NCAA)
Universities in Kansas
- University of Kansas
- Kansas State University
- Wichita State University
- Fort Hays State University
- Emporia State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Kansas?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Kansas?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Michigan to Kansas
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Kansas?
More and more folks are relocating from Michigan to Kansas to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as delicious barbecue and low cost housing.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Kansas?
Living in Kansas usually costs less than in Michigan.
Housing
is much more affordable in Kansas,
with average rent about 5% less and home prices 7% lower than in Michigan.
However, taxes are
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Kansas residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kansas?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Kansas, aim for an income of around $61,447 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,433 if you’re flying solo, or $5,464 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Wichita and Overland Park usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Michigan.
There are 1 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 6 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 7 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 1 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Michigan to Kansas, professional movers typically run between
$2,630 and $5,790, a moving container averages about
$2,066, and a rental truck is around
$1,079.
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