Ann Arbor, MI to Lafayette, LA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Ann Arbor to Lafayette typically costs $3,000–$7,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,163 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Ann Arbor to Lafayette
Moving from Ann Arbor, MI to Lafayette, LA typically costs $3,000–$7,600 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,163-mile move from Ann Arbor to Lafayette, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $3,593 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $9,613 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $3,122 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 10, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 28, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 22, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 14, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 13, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 30, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 21, 2025
Studio apartment
Nov 30, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Ann Arbor to Lafayette
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Ann Arbor to Lafayette might be as low as $2,400, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,900.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Ann Arbor.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $800 to $2,300 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Lafayette, LA to Ann Arbor, MI guide.
Best Ann Arbor to Lafayette movers by type
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Best professional movers from Ann Arbor to Lafayette
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Ann Arbor to Lafayette, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best MI→LA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 84 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Lafayette
Many movers find Lafayette easier on the wallet than Ann Arbor - roughly 18% less for singles and 21% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,785 for one person in Lafayette versus $2,176 in Ann Arbor. For a family of four, it's $4,208 compared with $5,344.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Ann Arbor | Lafayette | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,831 | $1,200 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,763 | $1,725 |
| Average home value | $474,909 | $214,264 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,964 | $59,490 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,176 | $1,785 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,344 | $4,208 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 5.8% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 9.45% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 4.25% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 25% higher in Lafayette than in Ann Arbor, which may impact your monthly finances.
- With home prices being nearly 55% cheaper in Lafayette, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 11% lower in Lafayette than in Ann Arbor.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Lafayette. The cost of living for a single person is 18% less compared to Ann Arbor.
- Relocating to Lafayette could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 21% lower than in Ann Arbor.
- The unemployment rate in Lafayette exceeds that of Ann Arbor by about 66%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Lafayette exceed those in Ann Arbor by 57%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are similar in Louisiana and Michigan (within about 5%), so your paycheck deductions should stay consistent, offering a level of financial predictability as you transition between states.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Ann Arbor and Lafayette, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Ann Arbor | Lafayette |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $158.05 | $244.46 |
| Cell phone plan | $48.64 | $52.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.70 | $4.35 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.60 | $2.99 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $17.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $76.11 |
| Gym membership | $44.00 | $61.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Ann Arbor than in Lafayette, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Lafayette.
- Eggs are less expensive in Ann Arbor than in Lafayette.
- Bread is more expensive in Ann Arbor than in Lafayette.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Lafayette.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Ann Arbor than in Lafayette.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Ann Arbor than in Lafayette.
How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Lafayette
| Ann Arbor | Lafayette | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 123,851 | 121,374 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 52 | 42 |
| Bike friendliness score | 71 | 47 |
| Crime index | 31.0 | 45.75 |
| Safety index | 79.18 | 54.25 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Lafayette's population is within about 5% of Ann Arbor, so they’re very similar in size.
- Lafayette's public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Ann Arbor's score of 7.
- Lafayette is less walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor's 52 out of 100.
- Lafayette has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71.
- Lafayette's crime rate is higher than Ann Arbor with a score of 45.75 compared to Ann Arbor's 31.0. This means that Lafayette neighborhoods are safer than 45.75% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
- Lafayette is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 54.25 vs Ann Arbor's 79.18.
- Air quality in Lafayette is Good, and in Ann Arbor it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor to Lafayette move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Louisiana moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Louisiana, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Lafayette without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Lafayette
Ready to relocate to The Hub City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lafayette.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Saint Streets
- Freetown-Port Rico
- Downtown Lafayette
- Scott
- Youngsville
Best neighborhoods for families
- Youngsville
- Erath
- Maurice
- Broussard
- Milton
- Scott
- Cade
Things to do in Lafayette
Now that you've made the move to Louisiana, it's the perfect time to explore Lafayette. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lafayette include museums and art centers like the Lafayette Science Museum, Acadian Cultural Center, Children's Museum of Acadiana, and Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Evangeline State Park, Acadiana Park Nature Station, and Girard Park Center, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns (Sun Belt) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Ann Arbor to Lafayette?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Ann Arbor to Lafayette. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Ann Arbor.
When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Lafayette?
With many people choosing to move from Ann Arbor to Lafayette in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Ann Arbor to Lafayette take?
Covering 1,163 miles, the move from Ann Arbor, MI to Lafayette, LA typically takes two to eight days. Some Ann Arbor movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lafayette can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Ann Arbor offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 1 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Ann Arbor can handle specialty items for my move to Lafayette?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Ann Arbor, 20 movers can handle pianos. 7 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MI, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
