How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to MD 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 Maryland?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Maryland.
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 |
$1,231 – $4,122 |
$697 – $1,829 |
$512 – $981 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,311 – $5,925 |
$1,281 – $2,437 |
$526 – $1,074 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,839 – $7,685 |
$1,700 – $3,269 |
$712 – $1,357 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 738-mile move from MI to
MD 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 Maryland
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Maryland,
you can expect prices to land between $1,231
and $4,122.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,311 to
$5,925 for the trip from MI
to MD. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,839 and
$7,685.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Maryland
Moving containers from Michigan to Maryland
will cost you $697 to
$1,829 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,281
to $2,437. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,700 to
$3,269.
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 Maryland
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
$512
and $981
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $526
to $1,074.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$712
to $1,357.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to MD
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to Maryland. 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 MD
Making the move from Michigan to Maryland means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Maryland
A clear look at the cost differences between Michigan and Maryland 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 |
Maryland |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,598 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$418,438 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$98,461 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
5.75% |
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Rent in Maryland is about 54% 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 Maryland are usually around 70% higher than what you’ll find in Michigan.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 44% higher in Maryland than in Michigan, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in Maryland costs 9% more than in Michigan. If you’re relocating to Maryland, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 36% lower than Michigan, Maryland offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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No need to worry about sales tax since rates are similar in Michigan and Maryland.
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State income taxes in Maryland are 35% higher than in Michigan, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Maryland 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 Maryland and Michigan compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Maryland |
Michigan |
| Population |
6,180,253 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 63-34.4 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
19″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
20.34 |
19.98 |
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The population of Maryland is about 38% 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, Maryland voted Democratic, while Michigan chose Republican.
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Summers in Maryland top out at 87°F, higher than 81°F in Michigan.
Expect more heat, more sunshine, and possibly higher cooling costs.
-
Maryland has winter lows around 25°F, compared to 14°F in Michigan.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect about 44 inches of annual rainfall in Maryland versus only 34 inches of rainfall in Michigan.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
In Maryland, you’ll get about 19 inches of snow each year, far less than Michigan.
That means moving to Maryland will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
-
Both Maryland and Michigan have similar crime rates (19.98).
Keep in mind, though, that crime rates can differ significantly from one city or neighborhood to another, so be sure to check local statistics for more accurate information.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Maryland
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Maryland compared to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Maryland |
| Scenic beauty |
Delicious food |
| Good higher education |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Diverse outdoor activities |
| Low cost of living |
Beautiful coastline |
| Beautiful lakes |
Rich history |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Maryland
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 Maryland:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Maryland |
| Cold snowy winters |
High cost of living |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Bad traffic |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
High crime |
| Expensive education |
High homelessness |
| Thick accents |
Peculiar alcohol laws |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Maryland 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.
-
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:
Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Maryland 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 Maryland, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
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 Maryland 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. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore 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 Maryland
You’ll have plenty to explore in Maryland! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Maryland
- U.S. Naval Academy
- The Walters Art Museum
- American Visionary Art Museum
- Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
- Baltimore Museum of Art
Parks in Maryland
- Northside Park
- Rock Creek Regional Park
- Wheaton Regional Park
- Centennial Park
- Hagerstown City Park
Sports teams in Maryland
- Baltimore Orioles (MLB)
- Baltimore Ravens (NFL)
- Washington Commanders (NFL)
- Maryland Terrapins (NCAA)
- Potomac River Exiles Men’s Rugby Club (MAC)
Universities in Maryland
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Maryland
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Towson University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Maryland?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Maryland?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Maryland?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Michigan for Maryland, drawn by advantages like delicious food and ample economic opportunity that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Maryland?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Maryland.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 35% less and home prices 41% lower than in Maryland.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Maryland residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Maryland?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Maryland, you should aim to make around $96,415.
On average, expect to spend about $3,469 per month, or $8,331 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Washington DC and Baltimore 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 Maryland, budget between $2,311–$5,925 for full-service movers, around
$1,859 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$800
for a rental truck.
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