How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to MT 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 Montana?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Montana.
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 |
$1,162 – $4,976 |
$869 – $2,266 |
$822 – $1,525 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,723 – $6,473 |
$1,635 – $3,236 |
$853 – $1,741 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,978 – $9,308 |
$2,109 – $4,171 |
$1,085 – $2,348 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,357-mile move from MI to
MT 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 Montana
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Montana will cost between
$1,162 and
$4,976.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MI to MT will
range from $2,723 to
$6,473, and a large move from Michigan
to Montana will cost from $4,978
to $9,308.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Montana
If you’re moving from Michigan to Montana,
expect to pay between $869
and $2,266 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,635 up to
$3,236.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,109 and
$4,171. 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 Montana
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
$822 and
$1,525.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $853
and $1,741. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,085 up to
$2,348 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to MT
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Michigan to Montana. 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 MT
A relocation from Michigan to Montana comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Montana
Comparing expenses in Michigan and Montana 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 |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
6.75% |
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Expect to pay around 6% less in rent in Montana than in Michigan, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 88% higher in Montana 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 Montana and Michigan.
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Moving to Montana means you’ll be paying 9% 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 30% lower than Michigan, Montana boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Michigan.
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Income taxes are 59% higher in Montana 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 Montana 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 Montana stacks up against Michigan across important lifestyle factors:
|
Montana |
Michigan |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
19.98 |
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With a population about 89% smaller than Michigan, Montana 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 Montana supported the Republican candidate.
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In Montana, summer highs hover around 84°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, Montana reaches about 12°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 15 inches of rain each year in Montana, 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.
-
In Montana, you can expect about 49 inches of snow each year, much less than the 64 inches you’d deal with in Michigan.
So, if you’re moving to Montana, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
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Montana has a higher crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 23.37 vs. 19.98.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Montana
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Montana versus Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Scenic beauty |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Good higher education |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| Beautiful lakes |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Montana
Moving from Michigan to Montana 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 Montana |
| Cold snowy winters |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Remote lifestyle |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Touristy |
| Expensive education |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| Thick accents |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Montana 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.
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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 Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Montana 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 Montana, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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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 Montana 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Montana
Get ready to discover all that Montana has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Montana?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Montana?
The main reasons people are moving from Michigan to Montana are the amazing upsides of living in Montana, such as unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Montana?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Montana.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 6% less and home prices 47% lower than in Montana.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Montana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
You should make approximately $62,210 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Montana.
The cost of living in Montana is about $2,225 per month for an individual and $5,468 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Billings and Missoula 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 Montana, expect to spend between
$2,723–$6,473 if using professional movers, about
$2,435 for a moving container, and around
$1,297
for a rental truck.
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