How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to ND 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 North Dakota?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to North Dakota.
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 |
$1,186 – $4,517 |
$805 – $1,919 |
$602 – $1,139 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,554 – $5,737 |
$1,376 – $2,780 |
$645 – $1,288 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,021 – $7,624 |
$1,833 – $3,535 |
$768 – $1,548 |
*Estimated costs for a 911-mile move from MI to
ND 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 North Dakota
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Michigan to North Dakota will cost between
$1,186 and
$4,517.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MI to ND will
range from $2,554 to
$5,737, and a large move from Michigan
to North Dakota will cost from $4,021
to $7,624.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to North Dakota
If you’re moving from Michigan to North Dakota,
expect to pay between $805
and $1,919 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,376 up to
$2,780.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,833 and
$3,535. 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 North Dakota
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
$602 and
$1,139.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $645
and $1,288. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $768 up to
$1,548 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to ND
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Michigan to North Dakota. 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 ND
A relocation from Michigan to North Dakota comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. North Dakota
Comparing expenses in Michigan and North Dakota 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 |
North Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$912 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$263,410 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$73,959 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
2.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.96% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
2.9% |
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Expect to pay around 12% less in rent in North Dakota 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 7% higher in North Dakota than in Michigan.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 8% higher in North Dakota compared to Michigan. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in North Dakota and Michigan, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
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With an unemployment rate about 49% lower than Michigan, North Dakota boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Sales taxes are 16% higher in North Dakota than in Michigan, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes are 32% lower in North Dakota than in Michigan. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in North Dakota 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 North Dakota stacks up against Michigan across important lifestyle factors:
|
North Dakota |
Michigan |
| Population |
783,926 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 68-32 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
0ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
19″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
22.74 |
19.98 |
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With a population about 92% smaller than Michigan, North Dakota 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 North Dakota supported the Republican candidate.
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In North Dakota, summer highs hover around 82°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, North Dakota drops to about 0°F while Michigan only reaches 14°F.
Moving to North Dakota with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
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You’ll enjoy about 19 inches of rain each year in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota, you can expect about 39 inches of snow each year, much less than the 64 inches you’d deal with in Michigan.
So, if you’re moving to North Dakota, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
-
North Dakota has a higher crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 22.74 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. North Dakota
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in North Dakota versus Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in North Dakota |
| Scenic beauty |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Good higher education |
Peaceful rural life |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Affordable living costs |
| Low cost of living |
High-quality education opportunities |
| Beautiful lakes |
Open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. North Dakota
Moving from Michigan to North Dakota 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 North Dakota |
| Cold snowy winters |
Long and cold winters |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Lack of diversity |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Housing shortages |
| Expensive education |
Small populations |
| Thick accents |
Relaxed lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to North Dakota 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:
All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a North Dakota 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 North Dakota, 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 North Dakota 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 cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in North Dakota
Get ready to discover all that North Dakota has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in North Dakota
- Red River Zoo
- Fargo Air Museum
- North Dakota Museum of Art
- Roger Maris Museum
- Dickinson Museum Center
Parks in North Dakota
- The Dakota Zoo
- Red River Zoo
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Scandinavian Heritage Park
- Roosevelt Park Zoo
Sports teams in North Dakota
- Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL)
- Fargo Force (USHL)
- Minot Minotauros (NAHL)
Universities in North Dakota
- University of North Dakota
- North Dakota State University
- University of Mary
- Minot State University
- Valley City State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to North Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to North Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to North Dakota?
The main reasons people are moving from Michigan to North Dakota are the amazing upsides of living in North Dakota, such as ample economic opportunity and peaceful rural life.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or North Dakota?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in North Dakota.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 14% less and home prices 7% lower than in North Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Dakota?
You should make approximately $66,980 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in North Dakota.
The cost of living in North Dakota is about $2,516 per month for an individual and $5,264 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Fargo and Bismarck 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 North Dakota, expect to spend between
$2,554–$5,737 if using professional movers, about
$2,078 for a moving container, and around
$966
for a rental truck.
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