How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to NJ move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 84 Michigan moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to New Jersey?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to New Jersey.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,216 – $4,093 |
$750 – $1,749 |
$533 – $1,036 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,361 – $5,914 |
$1,322 – $2,528 |
$605 – $1,218 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,999 – $7,933 |
$1,776 – $3,546 |
$750 – $1,584 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 836-mile move from MI to
NJ using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to New Jersey
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to New Jersey typically costs between
$1,216 and
$4,093.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,361
and $5,914
when moving from MI to NJ.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Michigan to New Jersey,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,999
up to $7,933.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to New Jersey
If you’re relocating from Michigan to New Jersey,
you’ll typically spend between $750
and $1,749 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,322 up to
$2,528.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,776 and
$3,546. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to New Jersey
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$533 and
$1,036.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$605 to
$1,218.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $750 and
$1,584.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to NJ
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Michigan to New Jersey. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Michigan, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from MI to NJ
Transitioning from Michigan to New Jersey gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. New Jersey
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Michigan and New Jersey are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Michigan |
New Jersey |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,368 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$534,773 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$97,126 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
114 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.6% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
10.7% |
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Rent is about 32% more expensive in New Jersey than in Michigan. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in New Jersey are roughly 118% higher than in Michigan.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 42% more in New Jersey than in Michigan. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to New Jersey means you’ll be spending 24% more than you did in Michigan. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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Unemployment rates are about the same in Michigan and New Jersey, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
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Sales tax in New Jersey runs 10% higher than in Michigan, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 152% higher in New Jersey compared to Michigan. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in New Jersey vs. Michigan
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how New Jersey and Michigan compare.
|
New Jersey |
Michigan |
| Population |
9,290,841 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-46.1 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
22ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
23″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
16.2 |
19.98 |
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With a population roughly 7% smaller than Michigan, New Jersey gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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In the last presidential election, New Jersey leaned Democratic, while Michigan supported Republican.
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The average summer high in New Jersey is 85°F, while Michigan averages 81°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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In winter, New Jersey drops only to 22°F, milder than 14°F in Michigan.
That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
-
Get ready for about 48 inches of rain each year in New Jersey.
That’s quite a change from the 34 inches you’re used to back in Michigan. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
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In New Jersey, it only snows about 23 inches annually while Michigan gets 64 inches.
Moving to New Jersey, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
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New Jersey boasts a lower crime rate than Michigan, with a crime index of 16.2 compared to 19.98.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. New Jersey
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in New Jersey to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in New Jersey |
| Scenic beauty |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Good higher education |
Diversity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
World-class entertainment |
| Low cost of living |
Leading education |
| Beautiful lakes |
Superb health care |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. New Jersey
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Michigan to New Jersey:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in New Jersey |
| Cold snowy winters |
Extreme weather |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Congested population |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
High cost of living |
| Expensive education |
High tax burden |
| Thick accents |
Terrible traffic |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to New Jersey move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
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State licensing:
In New Jersey, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs handles the regulation of in-state moving companies.
The state’s Division of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that warehousemen (public storage companies) and public movers provide safe, reliable, and ethical services while adhering to all relevant state rules and regulations. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a New Jersey moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in New Jersey, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to New Jersey. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection is the most economical option as it incurs no cost. It is provided by movers at no additional charge, but the coverage is minimal. Under this option, no more than 60 cents per pound per article is the responsibility of the mover. For example, if a delicate china set weighing 20 pounds is lost or damaged by the mover, only $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds) would be received. If coverage for the full value of your items is needed, consultation with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider is recommended.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in New Jersey
Get excited to explore New Jersey. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in New Jersey
- Cape May Lighthouse
- Silverball Retro Arcade Asbury Park
- Battleship New Jersey
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Newark Museum
Parks in New Jersey
- Branch Brook Park
- Laurel Acres Park
- The Frelinghuysen Arboretum
- Roosevelt Park
- Bergen County Zoological Park
Sports teams in New Jersey
- New Jersey Devils (NHL)
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Jets (NFL)
- New York Red Bulls (MLS)
Universities in New Jersey
- Princeton University
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Seton Hall University
- Montclair State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to New Jersey?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to New Jersey?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Michigan to
New Jersey
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to New Jersey?
Many people are making the move from Michigan to New Jersey to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in New Jersey has to offer, like bountiful recreational opportunities and diversity.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or New Jersey?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in New Jersey.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 24% less and home prices 54% lower than in New Jersey.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by New Jersey residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Jersey?
Planning to move to New Jersey? A single adult should aim for an income of around $54,567 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,483 for an individual, or $7,579 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Trenton and Newark usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Michigan:
1 movers offer AAA member savings;
6 provide military discounts;
7 have senior-discount programs;
1 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Michigan to New Jersey, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,361 to
$5,914, roughly
$1,925 for a container move, and close to
$911
for a rental truck.
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