How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to PA 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 Pennsylvania?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Pennsylvania.
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 |
$1,142 – $3,551 |
$695 – $1,644 |
$459 – $893 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,084 – $5,213 |
$1,265 – $2,514 |
$480 – $1,060 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,873 – $7,991 |
$1,673 – $3,003 |
$593 – $1,281 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 634-mile move from MI to
PA 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 Pennsylvania
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Pennsylvania,
you can expect prices to land between $1,142
and $3,551.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,084 to
$5,213 for the trip from MI
to PA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,873 and
$7,991.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Pennsylvania
Moving containers from Michigan to Pennsylvania
will cost you $695 to
$1,644 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,265
to $2,514. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,673 to
$3,003.
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 Pennsylvania
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
$459
and $893
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $480
to $1,060.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$593
to $1,281.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to PA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to Pennsylvania. 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 PA
Making the move from Michigan to Pennsylvania means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Pennsylvania
A clear look at the cost differences between Michigan and Pennsylvania 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 |
Pennsylvania |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,110 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$73,170 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.34% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
3.07% |
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Rent in Pennsylvania is about 7% 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 Pennsylvania are usually around 9% higher than what you’ll find in Michigan.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 7% higher in Pennsylvania than in Michigan, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in Pennsylvania costs 8% more than in Michigan. If you’re relocating to Pennsylvania, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 28% lower than Michigan, Pennsylvania offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales taxes are 6% higher in Pennsylvania than in Michigan, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 28% lower than in Michigan. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania and Michigan compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Pennsylvania |
Michigan |
| Population |
12,961,683 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
38″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
17.62 |
19.98 |
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Pennsylvania has a population that’s about 29% larger than Michigan.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
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Michigan and Pennsylvania both voted Republican in the last election.
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Summer highs average 83°F in Pennsylvania, compared to 81°F in Michigan.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Winter lows in Pennsylvania hover around 19°F, while Michigan averages 14°F.
When temperatures are this close, your move won’t bring big seasonal surprises.
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You can expect about 44 inches of annual rainfall in Pennsylvania 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.
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In Pennsylvania, you’ll get about 38 inches of snow each year, far less than Michigan.
That means moving to Pennsylvania will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
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Moving to Pennsylvania means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 17.62 versus Michigan’s 19.98, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Pennsylvania
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Pennsylvania compared to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
| Scenic beauty |
Low cost of living |
| Good higher education |
Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Beautiful lakes |
Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
| Cold snowy winters |
Harsh winter weather |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Bad driving conditions |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Nuclear power plants |
| Expensive education |
Unpredictable weather |
| Thick accents |
High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Pennsylvania 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:
For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC).
Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services.
Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
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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 Pennsylvania
You’ll have plenty to explore in Pennsylvania! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- The Hershey Story Museum
- National Civil War Museum
- SteelStacks
- Steamtown National Historic Site
Parks in Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Presque Isle State Park
- Core Creek Park
- Allentown Fish Hatchery
- Rocky Ridge County Park
Sports teams in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
- Philadelphia Eagles Football (NFL)
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)
- Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Universities in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania
- Penn State University
- Carnegie Mellon University.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Pennsylvania?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Pennsylvania?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Pennsylvania?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Michigan for Pennsylvania, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Pennsylvania?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Pennsylvania.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 7% less and home prices 9% lower than in Pennsylvania.
However, taxes are
lower in Pennsylvania, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Pennsylvania?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Pennsylvania, you should aim to make around $56,150.
On average, expect to spend about $2,452 per month, or $5,603 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh 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 Pennsylvania, budget between $2,084–$5,213 for full-service movers, around
$1,889 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$770
for a rental truck.
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