How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to UT move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 84 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
-
Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
-
Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Utah?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Michigan
to Utah, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,250 – $5,144 |
$1,059 – $2,584 |
$949 – $1,841 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,224 – $6,801 |
$1,727 – $3,740 |
$1,078 – $2,168 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,880 – $10,165 |
$2,478 – $4,717 |
$1,358 – $2,546 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,661-mile relocation from MI to
UT, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Utah
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Michigan to Utah, you’ll likely pay between
$1,250
and $5,144.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$3,224 and $6,801
for the same journey (MI to UT).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,880
to $10,165.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Utah
When you’re heading from Michigan to Utah, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $1,059 and
$2,584. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,727 and
$3,740. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,478
to $4,717. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Michigan easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Utah
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$949
to $1,841.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,078
to $2,168, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Michigan to Utah costs around
$1,358 to
$2,546.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to UT
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Michigan to Utah. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
-
How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
-
The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Michigan when demand for movers is highest.
-
DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from MI to UT
If you’re moving to Utah from Michigan, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Utah
Understanding how costs compare between Michigan and Utah can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Michigan |
Utah |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,302 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$517,020 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$86,833 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
105 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.5% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
7.19% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
4.95% |
-
Rent is about 26% higher in Utah than in Michigan. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
-
Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Utah are typically about 110% higher than in Michigan.
-
You’re likely to earn about 27% more in Utah than in Michigan. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
-
The cost of living is 14% higher in Utah than in Michigan. If you’re making the move to Utah with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
-
Utah boasts an unemployment rate about 26% lower than Michigan. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
-
Sales taxes are 20% higher in Utah than in Michigan. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
-
Income taxes in Utah are 16% higher than in Michigan, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in Utah vs. Michigan
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Utah and Michigan line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Utah |
Michigan |
| Population |
3,417,734 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 60-40 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
90ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
43″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
21.37 |
19.98 |
-
The population of Utah is approximately 66% lower than the population of Michigan.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
-
In the most recent presidential race, both Michigan and Utah leaned Republican.
-
Utah averages 90°F in the summer, compared to 81°F in Michigan.
Hotter summers bring more sunshine and outdoor opportunities but also more reliance on air conditioning.
-
Winter temperatures usually fall to 17°F in Utah and 14°F in Michigan.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
-
In Utah, you’ll get about 15 inches of rain each year — less than the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
-
In Utah, you’ll only get about 43 inches of snow each year, much less than Michigan.
That means moving to Utah brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
-
Utah has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with a crime index of 21.37 compared to 19.98.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Utah
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Utah and Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Utah |
| Scenic beauty |
Robust economic growth |
| Good higher education |
Abundant outdoor activities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Growing population |
| Low cost of living |
Outdoor paradise |
| Beautiful lakes |
Diverse |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Utah
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Michigan for Utah:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Utah |
| Cold snowy winters |
Extreme weather |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
High cost of housing |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Peculiar liquor laws |
| Expensive education |
Dangerous drivers |
| Thick accents |
Huge emphasis on religious identity |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Utah move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
-
State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in Utah, 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 your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
-
State regulator:
You can verify a Utah moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Utah, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
-
Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Utah right on schedule. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. In Utah, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. To increase protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company.
-
Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Utah
While you’re in Utah, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Utah
- Natural History Museum of Utah
- Hill Aerospace Museum
- Clark Planetarium
- Goulding’s Trading Post Museum.
- Thanksgiving Point
Parks in Utah
- Red Hills Desert Garden
- Pioneer Park
- Liberty Park
- Ensign Peak Park
- Thunder Junction All Abilities Park
Sports teams in Utah
- Real Salt Lake Soccer (MLS)
- Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League)
- Utah Grizzlies Hockey (ECHL)
- Utah Jazz (NBA)
Universities in Utah
- The University of Utah
- Brigham Young University
- Utah State University
- Weber State University
- Utah Valley University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Utah?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Utah?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or,
if you prefer, you can arrange
vehicle transport from Michigan to Utah on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Utah?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Michigan to Utah to enjoy all the great benefits Utah provides, such as robust economic growth and abundant outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Utah?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Utah.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 20% less and home prices 52% lower than in Utah.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Utah residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Utah?
Thinking of moving to Utah on your own? You’ll want to earn around $70,362 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,538 per month, or around $5,934 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Salt Lake City and St. George tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
In Michigan, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Military members can find special pricing from 6 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 7 movers.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 1 moving companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
When moving from Michigan to Utah, you’ll likely pay between $3,224–$6,801 with professional movers, roughly
$2,733 for a moving container, and about
$1,623
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
