How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to WA 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 Washington?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Washington.
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 |
$1,306 – $5,146 |
$1,114 – $2,870 |
$1,128 – $2,089 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,352 – $7,494 |
$2,104 – $4,290 |
$1,282 – $2,719 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,090 – $11,220 |
$2,855 – $5,790 |
$1,587 – $3,140 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,028-mile move from MI to
WA 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 Washington
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Michigan to Washington typically costs between
$1,306 and
$5,146.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,352
and $7,494
when moving from MI to WA.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Michigan to Washington,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,090
up to $11,220.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Washington
If you’re relocating from Michigan to Washington,
you’ll typically spend between $1,114
and $2,870 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,104 up to
$4,290.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,855 and
$5,790. 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 Washington
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
$1,128 and
$2,089.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,282 to
$2,719.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,587 and
$3,140.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to WA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Michigan to Washington. 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 WA
Transitioning from Michigan to Washington 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. Washington
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Michigan and Washington are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Michigan |
Washington |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,900 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$588,856 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$90,325 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
115 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
4.8% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.5% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
0.0% |
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Rent is about 83% more expensive in Washington 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 Washington are roughly 140% higher than in Michigan.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 32% more in Washington than in Michigan. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to Washington means you’ll be spending 25% 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 Washington, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
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Sales tax in Washington runs 8% higher than in Michigan, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Washington has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Michigan. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Washington 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 Washington and Michigan compare.
|
Washington |
Michigan |
| Population |
7,812,880 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
79ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
31ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
38″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
18″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
37.32 |
19.98 |
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With a population roughly 22% smaller than Michigan, Washington 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, Washington leaned Democratic, while Michigan supported Republican.
-
The average summer high in Washington is 79°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.
-
In winter, Washington drops only to 31°F, milder than 14°F in Michigan.
That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
-
In Washington, you’ll experience about 38 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
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In Washington, it only snows about 18 inches annually while Michigan gets 64 inches.
Moving to Washington, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
-
Washington has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with a crime index of 37.32 compared to 19.98.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Washington
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Washington to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Washington |
| Scenic beauty |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Good higher education |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of life |
| Low cost of living |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful lakes |
Delicious seafood |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Washington
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Michigan to Washington:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Washington |
| Cold snowy winters |
Constant rain |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Bad traffic |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
High cost of living |
| Expensive education |
High crime rate |
| Thick accents |
Natural disasters |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Washington 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.
-
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:
Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. 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 Washington moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Washington, 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 Washington. 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. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers’ insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
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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 Washington
Get excited to explore Washington. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Washington
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
- The Museum of Flight
- LeMay – America’s Car Museum
- Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum
- USS Turner Joy Museum Ship
Parks in Washington
- Mount Rainier National Park
- Olympic National Park
- North Cascades National Park
- Deception Pass State Park
- Lake Wenatchee State Park
Sports teams in Washington
- OL Reign Soccer (NWSL)
- Seattle Kraken (NHL)
- Seattle Mariners (MLB)
- Seattle Seahawks (NFL)
- Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)
Universities in Washington
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Western Washington University
- The Evergreen State College
- Seattle University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Washington?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Washington?
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
Washington
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Washington?
Many people are making the move from Michigan to Washington to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Washington has to offer, like beautiful landscapes and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Washington?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 45% less and home prices 58% lower than in Washington.
However, taxes are
lower in Washington, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Washington?
Planning to move to Washington? A single adult should aim for an income of around $70,662 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,476 for an individual, or $7,777 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Seattle and Spokane 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 Washington, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,352 to
$7,494, roughly
$3,197 for a container move, and close to
$2,000
for a rental truck.
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