How we chose the best moving companies for your MO to AR move
Using rate data from 57 Missouri movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Missouri to Arkansas?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Missouri
to Arkansas with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$764 – $2,755 |
$546 – $1,286 |
$258 – $472 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,360 – $4,312 |
$992 – $1,967 |
$297 – $565 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$1,857 – $5,233 |
$1,386 – $2,382 |
$341 – $644 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 241-mile move from MO to
AR, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Missouri to Arkansas
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Missouri to Arkansas,
you can expect to spend between $764
and $2,755.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $1,360 to
$4,312 on the same route
(MO to AR). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Missouri to Arkansas typically runs between
$1,857 and
$5,233.
Cost of moving containers from Missouri to Arkansas
Moving from Missouri to Arkansas? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $546 and
$1,286. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $992 to
$1,967. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,386 up to
$2,382. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Missouri.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Missouri to Arkansas
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$258 and
$472.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$297 and
$565.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $341 and
$644.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MO to AR
There are many factors that influence Missouri moving costs. The cost to move from Missouri to Arkansas will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Missouri fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from MO to AR
Moving between Missouri and Arkansas involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Missouri vs. Arkansas
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Missouri and Arkansas. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Missouri |
Arkansas |
| Average rent |
$957 |
$868 |
| Average home cost |
$248,327 |
$208,078 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$65,920 |
$56,335 |
| Cost of living index |
88 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.8% |
2.3% |
| Average sales tax |
4.03% |
9.51% |
| State income tax |
4.8% |
2.0% |
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Rent in Arkansas is about 9% cheaper than in Missouri, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Arkansas are roughly 16% less than in Missouri, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Arkansas are about 15% lower than in Missouri.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Missouri and Arkansas, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Arkansas has a lower unemployment rate than Missouri by about 39%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Shoppers in Arkansas pay about 136% more in sales tax than those in Missouri, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Income taxes in Arkansas are 58% lower than in Missouri. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Arkansas vs. Missouri
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Arkansas differs from Missouri in these areas.
|
Arkansas |
Missouri |
| Population |
3,067,732 |
6,196,156 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64-36 |
Republican 59-41 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
28ºF |
20ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
43″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
13″ |
| Crime index |
30.97 |
28.28 |
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With a population about 50% smaller than Missouri, Arkansas offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
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In the last presidential election, both Missouri and Arkansas voted Republican.
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Summer highs in Arkansas average 91°F, almost the same as 88°F in Missouri.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in Arkansas average 28°F, compared to 20°F in Missouri.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
Expect about 50 inches of rain each year in Arkansas — a big shift from the 43 inches you’re used to in Missouri.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
-
In Arkansas, you’ll see just 4 inches of snow each year, compared to Missouri, which gets 13 inches annually.
Moving to Arkansas means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
Arkansas reports a higher crime rate than Missouri, with a crime index of 30.97 versus 28.28.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Missouri vs. Arkansas
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Arkansas stacks up against Missouri:
| Pros of living in Missouri |
Pros of living in Arkansas |
| Low cost of living |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
| Delicious barbecue |
Fantastic weather |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Natural beauty |
Comparing the cons of living in Missouri vs. Arkansas
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Missouri to Arkansas, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Missouri |
Cons of living in Arkansas |
| Severe weather |
High crime rate |
| High crime rate |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Low quality of life |
Poor education |
| Low wages |
Pervasive poverty |
| Poor healthcare |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Missouri to Arkansas move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
Before providing in-state household goods relocation services, Arkansas moving companies must be issued an Intrastate Authority Permit from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Arkansas moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Arkansas does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Arkansas 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,” for free. Released Value Protection, offered by movers at no extra cost, is the most economical option, albeit with minimal coverage. The mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, the reimbursement would be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure full coverage of your items’ value, explore alternative options with your moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Arkansas
Get ready to discover Arkansas. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Arkansas
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- Ozark Folk Center State Park
- Daisy Airgun Museum
- Mid-America Science Museum
Parks in Arkansas
- Riverfront Park
- Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
- Craighead Forest Park
- Cadron Settlement Park
- Maumelle Park
Sports teams in Arkansas
- Arkansas Razorbacks (NCAA)
- Arkansas State Red Wolves (NCAA)
- Central Arkansas Bears (NCAA)
- Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans (NCAA)
Universities in Arkansas
- University of Arkansas
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Arkansas State University
- University of Central Arkansas
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Missouri to Arkansas?
Do movers transport your car from Missouri to Arkansas?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Missouri to Arkansas
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Missouri to Arkansas?
More and more folks are relocating from Missouri to Arkansas to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Missouri or Arkansas?
Living in Missouri usually costs less than in Arkansas.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 9% less and home prices 16% lower than in Missouri.
Taxes are also
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Missouri residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arkansas?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Arkansas, aim for an income of around $56,231 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,422 if you’re flying solo, or $5,241 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Missouri?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Missouri.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 3 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 2 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Missouri to Arkansas, professional movers typically run between
$1,360 and $4,312, a moving container averages about
$1,479, and a rental truck is around
$431.
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