How we chose the best moving companies for your MS to WV move
Using rate data from 24 Mississippi 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 Mississippi to West Virginia?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Mississippi
to West Virginia with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,153 – $3,931 |
$764 – $1,835 |
$552 – $1,030 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,360 – $5,491 |
$1,309 – $2,495 |
$579 – $1,234 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,116 – $8,008 |
$1,862 – $3,525 |
$703 – $1,511 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 798-mile move from MS to
WV, 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 Mississippi to West Virginia
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Mississippi to West Virginia,
you can expect to spend between $1,153
and $3,931.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,360 to
$5,491 on the same route
(MS to WV). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Mississippi to West Virginia typically runs between
$4,116 and
$8,008.
Cost of moving containers from Mississippi to West Virginia
Moving from Mississippi to West Virginia? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $764 and
$1,835. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,309 to
$2,495. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,862 up to
$3,525. 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 Mississippi.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Mississippi to West Virginia
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
$552 and
$1,030.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$579 and
$1,234.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $703 and
$1,511.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MS to WV
There are many factors that influence Mississippi moving costs. The cost to move from Mississippi to West Virginia 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 Mississippi 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 MS to WV
Moving between Mississippi and West Virginia involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Mississippi vs. West Virginia
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Mississippi and West Virginia. 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:
|
Mississippi |
West Virginia |
| Average rent |
$896 |
$899 |
| Average home cost |
$181,313 |
$168,172 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$55,217 |
| Cost of living index |
85 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
4.2% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
4.7% |
6.5% |
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No need to worry about your budget. Rent prices are pretty similar if you’re moving from Mississippi to West Virginia.
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Home prices in West Virginia are roughly 7% less than in Mississippi, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in West Virginia are about 19% lower than in Mississippi.
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Moving to West Virginia will cost you 6% more than living in Mississippi, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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West Virginia has a higher unemployment rate than Mississippi by about 45%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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Sales tax is 14% lower in West Virginia compared to Mississippi, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Income taxes in West Virginia are 38% higher than in Mississippi. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in West Virginia vs. Mississippi
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 West Virginia differs from Mississippi in these areas.
|
West Virginia |
Mississippi |
| Population |
1,782,959 |
2,943,045 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 69-30 |
Republican 60.9-38 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
21ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
45″ |
57″ |
| Annual snow |
33″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
17.47 |
19.92 |
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With a population about 39% smaller than Mississippi, West Virginia 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 Mississippi and West Virginia voted Republican.
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Summers in West Virginia average 83°F, a bit cooler than 91°F in Mississippi.
This means more comfortable summers, reduced cooling costs, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
-
Winter in West Virginia can dip to 21°F, colder than the 33°F lows in Mississippi.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
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In West Virginia, you’ll see about 45 inches of rain each year, less than the 57 inches you’re used to in Mississippi.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
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In West Virginia, it snows about 33 inches annually while Mississippi gets only about 1 inch.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
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West Virginia offers a safer environment than Mississippi, with a crime index of 17.47 versus 19.92.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Mississippi vs. West Virginia
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in West Virginia stacks up against Mississippi:
| Pros of living in Mississippi |
Pros of living in West Virginia |
| Southern hospitality |
Low cost of living |
| Delicious comfort food |
Abundant outdoor activities |
| Mild winters |
4 distinct seasons of weather |
| Low cost of living |
Immense natural beauty |
| Nice beaches |
Relaxed small cities and towns |
Comparing the cons of living in Mississippi vs. West Virginia
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Mississippi to West Virginia, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Mississippi |
Cons of living in West Virginia |
| Extreme weather |
Dismal economy |
| Lackluster economy |
High rates of crime |
| Low diversity |
High rates of drug abuse |
| Poor healthcare |
Shrinking population |
| Political homogeneity |
Lack of diversity |
Other things to consider for your Mississippi to West Virginia 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.
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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:
In the Mountaineer State, the state’s Public Service Commission oversees local and intrastate movers. The commission strives to support and promote the interests of both businesses and consumers, and those interested in hiring an in-state mover can browse the Commission’s Regulated Motor Carrier Database to verify that they’re reputable businesses in good standing. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a West Virginia moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
West Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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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 West Virginia 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. When relocating in West Virginia, prioritize movers’ insurance for comprehensive coverage. Many movers provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection by exploring Full Value Protection options with the moving company or considering tailored plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your West Virginia state moving insurance, ensuring a secure and stress-free relocation experience.
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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 West Virginia
Get ready to discover West Virginia. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in West Virginia
- West Virginia State Museum
- The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum
- Heritage Farm Museum and Village
- Clay Center
- Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum
Parks in West Virginia
- Oglebay Park
- Ritter Park
- Wheeling Park
- Haddad Riverfront Park
- Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park
Sports teams in West Virginia
- Wheeling Nailers (ECHL)
- West Virginia Mountaineers (NCAA)
Universities in West Virginia
- West Virginia University
- Marshall University
- Shepherd University
- West Virginia State University
- Fairmont State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Mississippi to West Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from Mississippi to West Virginia?
What are the benefits of moving from Mississippi to West Virginia?
More and more folks are relocating from Mississippi to West Virginia to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Mississippi or West Virginia?
Living in Mississippi usually costs less than in West Virginia.
Housing
is much more affordable in West Virginia,
with average rent about 0% less and home prices 7% lower than in Mississippi.
However, taxes are
lower in Mississippi, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by West Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in West Virginia?
If you’re planning to live on your own in West Virginia, aim for an income of around $53,753 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,211 if you’re flying solo, or $4,826 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Coalton and Charleston usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
Mississippi moving services
Popular Mississippi routes
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