How we chose the best moving companies for your MT to AZ move
After studying pricing from 12 Montana movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Montana to Arizona?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Montana to Arizona.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,304 – $5,294 |
$866 – $2,186 |
$768 – $1,352 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,117 – $7,068 |
$1,504 – $2,991 |
$838 – $1,692 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,998 – $10,185 |
$2,144 – $4,048 |
$994 – $2,167 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,229-mile move from MT to
AZ are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Montana to Arizona
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Montana to Arizona will cost between
$1,304 and
$5,294.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MT to AZ will
range from $3,117 to
$7,068, and a large move from Montana
to Arizona will cost from $4,998
to $10,185.
Cost of moving containers from Montana to Arizona
If you’re moving from Montana to Arizona,
expect to pay between $866
and $2,186 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,504 up to
$2,991.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,144 and
$4,048. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Montana.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Montana to Arizona
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$768 and
$1,352.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $838
and $1,692. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $994 up to
$2,167 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MT to AZ
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Montana to Arizona. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Montana is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from MT to AZ
A relocation from Montana to Arizona comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Montana vs. Arizona
Comparing expenses in Montana and Arizona shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Montana |
Arizona |
| Average rent |
$974 |
$1,308 |
| Average home cost |
$462,631 |
$428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$66,341 |
$72,581 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
107 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
0.0% |
8.4% |
| State income tax |
6.75% |
2.5% |
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Rent in Arizona is approximately 34% higher than in Montana, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 7% lower in Arizona than in Montana.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 9% higher in Arizona compared to Montana. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Moving to Arizona means you’ll be paying 7% more than you did in Montana. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
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Unemployment in Arizona is about 9% higher than in Montana. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
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Arizona has a sales tax, while Montana does not. Expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 63% lower in Arizona than in Montana. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Arizona vs. Montana
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Arizona stacks up against Montana across important lifestyle factors:
|
Arizona |
Montana |
| Population |
7,431,344 |
1,132,812 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 56-44 |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
| Summer high |
99ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
34ºF |
12ºF |
| Annual rain |
12″ |
15″ |
| Annual snow |
6″ |
49″ |
| Crime index |
24.89 |
23.37 |
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Arizona is about 556% more populous than Montana.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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In the most recent presidential election, Arizona leaned Democrat, while Montana went with Republican.
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Arizona averages 99°F in summer compared to 84°F in Montana.
That extra heat means more sunshine and outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
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During the coldest part of the year, Arizona bottoms out around 34°F, compared to 12°F in Montana.
A move to Arizona with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
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In Arizona, you’ll get about 12 inches of rain each year, while Montana sees around 15 inches annually.
So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
-
In Arizona, you can expect about 6 inches of snow each year, much less than the 49 inches you’d deal with in Montana.
So, if you’re moving to Arizona, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
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Arizona has a higher crime rate than Montana with a crime index of 24.89 vs. 23.37.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Montana vs. Arizona
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Arizona versus Montana:
| Pros of living in Montana |
Pros of living in Arizona |
| Unmatched natural beauty |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
Pleasant weather |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Abundant recreational opportunities |
| Delicious unique cuisine |
Cultural diversity |
| No traffic |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Montana vs. Arizona
Moving from Montana to Arizona comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Montana |
Cons of living in Arizona |
| Dangerous wildlife |
Extreme weather |
| Remote lifestyle |
Barren desert land |
| Touristy |
Health hazards |
| Lacking in urban amenities |
Limited public transportation |
| Challenging weather |
No winter |
Other things to consider for your Montana to Arizona move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
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Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Arizona moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Arizona, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Arizona without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Arizona
Get ready to discover all that Arizona has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Arizona
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks in Arizona
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park
Sports teams in Arizona
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns Basketball (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
Universities in Arizona
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Montana to Arizona?
Do movers transport your car from Montana to Arizona?
What are the benefits of moving from Montana to Arizona?
The main reasons people are moving from Montana to Arizona are the amazing upsides of living in Arizona, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in Montana or Arizona?
Living in Montana usually costs less than in Arizona.
Housing
is much more affordable in Arizona,
with average rent about 34% less and home prices 7% lower than in Montana.
Taxes are also
lower in Arizona, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by Montana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arizona?
You should make approximately $63,608 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Arizona.
The cost of living in Arizona is about $2,392 per month for an individual and $5,612 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Phoenix and Tucson tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Montana?
Some movers in Montana provide budget-friendly deals.
In Montana, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Montana to Arizona, expect to spend between
$3,117–$7,068 if using professional movers, about
$2,247 for a moving container, and around
$1,265
for a rental truck.
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