FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Montana to Florida?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,466 – $5,743 | $1,215 – $3,274 | $1,343 – $2,521 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $4,409 – $8,605 | $2,249 – $4,767 | $1,498 – $3,001 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,130 – $13,720 | $3,095 – $6,669 | $1,855 – $3,644 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,466 – $5,743
- 2–3 bedrooms: $4,409 – $8,605
- 4+ bedrooms: $8,130 – $13,720
How much do moving containers cost from Montana to Florida?
- Small move: $1,215 – $3,274
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,249 – $4,767
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,095 – $6,669
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,343 – $2,521
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,498 – $3,001
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,855 – $3,644
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option — but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself.
Why are these prices ranges (not exact quotes)?
These are approximate estimates for a 2,478-mile move from MT to FL using moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 16, 2025. Pricing is refreshed monthly to reflect seasonal and market changes.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
Compare quotes from multiple movers to dial in a precise number.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from MT to FL?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Montana | Florida | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $974 | $1,444 |
| Average home cost | $462,631 | $392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,341 | $67,917 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 102 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 2.9% |
| Average sales tax | 0.0% | 7.08% |
| State income tax | 6.75% | 0.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in Florida?
Rent is about 48% higher in Florida than in Montana.
Avg rent: $974 vs. $1,444
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 15% lower in Florida than in Montana.
Avg home value: $462,631 vs. $392,176
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average incomes are about the same in Montana and Florida.
Avg income (per capita): $66,341 vs. $67,917
Is the overall cost of living higher in Florida?
The cost of living is about the same in Montana and Florida.
Cost of living index: 100 vs. 102
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Florida has a sales tax, while Montana does not — expect higher costs at the register.
Avg sales tax: 0.0% vs. 7.08%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Florida has no state income tax, so you may keep more of your paycheck compared to Montana.
State income tax: 6.75% vs. 0.0%
How is daily life different in Florida compared to Montana?
A move brings shifts that go beyond housing and work — weather, safety, and community size all matter.
| Florida | Montana | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 22,610,726 | 1,132,812 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-48 | Republican 58.4-38.5 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 49ºF | 12ºF |
| Annual rain | 55″ | 15″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 49″ |
| Crime index | 21.39 | 23.37 |
Will Florida feel more crowded than Montana?
Florida is about 1896% more populous than Montana — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both Montana and Florida voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Florida is hotter on average (91°F vs. 84°F).
Winter: Florida is milder on average (49°F vs. 12°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Florida?
Rain: Florida gets more rain (55″ vs. 15″).
Snow: Florida gets no snow, while Montana gets about 49 inches per year.
Is Florida safer than Montana?
Florida has a lower crime index than Montana (21.39 vs. 23.37), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Florida?
Museums in Florida
- Wynwood Halls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dali Museum
Parks in Florida
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest
Sports teams in Florida
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)
Universities in Florida
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Montana to Florida 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.
- State licensing: Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Florida moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Florida, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- 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 Florida. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
- Moving checklist: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
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.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Florida?
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.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Florida?
Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Florida moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Florida?
No moving permit is required in Florida, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. Get started here.
By law, interstate moving companies must provide basic insurance (“released value protection”) at no extra cost. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
Some movers in Montana offer discounts: 1 AAA discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary—confirm with each mover before booking.
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Helpful moving resources
Montana moving services
Popular Montana routes
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