How we chose the best moving companies for your NC to MN move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 115 North Carolina moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from North Carolina to Minnesota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from North Carolina to Minnesota.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,152 – $4,595 |
$914 – $2,311 |
$766 – $1,510 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,645 – $5,744 |
$1,668 – $3,401 |
$845 – $1,759 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,463 – $8,512 |
$2,109 – $4,215 |
$1,063 – $2,125 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,357-mile move from NC to
MN using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from North Carolina to Minnesota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from North Carolina to Minnesota,
you can expect prices to land between $1,152
and $4,595.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,645 to
$5,744 for the trip from NC
to MN. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,463 and
$8,512.
Cost of moving containers from North Carolina to Minnesota
Moving containers from North Carolina to Minnesota
will cost you $914 to
$2,311 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,668
to $3,401. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,109 to
$4,215.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of North Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from North Carolina to Minnesota
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$766
and $1,510
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $845
to $1,759.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,063
to $2,125.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NC to MN
Several factors influence the cost of moving from North Carolina to Minnesota. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in North Carolina generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from NC to MN
Making the move from North Carolina to Minnesota means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: North Carolina vs. Minnesota
A clear look at the cost differences between North Carolina and Minnesota helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
North Carolina |
Minnesota |
| Average rent |
$1,093 |
$1,178 |
| Average home cost |
$328,715 |
$334,119 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$66,186 |
$84,313 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.7% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.98% |
8.03% |
| State income tax |
4.5% |
9.85% |
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Rent in Minnesota is about 8% higher than in North Carolina. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Since home prices in Minnesota and North Carolina are quite comparable, you likely won’t have to tweak your mortgage budget, unless you’re looking for an upgraded home.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 27% higher in Minnesota than in North Carolina, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Since living costs in Minnesota and North Carolina are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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With an unemployment rate around 8% lower than North Carolina, Minnesota offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales taxes are 15% higher in Minnesota than in North Carolina, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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State income taxes in Minnesota are 119% higher than in North Carolina, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Minnesota vs. North Carolina
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Minnesota and North Carolina compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Minnesota |
North Carolina |
| Population |
5,737,915 |
10,835,491 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.1-46.9 |
Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
2ºF |
29ºF |
| Annual rain |
29″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
4″ |
| Crime index |
22.47 |
24.69 |
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The population of Minnesota is about 47% smaller than that of North Carolina.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
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In the latest presidential election, Minnesota voted Democratic, while North Carolina chose Republican.
-
Summers in Minnesota average 81°F, compared to 88°F in North Carolina.
That cooler climate means less intense summers, easier days outdoors, and lower utility bills.
-
In winter, Minnesota reaches lows near 2°F, colder than 29°F in North Carolina.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
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You can expect only about 29 inches of annual rainfall in Minnesota versus 48 inches of rainfall in North Carolina.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
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Each year, Minnesota gets about 47 inches of snow, while North Carolina sees only 4 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
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Moving to Minnesota means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 22.47 versus North Carolina’s 24.69, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of North Carolina vs. Minnesota
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Minnesota compared to North Carolina:
| Pros of living in North Carolina |
Pros of living in Minnesota |
| Great communities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living |
Bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Multitudinous lakes |
| High quality of life |
Diverse festivals |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Friendly people |
Comparing the cons of living in North Carolina vs. Minnesota
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from North Carolina to Minnesota:
| Cons of living in North Carolina |
Cons of living in Minnesota |
| Hurricanes |
Bland food |
| Bland weather |
Cold snowy winters |
| High crime rate |
Terrible traffic |
| High tax burden |
High tax burden |
| Poor education |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your North Carolina to Minnesota move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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State licensing:
To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Minnesota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Minnesota, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Minnesota right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Minnesota
You’ll have plenty to explore in Minnesota! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Minnesota
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Science Museum of Minnesota
- Mill City Museum
- Minnesota History Center
- Paisley Park
Parks in Minnesota
- Minnehaha Park
- Teddy Bear Park
- Enger Park and Tower
- Canal Park
- Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
Sports teams in Minnesota
- Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
- Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
- Minnesota Twins (MLB)
- Minnesota United FC (MLS)
- Minnesota Vikings (NFL)
Universities in Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Carleton College
- Rasmussen College
- University of St. Thomas
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from North Carolina to Minnesota?
Do movers transport your car from North Carolina to Minnesota?
What are the benefits of moving from North Carolina to Minnesota?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave North Carolina for Minnesota, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in North Carolina or Minnesota?
Living in North Carolina usually costs less than in Minnesota.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in North Carolina,
with average rent about 7% less and home prices 2% lower than in Minnesota.
Taxes are also
lower in North Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by Minnesota residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Minnesota?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Minnesota, you should aim to make around $73,783.
On average, expect to spend about $3,552 per month, or $5,174 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in North Carolina?
Many movers in North Carolina publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
5 offer military-specific savings;
2 extend deals for seniors;
1 have educator discounts;
2 advertise rates for law enforcement personnel.
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
North Carolina moving services
Popular North Carolina routes
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For a move from North Carolina to Minnesota, budget between $2,645–$5,744 for full-service movers, around
$2,534 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,302
for a rental truck.
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