How we chose the best moving companies for your ND to MI move
After studying pricing from 11 North Dakota 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 North Dakota to Michigan?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from North Dakota to Michigan.
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 |
$1,396 – $5,369 |
$790 – $1,976 |
$614 – $1,061 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,891 – $6,427 |
$1,446 – $2,725 |
$645 – $1,274 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,781 – $8,631 |
$1,795 – $3,499 |
$840 – $1,693 |
*Estimated costs for a 913-mile move from ND to
MI 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 North Dakota to Michigan
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from North Dakota to Michigan will cost between
$1,396 and
$5,369.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from ND to MI will
range from $2,891 to
$6,427, and a large move from North Dakota
to Michigan will cost from $4,781
to $8,631.
Cost of moving containers from North Dakota to Michigan
If you’re moving from North Dakota to Michigan,
expect to pay between $790
and $1,976 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,446 up to
$2,725.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,795 and
$3,499. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from North Dakota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from North Dakota to Michigan
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
$614 and
$1,061.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $645
and $1,274. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $840 up to
$1,693 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from ND to MI
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from North Dakota to Michigan. 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 North Dakota 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 ND to MI
A relocation from North Dakota to Michigan comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: North Dakota vs. Michigan
Comparing expenses in North Dakota and Michigan 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:
|
North Dakota |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$912 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$263,410 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$73,959 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.4% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.96% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
2.9% |
4.25% |
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Rent in Michigan is approximately 14% higher than in North Dakota, 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 Michigan than in North Dakota.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Michigan are about 7% lower than in North Dakota.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Michigan and North Dakota, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
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Unemployment in Michigan is about 96% higher than in North Dakota. 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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Sales tax in Michigan is 14% lower than in North Dakota. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Michigan can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 47% higher in Michigan than in North Dakota. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Michigan vs. North Dakota
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 Michigan stacks up against North Dakota across important lifestyle factors:
|
Michigan |
North Dakota |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
783,926 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Republican 68-32 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
0ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
19″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
22.74 |
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Michigan is about 1180% more populous than North Dakota.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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During the last presidential election, both North Dakota and Michigan supported the Republican candidate.
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In Michigan, summer highs hover around 81°F, while North Dakota sits at 82°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Michigan bottoms out around 14°F, compared to 0°F in North Dakota.
A move to Michigan with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
-
Expect about 34 inches of rain each year in Michigan, a noticeable difference from the 19 inches you’re used to in North Dakota.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
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Every year, Michigan gets around 64 inches of snow, much more than the 39 inches that North Dakota typically sees.
With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
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Michigan has a lower crime rate than North Dakota with a crime index of 19.98 vs. 22.74.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of North Dakota vs. Michigan
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Michigan versus North Dakota:
| Pros of living in North Dakota |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Scenic beauty |
| Peaceful rural life |
Good higher education |
| Affordable living costs |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| High-quality education opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Open rural spaces |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in North Dakota vs. Michigan
Moving from North Dakota to Michigan comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in North Dakota |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Long and cold winters |
Cold snowy winters |
| Lack of diversity |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| Housing shortages |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Small populations |
Expensive education |
| Relaxed lifestyle |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your North Dakota to Michigan 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.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
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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:
The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan 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. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore 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 Michigan
Get ready to discover all that Michigan has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from North Dakota to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from North Dakota to Michigan?
What are the benefits of moving from North Dakota to Michigan?
The main reasons people are moving from North Dakota to Michigan are the amazing upsides of living in Michigan, such as scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in North Dakota or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in North Dakota.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 14% less and home prices 7% lower than in North Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
You should make approximately $54,934 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Michigan.
The cost of living in Michigan is about $3,608 per month for an individual and $6,859 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in North Dakota?
Some movers in North Dakota provide budget-friendly deals.
Special pricing for military members is available from 1 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 1 movers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
North Dakota moving services
Popular North Dakota routes
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When moving from North Dakota to Michigan, expect to spend between
$2,891–$6,427 if using professional movers, about
$2,085 for a moving container, and around
$959
for a rental truck.
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