How we chose the best moving companies for your NJ to MI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 87 New Jersey moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from New Jersey to Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from New Jersey to Michigan.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,016 – $3,936 |
$728 – $1,840 |
$583 – $1,057 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,180 – $4,989 |
$1,349 – $2,714 |
$587 – $1,218 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,692 – $6,897 |
$1,830 – $3,372 |
$780 – $1,539 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 837-mile move from NJ to
MI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from New Jersey to Michigan
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from New Jersey to Michigan typically costs between
$1,016 and
$3,936.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,180
and $4,989
when moving from NJ to MI.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from New Jersey to Michigan,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,692
up to $6,897.
Cost of moving containers from New Jersey to Michigan
If you’re relocating from New Jersey to Michigan,
you’ll typically spend between $728
and $1,840 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,349 up to
$2,714.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,830 and
$3,372. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from New Jersey.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New Jersey to Michigan
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$583 and
$1,057.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$587 to
$1,218.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $780 and
$1,539.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NJ to MI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from New Jersey to Michigan. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in New Jersey, which usually means higher prices.
-
Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from NJ to MI
Transitioning from New Jersey to Michigan gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: New Jersey vs. Michigan
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between New Jersey and Michigan are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
New Jersey |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$1,368 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$534,773 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$97,126 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
114 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.6% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
10.7% |
4.25% |
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Rent is about 24% less expensive in Michigan than in New Jersey, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Michigan are about 54% lower than in New Jersey, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Michigan are roughly 29% lower than in New Jersey.
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Moving to Michigan costs about 19% less than living in New Jersey. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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Unemployment rates are about the same in New Jersey and Michigan, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
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Sales tax in Michigan is 9% lower than in New Jersey, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Income taxes are 60% lower in Michigan compared to New Jersey. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Michigan vs. New Jersey
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Michigan and New Jersey compare.
|
Michigan |
New Jersey |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
9,290,841 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Democratic 52-46.1 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
22ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
23″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
16.2 |
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If you’re moving from New Jersey to Michigan, you’ll find Michigan has about 8% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
-
In the last presidential election, Michigan leaned Republican, while New Jersey supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Michigan is 81°F, while New Jersey averages 85°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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In the coldest months, Michigan dips to about 14°F, colder than 22°F in New Jersey.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Michigan, you’ll get about 34 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in New Jersey.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
Each year, Michigan gets about 64 inches of snow, far more than the 23 inches you might be accustomed to in New Jersey.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
Michigan has a higher crime rate than New Jersey, with a crime index of 19.98 compared to 16.2.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of New Jersey vs. Michigan
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Michigan to New Jersey:
| Pros of living in New Jersey |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Scenic beauty |
| Diversity |
Good higher education |
| World-class entertainment |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Leading education |
Low cost of living |
| Superb health care |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in New Jersey vs. Michigan
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from New Jersey to Michigan:
| Cons of living in New Jersey |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Extreme weather |
Cold snowy winters |
| Congested population |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| High cost of living |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| High tax burden |
Expensive education |
| Terrible traffic |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your New Jersey to Michigan 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.
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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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Michigan moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Michigan, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 Michigan. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Michigan
Get excited to explore Michigan. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home 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 New Jersey to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from New Jersey to Michigan?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
New Jersey to
Michigan
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from New Jersey to Michigan?
Many people are making the move from New Jersey to Michigan to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Michigan has to offer, like scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in New Jersey or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in New Jersey.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 24% less and home prices 54% lower than in New Jersey.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by New Jersey residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
Planning to move to Michigan? A single adult should aim for an income of around $54,934 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,608 for an individual, or $6,859 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in New Jersey?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in New Jersey:
2 movers offer AAA member savings;
3 provide military discounts;
4 have senior-discount programs;
1 list student deals;
1 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
New Jersey moving services
Popular New Jersey routes
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When relocating from New Jersey to Michigan, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,180 to
$4,989, roughly
$2,031 for a container move, and close to
$902
for a rental truck.
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