How we chose the best moving companies for your NY to MI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 148 New York 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 York to Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from New York 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 |
$1,010 – $3,406 |
$713 – $1,873 |
$570 – $972 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,925 – $4,792 |
$1,376 – $2,656 |
$580 – $1,252 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,412 – $6,599 |
$1,721 – $3,330 |
$763 – $1,430 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 816-mile move from NY 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 York to Michigan
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from New York to Michigan typically costs between
$1,010 and
$3,406.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$1,925
and $4,792
when moving from NY to MI.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from New York to Michigan,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,412
up to $6,599.
Cost of moving containers from New York to Michigan
If you’re relocating from New York to Michigan,
you’ll typically spend between $713
and $1,873 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,376 up to
$2,656.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,721 and
$3,330. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from New York.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New York 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
$570 and
$972.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$580 to
$1,252.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $763 and
$1,430.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NY to MI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from New York 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 York, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from NY to MI
Transitioning from New York 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 York vs. Michigan
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between New York and Michigan are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
New York |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$1,507 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$482,742 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,386 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.4% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
8.52% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
10.9% |
4.25% |
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Rent is about 31% less expensive in Michigan than in New York, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Michigan are about 49% lower than in New York, 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 16% lower than in New York.
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Moving to Michigan costs about 8% less than living in New York. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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Unemployment in Michigan is about 7% higher than in New York. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax in Michigan is 30% lower than in New York, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Income taxes are 61% lower in Michigan compared to New York. 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 York
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 York compare.
|
Michigan |
New York |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
19,571,216 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Democratic 60-40 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
16ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
62″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
21.51 |
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With a population roughly 49% smaller than New York, Michigan gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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In the last presidential election, Michigan leaned Republican, while New York supported Democratic.
-
The average summer high in Michigan is 81°F, while New York averages 81°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.
-
During the coldest months, Michigan averages 14°F while New York sees lows of 16°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
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In Michigan, you’ll get about 34 inches of rain each year, less than the 44 inches you’re used to in New York.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
In Michigan, you can expect about 64 inches of snow each year.
By comparison, New York typically gets around 62 inches annually.
Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
-
Michigan boasts a lower crime rate than New York, with a crime index of 19.98 compared to 21.51.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of New York vs. Michigan
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Michigan to New York:
| Pros of living in New York |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Natural beauty |
Scenic beauty |
| Arts |
Good higher education |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Distinct seasons |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in New York vs. Michigan
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from New York to Michigan:
| Cons of living in New York |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| High tax burden |
Cold snowy winters |
| Rough winter weather |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| High cost of living |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Poor quality healthcare |
Expensive education |
| Populous |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your New York 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.
-
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.
-
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 York to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from New York 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 York to
Michigan
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from New York to Michigan?
Many people are making the move from New York 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 York or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in New York.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 31% less and home prices 49% lower than in New York.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by New York 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 York?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in New York:
7 provide military discounts;
6 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from New York to Michigan, expect professional movers to cost around
$1,925 to
$4,792, roughly
$2,016 for a container move, and close to
$916
for a rental truck.
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