How we chose the best moving companies for your TN to MI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 71 Tennessee 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 Tennessee to Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Tennessee 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 |
$1,218 – $3,652 |
$711 – $1,808 |
$485 – $976 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,110 – $5,718 |
$1,345 – $2,509 |
$555 – $1,103 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,744 – $7,453 |
$1,732 – $3,226 |
$648 – $1,363 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 706-mile move from TN 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 Tennessee to Michigan
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Tennessee to Michigan typically costs between
$1,218 and
$3,652.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,110
and $5,718
when moving from TN to MI.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Tennessee to Michigan,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,744
up to $7,453.
Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to Michigan
If you’re relocating from Tennessee to Michigan,
you’ll typically spend between $711
and $1,808 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,345 up to
$2,509.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,732 and
$3,226. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Tennessee.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Tennessee 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
$485 and
$976.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$555 to
$1,103.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $648 and
$1,363.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from TN to MI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Tennessee 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 Tennessee, 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 TN to MI
Transitioning from Tennessee 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: Tennessee vs. Michigan
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Tennessee and Michigan are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Tennessee |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$1,047 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$319,208 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$64,035 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
9.55% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
4.25% |
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Your budget won’t be hit too hard when you move to Michigan from Tennessee with rent being about the same in each state.
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Home prices in Michigan are about 23% lower than in Tennessee, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 7% more in Michigan than in Tennessee. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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With a similar cost of living in both Tennessee and Michigan, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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Unemployment in Michigan is about 42% higher than in Tennessee. 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 37% lower than in Tennessee, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Michigan has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in Michigan vs. Tennessee
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 Tennessee compare.
|
Michigan |
Tennessee |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
7,126,489 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
27ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
53″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
5″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
29.24 |
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If you’re moving from Tennessee to Michigan, you’ll find Michigan has about 41% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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The last presidential election saw both Tennessee and Michigan siding with the Republican party.
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The average summer high in Michigan is 81°F compared to 88°F in Tennessee.
A cooler summer climate means less extreme heat, lower energy costs, and more comfortable outdoor time — great for anyone who values comfort.
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In the coldest months, Michigan dips to about 14°F, colder than 27°F in Tennessee.
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 53 inches you’re used to in Tennessee.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
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Each year, Michigan gets about 64 inches of snow, far more than the 5 inches you might be accustomed to in Tennessee.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
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Michigan boasts a lower crime rate than Tennessee, with a crime index of 19.98 compared to 29.24.
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 Tennessee vs. Michigan
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Michigan to Tennessee:
| Pros of living in Tennessee |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Scenic beauty |
| No income taxes |
Good higher education |
| Legendary music scene |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Natural beauty and parks galore |
Low cost of living |
| Delicious southern comfort food |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Tennessee vs. Michigan
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Tennessee to Michigan:
| Cons of living in Tennessee |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Tendency for severe weather |
Cold snowy winters |
| Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Traffic congestion |
Expensive education |
| High urban crime rates |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Tennessee to Michigan move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
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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.
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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 Tennessee to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Tennessee 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
Tennessee to
Michigan
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Tennessee to Michigan?
Many people are making the move from Tennessee 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 Tennessee or Michigan?
Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in Michigan.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 1% less and home prices 23% lower than in Tennessee.
The tax rate is about the same between Tennessee and Michigan.
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 Tennessee?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Tennessee:
5 provide military discounts;
3 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
1 advertise educator discounts;
2 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Tennessee moving services
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When relocating from Tennessee to Michigan, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,110 to
$5,718, roughly
$1,927 for a container move, and close to
$829
for a rental truck.
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