How we chose the best moving companies for your TN to MT move
Using rate data from 71 Tennessee movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Tennessee to Montana?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Tennessee
to Montana with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,311 – $4,666 |
$1,100 – $2,585 |
$998 – $2,038 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,243 – $7,252 |
$1,867 – $3,819 |
$1,037 – $2,217 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,056 – $9,743 |
$2,551 – $5,030 |
$1,403 – $2,826 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,795-mile move from TN to
MT, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Tennessee to Montana
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Tennessee to Montana,
you can expect to spend between $1,311
and $4,666.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $3,243 to
$7,252 on the same route
(TN to MT). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Tennessee to Montana typically runs between
$6,056 and
$9,743.
Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to Montana
Moving from Tennessee to Montana? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $1,100 and
$2,585. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,867 to
$3,819. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,551 up to
$5,030. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Tennessee.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Tennessee to Montana
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$998 and
$2,038.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$1,037 and
$2,217.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,403 and
$2,826.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from TN to MT
There are many factors that influence Tennessee moving costs. The cost to move from Tennessee to Montana will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Tennessee fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from TN to MT
Moving between Tennessee and Montana involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Tennessee vs. Montana
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Tennessee and Montana. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Tennessee |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$1,047 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$319,208 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$64,035 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
9.55% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
6.75% |
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Rent in Montana is about 7% cheaper than in Tennessee, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Montana to be about 45% more than what you’ll find in Tennessee.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Tennessee and Montana.
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Moving to Montana will cost you 11% more than living in Tennessee, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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Montana and Tennessee have about the same unemployment rate, so you likely won’t see a major shift in job availability or competition from what you’re used to.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Tennessee.
-
Montana 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 Montana vs. Tennessee
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Montana differs from Tennessee in these areas.
|
Montana |
Tennessee |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
7,126,489 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
27ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
53″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
5″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
29.24 |
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With a population about 84% smaller than Tennessee, Montana offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
-
In the last presidential election, both Tennessee and Montana voted Republican.
-
Summer highs in Montana average 84°F, almost the same as 88°F in Tennessee.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winter in Montana can dip to 12°F, colder than the 27°F lows in Tennessee.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In Montana, you’ll see about 15 inches of rain each year, less than the 53 inches you’re used to in Tennessee.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In Montana, it snows about 49 inches annually while Tennessee gets only about 5 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
Montana offers a safer environment than Tennessee, with a crime index of 23.37 versus 29.24.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Tennessee vs. Montana
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Montana stacks up against Tennessee:
| Pros of living in Tennessee |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| No income taxes |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Legendary music scene |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Natural beauty and parks galore |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| Delicious southern comfort food |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Tennessee vs. Montana
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Tennessee to Montana, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Tennessee |
Cons of living in Montana |
| Tendency for severe weather |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
Remote lifestyle |
| Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
Touristy |
| Traffic congestion |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| High urban crime rates |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Tennessee to Montana move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Montana moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Montana does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Montana right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Montana
Get ready to discover Montana. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Tennessee to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Tennessee to Montana?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Tennessee to Montana
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Tennessee to Montana?
More and more folks are relocating from Tennessee to Montana to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in Tennessee or Montana?
Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in Montana.
Housing
is much more affordable in Tennessee,
with average rent about 7% less and home prices 31% lower than in Montana.
The tax rate is about the same between Tennessee and Montana.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Montana, aim for an income of around $62,210 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,225 if you’re flying solo, or $5,468 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Billings and Missoula usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Tennessee?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Tennessee.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 5 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 3 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Teachers and educators receive discounted rates with 1 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 2 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Tennessee moving services
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When planning a move from Tennessee to Montana, professional movers typically run between
$3,243 and $7,252, a moving container averages about
$2,843, and a rental truck is around
$1,627.
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