How we chose the best moving companies for your VA to AR move
Using rate data from 101 Virginia 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 Virginia to Arkansas?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Virginia
to Arkansas with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,101 – $4,016 |
$773 – $1,785 |
$527 – $1,026 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,074 – $5,304 |
$1,308 – $2,554 |
$581 – $1,281 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,586 – $6,969 |
$1,721 – $3,407 |
$735 – $1,494 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 843-mile move from VA to
AR, 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 Virginia to Arkansas
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Virginia to Arkansas,
you can expect to spend between $1,101
and $4,016.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,074 to
$5,304 on the same route
(VA to AR). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Virginia to Arkansas typically runs between
$3,586 and
$6,969.
Cost of moving containers from Virginia to Arkansas
Moving from Virginia to Arkansas? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $773 and
$1,785. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,308 to
$2,554. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,721 up to
$3,407. 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 Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia to Arkansas
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
$527 and
$1,026.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$581 and
$1,281.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $735 and
$1,494.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from VA to AR
There are many factors that influence Virginia moving costs. The cost to move from Virginia to Arkansas 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 Virginia 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 VA to AR
Moving between Virginia and Arkansas involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Virginia vs. Arkansas
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Virginia and Arkansas. 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:
|
Virginia |
Arkansas |
| Average rent |
$1,440 |
$868 |
| Average home cost |
$392,682 |
$208,078 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$87,249 |
$56,335 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
2.3% |
| Average sales tax |
5.73% |
9.51% |
| State income tax |
5.75% |
2.0% |
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Rent in Arkansas is about 40% cheaper than in Virginia, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Arkansas are roughly 47% less than in Virginia, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Arkansas are about 35% lower than in Virginia.
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Moving to Arkansas is about 10% cheaper than living in Virginia. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Arkansas has a lower unemployment rate than Virginia by about 21%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Shoppers in Arkansas pay about 66% more in sales tax than those in Virginia, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Income taxes in Arkansas are 65% lower than in Virginia. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Arkansas vs. Virginia
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 Arkansas differs from Virginia in these areas.
|
Arkansas |
Virginia |
| Population |
3,067,732 |
8,715,698 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64-36 |
Democratic 52-48 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
28ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
14″ |
| Crime index |
30.97 |
19.3 |
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With a population about 65% smaller than Virginia, Arkansas 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, Arkansas voted Republican and Virginia voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in Arkansas average 91°F, almost the same as 87°F in Virginia.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
In Arkansas, winter lows are about 28°F, while Virginia averages 25°F.
With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
-
Expect about 50 inches of rain each year in Arkansas — a big shift from the 44 inches you’re used to in Virginia.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
-
In Arkansas, you’ll see just 4 inches of snow each year, compared to Virginia, which gets 14 inches annually.
Moving to Arkansas means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
Arkansas reports a higher crime rate than Virginia, with a crime index of 30.97 versus 19.3.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Virginia vs. Arkansas
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Arkansas stacks up against Virginia:
| Pros of living in Virginia |
Pros of living in Arkansas |
| Strong economy |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful scenery |
Low cost of living |
| Abundance of outdoor activities |
Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
| Enjoyable four season weather |
Fantastic weather |
| Strong military presence |
Natural beauty |
Comparing the cons of living in Virginia vs. Arkansas
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Virginia to Arkansas, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Virginia |
Cons of living in Arkansas |
| High cost of living |
High crime rate |
| Unpredictable weather |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Bad traffic congestion |
Poor education |
| Lack of public transportation |
Pervasive poverty |
| Air noise pollution |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your Virginia to Arkansas 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:
Before providing in-state household goods relocation services, Arkansas moving companies must be issued an Intrastate Authority Permit from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Arkansas moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Arkansas 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 Arkansas 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. Released Value Protection, offered by movers at no extra cost, is the most economical option, albeit with minimal coverage. The mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, the reimbursement would be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure full coverage of your items’ value, explore alternative options with your moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
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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 Arkansas
Get ready to discover Arkansas. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Arkansas
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- Ozark Folk Center State Park
- Daisy Airgun Museum
- Mid-America Science Museum
Parks in Arkansas
- Riverfront Park
- Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
- Craighead Forest Park
- Cadron Settlement Park
- Maumelle Park
Sports teams in Arkansas
- Arkansas Razorbacks (NCAA)
- Arkansas State Red Wolves (NCAA)
- Central Arkansas Bears (NCAA)
- Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans (NCAA)
Universities in Arkansas
- University of Arkansas
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Arkansas State University
- University of Central Arkansas
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Virginia to Arkansas?
Do movers transport your car from Virginia to Arkansas?
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 Virginia to Arkansas
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Virginia to Arkansas?
More and more folks are relocating from Virginia to Arkansas to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Virginia or Arkansas?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in Virginia.
Housing
is more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 40% less and home prices 47% lower than in Virginia.
Taxes are also
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Arkansas?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Arkansas, aim for an income of around $56,231 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,422 if you’re flying solo, or $5,241 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Virginia?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Virginia.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 3 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 2 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 1 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Virginia to Arkansas, professional movers typically run between
$2,074 and $5,304, a moving container averages about
$1,931, and a rental truck is around
$931.
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