How we chose the best moving companies for your VA to ID move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 101 Virginia 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 Virginia to Idaho?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Virginia to Idaho.
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 |
$1,167 – $4,725 |
$1,248 – $3,006 |
$1,308 – $2,505 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,259 – $6,824 |
$2,216 – $4,779 |
$1,403 – $3,102 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,123 – $10,875 |
$3,168 – $6,485 |
$1,718 – $3,729 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,376-mile move from VA to
ID 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 Virginia to Idaho
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Virginia to Idaho typically costs between
$1,167 and
$4,725.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,259
and $6,824
when moving from VA to ID.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Virginia to Idaho,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,123
up to $10,875.
Cost of moving containers from Virginia to Idaho
If you’re relocating from Virginia to Idaho,
you’ll typically spend between $1,248
and $3,006 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,216 up to
$4,779.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$3,168 and
$6,485. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia to Idaho
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
$1,308 and
$2,505.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,403 to
$3,102.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,718 and
$3,729.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from VA to ID
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Virginia to Idaho. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
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 Virginia, 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 VA to ID
Transitioning from Virginia to Idaho gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Virginia vs. Idaho
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Virginia and Idaho are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Virginia |
Idaho |
| Average rent |
$1,440 |
$1,061 |
| Average home cost |
$392,682 |
$451,520 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$87,249 |
$70,214 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
106 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
5.73% |
6.03% |
| State income tax |
5.75% |
5.8% |
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Rent is about 26% less expensive in Idaho than in Virginia, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in Idaho are roughly 15% higher than in Virginia.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Idaho are roughly 20% lower than in Virginia.
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Moving to Idaho means you’ll be spending 6% more than you did in Virginia. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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Unemployment in Idaho is about 28% higher than in Virginia. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax rates are similar in Idaho and Virginia, so this won’t affect your cost of living when you relocate.
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Income taxes are similar in Idaho and Virginia, so your paycheck deductions won’t change. This means you can count on steady finances as you move between states.
How life is different in Idaho vs. Virginia
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 Idaho and Virginia compare.
|
Idaho |
Virginia |
| Population |
1,964,726 |
8,715,698 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 70-30 |
Democratic 52-48 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
18″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
14″ |
| Crime index |
11.68 |
19.3 |
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With a population roughly 77% smaller than Virginia, Idaho 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.
-
In the last presidential election, Idaho leaned Republican, while Virginia supported Democratic.
-
The average summer high in Idaho is 85°F, while Virginia averages 87°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.
-
In the coldest months, Idaho dips to about 17°F, colder than 25°F in Virginia.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Idaho, you’ll get about 18 inches of rain each year, less than the 44 inches you’re used to in Virginia.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
Each year, Idaho gets about 47 inches of snow, far more than the 14 inches you might be accustomed to in Virginia.
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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Idaho boasts a lower crime rate than Virginia, with a crime index of 11.68 compared to 19.3.
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 Virginia vs. Idaho
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Idaho to Virginia:
| Pros of living in Virginia |
Pros of living in Idaho |
| Strong economy |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Beautiful scenery |
Low cost of living |
| Abundance of outdoor activities |
High quality of life |
| Enjoyable four season weather |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Strong military presence |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Virginia vs. Idaho
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Virginia to Idaho:
| Cons of living in Virginia |
Cons of living in Idaho |
| High cost of living |
Low diversity |
| Unpredictable weather |
Harsh winters |
| Bad traffic congestion |
Political dominance |
| Lack of public transportation |
Isolation |
| Air noise pollution |
Competitive housing |
Other things to consider for your Virginia to Idaho 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:
In Idaho, in-state movers are regulated by and must register with the Idaho Transportation Department.
In cases of unresolvable disputes with local movers, they may help. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Idaho moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Idaho, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
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 Idaho. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection for minimal coverage, provided by movers at no extra charge. With liability capped at 60 cents per pound per article, consider alternative coverage options from your selected moving company or explore third-party insurance for full value protection.
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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 Idaho
Get excited to explore Idaho. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Idaho
- Museum of Clean
- Warhawk Air Museum
- Museum of Idaho
- Legacy Flight Museum
- Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Education Center
Parks in Idaho
- Harriman State Park
- Sawtooth Wilderness Area
- Indian Creek Park
- McEuen Park
- Thousand Springs State Park
Sports teams in Idaho
- Idaho Steelheads (ECHL)
- Boise State Broncos (NCAA)
- Idaho State Bengals (NCAA)
- Idaho Vandals Big Sky (NCAA)
Universities in Idaho
- University of Idaho
- Boise State University
- Brigham Young University-Idaho
- Idaho State University
- Northwest Nazarene University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Virginia to Idaho?
Do movers transport your car from Virginia to Idaho?
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
Virginia to
Idaho
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Virginia to Idaho?
Many people are making the move from Virginia to Idaho to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Idaho has to offer, like ample economic opportunity and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Virginia or Idaho?
Living in Virginia usually costs less than in Idaho.
Housing
is more affordable in Virginia,
with average rent about 36% less and home prices 13% lower than in Idaho.
Taxes are also
lower in Virginia, most notably income taxes, which are more than 1% less than those paid by Idaho residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Idaho?
Planning to move to Idaho? A single adult should aim for an income of around $82,425 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,700 for an individual, or $7,442 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Boise and Meridian usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Virginia?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Virginia:
3 provide military discounts;
2 have senior-discount programs;
1 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Virginia to Idaho, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,259 to
$6,824, roughly
$3,497 for a container move, and close to
$2,252
for a rental truck.
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