Factors that influence moving costs from Richmond to Lansingtoggle

The cost of Richmond movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Richmond to Lansing might cost as little as $1,320, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,432.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Richmond, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $579 to $1,415. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Richmond to Lansing

Moving from Richmond to Lansing means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Richmond than in Lansing, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Richmond compares to Lansing so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Richmond Lansing
Average rent cost $1,595 $1,129
Average home value $350,897 $148,542
Average income (per capita) $59,606 $64,729
Cost of living (single person) $2,270 $1,595
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,336 $4,199
Unemployment rate 7.1% 7.4%
Sales tax 6.0% 6.0%
State income tax 5.75% 4.25%
  • Rent prices in Lansing are 29% lower than in Richmond, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Lansing.
    Home prices in Lansing are 57.7% lower than in Richmond.
  • Income in Lansing is 8.6% higher than in Richmond, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Lansing include Health Management Associates, Michigan State Police, and Sparrow Health System.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Lansing is 29.7% lower than in Richmond. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Lansing is 21.3% lower than in Richmond.
  • The unemployment rate in Lansing is 4.23% higher than in Richmond.
  • Sales taxes are the same in Lansing and Richmond.
  • One perk of moving to Lansing is paying less in state income taxes, which are 26.09% lower than in Richmond.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,107.93 in Lansing to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Richmond.

How life is different in Richmond vs. Lansing

Lansing Richmond
Population 112,644 226,610
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 7
Walkability score 46 51
Bike friendliness score 55 51
Crime Index 48.66 48.45
Safety Index 51.34 51.55
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lansing's population is about 50% less than Richmond.
  • Lansing's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Richmond's higher score of 7.
  • Lansing is less walkable than Richmond with a score of 46 out of 100 vs Richmond's 51 out of 100.
  • With a score of 55 out of 100, Lansing is more bike-friendly than Richmond, which has a score of 51 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Lansing and Richmond have a similar crime rate.
  • Lansing and Richmond are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Lansing is good, and in Richmond it's good.

Other things to consider for your Richmond vs. Lansing move

  • Weather: Best months to consider moving in Lansing are August, July and June as these months have favorable weather. Summer in Lansing are one of the best in the country as the heat are not that extreme so it's still comfortable. Snowfall, which normally occurs from November to April.
  • HOA rules: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Michigan, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Michigan doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Lansing without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Lansing

With your sights set on "Capital City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Lansing.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Okemos
  • Waverly
  • DeWitt
  • Mason
  • DeWitt Charter Township

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Okemos
  • Haslett
  • DeWitt
  • Waverly
  • Holt

Things to do in Lansing

Now that you've made the move to Michigan, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Lansing. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Lansing, such as the Michigan History Center, Impression 5 Science Center, and R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Woldumar Nature Center, Potter Park Zoo, Hawk Island Park, and River Trail โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Lansing Lugnuts (Baseball) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Richmond to Lansing?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Richmond to Lansing. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Richmond.

When is the cheapest time to move from Richmond to Lansing?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Richmond to Lansing, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Richmond to Lansing take?

The 687-mile journey from Richmond, VA to Lansing, MI typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Richmond offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Lansing.

Helpful moving resources