How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to CO move
Using rate data from 95 Washington 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 Washington to Colorado?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Washington
to Colorado with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,387 – $5,181 |
$846 – $2,271 |
$763 – $1,543 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,975 – $7,264 |
$1,627 – $3,209 |
$824 – $1,801 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,906 – $9,744 |
$2,140 – $4,261 |
$1,036 – $2,111 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,295-mile move from WA to
CO, 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 Washington to Colorado
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington to Colorado,
you can expect to spend between $1,387
and $5,181.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,975 to
$7,264 on the same route
(WA to CO). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Washington to Colorado typically runs between
$4,906 and
$9,744.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to Colorado
Moving from Washington to Colorado? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $846 and
$2,271. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,627 to
$3,209. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,140 up to
$4,261. 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 Washington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington to Colorado
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
$763 and
$1,543.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$824 and
$1,801.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,036 and
$2,111.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to CO
There are many factors that influence Washington moving costs. The cost to move from Washington to Colorado 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 Washington 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 WA to CO
Moving between Washington and Colorado involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Washington vs. Colorado
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Washington and Colorado. 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:
|
Washington |
Colorado |
| Average rent |
$1,900 |
$1,594 |
| Average home cost |
$588,856 |
$541,072 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$90,325 |
$87,598 |
| Cost of living index |
115 |
91 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.8% |
4.1% |
| Average sales tax |
6.5% |
7.81% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
5.49% |
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Rent in Colorado is about 16% cheaper than in Washington, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Colorado are roughly 8% less than in Washington, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Washington and Colorado.
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Moving to Colorado is about 21% cheaper than living in Washington. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Colorado has a lower unemployment rate than Washington by about 15%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Shoppers in Colorado pay about 20% more in sales tax than those in Washington, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Colorado has a state income tax, while Washington 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 Colorado vs. Washington
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 Colorado differs from Washington in these areas.
|
Colorado |
Washington |
| Population |
5,877,610 |
7,812,880 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 54-46 |
Democratic |
| Summer high |
86ºF |
79ºF |
| Winter low |
13ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
16″ |
38″ |
| Annual snow |
63″ |
18″ |
| Crime index |
36.4 |
37.32 |
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With a population about 25% smaller than Washington, Colorado 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.
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In the last presidential election, Colorado voted Democrat and Washington voted Democratic.
-
Summers in Colorado reach 86°F, warmer than 79°F in Washington.
Expect brighter days and more outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
-
Winter in Colorado can dip to 13°F, colder than the 31°F lows in Washington.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
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In Colorado, you’ll see about 16 inches of rain each year, less than the 38 inches you’re used to in Washington.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
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In Colorado, it snows about 63 inches annually while Washington gets only about 18 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.
-
Colorado and Washington both have similar crime rates (37.32).
Keep in mind, though, that crime levels can differ significantly between cities and neighborhoods, so it’s smart to check local crime statistics for a more accurate view.
Comparing the pros of Washington vs. Colorado
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Colorado stacks up against Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington |
Pros of living in Colorado |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Awesome snow recreational activities |
| High quality of life |
Quality healthcare |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High quality of life |
| Delicious seafood |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. Colorado
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Washington to Colorado, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Washington |
Cons of living in Colorado |
| Constant rain |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
High cost of living |
| High cost of living |
Altitude sickness |
| High crime rate |
Overcrowding |
| Natural disasters |
Bad traffic |
Other things to consider for your Washington to Colorado 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:
The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) regulates local and intrastate moving service providers in Colorado. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Colorado moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Colorado 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 Colorado 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. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-free advantage, provided by movers with minimal coverage. Under this option, the mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable item, you would only receive compensation based on this limited valuation. If you seek comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, discuss alternative options with the moving company you’re hiring or explore 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 Colorado
Get ready to discover Colorado. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Colorado
- Denver Botanic Gardens
- Argo Mill and Tunnel
- Rosemount Museum
- Benson Park Sculpture Garden
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Parks in Colorado
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Sports teams in Colorado
- Denver Broncos (NFL)
- Denver Barbarians (RSL)
- Denver Nuggets (NBA)
- Colorado Rockies (MLB)
- Colorado Avalanche (NHL)
Universities in Colorado
- University of Colorado Boulder
- Colorado State University
- University of Denver
- United States Air Force Academy
- University of Colorado Denver
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Washington to Colorado?
Do movers transport your car from Washington to Colorado?
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 Washington to Colorado
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to Colorado?
More and more folks are relocating from Washington to Colorado to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and awesome snow recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Washington or Colorado?
Living in Colorado usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is much more affordable in Colorado,
with average rent about 16% less and home prices 8% lower than in Washington.
The tax rate is about the same between Washington and Colorado.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Colorado?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Colorado, aim for an income of around $85,853 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $4,016 if you’re flying solo, or $8,875 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Castle Pines North and Carbonate usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Washington?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Washington.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 4 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 5 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
Washington moving services
Popular Washington routes
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When planning a move from Washington to Colorado, professional movers typically run between
$2,975 and $7,264, a moving container averages about
$2,418, and a rental truck is around
$1,312.
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