How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to MI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 95 Washington 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 Washington to Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Washington to Michigan.
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 |
$1,347 – $5,529 |
$1,114 – $2,759 |
$1,150 – $2,067 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,711 – $7,809 |
$1,944 – $4,248 |
$1,233 – $2,615 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,815 – $12,293 |
$2,608 – $5,456 |
$1,479 – $3,299 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,031-mile move from WA to
MI 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 Washington to Michigan
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington to Michigan typically costs between
$1,347 and
$5,529.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,711
and $7,809
when moving from WA to MI.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Washington to Michigan,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,815
up to $12,293.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to Michigan
If you’re relocating from Washington to Michigan,
you’ll typically spend between $1,114
and $2,759 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,944 up to
$4,248.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,608 and
$5,456. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Washington.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington to Michigan
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
$1,150 and
$2,067.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,233 to
$2,615.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,479 and
$3,299.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to MI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Washington to Michigan. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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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 Washington, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from WA to MI
Transitioning from Washington to Michigan gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Washington vs. Michigan
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Washington and Michigan are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Washington |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$1,900 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$588,856 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$90,325 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
115 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.8% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.5% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
4.25% |
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Rent is about 45% less expensive in Michigan than in Washington, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Michigan are about 58% lower than in Washington, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Michigan are roughly 24% lower than in Washington.
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Moving to Michigan costs about 20% less than living in Washington. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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Unemployment rates are about the same in Washington and Michigan, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
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Sales tax in Michigan is 8% lower than in Washington, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Michigan 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 Michigan vs. Washington
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 Michigan and Washington compare.
|
Michigan |
Washington |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
7,812,880 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Democratic |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
79ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
38″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
18″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
37.32 |
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If you’re moving from Washington to Michigan, you’ll find Michigan has about 28% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, Michigan leaned Republican, while Washington supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Michigan is 81°F, while Washington averages 79°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.
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In the coldest months, Michigan dips to about 14°F, colder than 31°F in Washington.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Michigan, you’ll experience about 34 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 38 inches you’re used to in Washington.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
-
Each year, Michigan gets about 64 inches of snow, far more than the 18 inches you might be accustomed to in Washington.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
Michigan boasts a lower crime rate than Washington, with a crime index of 19.98 compared to 37.32.
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 Washington vs. Michigan
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Michigan to Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Scenic beauty |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Good higher education |
| High quality of life |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Delicious seafood |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. Michigan
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Washington to Michigan:
| Cons of living in Washington |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Constant rain |
Cold snowy winters |
| Bad traffic |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| High cost of living |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| High crime rate |
Expensive education |
| Natural disasters |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Washington to Michigan 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.
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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.
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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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Michigan moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Michigan, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 Michigan. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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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 Michigan
Get excited to explore Michigan. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Washington to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Washington to Michigan?
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
Washington to
Michigan
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to Michigan?
Many people are making the move from Washington to Michigan to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Michigan has to offer, like scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Washington or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 45% less and home prices 58% lower than in Washington.
The tax rate is about the same between Washington and Michigan.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
Planning to move to Michigan? A single adult should aim for an income of around $54,934 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,608 for an individual, or $6,859 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Washington?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Washington:
4 provide military discounts;
5 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Washington moving services
Popular Washington routes
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When relocating from Washington to Michigan, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,711 to
$7,809, roughly
$3,096 for a container move, and close to
$1,924
for a rental truck.
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