Factors that influence moving costs from Olympia to Lansingtoggle

The cost of Olympia movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Olympia to Lansing might cost as little as $1,723, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $14,047.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Olympia, 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 $1,570 to $4,243. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Olympia to Lansing

Moving from Olympia 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 Olympia than in Lansing, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Olympia Lansing
Average rent cost $1,895 $1,129
Average home value $508,798 $148,542
Average income (per capita) $66,492 $64,729
Cost of living (single person) $2,473 $1,595
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,391 $4,199
Unemployment rate 5.6% 7.4%
Sales tax 9.4% 6.0%
State income tax 0.0% 4.25%
  • Rent prices in Lansing are 40% lower than in Olympia, 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 70.8% lower than in Olympia.
  • Income in Lansing is 2.7% lower than in Olympia, so you could earn less 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 35.5% lower than in Olympia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Lansing is 22.1% lower than in Olympia.
  • The unemployment rate in Lansing is 32.14% higher than in Olympia.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Lansing, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lansing are 36.17% lower than in Olympia.
  • State income taxes in Lansing are 4.25% higher than in Olympia.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,934.90 in Lansing to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Olympia.

How life is different in Olympia vs. Lansing

Lansing Olympia
Population 112,644 55,605
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 5
Walkability score 46 39
Bike friendliness score 55 59
Crime Index 48.66 27.95
Safety Index 51.34 62.25
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lansing's population is about 103% greater than Olympia.
  • Lansing's public transportation has a similar score to Olympia.
  • Lansing is more walkable than Olympia with a score of 46 out of 100 vs Olympia's 39 out of 100.
  • Lansing has a bike-friendliness score 55 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Olympia, which has a score of 59 out of 100.
  • Lansing's crime rate is higher than Olympia with a score of 48.66 compared to Olympia's 27.95. This means that Lansing neighborhoods are safer than 48.66% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Olympia neighborhoods are safer than 27.95%.
  • Lansing is considered to be less safe than Olympia with a score of 51.34 vs Olympia's 62.25.
  • Air quality in Lansing is good, and in Olympia it's good.

Other things to consider for your Olympia 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
  • Edgemont Park
  • DeWitt
  • Mason

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Okemos
  • Haslett
  • DeWitt
  • Waverly
  • DeWitt Charter Township

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 Olympia to Lansing?

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Olympia 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 Olympia to Lansing take?

The 2,325-mile journey from Olympia, WA to Lansing, MI typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Olympia 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