Factors that influence moving costs from Seattle to Lansingtoggle

The cost of Seattle movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Seattle to Lansing might cost as little as $1,802, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,969.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Seattle, 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 $1,463 to $4,043. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Seattle to Lansing

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

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

Seattle Lansing
Average rent cost $1,975 $1,129
Average home value $842,068 $148,542
Average income (per capita) $77,845 $64,729
Cost of living (single person) $3,740 $1,595
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,801 $4,199
Unemployment rate 4.8% 7.4%
Sales tax 10.35% 6.0%
State income tax 0.0% 4.25%
  • Rent prices in Lansing are 43% lower than in Seattle, 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 82.4% lower than in Seattle.
  • Income in Lansing is 16.8% lower than in Seattle, 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 57.4% lower than in Seattle. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Lansing is 57.2% lower than in Seattle.
  • The unemployment rate in Lansing is 54.17% higher than in Seattle.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Lansing, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lansing are 42.03% lower than in Seattle.
  • State income taxes in Lansing are 4.25% higher than in Seattle.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,279.41 in Lansing to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Seattle.

How life is different in Seattle vs. Lansing

Lansing Seattle
Population 112,644 737,015
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 8
Walkability score 46 74
Bike friendliness score 55 71
Crime Index 48.66 58.88
Safety Index 51.34 49.23
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lansing's population is about 85% less than Seattle.
  • Lansing's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Seattle's higher score of 8.
  • Lansing is less walkable than Seattle with a score of 46 out of 100 vs Seattle's 74 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 Seattle, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
  • Lansing's crime rate is lower than Seattle with a score of 48.66 compared to Seattle's 58.88. This means that Lansing neighborhoods are safer than 48.66% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88%.
  • Lansing and Seattle are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Lansing is good, and in Seattle it's good.

Other things to consider for your Seattle 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 Seattle to Lansing?

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

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

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

The 2,264-mile journey from Seattle, WA to Lansing, MI typically takes seven to 18 days. Some movers in Seattle 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