How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to MT 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 Montana?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Washington
to Montana with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,253 – $4,103 |
$724 – $1,665 |
$448 – $873 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,404 – $6,175 |
$1,241 – $2,398 |
$509 – $1,058 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,266 – $8,587 |
$1,760 – $3,299 |
$622 – $1,305 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 664-mile move from WA to
MT, 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 Montana
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington to Montana,
you can expect to spend between $1,253
and $4,103.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,404 to
$6,175 on the same route
(WA to MT). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Washington to Montana typically runs between
$4,266 and
$8,587.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to Montana
Moving from Washington to Montana? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $724 and
$1,665. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,241 to
$2,398. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,760 up to
$3,299. 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 Montana
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
$448 and
$873.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$509 and
$1,058.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $622 and
$1,305.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to MT
There are many factors that influence Washington moving costs. The cost to move from Washington to Montana will depend on these factors:
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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 MT
Moving between Washington and Montana involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Washington vs. Montana
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Washington and Montana. 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 |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$1,900 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$588,856 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$90,325 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
115 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.8% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
6.5% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
6.75% |
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Rent in Montana is about 49% cheaper than in Washington, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Montana are roughly 21% less than in Washington, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Montana are about 27% lower than in Washington.
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Moving to Montana is about 13% cheaper than living in Washington. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Montana has a lower unemployment rate than Washington by about 31%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Washington.
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Montana 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 Montana 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 Montana differs from Washington in these areas.
|
Montana |
Washington |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
7,812,880 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Democratic |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
79ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
38″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
18″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
37.32 |
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With a population about 86% smaller than Washington, Montana 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.
-
In the last presidential election, Montana voted Republican and Washington voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in Montana average 84°F, almost the same as 79°F in Washington.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winter in Montana can dip to 12°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.
-
In Montana, you’ll see about 15 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.
-
In Montana, it snows about 49 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.
-
Montana offers a safer environment than Washington, with a crime index of 23.37 versus 37.32.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Washington vs. Montana
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Montana stacks up against Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| High quality of life |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| Delicious seafood |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. Montana
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Washington to Montana, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Washington |
Cons of living in Montana |
| Constant rain |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Bad traffic |
Remote lifestyle |
| High cost of living |
Touristy |
| High crime rate |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| Natural disasters |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Washington to Montana 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:
In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Montana moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Montana 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 Montana 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Montana
Get ready to discover Montana. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Washington to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Washington to Montana?
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 Montana
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to Montana?
More and more folks are relocating from Washington to Montana to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in Washington or Montana?
Living in Montana usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is more affordable in Montana,
with average rent about 49% less and home prices 21% lower than in Washington.
The tax rate is about the same between Washington and Montana.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Montana, aim for an income of around $62,210 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,225 if you’re flying solo, or $5,468 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Billings and Missoula 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 Montana, professional movers typically run between
$2,404 and $6,175, a moving container averages about
$1,819, and a rental truck is around
$783.
Fact Checked by:
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