How we chose the best moving companies for your WA to ND 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 North Dakota?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Washington
to North Dakota with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,258 – $5,175 |
$877 – $2,103 |
$758 – $1,430 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,910 – $6,907 |
$1,555 – $2,933 |
$757 – $1,653 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,724 – $9,308 |
$2,063 – $4,209 |
$1,030 – $1,914 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,195-mile move from WA to
ND, 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 North Dakota
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Washington to North Dakota,
you can expect to spend between $1,258
and $5,175.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,910 to
$6,907 on the same route
(WA to ND). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Washington to North Dakota typically runs between
$4,724 and
$9,308.
Cost of moving containers from Washington to North Dakota
Moving from Washington to North Dakota? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $877 and
$2,103. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,555 to
$2,933. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,063 up to
$4,209. 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 North Dakota
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
$758 and
$1,430.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$757 and
$1,653.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,030 and
$1,914.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WA to ND
There are many factors that influence Washington moving costs. The cost to move from Washington to North Dakota 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 ND
Moving between Washington and North Dakota involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Washington vs. North Dakota
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Washington and North Dakota. 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 |
North Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,900 |
$912 |
| Average home cost |
$588,856 |
$263,410 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$90,325 |
$73,959 |
| Cost of living index |
115 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.8% |
2.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.5% |
6.96% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
2.9% |
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Rent in North Dakota is about 52% cheaper than in Washington, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in North Dakota are roughly 55% 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 North Dakota are about 18% lower than in Washington.
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Moving to North Dakota is about 17% cheaper than living in Washington. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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North Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than Washington by about 50%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Shoppers in North Dakota pay about 7% more in sales tax than those in Washington, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota differs from Washington in these areas.
|
North Dakota |
Washington |
| Population |
783,926 |
7,812,880 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 68-32 |
Democratic |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
79ºF |
| Winter low |
0ºF |
31ºF |
| Annual rain |
19″ |
38″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
18″ |
| Crime index |
22.74 |
37.32 |
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With a population about 90% smaller than Washington, North Dakota 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, North Dakota voted Republican and Washington voted Democratic.
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Summer highs in North Dakota average 82°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 North Dakota can dip to 0°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 North Dakota, you’ll see about 19 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 North Dakota, it snows about 39 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.
-
North Dakota offers a safer environment than Washington, with a crime index of 22.74 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. North Dakota
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in North Dakota stacks up against Washington:
| Pros of living in Washington |
Pros of living in North Dakota |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Peaceful rural life |
| High quality of life |
Affordable living costs |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
High-quality education opportunities |
| Delicious seafood |
Open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in Washington vs. North Dakota
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Washington to North Dakota, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Washington |
Cons of living in North Dakota |
| Constant rain |
Long and cold winters |
| Bad traffic |
Lack of diversity |
| High cost of living |
Housing shortages |
| High crime rate |
Small populations |
| Natural disasters |
Relaxed lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your Washington to North Dakota 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:
All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a North Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
North Dakota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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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 North Dakota 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 cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
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 North Dakota
Get ready to discover North Dakota. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in North Dakota
- Red River Zoo
- Fargo Air Museum
- North Dakota Museum of Art
- Roger Maris Museum
- Dickinson Museum Center
Parks in North Dakota
- The Dakota Zoo
- Red River Zoo
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Scandinavian Heritage Park
- Roosevelt Park Zoo
Sports teams in North Dakota
- Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL)
- Fargo Force (USHL)
- Minot Minotauros (NAHL)
Universities in North Dakota
- University of North Dakota
- North Dakota State University
- University of Mary
- Minot State University
- Valley City State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Washington to North Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Washington to North Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Washington to North Dakota?
More and more folks are relocating from Washington to North Dakota to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and peaceful rural life.
Is it cheaper to live in Washington or North Dakota?
Living in North Dakota usually costs less than in Washington.
Housing
is more affordable in North Dakota,
with average rent about 52% less and home prices 55% lower than in Washington.
The tax rate is about the same between Washington and North Dakota.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Dakota?
If you’re planning to live on your own in North Dakota, aim for an income of around $66,980 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,516 if you’re flying solo, or $5,264 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Fargo and Bismarck 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 North Dakota, professional movers typically run between
$2,910 and $6,907, a moving container averages about
$2,244, and a rental truck is around
$1,205.
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