Factors influencing moving costs from Seattle to Fargotoggle

The cost of Seattle movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Seattle to Fargo can be as low as $1,613 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 11,743.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Seattle, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,048 to $2,641. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Seattle to Fargo

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

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

Seattle Fargo
Average rent cost $1,975 $1,055
Average home value $842,068 $287,548
Average income (per capita) $77,845 $59,493
Cost of living (single person) $3,740 $1,566
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,801 $3,299
Unemployment rate 4.8% 3.6%
Sales tax 10.35% 7.5%
State income tax 0.0% 2.9%
  • Rent prices in Fargo are 47% 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 Fargo.
    Home prices in Fargo are 65.9% lower than in Seattle.
  • Income in Fargo is 23.6% lower than in Seattle, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Fargo include Noridian Mutual Insurance Company, TMI Hospitality, and Scheels.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Fargo is 58.1% lower than in Seattle. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Fargo is 66.3% lower than in Seattle.
  • The unemployment rate in Fargo is 25.00% lower than in Seattle.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Fargo, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Fargo are 27.54% lower than in Seattle.
  • State income taxes in Fargo are 2.90% higher than in Seattle.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,256.15 in Fargo to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Seattle.

How life is different in Seattle vs. Fargo

Fargo Seattle
Population 125,990 737,015
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 8
Walkability score 45 74
Bike friendliness score 49 71
Crime Index 8.0 58.88
Safety Index 56.17 49.23
Air Quality Good Good
  • Fargo's population is about 83% less than Seattle.
  • Fargo's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Seattle's higher score of 8.
  • Fargo is less walkable than Seattle with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Seattle's 74 out of 100.
  • Fargo has a bike-friendliness score 49 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.
  • Fargo's crime rate is lower than Seattle with a score of 8.0 compared to Seattle's 58.88. This means that Fargo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88%.
  • Fargo is considered to be safer than Seattle with a safety index of 56.17 vs Seattle's 49.23.
  • Air quality in Fargo is good, and in Seattle it's good.

Other things to consider for your Seattle vs. Fargo move

  • Weather: August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Fargo, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
  • 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: 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 booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in North Dakota, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While North Dakota 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 Fargo 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. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Fargo

With your sights set on "Fargo", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Fargo.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Longfellow
  • Rose Creek
  • Southpointe
  • Lincoln
  • Horace Mann

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Rose Creek
  • Longfellow
  • Southpointe
  • Pointe West
  • Woodhaven

Things to do in Fargo

Now that you've made the move to North Dakota, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Fargo. 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 Fargo, such as the Fargo Air Museum, Roger Maris Museum, and Plains Art Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Lindenwood Park, Rheault Farm, Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society, and Broadway Square 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 Fargo Force (USHL) and North Dakota State Bison (Summit League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Seattle to Fargo?

The best time to move from Seattle to Fargo is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Seattle.

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

Because most people are moving from Seattle to Fargo in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Seattle to Fargo take?

The 1,425-mile move from Seattle, WA, to Fargo, ND, takes three to eight days. Some Seattle movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Fargo.

Helpful moving resources