How we chose the best moving companies for your WV to LA move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 10 West Virginia movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from West Virginia to Louisiana?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from West Virginia
to Louisiana, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,148 – $4,908 |
$772 – $1,903 |
$624 – $1,296 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,501 – $6,287 |
$1,531 – $3,021 |
$668 – $1,439 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,077 – $7,557 |
$1,908 – $3,787 |
$891 – $1,804 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,035-mile relocation from WV to
LA, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from West Virginia to Louisiana
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from West Virginia to Louisiana, you’ll likely pay between
$1,148
and $4,908.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,501 and $6,287
for the same journey (WV to LA).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,077
to $7,557.
Cost of moving containers from West Virginia to Louisiana
When you’re heading from West Virginia to Louisiana, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $772 and
$1,903. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,531 and
$3,021. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,908
to $3,787. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from West Virginia easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from West Virginia to Louisiana
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$624
to $1,296.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $668
to $1,439, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from West Virginia to Louisiana costs around
$891 to
$1,804.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WV to LA
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from West Virginia to Louisiana. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in West Virginia when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from WV to LA
If you’re moving to Louisiana from West Virginia, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: West Virginia vs. Louisiana
Understanding how costs compare between West Virginia and Louisiana can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
West Virginia |
Louisiana |
| Average rent |
$899 |
$996 |
| Average home cost |
$168,172 |
$201,519 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$55,217 |
$57,852 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.2% |
4.1% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
6.5% |
4.25% |
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Rent is about 11% higher in Louisiana than in West Virginia. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Louisiana are typically about 20% higher than in West Virginia.
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The average income is about the same in both West Virginia and Louisiana, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
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With the cost of living being about the same in Louisiana and West Virginia, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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Unemployment rates are pretty similar in Louisiana and West Virginia, so you probably won’t notice much change in job opportunities or competition after your move.
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Sales taxes are 17% higher in Louisiana than in West Virginia. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes in Louisiana are 35% lower than in West Virginia. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Louisiana vs. West Virginia
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Louisiana and West Virginia line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Louisiana |
West Virginia |
| Population |
4,573,749 |
1,782,959 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 60.2-38.2 |
Republican 69-30 |
| Summer high |
92ºF |
83ºF |
| Winter low |
39ºF |
21ºF |
| Annual rain |
60″ |
45″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
33″ |
| Crime index |
33.77 |
17.47 |
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The population of Louisiana is approximately 157% greater than the population of West Virginia.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential race, both West Virginia and Louisiana leaned Republican.
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Louisiana averages 92°F in the summer, compared to 83°F in West Virginia.
Hotter summers bring more sunshine and outdoor opportunities but also more reliance on air conditioning.
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Winter lows in Louisiana average 39°F, milder than 21°F in West Virginia.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
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Get ready for about 60 inches of rain each year in Louisiana, which is quite a change from the 45 inches you’re used to in West Virginia.
The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
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Louisiana doesn’t get snow, while West Virginia sees around 33 inches annually.
Relocating to Louisiana means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
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Louisiana has a higher crime rate than West Virginia, with a crime index of 33.77 compared to 17.47.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of West Virginia vs. Louisiana
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Louisiana and West Virginia:
| Pros of living in West Virginia |
Pros of living in Louisiana |
| Low cost of living |
Low cost of living |
| Abundant outdoor activities |
Delicious regional food |
| 4 distinct seasons of weather |
Diverse culture |
| Immense natural beauty |
Fun outdoor activities |
| Relaxed small cities and towns |
Cajun culture |
Comparing the cons of living in West Virginia vs. Louisiana
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving West Virginia for Louisiana:
| Cons of living in West Virginia |
Cons of living in Louisiana |
| Dismal economy |
Extreme weather |
| High rates of crime |
Pesky wildlife and insects |
| High rates of drug abuse |
Limited economic opportunities |
| Shrinking population |
High crime rate |
| Lack of diversity |
Hot humidity |
Other things to consider for your West Virginia to Louisiana move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
-
State licensing:
If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC).
During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC.
In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Louisiana moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Louisiana, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
-
Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Louisiana right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Louisiana
While you’re in Louisiana, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Louisiana
- The National WWII Museum
- USS Kidd
- Louisiana’s Old State Capitol
- R. W. Norton Art Gallery
- Shreveport Water Works Museum
Parks in Louisiana
- Millennium Park
- Prien Lake Park
- Sam Houston Jones State Park
- Camp Salmen Nature Park
- Lafreniere Park
Sports teams in Louisiana
- New Orleans Saints (NFL)
- New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)
- New Orleans Gold (MLR)
- Ragin’ Cajuns (NCAA)
- Tigers and Lady Tigers (NCAA)
Universities in Louisiana
- Louisiana State University
- Tulane University
- Loyola University New Orleans
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- University of New Orleans
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from West Virginia to Louisiana?
Do movers transport your car from West Virginia to Louisiana?
What are the benefits of moving from West Virginia to Louisiana?
An increasing number of people are relocating from West Virginia to Louisiana to enjoy all the great benefits Louisiana provides, such as low cost of living and delicious regional food.
Is it cheaper to live in West Virginia or Louisiana?
Living in West Virginia usually costs less than in Louisiana.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in West Virginia,
with average rent about 10% less and home prices 17% lower than in Louisiana.
However, taxes are
lower in Louisiana, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by West Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Louisiana?
Thinking of moving to Louisiana on your own? You’ll want to earn around $53,317 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,452 per month, or around $5,746 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
West Virginia moving services
Popular West Virginia routes
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When moving from West Virginia to Louisiana, you’ll likely pay between $2,501–$6,287 with professional movers, roughly
$2,276 for a moving container, and about
$1,053
for a rental truck.
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