How we chose the best moving companies for your WV to ND 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 North Dakota?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from West Virginia
to North Dakota, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,233 – $4,694 |
$974 – $2,254 |
$828 – $1,684 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,752 – $6,279 |
$1,690 – $3,320 |
$877 – $1,866 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,358 – $8,981 |
$2,229 – $4,337 |
$1,115 – $2,422 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,459-mile relocation from WV to
ND, 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 North Dakota
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from West Virginia to North Dakota, you’ll likely pay between
$1,233
and $4,694.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,752 and $6,279
for the same journey (WV to ND).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,358
to $8,981.
Cost of moving containers from West Virginia to North Dakota
When you’re heading from West Virginia to North Dakota, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $974 and
$2,254. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,690 and
$3,320. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,229
to $4,337. 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 North Dakota
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
$828
to $1,684.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $877
to $1,866, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from West Virginia to North Dakota costs around
$1,115 to
$2,422.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WV to ND
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from West Virginia to North Dakota. 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 ND
If you’re moving to North Dakota from West Virginia, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: West Virginia vs. North Dakota
Understanding how costs compare between West Virginia and North Dakota can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
West Virginia |
North Dakota |
| Average rent |
$899 |
$912 |
| Average home cost |
$168,172 |
$263,410 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$55,217 |
$73,959 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.2% |
2.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.96% |
| State income tax |
6.5% |
2.9% |
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No need to stress about your budget—rental rates are about the same when you’re moving from West Virginia to North Dakota.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in North Dakota are typically about 57% higher than in West Virginia.
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You’re likely to earn about 34% more in North Dakota than in West Virginia. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
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The cost of living is 7% higher in North Dakota than in West Virginia. If you’re making the move to North Dakota with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
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North Dakota boasts an unemployment rate about 43% lower than West Virginia. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
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Sales taxes are 16% higher in North Dakota 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 North Dakota are 55% 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 North Dakota 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 North Dakota and West Virginia line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
North Dakota |
West Virginia |
| Population |
783,926 |
1,782,959 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 68-32 |
Republican 69-30 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
83ºF |
| Winter low |
0ºF |
21ºF |
| Annual rain |
19″ |
45″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
33″ |
| Crime index |
22.74 |
17.47 |
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The population of North Dakota is approximately 56% lower than the population of West Virginia.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential race, both West Virginia and North Dakota leaned Republican.
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In North Dakota, summer highs are around 82°F, close to 83°F in West Virginia.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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In the coldest months, North Dakota sees lows of 0°F compared to 21°F in West Virginia.
That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
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In North Dakota, you’ll get about 19 inches of rain each year — less than the 45 inches you’re used to in West Virginia.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
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Each year, North Dakota sees about 39 inches of snowfall, while West Virginia averages just 33 inches.
With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
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North Dakota has a higher crime rate than West Virginia, with a crime index of 22.74 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. North Dakota
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in North Dakota and West Virginia:
| Pros of living in West Virginia |
Pros of living in North Dakota |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant outdoor activities |
Peaceful rural life |
| 4 distinct seasons of weather |
Affordable living costs |
| Immense natural beauty |
High-quality education opportunities |
| Relaxed small cities and towns |
Open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in West Virginia vs. North Dakota
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 North Dakota:
| Cons of living in West Virginia |
Cons of living in North Dakota |
| Dismal economy |
Long and cold winters |
| High rates of crime |
Lack of diversity |
| High rates of drug abuse |
Housing shortages |
| Shrinking population |
Small populations |
| Lack of diversity |
Relaxed lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your West Virginia to North Dakota 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.
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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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a North Dakota 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 North Dakota, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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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 North Dakota 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. 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.
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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 North Dakota
While you’re in North Dakota, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit 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 West Virginia to North Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from West Virginia to North Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from West Virginia to North Dakota?
An increasing number of people are relocating from West Virginia to North Dakota to enjoy all the great benefits North Dakota provides, such as ample economic opportunity and peaceful rural life.
Is it cheaper to live in West Virginia or North Dakota?
Living in West Virginia usually costs less than in North Dakota.
Housing
is much more affordable in West Virginia,
with average rent about 1% less and home prices 36% lower than in North Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by West Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Dakota?
Thinking of moving to North Dakota on your own? You’ll want to earn around $66,980 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,516 per month, or around $5,264 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Fargo and Bismarck 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 North Dakota, you’ll likely pay between $2,752–$6,279 with professional movers, roughly
$2,505 for a moving container, and about
$1,371
for a rental truck.
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