Best Alaska to Washington Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Alaska to Washington and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,681 mile AK to WA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 112 Alaska to Washington moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Alaska compared to Washington. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Alaska to Washington Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | The Moving Man | 7.80 | 8.91 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Air Van Moving | 6.80 | 6.98 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Royal Alaskan Movers | 6.45 | 6.71 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Golden North Van Lines | 6.06 | 5.89 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Alaska guide.
Popular Alaska to Washington Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Alaska to Washington
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Alaska to Washington Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best AK to WA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
The Moving Man
550 W 54th Ave
Anchorage, AK, 99518
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 807379 / 359080 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 55,000 (2018) |
Air Van Moving
209 Post Rd
Anchorage, AK, 99501
About Air Van Moving
Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 125012 / 118474 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Royal Alaskan Movers
2216 N Post Rd
Anchorage, AK, 99501
About Royal Alaskan Movers
Royal Alaskan Movers is a professional moving company that has been serving clients in Anchorage, Alaska, and its surrounding areas since...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2077580 / FF-10566
725677 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 92,150 (2022) |
Golden North Van Lines
620 Old Richardson Hwy
Fairbanks, AK, 99701
About Golden North Van Lines
Since 1976, Golden North Van Lines has been a reliable Alaska moving company, with locations in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Representing United...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Military Moving and Military Storage
- Commercial Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 163057 / 140586 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 33 |
| Registered Drivers | 26 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,140,000 (2020) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Alaska to Washington
Moving from one state to another involves weighing the good with the bad. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of what you can expect when relocating from Alaska to Washington. By examining the cons versus the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a clearer picture of both the challenges and benefits that come with such a move.
Alaska- Harsh winters
- Remote locations
- Limited services
- High living costs
- Less job diversity
Washington- Milder winters
- More urban areas
- Better amenities
- Lower living costs
- Greater job opportunities
Washington- More crowded
- Less personal
- Less wildlife
- Urban lifestyle
- Higher taxes
Alaska- Vast wilderness
- Close-knit communities
- Unique wildlife
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Lower taxes
When transitioning from Alaska's sprawling wilderness and tight-knit communities to Washington's bustling cities and urban settings, you'll encounter both benefits and drawbacks. Washington boasts vibrant cities like Seattle and Olympia, rich with neighborhood parks such as Green Lake Park, abundant restaurants and cafes like Pike Place Market, and iconic sights such as the Space Needle and Mount Rainier. These urban areas offer a diverse range of job opportunities and cultural experiences. Conversely, Alaska's serene landscapes, unique wildlife, and outdoor lifestyle are unparalleled, catering to those who cherish solitude and nature above the convenience of urban living. This move presents a chance to embrace a more mild climate and accessible amenities while adjusting to a busier, more populated environment.
Alaska vs. Washington Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Alaska & Washington—a facet integral to understanding what it's like to live in these areas. By examining the food scenes, you’ll get a sense of the cultural flavors that define each state, making your transition smoother and tastier.
| Alaska | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | King Crab | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Reindeer Sausage | Teriyaki |
| Most popular street food item | Akutaq | Taco Trucks |
| Most popular vegan food | Seaweed | Phở Chay |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Alaska, the culinary scene is uniquely influenced by its geography and native heritage, prominently featuring seafood like King Crab and innovative dishes such as Akutaq, also known as Eskimo ice cream. Among the top eateries, Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill and the 49th State Brewing Co offer glimpses into the local flavors and culinary innovation. Moving to Washington, you'll notice an emphasis on sustainability and a diverse culinary scene marked by Asian influences, like the ubiquitous Teriyaki joints and vegan-friendly venues offering dishes such as Phở Chay. Significant neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill in Seattle are brimming with food trucks, artisan cafes, and restaurants like Canlis and Pike Place Chowder, showcasing the state's rich gastronomic culture and commitment to quality and variety.
Ready to start your move?
Alaska vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing Alaska to Washington real estate is crucial for finding your perfect home. Understanding the differences in housing costs, styles, and livability will help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Alaska | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Cabin and Ranch | Contemporary and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Privacy | Eco-friendly, Tech-ready |
In comparing Alaska and Washington housing, you'll find factors such as cost and lifestyle contrasting sharply. Alaska's real estate often highlights the beauty and seclusion of its natural landscapes, with homes that provide stunning views and privacy. On the other hand, Washington's market appeals to those looking for a more urban and eco-conscious living environment, offering contemporary homes that are both tech-friendly and closer to urban centers. Transitioning from Alaska to Washington, you'll notice a shift towards a higher cost of living but also gain access to more walkable and bikeable communities, reflecting Washington's commitment to sustainability and modern living standards.
Alaska vs. Washington Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, understanding the climatic differences is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the weather variations between Alaska and Washington , enabling you to prepare for your new environment more effectively.
Alaska
Washington
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Alaska
Washington
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Alaska
Washington
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Alaska
Washington
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Alaska | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Earthquakes | Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Landslides |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While the average number of sunshine days per year is comparable between Alaska and Washington, other weather aspects differ significantly. Alaska offers a colder environment with longer, harsher winters and substantial snowfall, ideal for enthusiasts of winter sports and cold weather activities. In contrast, Washington experiences milder winters, greater rainfall, and a higher chance of natural disasters such as earthquakes and landslides. Both states have their own unique challenges and perks when it comes to weather, so it's worth considering your preferences and preparedness for these conditions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Alaska to Washington
When planning a move from Alaska to Washington, it's crucial to understand how your finances will be impacted. This comparison sheds light on important money and finance aspects to consider. Comparing Alaska and Washington is vital to grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and job opportunities might change, influencing your decision and preparation for the move.
| Comparison | Alaska | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $88,121 | $91,306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.6 | 104.1 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.19% | 0.93% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 1.76% | 9.17% |
| Top 3 Industries | Oil, Fishing, Tourism | Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Highly affluent |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
Moving from Alaska to Washington introduces several financial changes. The average household income is slightly higher in Washington, which might balance out its lower average cost of living index. However, the significantly higher average sales tax in Washington could impact your day-to-day expenses, particularly because Alaska enjoys a much lower rate. Property taxes in Washington are also lower, which could be beneficial if you're planning to buy a home. The stark difference in top industries between the two states suggests a potential shift in job opportunities or sectors you might consider for employment. Washington's thriving technology and aerospace sectors contrast with Alaska's reliance on oil and fishing, potentially requiring a shift in career focus or necessitating new skills.
Alaska vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
Preparing to move from Alaska to Washington involves understanding the new community you're about to join. This quick comparison provides an insight into the politics between Alaska & Washington , offering a glimpse into the political and religious makeup of these states. It's a handy guide to help you familiarize yourself with the landscape of your new home.
| Alaska | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Libertarian influences | Progressive influences |
| Religion | Christianity predominant | More religious diversity |
In moving from Alaska to Washington, you'll notice a significant shift in the political landscape. Alaska tends to lean conservative, with libertarian influences evident in local politics, while Washington presents a more liberal, progressive environment. This might influence not just the public policies but also the community projects and priorities in your new locale. On the religious front, Alaska has a predominantly Christian population, but in Washington, you'll encounter a broader spectrum of religious beliefs and practices, reflecting its diverse population. This makes for a richer cultural tapestry and could provide more opportunities for you to engage with a variety of cultural and faith communities.
Education Guide When Moving from Alaska to Washington
Moving to a new state can be an exciting venture, especially when it involves transitioning from Alaska to Washington. To help ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison chart focused on the educational landscape between these two states. The purpose of this comparison is to better understand the differences between school options in Alaska and Washington . This overview will aid in making informed decisions for your family’s education journey.
| Alaska | Washington |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Alaska Anchorage University of Alaska Fairbanks Alaska Pacific UniversityUniversity of Washington Washington State University Western Washington University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Aurora Elementary (Anchorage) Northern Lights ABC School (Anchorage) Rogers Park Elementary (Anchorage)Cascade Ridge Elementary (Issaquah) Challenger Elementary (Issaquah) Discovery Elementary (Gig Harbor) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Romig Middle School (Anchorage) Mears Middle School (Anchorage) Mirror Lake Middle School (Chugiak)International School (Bellevue) Environmental & Adventure School (Kirkland) Odle Middle School (Bellevue) | |
Top 3 High Schools West High School (Anchorage) South Anchorage High School (Anchorage) Dimond High School (Anchorage)International School (Bellevue) Newport High School (Bellevue) Tesla STEM High School (Redmond) | |
Top 3 private high schools Grace Christian School (Anchorage) Holy Rosary Academy (Anchorage) Anchorage Christian Schools (Anchorage)Lakeside School (Seattle) The Overlake School (Redmond) Seattle Preparatory School (Seattle) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Anchorage Christian Schools (Anchorage) Lumen Christi High School (Anchorage) Birchwood Christian School (Chugiak)Charles Wright Academy (Tacoma) The Bear Creek School (Redmond) Eastside Preparatory School (Kirkland) | |
Top 3 School Districts Anchorage School District Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District Kenai Peninsula Borough School DistrictLake Washington School District Bellevue School District Mercer Island School District | |
While both Alaska and Washington boast robust educational systems, there are distinctive characteristics worth noting. For instance, Washington State offers a wide range of highly rated public schools, particularly in the Bellevue and Issaquah areas, recognized for their innovative programs and high academic achievement. Similarly, the private schooling sector in Washington, with institutions like Lakeside School and The Overlake School, presents excellent options for personalized and advanced education. In contrast, Alaska provides unique opportunities tied to its local culture and environment, influencing the curriculum and extracurricular activities available to students. Selecting the right educational path involves considering these distinct educational landscapes and how they align with your family's needs and aspirations.
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