Best Boise to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Boise to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 505 mile move from Idaho to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Boise to Seattle moving companies and more than 20,000 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 (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boise compared to Seattle. 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 Boise to Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | 208 Moving Company | 9.49 | 9.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Valley Custom Moving | 9.39 | 9.69 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Boise Local Boys Moving Company | 9.20 | 9.54 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boise to Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 505 miles from Boise, ID to Seattle, WA will cost on average $2,211 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boise to Seattle move is roughly $5,294. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,489 | 300 ft³ | 4.96 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,211 | 450 ft³ | 4.91 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,647 | 750 ft³ | 4.86 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,294 | 1100 ft³ | 4.81 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,620 | 1600 ft³ | 4.76 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,483 | 1800 ft³ | 4.71 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Boise guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boise to Seattle 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) |
208 Moving Company
6052 Corporal Ln
Boise, ID, 83704
About 208 Moving Company
With over 5,000 satisfied customers and close to 9,000 boxes moved, 208 Moving Company provides you with the confidence you need...
Services
- Local movers in Boise, ID
- Long-distance moves throughout the continental United States
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2522386 / 875791 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 15 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
Valley Custom Moving
1404 W Waltman Dr
Meridian, ID, 83642
About Valley Custom Moving
Valley Custom Moving is a full-service moving company headquartered in Treasure Valley, Idaho that provides all types of moves, from large...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3254761 / 1025000 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 700,000 (2021) |
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) |
Boise Local Boys Moving Company
Boise, ID, 83706
About Boise Local Boys Moving Company
Founded in 2018 by Brandon Lyda, Boise Local Boys Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving service in Boise,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Packing
- Furniture Assembly
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3630795 / 1243837 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2022) |
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.
Boise vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To make your transition smoother, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Boise, ID & Seattle, WA . This guide is designed to help you find a new home in Seattle that feels just like your favorite spot back in Boise.
| Boise | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North End | Queen Anne | Historic homes, local cafes |
| Boise Bench | Beacon Hill | Diverse community, green spaces |
| Downtown Boise | Belltown | Urban living, vibrant nightlife |
| East End | Madrona | Quiet, family-friendly, near parks |
| Harris Ranch | Ballard | Growing, trendy, near water |
| Warm Springs | Green Lake | Active community, lake activities |
| Hyde Park | Fremont | Quirky shops, arts scene |
| West Boise | West Seattle | Family-oriented, beach access |
| Southeast Boise | Columbia City | Diverse, vibrant, community events |
| Collister | Wallingford | Peaceful, community-centric |
For those moving from Boise’s North End, Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood will feel like home, with its historic homes and charming local cafes, such as Uptown Espresso. If you're used to the vibrant, urban lifestyle of Downtown Boise, Belltown in Seattle offers a compelling mix of live music venues like The Crocodile and innovative restaurants. On the other hand, lovers of Boise's Harris Ranch, known for its proximity to nature and trendy vibe, will find Ballard in Seattle a perfect match, with attractions like the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and the bustling Ballard Farmers Market. No matter where you lived in Boise, Seattle has a neighborhood that'll make you feel right at home.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boise to Seattle
Moving from one city to another can be a complex decision, with various factors to consider. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Boise, ID to Seattle, WA , helping you weigh the positives against the negatives in a straightforward manner.
Boise, ID- Smaller city vibe
- Less cultural diversity
- More conservative
- Drier climate
- Fewer outdoor activities
Seattle, WA- Larger city opportunities
- Greater cultural diversity
- More progressive
- Lush, green landscapes
- Abundance of outdoor activities
Seattle, WA- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
- Scarce parking
- Less personal connections
- Poorer air quality
Boise, ID- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Easier parking
- Close-knit community
- Better air quality
When considering a move from Boise to Seattle, it's important to weigh both the tangible and intangible differences. Seattle's vibrant cultural scene and lush landscapes, including the iconic Discovery Park and the historic Pike Place Market, offer a dynamic living experience. You'll find that neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard boast a plethora of dining options, from the cozy Baltic Room to the bustling Ray's Boathouse, catering to an array of culinary tastes. While Seattle's cost of living and traffic may present challenges, the city's progressive atmosphere and the abundance of outdoor and cultural activities make it a compelling place to call home.
Boise vs. Seattle Food Guide
Understanding the essence of local cuisine is vital when relocating, as food profoundly reflects a region's culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we offer a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Boise & Seattle , aiming to enrich your knowledge about the culinary scene in both cities so you can savor the flavors of your new home.
| Boise | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Idaho Potatoes | Pacific Northwest Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Steak | Teriyaki |
| Most popular street food item | Finger Steaks | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Buddha Bowls | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In transitioning from Boise to Seattle, you'll discover a shift in culinary trends that mirrors the cultural and environmental differences between the two cities. While Boise prides itself on its rich, hearty dishes styled around its famous Idaho potatoes and steak, Seattle offers a more diverse, seafood-centered diet, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The prevalence of food trucks and vegan options is markedly higher in Seattle, reflecting a city that prioritizes health, sustainability, and the sheer joy of eating. Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard in Seattle are renowned for their vibrant food scene, housing iconic restaurants such as Canlis and The Pink Door, where the local cuisine can be experienced in its most refined form.
Boise vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Discovering your new favorite eating spots is a vital part of making Seattle feel like home if you're moving from Boise. This restaurant comparison between Boise and Seattle will guide you in finding equivalents to your beloved Boise eateries in the bustling dining scene of Seattle, ensuring a smoother culinary transition.
| Boise | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Barbacoa Grill | El Gaucho | High-end steakhouse with a similar focus on grilled meats and an upscale dining experience. |
| Bittercreek Alehouse | Ballard Beer Company | Both offer a wide selection of local beers and hearty pub fare in a casual setting. |
| Fork | The Pink Door | Offers a similarly eclectic menu with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients. |
| Goldy's Breakfast Bistro | Toulouse Petit | Known for its delicious breakfast and brunch offerings, with a Creole twist. |
| Chandler's Steakhouse | Canlis | Both provide an exquisite fine-dining experience with a focus on steak and seafood. |
| Petite 4 | Le Pichet | Both feature French-inspired cuisine in a quaint and intimate bistro setting. |
| The Basque Market | Txori | Offers a similar exploration into Basque cuisine and tapas in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. |
| Big City Coffee | Cafe Besalu | Both are beloved for their exceptional pastries, coffee, and warm, welcoming vibe. |
| Madhuban Indian Cuisine | Curry Leaf | A standout for Indian cuisine lovers, offering a wide range of similar dishes and flavors. |
| State & Lemp | Walrus and the Carpenter | Both are celebrated for innovatively prepared dishes and a rotating seasonal menu. |
For those who cherish the upscale yet comforting ambiance of Chandler's Steakhouse in Boise, Seattle's Canlis offers an equally captivating dining experience with its refined approach to cuisine and breathtaking views. Similarly, if the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere of The Basque Market have been a part of your Boise culinary journey, you'll find solace in the authentic Basque dishes and intimate setting of Txori in Seattle. These comparisons not only cater to the palate but also to the heart, making the transition to your new city a more flavorful and comforting journey.
Ready to start your move?
Boise vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, exploring the real estate landscape of your new city is crucial. Particularly, understanding how Boise, ID and Seattle, WA stack up against each other in terms of housing can significantly impact your decision. This comparison aims to provide insight into the cost, architecture, and lifestyle offered by these cities.
| Comparison | Boise | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Craftsman | Modern and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Family-friendly, spacious yards | Waterfront views, access to public transit |
While Boise and Seattle both offer unique appeals, Seattle's significantly higher median home price reflects its bustling urban environment and desirability. This city is well-suited for those prioritizing a walkable and bike-friendly lifestyle, supported by modern architecture that complements its scenic backdrop. In contrast, Boise appeals to those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, with its lower cost of living, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a preference for traditional homes that often feature spacious yards. Each city's real estate market mirrors its lifestyle offerings, whether you're drawn to Seattle's waterfront views and public transit or Boise's parks and open spaces.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Boise vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
When relocating, understanding how the weather compares between Boise, ID, and Seattle, WA, is crucial. This knowledge can significantly affect your lifestyle and day-to-day comfort. The following chart is designed to provide a clear comparison of the various weather conditions you might experience in these two diverse climates.
Boise, ID
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boise, ID
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boise, ID
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boise, ID
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boise | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Earthquakes, Landslides |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When comparing Boise with Seattle, one of the most notable differences lies in their climates. Boise tends to enjoy warmer summers and cooler winters with a greater amount of sunshine annually, which might appeal to those who prefer less humid conditions. Seattle, known for its lush green landscape, owes much of its verdant beauty to higher levels of rainfall and humidity. This contributes to a moderate climate with milder winters and cooler summers, perfect for individuals who enjoy a balance between wet and dry seasons. The difference in annual sunshine days could be significant for your mood and vitamin D intake. Additionally, both cities face their own natural disaster risks, but Seattle’s higher humidity and rainfall levels could affect individuals with specific health conditions and allergies more so than Boise’s dryer conditions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boise to Seattle
When moving from Boise, ID to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will change. This comparison chart highlights the difference in cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities between Boise and Seattle, offering a clear picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Boise | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,217 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.2 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 6.925 (Top rate) | 0 (However, note Seattle's high sales & property taxes) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.75 | 0.99 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 10.1 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Agriculture, Manufacturing | Technology, Aerospace, Maritime |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Lower |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Seattle presents a mixed bag for newcomers; the average household income is significantly higher than in Boise, reflecting the city's flourishing tech and aerospace industries. However, this boon comes at a cost: the cost of living in Seattle is notably higher, driven up by steep housing costs and a high sales tax rate. While Boise offers a more modest cost of living and lower taxes, Seattle's lack of state income tax could offset some costs depending on your financial situation. It's also important to note both cities have strong economic opportunities, though the leading industries do vary.
Boise vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Boise, ID, to Seattle, WA? It's essential to understand the communities you’ll be transitioning between. This brief guide offers a comparison of the politics between Boise & Seattle along with insights into the local religious landscape, providing you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you anticipate the cultural atmosphere in your new home.
| Boise | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Mixed, with conservative leadership in state | Strongly liberal leadership |
| Religion | Christian majority, with a notable religious organization presence | Diverse, less religious overall |
When moving from Boise to Seattle, you'll find yourself transitioning from a community with a conservative tilt to one that's predominantly liberal. This shift reflects not only in the political leadership but also in the local policies and social atmosphere. Boise's political landscape is somewhat mixed but leans conservative, especially at the state level, impacting local decisions and daily life. In contrast, Seattle's local government and community initiatives display strong liberal leanings, influencing everything from environmental policies to social programs. Moreover, Boise hosts a significant Christian population and numerous religious organizations, contributing to a vibrant community life centered around faith-based activities. Seattle, while diverse in religious expression, tends to be less religious overall, with a focus on inclusivity and multicultural celebration.
Boise vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Boise, ID to Seattle, WA? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Boise & Seattle will greatly aid in your daily commute decisions. This comparison will help you better understand what daily life on the road is like in these two cities.
| Comparison | Boise | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Feasible |
In Boise, with an average commute time of 20 minutes and lower traffic congestion, getting around tends to be quicker and less stressful than in Seattle. However, Seattle boasts a better public transit system, rated 8 out of 10, making it more feasible to live without a car there. While Boise offers basic public transit services, the options and coverage can't compare to Seattle's network of buses, light rail, and ferries. Considering Seattle's higher traffic congestion rating of 7 out of 10, utilizing these public transport options can significantly ease your daily commute and reduce the dependence on a car.
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