Best Michigan to Washington Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Michigan to Washington and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,028 mile MI to WA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 179 Michigan 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 Pro-Low Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Michigan 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 Michigan to Washington Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pro-Low Moving | 9.68 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Handle With Care Moving & Delivery | 9.05 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | MASS Movers | 9.02 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | 9.19 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Michigan to Washington
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,028 miles from Michigan to Washington will cost on average $3,506 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom MI to WA move is roughly $8,460. 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 in Michigan and dropoff in Washington 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 Michigan to Washington movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,352 | 300 ft³ | 7.84 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,506 | 450 ft³ | 7.79 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,806 | 750 ft³ | 7.74 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,460 | 1100 ft³ | 7.69 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,225 | 1600 ft³ | 7.64 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,663 | 1800 ft³ | 7.59 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Michigan guide.
Popular Michigan to Washington Moving Destinations
Make an easier move when you book with the best.
See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Michigan to Washington
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Michigan to Washington Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best MI to WA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pro-Low Moving
665 136th Ave
Holland, MI, 49424
About Pro-Low Moving
Pro-Low Moving is a trusted moving company located in Holland, MI, with services available in Grand Haven and surrounding areas. Its...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3508434 / 1160481 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 105,000 (2023) |
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) |
Handle With Care Moving & Delivery
4260 Varsity Dr
Ann Arbor, MI, 48108
About Handle With Care Moving & Delivery
Our company, Handle With Care Moving & Delivery, aims to provide you with professional, courteous, and helpful movers at an affordable...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 808976 / 359936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2023) |
MASS Movers
Lansing, MI, 48910
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3333210 / 1062576 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,500 (2024) |
Kingsley Moving Systems
610 Detroit St
Lansing, MI, 48912
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1890987 / 682343 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (2023) |
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 Michigan to Washington
Moving from one state to another can be a monumental shift in one's life, presenting both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Michigan to Washington. The charts below are designed to illustrate Michigan versus Washington in terms of lifestyle, climate, and opportunities, offering insights into how your life might change for the better or present new challenges.
Michigan- Colder winters
- Less tech jobs
- Higher auto insurance
- Smaller craft beer scene
Washington- Milder climate
- More tech opportunities
- Lower insurance rates
- Larger beer culture
Washington- Less waterfront access
- Higher living expenses
- Less automotive presence
- More cloudy days
Michigan- Great Lakes access
- Lower cost of living
- Rich automotive culture
- More sunny days
When considering a move from Michigan to Washington, you're embracing a trade-off between climate, job opportunities, and lifestyle changes. Washington's milder climate and robust tech scene, with companies like Microsoft and Amazon headquartered in the Seattle area, make it appealing for professionals. Yet, outdoor enthusiasts might miss the Great Lakes' vast access and Michigan's sunnier disposition. In contrast, Washington offers unique landscapes, such as the serene beauty of Olympic National Park and a vibrant cultural scene in cities like Seattle, known for its world-class Seattle Art Museum and bustling Pike Place Market. The transition may adjust your lifestyle and budget, but it can also open up new opportunities and adventures in the Pacific Northwest.
Michigan vs. Washington Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Michigan & Washington. Food not only fuels our bodies but also greatly enriches our cultural experiences. As you plan your move, understanding the food scene in your new location can offer insights into the local culture and lifestyle you are about to embrace.
| Michigan | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pasties | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Pho |
| Most popular street food item | Coney Dog | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Foraged Mushroom Dishes |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Washington, you're stepping into a richly diverse food scene that leans heavily on seafood and fresh, local produce. You'll find that seafood, especially salmon, plays a pivotal role in the culinary landscape, reflecting the state's close relationship with its coastal environments. Seattle, for instance, boasts a vibrant food scene with iconic restaurants such as Canlis, renowned for its fine dining and breathtaking views, and The Herbfarm, offering farm-to-table dining experiences. For those interested in exploring the street food culture, the abundance of food trucks in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard provides a wide array of options, from fish tacos inspired by the Pacific Ocean's bounty to innovative vegan dishes. Washington's higher score in foodie scene and vegan-friendliness promises an exciting gastronomic adventure for newcomers.
Ready to start your move?
Michigan vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, considering the real estate differences between Michigan and Washington is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight key aspects of housing to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Michigan | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Ranch | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Garages, large yards | Eco-friendly features, views |
In Michigan, the housing market is notably more affordable than in Washington, making it an attractive option for buyers with a tighter budget. The typical architecture style in Michigan includes Colonial and Ranch-style homes, providing a traditional American living experience. On the other hand, Washington's housing market is characterized by higher costs, both in purchasing and renting properties. However, what sets Washington apart is its focus on modern and Craftsman-style homes, which often come with eco-friendly features and stunning views, especially in cities like Seattle. The difference in urban lifestyle ratings reflects Washington's denser urban areas with more amenities and public transportation options, compared to Michigan's more spread-out and car-dependent cities.
Michigan vs. Washington Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another brings about a significant change, especially in weather patterns. Understanding how the weather compares when moving from Michigan to Washington is essential for new residents to prepare accordingly. This comparison aims to highlight how daily life and activities might be influenced by these weather differences.
Michigan
Washington
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Michigan
Washington
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Michigan
Washington
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Michigan
Washington
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Michigan | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating from Michigan to Washington, it's important to note that Washington experiences milder winters and slightly cooler summers than Michigan. Despite having fewer days of sunshine, Washington's higher annual rainfall contributes to its lush landscapes, which might require a wardrobe adjustment for outdoor activities. Additionally, the threat of natural disasters shifts from snowstorms and tornadoes in Michigan to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in Washington, underlining the importance of familiarizing yourself with local emergency preparedness plans.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Michigan to Washington
When planning a move from Michigan to Washington, understanding the financial differences between these two states is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you gauge the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment you're moving into, ensuring no surprises.
| Comparison | Michigan | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,986 | $91,306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.2 | 104.1 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 1.08 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 8.89 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail | Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
While both Michigan and Washington offer dynamic economic environments, you'll find significant differences in the cost of living and average household incomes between the two. For example, while Washington boasts a higher average income, it also comes with a higher cost of living index, which can be offset somewhat by the absence of a state income tax. Michigan, with its lower average income and cost of living, levies a state income tax. Additionally, industries driving these states' economies vary greatly, from Michigan's manufacturing to Washington's tech-focused landscape, influencing job opportunities and economic growth differently. Understanding these nuances is vital as you plan your move.
Michigan vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Michigan & Washington provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in each state, offering insights into the local lifestyle and community values you can expect when moving.
| Michigan | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mixed, with a lean towards moderate | Liberal, especially in urban areas |
| Local Politics | Industrial and labor interests significant | Environmental and tech industries more influential |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, diverse faith communities | Less religious overall, with a variety of beliefs present |
Michigan and Washington differ notably in their political and religious landscapes, influencing the states' priorities and social climate. In Michigan, the political scene is generally mixed with a tilt towards moderation, where industrial and labor interests have a historic and continuing influence on local politics. Christianity is the predominant religion, but there's a vibrant tapestry of diverse faith communities across the state. In contrast, Washington is known for its liberal leanings, particularly in urban centers like Seattle. The state's political agenda is strongly shaped by environmental concerns and the tech industry. Additionally, Washingtonians tend to be less religious, with a notable portion of the population identifying as non-religious, although various beliefs and practices are present and respected. Understanding these dynamics can help you better anticipate the cultural and community context of your new home.
Education Guide When Moving from Michigan to Washington
When considering a move from Michigan to Washington, it's vital to compare educational opportunities for children. This guide is crafted to help you better understand the comparisons between school options in Michigan and Washington . Comparing top schools, districts, and post-graduation college choices gives a clearer picture of the educational landscape awaiting your family in both states.
| Michigan | Washington |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Michigan Michigan State University Wayne State UniversityUniversity of Washington Washington State University Seattle University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Bates Elementary (Dexter) Wealthy Elementary (East Grand Rapids) Plymouth Elementary (Midland)Cascade Ridge Elementary (Issaquah) Medina Elementary (Medina) Discovery Elementary (Sammamish) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Rochester Adams High School (Rochester Hills) City Middle/High School (Grand Rapids) Boulan Park Middle School (Troy)International School (Bellevue) Odle Middle School (Bellevue) Islander Middle School (Mercer Island) | |
Top 3 High School Schools International Academy (Bloomfield Hills) Troy High School (Troy) Northville High School (Northville)Lakeside School (Seattle) Newport High School (Bellevue) Interlake Senior High School (Bellevue) | |
Top 3 private high schools Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills) Greenhills School (Ann Arbor) Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills)Lakeside School (Seattle) The Overlake School (Redmond) Annie Wright Schools (Tacoma) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills) Greenhills School (Ann Arbor) Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills)The Bush School (Seattle) The Overlake School (Redmond) Seattle Academy (Seattle) | |
Top 3 School Districts East Grand Rapids Public Schools Bloomfield Hills Schools Troy School DistrictMercer Island School District Lake Washington School District Bellevue School District | |
In both Michigan and Washington, education is highly regarded, featuring schools that boast of excellent academic records and outstanding extra-curricular activities. For example, Bloomfield Hills Schools in Michigan and Bellevue School District in Washington are known for their rigorous academic programs that prepare students for top colleges nationwide. Meanwhile, private institutions like Lakeside School in Seattle offer unique opportunities for personal growth and advanced learning. Furthermore, the leading college destinations reflect the high-quality education students receive in each state, with graduates favoring prestigious local universities that further their academic and career aspirations.
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