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 173 Michigan to Washington 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 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.

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Best Michigan to Washington Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pro-Low Moving9.699.73Authorized For HHG
2Seattle Moves & More9.569.39Authorized For HHG
3John Volken Academy Movers9.349.65Authorized For HHG
4Handle With Care Moving & Delivery 9.078.91Authorized For Property, HHG
5MASS Movers9.049.15Authorized For Property, HHG
6Kingsley Moving Systems8.999.19Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,352300 ft³$7.84
1 Bedroom$3,506450 ft³$7.79
2 Bedrooms$5,806750 ft³$7.74
3 Bedrooms$8,4601100 ft³$7.69
4 Bedrooms$12,2251600 ft³$7.64
5+ Bedrooms$13,6631800 ft³$7.59
*Please note: These Michigan to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & Washington. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed MI to WA mover.
Michigan iconArrow iconWashington icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Michigan guide.

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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 Logo

Pro-Low Moving

Exceptional9.69/10
based on 1,140+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3508434 / 1160481

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved105,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.56/10
based on 1,099+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,485+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
3
Handle With Care Moving & Delivery  Logo

Handle With Care Moving & Delivery

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 822+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

808976 / 359936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
MASS Movers Logo

MASS Movers

Exceptional9.04/10
based on 458+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3333210 / 1062576

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved32,500 (2024)
View Full Review
5
Kingsley Moving Systems Logo

Kingsley Moving Systems

Superb8.99/10
based on 533+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1890987 / 682343

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved140,000 (2023)
View Full Review
6
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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

When contemplating a move from Michigan to Washington, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons of both locales. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the transition, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages tied to this change. By understanding both the good and the bad of Michigan and Washington, you can make a more informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Harsh winters
  • High state taxes
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • Limited mountain views
  • Heavy industry pollution
Washington iconWashington
  • Mild temperatures
  • No income tax
  • Tech industry hub
  • Beautiful landscapes
  • Clean air
Washington iconWashington
  • Higher cost of living
  • Overcast skies
  • Expensive real estate
  • Traffic congestion
  • Rainy weather
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Friendly communities
  • Cultural diversity
  • Lower housing costs
  • Great local breweries
  • Famous universities

One of the most enticing aspects of Washington is the milder temperatures, which allow for year-round outdoor activities in places like Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park. Meanwhile, Michigan's lower housing costs can be appealing, especially if you enjoy the friendly communities in places like Ann Arbor or Grand Rapids. However, Washington's tech industry hub, centered around Seattle and Bellevue, provides ample job opportunities for tech professionals. The clean air and beautiful landscapes, such as the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, offer stunning natural sights and a stark contrast to Michigan's often harsh winters. While Washington can be overcast and rainy, you might appreciate the vibrant cultural diversity and countless dining options found in areas like Capitol Hill or Downtown Seattle.

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
  • Canlis
  • The Herbfarm
  • Salumi
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.

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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.

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
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

80°F / 58°F
76°F / 58°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

31°F / 18°F
47°F / 37°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

32.8
38.1
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

60.66
16.57


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.

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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.

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.

MichiganWashington

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Michigan
Michigan State University
Wayne State University
University 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 District
Mercer 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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