Best Washington to Alaska Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington to Alaska and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,681 mile WA to AK move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 112 Washington to Alaska 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 (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington compared to Alaska. 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 Washington to Alaska Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Seattle Moves & More9.569.39Authorized For HHG
2John Volken Academy Movers9.349.65Authorized For HHG
3First Due Movers9.269.06Authorized For Property, HHG
4Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers9.239.09Authorized For HHG
5The Moving Man7.818.91Authorized For HHG
6Air Van Moving6.806.98Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alaska to Washington guide.

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Compare the 6 Best WA to AK Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

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
1
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
2
First Due Movers Logo

First Due Movers

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,462+ data points

8126 304th Ave SE

Preston, WA, 98050

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers Logo

Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers

Exceptional9.23/10
based on 888+ data points

6491 E Seltice Way

Post Falls, ID, 83854

About Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers

Lake Coeur d’Alene Movers is a premier moving company in North Idaho, offering services throughout the region. Voted Best Moving Company...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/25/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3119758 / 87269

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved62,500 (2021)
View Full Review
4
The Moving Man Logo

The Moving Man

Good7.81/10
based on 215+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

807379 / 359080

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved55,000 (2018)
View Full Review
5
Air Van Moving Logo

Air Van Moving

6.80/10
based on 37+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

125012 / 118474

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
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 Washington to Alaska

Relocating from Washington to Alaska offers a unique blend of experiences. Our charts help you weigh the pros and cons of moving from Washington to Alaska to give an honest reflection of the differences you might experience in these two vastly diverse states.

CONs
PROs
Washington iconWashington
  • High housing costs
  • Dense urban areas
  • Heavy traffic
  • Rainy weather
  • Expensive dining options
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Lower housing costs
  • Vast open spaces
  • Less congestion
  • More varied seasons
  • Fresh, local seafood
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Fewer job options
  • Limited schools
  • Less public transport
  • Fewer cultural events
  • Challenging terrain
Washington iconWashington
  • Job opportunities
  • Award-winning schools
  • Public transport
  • Thriving arts scene
  • Reliable infrastructure

Moving from Washington to Alaska introduces you to a new pace of life. While Washington's cities like Seattle offer job opportunities and a bustling arts scene, Alaska provides wide-open spaces and natural beauty, showcased in places like Denali National Park. However, this tranquility can come at the cost of fewer employment options and cultural events compared to what's available in Washington. Neighborhoods in places like Anchorage or Juneau offer fresh seafood and lower housing costs, but the journey may also bring logistical challenges such as limited public transportation and schools.

Washington vs. Alaska Food Guide

Food is a cornerstone of local culture and lays the foundation for what life is like in any area. By engaging in a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington & Alaska, you'll gain insight into the vibrant food scenes of both, helping you transition seamlessly into your new environment.

Washington
Alaska
Most iconic local food item
Apple
Alaskan Salmon
Most popular meat dish
Pho
Reindeer Sausage
Most popular street food item
Tacos
King Crab Legs
Most popular vegan food
Quinoa Bowl
Seaweed Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Canlis
  • The Herb Farm
  • Salumi
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Washington to Alaska, you'll find a shift not just in climate but also in culinary experiences. Alaskan cuisine is rich in seafood, with restaurants in Anchorage, such as Simon & Seafort's, offering spectacular views and dishes like Alaskan Salmon and King Crab Legs that are fresh from the local waters. On the other hand, Washington's food scene is diverse, with a strong Asian influence evident in its popular meat dish, Pho, and a plethora of food trucks offering everything from Tacos to Quinoa Bowls. Both states boast a vibrant food scene, though Washington slightly edges out with its abundance of vegan options and a more active food truck culture.

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Washington vs. Alaska Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Comparing housing aspects between Washington and Alaska can significantly illuminate the differences and help in making an informed decision. Key features such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle are vital to consider.

Washington
Alaska
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Craftsman
Rustic and Log Cabin
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Green spaces, tech-ready
Natural landscapes, wilderness access

While the median home price and rent are significantly higher in Washington, it offers a more urban lifestyle, with a greater emphasis on modern and Craftsman architectural styles. In contrast, Alaska's real estate highlights rustic and log cabin designs, appealing to those who prefer natural landscapes and wilderness access. The lower cost of living in Alaska may be attractive, but it's essential to consider lifestyle preferences and walkability, which are higher in Washington. This choice becomes a balance between the bustling urban life Washington provides against the serene, nature-focused living of Alaska.

Washington vs. Alaska Weather Considerations

When considering relocating, understanding the weather differences is crucial. Comparing Washington and Alaska helps you anticipate how to adapt to your new home. This comparison guides you through significant weather aspects, including temperature variations, sunshine days, and natural hazards, necessary for a smooth transition.

Washington
Alaska
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Volcanoes
Earthquakes, Avalanches
Air Quality
Good
Very Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

75°F / 55°F
60°F / 44°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 37°F
30°F / 19°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

38 inches
22 inches
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

20 inches
75 inches


Moving from Washington to Alaska, you’ll need to prepare for colder winters, less sunshine, and more snow. While both states experience below-freezing winter temperatures, Alaska's are substantially lower, with an average winter high of 30°F compared to Washington’s 47°F. Additionally, Alaska’s annual snowfall significantly exceeds Washington’s, emphasizing the need for winter readiness. However, both locations offer breathtaking natural landscapes, albeit with different challenges and beautiful sceneries to explore year-round.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington to Alaska

When planning a move from one region to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial for a seamless transition. Comparing Washington and Alaska on money and finance matters will give you insight into how your cost of living, taxes, and income could change. This information is vital for planning your move and setting realistic expectations.

Washington
Alaska
Avg. Household Income
$91,306
$88,121
Cost of Living Index
104.1
132.6
State Income Tax
0
0
Avg. Property Tax
0.93
1.19
Avg. Sales Tax
9.17
1.76
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture
Oil, Fishing, Tourism
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
High
Moderate

Moving from Washington to Alaska involves considering various financial factors that could impact your living standards and expenses significantly. While both states boast a $0 state income tax, which is highly attractive for residents, Alaska's higher average household income and the cost of living index reflect its unique economic conditions, including its reliance on oil, fishing, and tourism. Despite Alaska's somewhat higher cost of living, the significantly lower average sales tax rate compared to Washington's could offset other expenses. Additionally, the notable differences in property tax rates and the primary industries might influence your employment opportunities and housing decisions.

Washington vs. Alaska Political & Religious Comparison

This guide aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in your current and future home states. It's essential to understand this is a comparison of the politics between Washington & Alaska before you make your move, so you have a clearer picture of the communities you’re transitioning between.

Washington
Alaska
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic-majority
Mixed, with a Republican lean
Local Politics
Progressive urban centers, conservation efforts <a href="https://ecology.wa.gov/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">WA Department of Ecology</a>
Resource development focused, individual libertarian values <a href="https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">AK Department of Commerce</a>
Religion
Mix, with non-religious or secular majority
Diverse, with Christian majority

Moving from Washington to Alaska, you might find shifts in political and religious landscapes intriguing. Washington's urban centers like Seattle and Tacoma tend to be progressive, highlighting the state's liberal stance, especially on environmental conservation and social issues. Meanwhile, Alaska's politics revolve more around libertarian ideals and resource development, reflecting its population's independence and the state's unique economic drivers. This could mean a change in local governance and community focus. In terms of religion, Washington's secular or non-religious majority contrasts with Alaska’s more diverse religious composition, where Christian beliefs are more predominant. Understanding these nuances can help ease your transition and integration into your new Alaskan community.

Education Guide When Moving from Washington to Alaska

Making the move from Washington to Alaska involves several key considerations, one of the most important being education. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Washington and Alaska , we've compiled a detailed comparison of their educational landscapes. This will aid in making an informed decision for your family's educational journey.

WashingtonAlaska

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Washington
Washington State University
Western Washington University
University of Alaska Fairbanks
University of Alaska Anchorage
Alaska Pacific University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Cascade K-8 (Shoreline)
Challenge Elementary (Bellevue)
Discovery Elementary (Gig Harbor)
Aurora Elementary (Anchorage)
Northern Lights ABC K-8 School (Anchorage)
Pearl Creek Elementary (Fairbanks)

Top 3 Middle Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Washington Middle School (Seattle)
Kirkland Middle School (Kirkland)
Romig Middle School (Anchorage)
Mirror Lake Middle School (Chugiak)
Randy Smith Middle School (Fairbanks)

Top 3 High Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Newport High School (Bellevue)
Camas High School (Camas)
West High School (Anchorage)
South Anchorage High School (Anchorage)
Eagle River High School (Eagle River)

Top 3 private high schools

The Overlake School (Redmond)
Charles Wright Academy (Tacoma)
The Bush School (Seattle)
Grace Christian School (Anchorage)
Holy Rosary Academy (Anchorage)
Anchorage Christian Schools (Anchorage)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Seattle Academy (Seattle)
The Bear Creek School (Redmond)
Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart (Bellevue)
Pacific Northern Academy (Anchorage)
Birchwood Christian School (Chugiak)
Lumen Christi High School (Anchorage)

Top 3 School Districts

Lake Washington School District
Bellevue School District
Issaquah School District
Anchorage School District
Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District

In the realm of education, both Washington and Alaska offer a rich diversity of options that cater to various needs and aspirations. Washington's University of Washington and Alaska's University of Alaska Fairbanks stand out as top higher education destinations for their respective states, drawing students with a wide range of academic and research opportunities. On the pre-collegiate level, highly ranked schools like Bellevue's International School in Washington and Anchorage's West High School in Alaska exemplify the commitment both states have to quality education. Moreover, private education holds a strong presence in both regions, with institutions like The Overlake School in Redmond, Washington, and Grace Christian School in Anchorage, Alaska, offering competitive educational programs. This comparison elucidates the strengths each state holds in shaping tomorrow's leaders through diverse, quality educational pathways.

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