Moving from Alaska to Montana?

6 Best AK to MT Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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AK to MT Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks the start of a thrilling chapter in your life, brimming with new possibilities and adventures. Leaving behind Alaska's majestic "Last Frontier" for Montana's vast "Big Sky Country" signifies a journey from one breathtaking landscape to another, each with its own unique charm, community, and opportunities. For this long-distance move, it's crucial to entrust your belongings with professional movers you can rely on, and that's where we come in, offering carefully vetted options to ensure a smooth transition.

Alaska iconArrow iconMontana icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Montana to Alaska guide.

6 Best Alaska to Montana Movers

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

#1
M
Superb

based on 214+ data points

Deer Lodge, MT
Local Moves, Long Distance Moves, Commercial Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2023)

USDOT: 3890213 Verify

About Moving On Up

Moving On Up is a Montana-based moving company that specializes in providing reliable, honest, and efficient moving services to its customer...Read More >>

top missoula 2024 moving on up image
#2
On The Move LLC Logo
Fabulous

based on 293+ data points

Bozeman, MT
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Packing Help See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT: 2399161 Verify

About On The Move LLC

On The Move LLC provides excellent moving services throughout Southwest Montana, including Belgrade, Big Sky, Livingston, Paradise Valley, T...Read More >>

top 10 bozeman 2024 on the move llc image
top 10 ranked movers in bozeman 2023 on the move llc image
top 3 ranked movers in bozeman 2022 on the move llc image
#3
T
Good

based on 232+ data points

Anchorage, AK
Local Residential Moving, Local Commercial Moving, Out-of-State Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 807379 Verify

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...Read More >>

top 10 anchorage 2024 the moving man image
#4
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. Logo
Below Average

based on 45+ data points

Fairbanks, AK
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Cross-country moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 125137 Verify

About Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.

Having been in the vehicle transportation business since 1951, Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. is a pioneer in the industry in Alaska. With te...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in fairbanks 2021 wrightway auto carriers inc image
#5
Air Van Moving Logo
Below Average

based on 40+ data points

Anchorage, AK
Residential Moving, Commercial and Office Moving, Long-Distance Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 125012 Verify

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, across the country, or...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2021 air van moving image
top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2020 air van moving image
#6
Royal Alaskan Movers Logo
Below Average

based on 338+ data points

Anchorage, AK
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2077580 Verify

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 20...Read More >>

top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2023 royal alaskan movers image
top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2022 royal alaskan movers image
top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2021 royal alaskan movers image

Pros and Cons of Moving from Alaska to Montana

Moving from one state to another offers both excitement and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Alaska to Montana . By contrasting the pros and cons, you'll gain insights into what to embrace and what to prepare for, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

CONs
PROs
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Long winters
  • Remote locations
  • Higher living costs
  • Limited roads
  • Fewer job opportunities
Montana iconMontana
  • Milder winters
  • Better connectivity
  • Lower living costs
  • Extensive road network
  • More job opportunities
Montana iconMontana
  • Less wilderness
  • Fewer wildlife encounters
  • Higher population density
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Sales tax applies
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Stunning landscapes
  • Unique wildlife
  • Low population density
  • Richer indigenous cultures
  • No sales tax

Relocating from Alaska's vast, untouched wilderness to Montana's Rocky Mountains presents a blend of changes. In Montana, the cities like Missoula and Bozeman are thriving with a mix of urban conveniences and outdoor activities, significantly enhancing job opportunities and connectivity without sacrificing the call of the wild. Despite milder winters, Montana's climate still encourages a love for the outdoors, albeit with fewer extreme temperatures. The greater road network makes exploring Montana's natural beauties, such as Glacier National Park and Yellowstone, more accessible, complemented by local attractions like Bozeman's Museum of the Rockies. Although some might miss Alaska's unique sense of isolation and spectacular displays of northern lights, Montana offers its own version of natural splendor and a welcoming community spirit found in its neighborhood parks, vibrant restaurants like Bozeman's Jam!, and annual events that celebrate the rich history and natural beauty of the region.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Alaska to Montana

Understanding the food scene is crucial when relocating since this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Alaska & Montana. It's an essential aspect of local culture and what living in a new area feels like. This comparison will help you become more acquainted with the culinary delights awaiting you in your new home.

AlaskaMontana

Most iconic local food item

King CrabHuckleberry Pie

Most popular meat dish

Reindeer SausageBison Burger

Most popular street food item

Halibut TacosPasties

Most popular vegan food

Kelp SalsaLentil Stew

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • The Crab Shack
  • Moose's Tooth Pub
  • Snow City Cafe
  • Cafe Dulce
  • The Burger Dive
  • Bozeman Soup Company

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

78

Vegan Friendly

57

When moving from Alaska to Montana, you'll transition from a seafood-rich diet featuring items like King Crab and Reindeer Sausage to more earthly flavors such as Huckleberry Pie and Bison Burgers. Montana offers a unique taste with its abundant wild huckleberries and bison, ingredients that are less common in Alaska. If you're exploring the local vegan scene, lentil stew in Montana is a heartwarming alternative to Alaska's innovative kelp salsa. For a taste of local charm, eateries like Cafe Dulce in Missoula or The Burger Dive offer memorable dining experiences that highlight Montana's culinary diversity. Whether looking for upscale dining or street food, Montana's food scene is vibrant and welcoming to newcomers.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Alaska to Montana

Real estate is a crucial factor to consider when planning a move. Understanding how the two states compare can significantly influence your decision-making process. This comparison will help you grasp the real estate dynamics between Alaska and Montana , covering aspects such as cost, architecture, walkability, and more.

When comparing Alaska and Montana, several notable differences and similarities stand out. Alaska’s real estate market features a slightly lower median home price than Montana, making it a potentially more affordable option for homebuyers. However, the typical architectural styles reflect each state's unique environment and lifestyle; Alaska favors cabin and lodge designs, while Montana leans towards the ranch and craftsman styles. Despite both states having relatively low walkability scores, they offer different perspectives on an urban lifestyle, with Alaska marginally outscoring Montana. Particularly interesting is the emphasis on scenic and mountain views in real estate listings, indicating that regardless of the state, residents place a high value on natural beauty and spacious properties.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Alaska to Montana

When planning a move from Alaska to Montana, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will help you adapt to your new environment smoothly. Our chart below covers various aspects, including temperature, sunshine, and natural hazards, highlighting the weather differences between Alaska and Montana.

Summer icon
60°F/40°F

Alaska

85°F/50°F

Montana

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
20°F/-10°F

Alaska

35°F/15°F

Montana

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22"

Alaska

15"

Montana

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
75"

Alaska

40"

Montana

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Alaska and Montana boast beautiful, expansive landscapes, their climates present distinct living experiences. Montana, with more sunny days and milder winters compared to Alaska, offers a different seasonal experience. The lower humidity in Montana can make the cold feel less penetrating, unlike the damp cold often felt in Alaska. Additionally, while both states experience natural disasters, the types vary significantly, with Alaska facing more geological threats and Montana dealing with wildfires and floods. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare better for your move.

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

When deciding to move from Alaska to Montana, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and income opportunities in Alaska stack up against Montana, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Alaska and Montana present distinct economic landscapes, each with its advantages. Alaska's higher average household income, at $77,000 compared to Montana's $57,000, reflects higher living costs, notably in housing and groceries, offset by no state income or sales taxes. Montana's income tax up to 6.9% and a variable sales tax rate of 0-4.5% might seem less favorable, but it's compensated by lower living costs and property taxes. Moreover, while both states enjoy moderate affluence and low poverty rates, they differ in primary industries, which could affect job opportunities based on your expertise.

Political & Religious Comparison between Alaska and Montana

This comparison between Alaska & Montana offers a succinct snapshot of each state's political and religious landscape. It aims to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance understanding of what to expect from the residents in terms of politics and religion as you plan your move.

AlaskaMontana

Political Make-up

Mixed, leans RepublicanConservative, leans Republican

Local Politics

Diverse, with strong independent streakConservative local governance, with some liberal urban areas

Religion

Christianity dominant, but diverse religious presencePrimarily Christian, with a significant unaffiliated population

When you move from Alaska to Montana, you'll find some similarities and differences in the makeup of the population's beliefs and political affiliations. Alaska's political climate is known for its independent streak, often leading to mixed political outcomes, while Montana tends to have a more conservative bent, especially in rural areas. However, like Alaska, Montana's urban areas can have more liberal viewpoints. Religion-wise, both states have a strong Christian presence, though Alaska offers a slightly more religiously diverse environment. This information can help you better understand the social and political landscape of your new home.

Education Guide When Moving from Alaska to Montana

When considering a move from Alaska to Montana, it's crucial to understand how educational options compare in both states. This comparison serves to highlight the differences and similarities in educational systems between Alaska and Montana, ensuring you make the most informed decision for your family's educational needs.

AlaskaMontana

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Alaska Fairbanks
University of Alaska Anchorage
Alaska Pacific University
University of Montana
Montana State University
Montana Tech

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Aurora Elementary (Anchorage)
Northern Lights ABC School (Anchorage)
Scenic Park Elementary (Anchorage)
Hawthorne Elementary (Bozeman)
Cold Springs Elementary (Missoula)
Morning Star Elementary (Bozeman)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Romig Middle School (Anchorage)
Mears Middle School (Anchorage)
Mirror Lake Middle School (Chugiak)
Sacajawea Middle School (Bozeman)
C.S. Porter Middle School (Missoula)
East Middle School (Great Falls)

Top 3 High Schools

West High School (Anchorage)
South Anchorage High School (Anchorage)
Dimond High School (Anchorage)
Bozeman High School (Bozeman)
Sentinel High School (Missoula)
Hellgate High School (Missoula)

Top 3 private high schools

Grace Christian School (Anchorage)
Anchorage Christian Schools (Anchorage)
Holy Rosary Academy (Anchorage)
Loyola Sacred Heart High School (Missoula)
Billings Central Catholic High School (Billings)
Valley Christian School (Missoula)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Lumen Christi High School (Anchorage)
Birchwood Christian School (Chugiak)
Anchorage Waldorf School (Anchorage)
Stillwater Christian School (Kalispell)
Petra Academy (Bozeman)
Missoula International School (Missoula)

Top 3 School Districts

Anchorage School District
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
Bozeman Public Schools
Missoula County Public Schools
Billings Public Schools

Moving from Alaska to Montana brings significant changes in your schooling options. Noteworthy is the contrast in where most high school seniors choose to attend college, with Alaska students favoring in-state options like University of Alaska Fairbanks and University of Alaska Anchorage, whereas Montana students often choose University of Montana and Montana State University. Diving deeper into primary and secondary education, the highly rated Aurora Elementary in Anchorage and Hawthorne Elementary in Bozeman highlight the distinctive educational landscapes of each state, showcasing a range of options for parents to consider when relocating.

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