Best Alaska to Montana Movers and Practical 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

Best Alaska to Montana Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Moving On Up8.81NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
On The Move LLC8.52NRActiveContact
The Moving Man7.82A+Authorized For HHGContact
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.6.97NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Air Van Moving6.85NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Royal Alaskan Movers6.46A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Montana to Alaska guide.

6 Best AK to MT Moving Companies

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

M
Superb8.81/10
based on 214+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3890213 / 1487675

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
On The Move LLC Logo
Fabulous8.52/10
based on 293+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Packing Help

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2399161 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
2
The Moving Man Logo
Good7.82/10
based on 232+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Residential Moving
  • Local Commercial Moving
  • Out-of-State Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

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
3
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. Logo
6.97/10
based on 45+ data points

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 >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

125137 / 118208

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved450,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Air Van Moving Logo
6.85/10
based on 40+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

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
5
Royal Alaskan Movers Logo
6.46/10
based on 338+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2077580 / FF-10566 725677

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans13
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved92,150 (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 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.

Alaska vs. Montana Food Guide

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 itemKing CrabHuckleberry Pie
Most popular meat dishReindeer SausageBison Burger
Most popular street food itemHalibut TacosPasties
Most popular vegan foodKelp 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💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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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Alaska vs. Montana Real Estate & Living Facts

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.

ComparisonAlaskaMontana
Typical Architecture StyleCabin/LodgeRanch/Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingScenic Views, PrivacyMountain Views, Large Lots

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.

Alaska vs. Montana Weather Considerations

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)

ComparisonAlaskaMontana
Air QualityGoodVaries (Good to Moderate)
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, Volcanic EruptionsWildfires, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

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.

ComparisonAlaskaMontana
Avg. Household Income$88,121$67,631
Cost of Living Index132.699.4
State Income Tax06.9
Avg. Property Tax1.20.84
Avg. Sales Tax00-4.5
Top 3 IndustriesOil, Fishing, TourismAgriculture, Tourism, Forestry
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyLowLow
HomelessnessModerateLow

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.

Alaska vs. Montana Political & Religious Comparison

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-upMixed, leans RepublicanConservative, leans Republican
Local PoliticsDiverse, with strong independent streakConservative local governance, with some liberal urban areas
ReligionChristianity 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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