Best Idaho to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from state to state marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. As you bid farewell to Idaho's rugged landscapes and famed potatoes, embracing Washington's lush greenery and vibrant tech scene can feel like stepping into a whole new world. Recognizing the significance of such a long-distance move, it's crucial to entrust your journey to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
Best Idaho to Washington Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 208 Moving Company | 9.49 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Valley Custom Moving | 9.40 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Boise Local Boys Moving Company | 9.20 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Vantage Moving Solutions | 8.70 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Idaho guide.
6 Best ID to WA Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
About 208 Moving Company
With over 5,000 satisfied customers and close to 9,000 boxes moved, 208 Moving Company provides you with the confidence you need when planni...Read More >>
Services
- Local movers in Boise, ID
- Long-distance moves throughout the continental United States
- Residential Moving
About Valley Custom Moving
Valley Custom Moving is a full-service moving company headquartered in Treasure Valley, Idaho that provides all types of moves, from large a...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Packing
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 busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
About Boise Local Boys Moving Company
Founded in 2018 by Brandon Lyda, Boise Local Boys Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving service in Boise, Idaho, serving the...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Packing
- Furniture Assembly
About Vantage Moving Solutions
Vantage Moving Solutions is a locally owned and operated moving company based in Boise, Idaho, serving the entire city and surrounding areas...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Cross-Country Moving
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 Idaho to Washington
Moving from one state to another can bring significant changes in lifestyle, climate, and opportunities. This guide is designed to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Idaho to Washington . By comparing the pros and cons, you'll gain insight into what awaits you in your new home state while acknowledging what you'll leave behind in Idaho.
Idaho- Lower job opportunities
- More conservative
- Less diverse
- More rural
- Harsher winters
Washington- Higher job market
- More liberal politics
- Greater diversity
- Urban opportunities
- Milder winters
Washington- Higher cost of living
- Busier urban life
- Can feel impersonal
- More indoor lifestyle
- More traffic
Idaho- Lower cost of living
- Quiet, rural life
- Strong community feel
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Less traffic congestion
Both Idaho and Washington offer unique benefits depending on your lifestyle preferences and needs. Moving to Washington opens up a plethora of job opportunities, particularly in tech-heavy areas like Seattle, which is home to giants like Amazon and Microsoft. The state’s political climate leans more liberal, offering a welcoming environment for diverse lifestyles and beliefs. Washington's urban centers, notably Seattle and Spokane, buzz with vibrant arts scenes, culinary delights, and numerous parks such as Discovery Park and Riverfront Park. On the other hand, Idaho offers a quieter, rural lifestyle with a lower cost of living, giving you the tranquility of nature with less of the urban hustle found in Washington. However, this move means adjusting to busier cities, potentially higher living costs, and embracing the cultural shift that Washington presents.
Idaho vs. Washington Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Idaho & Washington is essential for understanding the culinary landscape you're moving into. The food you eat is a significant part of local culture and your daily life. By comparing these two states, you'll be better equipped to dive into the food scene of your new home.
| Idaho | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Idaho potatoes | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Idaho beef steaks | Pacific Northwest clam chowder |
| Most popular street food item | Finger steaks | Pike Place Chowder |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa salad | Tempeh reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Washington, the culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, with a strong emphasis on seafood and locally-sourced ingredients. The iconic salmon dish can be found in many forms, from smoked to grilled, across the state but particularly shines in Seattle neighborhoods like Ballard and Pike Place Market. Speaking of Pike Place, it's not just the home of the fresh, creamy clam chowder found at Pike Place Chowder, but also a place where food trucks, offering a plethora of vegan and international options, thrive. Seattle's Capitol Hill and Fremont districts are particularly known for their vegan eateries, like the famed Plum Bistro, making it a haven for those seeking plant-based diversity. Whether it's the upscale dining at Canlis with breathtaking views or the innovative cured meats at Salumi, Washington offers an exhilarating foodie landscape that is eager to welcome newcomers with its rich flavors and culinary creativity.
Ready to start your move?
Idaho vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience, comparing Idaho vs. Washington illuminates differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle . This insight facilitates making an informed decision on your relocation endeavor.
| Comparison | Idaho | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Craftsman | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Mountain views | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to tech hubs |
In comparing Idaho and Washington, one can see substantial differences, not just in the cost of living but also in lifestyle and housing preferences. Idaho's real estate market is characterized by its affordability and spacious, scenic properties. In contrast, Washington, particularly around major urban centers like Seattle, leans towards a more eco-conscious and tech-oriented lifestyle, reflected in its higher property costs and denser living conditions. The stronger urban lifestyle score for Washington mirrors its bustling cities that offer more walkability and amenities, catering to those seeking a vibrant city life. Meanwhile, Idaho's appeal lies in its serene landscapes and larger, more traditional homes, perfect for those prioritizing space and a quieter environment.
Idaho vs. Washington Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another can significantly change your day-to-day life, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding how the weather compares between Idaho and Washington is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you anticipate and prepare for the differences in climate you'll experience.
Idaho
Washington
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Idaho
Washington
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Idaho
Washington
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Idaho
Washington
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Idaho | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Floods | Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The weather in Idaho generally offers hotter summers and colder winters than you'll experience in Washington, where the climate tends to be milder with more rainfall. While both states enjoy a comparable annual UV index, indicating similar average exposure to sunlight, Washington's higher humidity and greater number of rainy days contribute to its lush landscapes. Idaho, on the other hand, sees more sunny days and significantly lower annual rainfall, which can lead to dryer conditions. These differences can influence your lifestyle, activities, and even wardrobe choices when moving from Idaho to Washington.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Idaho to Washington
When relocating, it's important to understand how financial aspects such as income, taxes, and cost of living compare. This chart showcases a comprehensive financial comparison to help highlight the distinctions between moving from Idaho to Washington .
| Comparison | Idaho | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $72,785 | $91,306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.5 | 104.1 |
| State Income Tax | 6.925 (top rate) | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.75 | 1.08 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.03 | 8.92 |
| Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Tourism | Technology, Aerospace, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
Washington shows a significantly higher average household income compared to Idaho, which can be enticing for those looking for better job prospects. However, it's crucial to note that Washington's cost of living index and average sales tax are higher, which might offset the higher income to some extent. Despite Washington's absence of state income tax, Idaho offers a more affordable property tax rate, suggesting potential savings for homeowners. The economic landscape of both states is diverse, with Washington leading in technology and Idaho in agriculture, reflecting different career opportunities for new residents. Considering these factors can help make a more informed decision when relocating.
Idaho vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison between Idaho & Washington provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of their residents, offering insights for those considering a move.
| Idaho | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican Dominance | Democratic Dominance |
| Religion | Christian Majority | Mixed Religious Views |
When moving from Idaho to Washington, you'll notice a significant shift in political and religious landscapes. Idaho's conservative lean and Republican dominance contrast sharply with Washington's liberal ethos and Democratic governance. This shift reflects not only in national elections but also in local policies and social attitudes. Religious makeup also varies, with Idaho having a strong Christian majority, while Washington presents a more diverse mix of religious views, reflecting its broader demographic diversity. Understanding these differences can help you better integrate into your new community.
Education Guide When Moving from Idaho to Washington
When considering a move from Idaho to Washington, comparing educational opportunities can significantly impact your decision. This comparison chart is designed to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Idaho and Washington, from elementary to high school levels, including both public and private institutions.
| Idaho | Washington |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) Boise State University University of Idaho Idaho State UniversityUniversity of Washington Washington State University Seattle University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Adams Elementary (Boise) Cecil D Andrus Elementary (Eagle) Ponderosa Elementary (Meridian)Cascade Ridge Elementary (Issaquah) Medina Elementary (Medina) Lakeland Hills Elementary (Auburn) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools North Star Charter (Eagle) Lake Hazel Middle (Boise) Heritage Middle (Meridian)International School (Bellevue) Pacific Cascade Middle (Issaquah) Redmond Middle (Redmond) | |
Top 3 High Schools Boise High School (Boise) Timberline High School (Boise) Eagle High School (Eagle)International School (Bellevue) Tesla STEM High School (Redmond) Newport High School (Bellevue) | |
Top 3 private high schools Bishop Kelly High School (Boise) The Ambrose School (Meridian) Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy (Coeur d'Alene)Lakeside School (Seattle) The Overlake School (Redmond) Seattle Academy (Seattle) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Ambrose School (Meridian) Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy (Coeur d'Alene) Riverstone International School (Boise)Bear Creek School (Redmond) The Overlake School (Redmond) Seattle Country Day School (Seattle) | |
Top 3 School Districts Boise School District West Ada School District Coeur d'Alene School DistrictIssaquah School District Lake Washington School District Bellevue School District | |
In diving deeper into the educational landscapes of Idaho and Washington, you'll find distinct differences in the opportunities and environments they offer. For example, Idaho emphasizes strong local universities attracting a majority of its high school graduates. Its top schools like Boise High School and Bishop Kelly High School boast rigorous academic programs within community-focused environments. Meanwhile, Washington's educational scene shines with highly competitive STEM-oriented high schools such as Tesla STEM High School and specialized programs in places like the Lakeside and Overlake Schools, which are known for their innovation and comprehensive K-12 education. These differences reflect the unique educational philosophies and opportunities available in each state, helping you to make a more informed decision regarding your move.
