Best Michigan to Alaska Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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MI to AK Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting opportunities. From the automotive heartland of Michigan, often affectionately dubbed the Great Lakes State, to the rugged wilderness and frontier spirit of Alaska, the Last Frontier, you're transitioning between worlds that are as distinct in personality as they are in landscape. Given the vast distance and significant changes awaiting, entrusting your move to reliable professional movers is not just a convenience, but a necessity. Our team at Great Guys Moving uses an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers in the country, ensuring your journey from Michigan to Alaska is smooth and stress-free.

Michigan iconArrow iconAlaska icon

Best Michigan to Alaska Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Pro-Low Moving9.68A+Authorized For HHGContact
Handle With Care Moving & Delivery 9.06A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving9.04FAuthorized For HHGContact
MASS Movers9.03NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
The Moving Man7.82A+Authorized For HHGContact
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.6.97NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alaska to Michigan guide.

6 Best MI to AK Moving Companies

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

Pro-Low Moving Logo
Exceptional9.68/10
based on 1,255+ data points

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 license...Read More >>

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
Handle With Care Moving & Delivery  Logo
Exceptional9.06/10
based on 898+ data points

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 r...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

808976 / 359936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Logo
Exceptional9.04/10
based on 1,071+ data points

About College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

Founded in 2005, College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving is a distinguished full-service moving and junk removal company, operational in over ...Read More >>

Services

  • Full-service moving company
  • Junk Removal & Trash Pickup
  • Hourly moving & packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3451138 / 1467143

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
MASS Movers Logo
Exceptional9.03/10
based on 503+ data points

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...Read More >>

Services

  • Packing Service
  • Large Item Moving
  • Small to Medium Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

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
4
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
5
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
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 Alaska

Moving from location to another always includes weighing the ups and downs. In this guide, we present a comprehensive comparison to offer an honest reflection of moving from Michigan to Alaska, highlighting the distinct contrasts and opportunities each state provides through straightforward charts and detailed analysis.

CONs
PROs
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Cold winters
  • Less daylight in winter
  • Fewer wilderness areas
  • Flat topography
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Stunning landscapes
  • More daylight in summer
  • Vast wilderness
  • Diverse terrain
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Less water access
  • Farther from family
  • Higher cost of living
  • Isolation
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Great lakes access
  • Rich automotive history
  • Lower cost of living
  • More urban areas

Opting for life in Alaska over Michigan means embracing dramatic changes, from the enchanting but frigid winters that transform the Alaskan landscape into a snowy paradise, to the extended summer days where the sun barely sets, illuminating the vast, untamed wilderness that Alaska is famed for. Picture exploring the rugged terrains of Denali National Park or fishing in the Kenai Rivers, a sharp contrast to the relatively tame, albeit beautiful, parks like Belle Isle in Michigan. The transition might mean saying goodbye to the convenience of urban living found in places like Detroit, brimming with history and culture represented by establishments like the Henry Ford Museum. Yet, it also opens the door to Alaska's wild beauty, promising adventure in idyllic towns like Sitka or Juneau, where the tight-knit community and local eateries like The Lark in Sitka welcome newcomers with open arms. Embracing Alaska means adapting to its remote, serene, and expansive nature, a considerable shift from Michigan's vibrant urban centers and accessible Great Lakes shores.

Michigan vs. Alaska Food Guide

Food is a pivotal aspect of regional culture and a telltale of what life is like in an area. To help you understand the culinary scene in your new home, we've crafted a comparison of the local cuisine between Michigan & Alaska . This should give you a better perspective on what your dining experiences might be like once you make the move.

MichiganAlaska
Most iconic local food itemPastiesKing Crab
Most popular meat dishDetroit-style PizzaReindeer Sausage
Most popular street food itemConey Island Hot DogWild Alaskan Salmon Tacos
Most popular vegan foodLentil BurgerKelp Salsa
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Zingerman's Deli
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Bell's Eccentric Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving to a new state introduces you to its unique culinary scene, and for those heading to Alaska, the adventure just gets richer. In cities like Anchorage, you can savour the local delicacies such as King Crab and Reindeer Sausage, a leap from Michigan’s iconic pasties and Detroit-style pizza. For a taste of sustainability, Alaska offers Kelp Salsa among other innovative vegan choices, though in a landscape dominated by seafood. If you’re keen on experiencing the foodie scene firsthand, don't miss visiting Simon & Seafort's with its breathtaking views or the cozy, welcoming environment of Snow City Cafe, both in Anchorage. These establishments not only serve up delectable Alaskan fare but also provide a window into the state's food culture and hospitality.

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Michigan vs. Alaska Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate differences between Michigan and Alaska is crucial. This comparison will highlight key aspects like housing costs, architecture, and the overall lifestyle you can expect in each state.

ComparisonMichiganAlaska
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, RanchLog homes, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLakeside access, Great Lakes proximityMountain views, Proximity to nature/parks

Michigan offers more affordable housing options whether you're planning to buy or rent, with a variety of architectural styles from the classic Colonial to Ranch-style homes. Its cities are relatively more walkable and offer a slightly more urban lifestyle. On the other hand, Alaska's real estate market values properties with mountain views and proximity to untouched natural landscapes, reflecting the state's abundant wilderness. The higher cost of living in Alaska is partly due to its remote location and the logistics of transporting goods. Despite this, for those craving adventure and seclusion, with a passion for outdoor activities, Alaska might still edge out Michigan as the preferred choice.

Michigan vs. Alaska Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding the climatic differences is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather conditions in Michigan and Alaska contrast, providing you with essential insights. Knowing these differences can help you prepare adequately for your new environment.

Summer icon
81°F / 59°F

Michigan

60°F / 44°F

Alaska

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 17°F

Michigan

19°F / -2°F

Alaska

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
32.8

Michigan

22.5 (Varies widely)

Alaska

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
60.66

Michigan

74.5 (Varies widely)

Alaska

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMichiganAlaska
Air QualityGoodVery Good
Natural DisastersTornadoes, BlizzardsEarthquakes, Avalanches
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Michigan to Alaska, there are a few weather-related considerations to keep in mind. Michigan enjoys warmer summers and slightly more days of sunshine annually, whereas Alaska offers cooler summer temperatures and longer winters. Notably, Alaska experiences a broader range of natural disasters, including earthquakes and avalanches, and offers very good air quality due to its remote locations. Understanding these differences can help you adapt to your new home, ensuring you are prepared for its unique climate.

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

When considering a move from one location to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial conditions in your new home compare to your current one. Moving from Michigan to Alaska involves significant changes, not just in climate but also in terms of money and finance.

ComparisonMichiganAlaska
Avg. Household Income$66,986$88,121
Cost of Living Index91.2132.6
State Income Tax4.250
Avg. Property Tax1.581.18
Avg. Sales Tax61.76
Top 3 IndustriesAutomotive, Manufacturing, AgricultureOil, Fishing, Tourism
Affluencemoderatehigh
Povertynoticeablelower
Homelessnesssignificantmoderate

Moving from Michigan to Alaska, you'll encounter a variety of financial contrasts. Despite a higher cost of living index in Alaska, attributed to remote access and higher priced goods, Alaskans enjoy a higher average household income. This can offset the cost difference to some extent. The absence of a state income tax in Alaska presents a significant saving opportunity, providing more disposable income for residents. Moreover, the leading industries in Alaska—oil, fishing, and tourism—are markedly different from Michigan's auto and manufacturing sectors, potentially affecting job opportunities and economic dynamics you'll experience. Understanding these differences is key to making informed financial decisions when relocating.

Michigan vs. Alaska Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Michigan to Alaska, it's essential to understand the community you'll be joining. This comparison aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Michigan & Alaska to help you gauge the atmosphere of your new home state.

MichiganAlaska
Political Make-upSwing state with a mix of liberal and conservative regionsLargely considered conservative, with Republican dominance but some Democratic regions
Local PoliticsLocal politics often align with the state's diverse political landscape, varying significantly from city to city.Local politics tend to focus on issues like resource management, native rights, and environmental policies.
ReligionChristian majority, with a diverse range of other religious practicesHigh proportion of Christians, particularly Evangelical; also a significant number of individuals with no religious affiliation

Moving from Michigan to Alaska, you'll find yourself in a state where local politics play a crucial role in everyday life, especially concerning environmental policies and native rights. The religious landscape in Alaska might feel familiar, with Christianity being prevalent, but you'll also notice a higher number of people who identify with no religion compared to Michigan. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust to and engage with your new community more effectively.

Education Guide When Moving from Michigan to Alaska

Moving from Michigan to Alaska brings many changes, including in the education landscape. To better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Michigan and Alaska , this guide is designed to help. Whether you're deciding on public or private education, knowing the top schools and districts will make your transition smoother.

MichiganAlaska

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Michigan
Michigan State University
Wayne State University
University of Alaska Anchorage
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Alaska Pacific University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Bates Elementary (Dexter)
Angell Elementary (Ann Arbor)
Wealthy Elementary (East Grand Rapids)
Aurora Elementary (Anchorage)
Northern Lights ABC School (Anchorage)
Watershed Charter School (Fairbanks)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Boulan Park Middle School (Troy)
Clague Middle School (Ann Arbor)
East Middle School (Grand Rapids)
Mears Middle School (Anchorage)
Romig Middle School (Anchorage)
Randy Smith Middle School (Fairbanks)

Top 3 High School Schools

International Academy (Bloomfield Hills)
Troy High School (Troy)
Northville High School (Northville)
West High School (Anchorage)
South Anchorage High School (Anchorage)
Eagle River High School (Eagle River)

Top 3 private high schools

Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills)
Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills)
Greenhills School (Ann Arbor)
Grace Christian School (Anchorage)
Anchorage Christian Schools (Anchorage)
Holy Rosary Academy (Anchorage)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Roeper School (Bloomfield Hills)
Detroit Waldorf School (Detroit)
Greenhills School (Ann Arbor)
Grace Christian School (Anchorage)
Anchorage Christian Schools (Anchorage)
Holy Rosary Academy (Anchorage)

Top 3 School Districts

Bloomfield Hills Schools
Ann Arbor Public Schools
East Grand Rapids Public Schools
Anchorage School District
Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District

In comparing Michigan and Alaska school options, it's noteworthy that the University of Michigan and the University of Alaska Anchorage lead as the top choices for college-bound seniors, mirroring the states' focus on higher education excellence. Also, prestigious institutions like Cranbrook Schools in Bloomfield Hills and Grace Christian School in Anchorage underscore the quality private education available. School districts like Ann Arbor Public Schools and Anchorage School District highlight the states' commitment to robust public education systems. Whether opting for public or private education, families moving from Michigan to Alaska have diverse, quality options at their disposal.

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