Best Michigan to Alaska Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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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.
Best Michigan to Alaska Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pro-Low Moving | 9.68 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Handle With Care Moving & Delivery | 9.06 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| MASS Movers | 9.03 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.99 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| The Moving Man | 7.82 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. | 6.97 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
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)
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
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
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
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its profess...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
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
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
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 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.
Michigan- Cold winters
- Less daylight in winter
- Fewer wilderness areas
- Flat topography
Alaska- Stunning landscapes
- More daylight in summer
- Vast wilderness
- Diverse terrain
Alaska- Less water access
- Farther from family
- Higher cost of living
- Isolation
Michigan- 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.
| Michigan | Alaska | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pasties | King Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Reindeer Sausage |
| Most popular street food item | Coney Island Hot Dog | Wild Alaskan Salmon Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Lentil Burger | Kelp Salsa |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
| Comparison | Michigan | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Ranch | Log homes, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lakeside access, Great Lakes proximity | Mountain 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.
Michigan
Alaska
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Michigan
Alaska
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Michigan
Alaska
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Michigan
Alaska
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Michigan | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Very Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Earthquakes, 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
| Comparison | Michigan | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,986 | $88,121 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.2 | 132.6 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 1.18 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 1.76 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Manufacturing, Agriculture | Oil, Fishing, Tourism |
| Affluence | moderate | high |
| Poverty | noticeable | lower |
| Homelessness | significant | moderate |
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.
| Michigan | Alaska | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Swing state with a mix of liberal and conservative regions | Largely considered conservative, with Republican dominance but some Democratic regions |
| Local Politics | Local 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. |
| Religion | Christian majority, with a diverse range of other religious practices | High 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.
| Michigan | Alaska |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Michigan Michigan State University Wayne State UniversityUniversity 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 SchoolsAnchorage 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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