Best Minneapolis to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Minneapolis to Seattle Movers

Embarking on a journey from Minneapolis, the City of Lakes, to Seattle, the Emerald City, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading the Midwestern charm and expansive lakes for the Pacific Northwest's lush landscapes and vibrant tech scene. Given the distance and complexities of such a move, securing trusted and reliable professional movers is crucial for ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible. At Great Guys Moving, we meticulously rank the best movers to guarantee you’re in the best hands every step of the way.

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Best Minneapolis to Seattle Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Metro Movers9.50NRAuthorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
General Expert Moving Service LLC9.28NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI9.20NRActiveContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Minneapolis guide.

5 Best Minneapolis to Seattle Moving Companies

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

Metro Movers Logo
Exceptional9.50/10
based on 1,008+ data points

About Metro Movers

Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared vision...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Business Moving
  • Long Distance Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3263274 / 1029026

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2022)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,571+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
General Expert Moving Service LLC Logo
Exceptional9.28/10
based on 528+ data points

About General Expert Moving Service LLC

General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup truck back ...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2846187 / 1285395

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers24
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.20/10
based on 331+ data points

About Exercise Equipment Installation: EEI

Exercise Equipment Installation (EEI) has been providing quality service since 1995, specializing in professional and reliable disassembly, ...Read More >>

Services

  • Exercise Equipment Moving
  • Exercise Equipment Disassembly
  • Exercise Equipment Assembly

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 3/14/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3914686 / -

Active

CARRIER

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers-
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
People Movers Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Minneapolis vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help bridge this gap, we've created a comparison that highlights Minneapolis, MN & Seattle, WA local neighborhoods . This guide will assist you in finding a Seattle neighborhood that mirrors your favorite Minneapolis area, making the unknown feel a bit more like home.

MinneapolisSeattleHow They're Similar
Linden HillsMadison ParkLakeside vibes, family-friendly
UptownCapitol HillVibrant nightlife, diverse
North LoopBelltownTrendy, artsy, with a robust nightlife
NortheastBallardHistorical, rich in culture and breweries
SouthwestQueen AnneQuiet, residential, with scenic views
Lowry HillMontlakeAffluent, historical architecture
WhittierGreenwoodDiverse, arts-focused, community vibe
KenwoodLaurelhurstExclusive, waterfront access
EdinaMagnoliaUpscale, family-friendly, with nature
PowderhornFremontEclectic, artsy, with a youthful spirit

If you're moving from the artsy and vibrant Uptown Minneapolis, you'll love the dynamic energy of Capitol Hill in Seattle, known for its nightlife and diversity. Fans of Linden Hills' charming, lakeside aesthetic will find a similar vibe in Seattle's Madison Park, which also boasts a family-friendly atmosphere alongside beautiful lake views. For those drawn to the historical and cultural richness of Northeast Minneapolis, Ballard in Seattle offers an equally enriching community experience, with its historical landmarks, thriving brewery scene, and vibrant cultural festivals. Whether it's the arts, culture, or quiet, scenic neighborhoods you're after, Seattle has a counterpart to your favorite Minneapolis neighborhood, ready to make you feel at home.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Minneapolis to Seattle

Moving from one city to another can be a life-changing decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Minneapolis, MN to Seattle, WA . Understanding both the challenges and the benefits of such a move ensures you make an informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Minneapolis, MN iconMinneapolis, MN
  • Colder winters
  • Less tech jobs
  • Smaller metro area
  • Fewer outdoor activities
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Milder winters
  • More tech jobs
  • Larger metro area
  • More outdoor activities
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Expensive housing
  • Faster pace
  • Less sunshine
Minneapolis, MN iconMinneapolis, MN
  • Friendly locals
  • More affordable housing
  • Easygoing lifestyle
  • Lots of lakes

When you move from Minneapolis to Seattle, you'll experience a wealth of new opportunities and changes. Seattle's milder winters compared to the harsh, cold ones in Minneapolis allow for year-round outdoor activities, such as visits to Discovery Park or the Seattle Waterfront. The tech job opportunities in Seattle, with companies like Amazon and Microsoft, are plentiful, making it a tech haven. However, adapt to the higher cost of living and faster-paced lifestyle. While Minneapolis is known for its friendly locals and easygoing lifestyle, Seattle's vibrant restaurant scene, including Pike Place Market, and iconic sights like the Space Needle, offer exciting urban experiences. Though the higher cost of housing in Seattle compared to Minneapolis is a significant change, the quality of life and natural beauty surrounding Seattle, such as Mount Rainier National Park, make it a worthwhile transition.

Minneapolis vs. Seattle Food Guide

Food plays a vital role in experiencing local culture and understanding what life is like in a new area. To help you get a taste of your potential new home, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Minneapolis & Seattle . This comparison will give you a better idea of the food scene in both cities, enriching your moving experience.

MinneapolisSeattle
Most iconic local food itemJuicy LucySalmon
Most popular meat dishSwedish MeatballsDungeness Crab
Most popular street food itemTater Tot HotdishTacos
Most popular vegan foodWild Rice BurgerPho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Spoon and Stable
  • Surly Brewing Co.
  • Matt's Bar
  • Canlis
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • Theo Chocolate
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

If you're moving from Minneapolis to Seattle, you're about to experience a significant shift in local cuisine. Seattle's coastal location means seafood, especially dishes like salmon and Dungeness crab, play a defining role in the food culture. Neighborhoods like Pike Place Market and Ballard are foodie havens, where you can explore an array of seafood joints, innovative vegan restaurants, and iconic establishments such as Canlis for fine dining and Pike Place Chowder for casual eats. Seattle's higher rating for fitness/health conscientiousness, abundance of food trucks, and a vibrant foodie scene reflects its diverse and health-oriented food options. Whether you're indulging in the local seafood or exploring vegan delights, Seattle's culinary landscape is as rich in flavors as it is in scenic beauty.

Minneapolis vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a complex journey, but exploring the culinary scene makes any new city feel like home. This comparison between Minneapolis restaurants and their Seattle equivalents is designed to ease your transition , ensuring you find your next favorite dining spots swiftly. Let the flavors of your old hometown guide you through Seattle's vibrant food scene.

MinneapolisSeattleWhat You'll Love
Spoon and StableCanlisUpscale dining with innovative dishes.
Bar La GrassaSpinasseAuthentic Italian pasta with a modern twist.
Brasa RotisseriePaseoCaribbean flavors with a cult following.
Matt’s BarDick's Drive-InIconic burgers and shakes experience.
Young JoniDelanceyWood-fired pizza with a warm atmosphere.
112 EateryThe Walrus and The CarpenterSmall plates and seafood in a cozy setting.
Butcher & The BoarBateauA focus on steak with farm-to-table sourcing.
Smack ShackThe Crab PotSeafood feasts that are fun and messy.
Kramarczuk'sPiroshky PiroshkyEastern European flavors in pastry form.
RevivalJuneBabySouthern cuisine with a Pacific Northwest twist.

At Canlis, you'll find a dining experience reminiscent of Spoon and Stable, where the blend of upscale ambiance and innovative cuisine sets the stage for a memorable meal. Meanwhile, Paseo offers a taste of the Caribbean that Brasa Rotisserie enthusiasts will appreciate, with its own fervent following thanks to standout sandwiches and vibrant flavors. For those seeking the comfort of wood-fired pizza, Delancey in Seattle mirrors the warmth and quality of Young Joni. Not only do these comparisons provide a bridge between two diverse culinary scenes, but they also invite you to explore the unique food narratives each city offers.

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Ready to start your move?

Minneapolis vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences a move. Understanding how Minneapolis housing compares to Seattle housing helps make informed decisions.

ComparisonMinneapolisSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleTudor, ColonialModern, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLakefront, Spacious yardsEnergy-efficient, Smart home features

In both Minneapolis and Seattle, housing influences the urban lifestyle, accessibility, and comfort levels. Minneapolis, with its offering of Tudor and Colonial homes, positions itself with a more traditional architectural appeal and spacious yards, often highlighted in real estate listings. In contrast, Seattle leans into a more modern and eco-conscious living, with many properties featuring smart home technologies and energy-efficient designs. The city's higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more urban lifestyle, which aligns with the popular market descriptions. These factors combined can drastically influence your daily life, commute, and how you enjoy your leisure time.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Minneapolis vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

If you're pondering a move from Minneapolis to Seattle, grasping the climatic differences is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather patterns vary between these two cities, helping you understand what to expect and prepare accordingly. Minneapolis and Seattle weather characteristics are detailed for a comprehensive understanding.

Summer icon
83°F / 63°F

Minneapolis, MN

75°F / 56°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
23°F / 7°F

Minneapolis, MN

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
30.6

Minneapolis, MN

37.5

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
54

Minneapolis, MN

5

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMinneapolisSeattle
Air QualityGood to ModerateModerate
Natural DisastersBlizzards, TornadoesEarthquakes, Landslides
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Minneapolis and Seattle enjoy mild summer temperatures, Minneapolis experiences cold, snowy winters unlike Seattle's milder, wet winter climate. Seattle receives more rainfall annually, contributing to its lush landscape, while Minneapolis contends with a higher amount of snowfall. Also noteworthy, Minneapolis boasts more sunny days annually, possibly affecting mood and outdoor activity preferences. Air quality and natural disaster risks differ significantly due to their geographical locations, influencing lifestyle choices and preparedness necessities in each city.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Minneapolis to Seattle

When planning a move from Minneapolis, MN to Seattle, WA, one crucial aspect to understand is the financial impact. Analyzing the cost of living, income rates, and tax differences between these two cities offers a comprehensive view of what to expect financially . Knowing how your financial situation may change can help in making an informed decision.

ComparisonMinneapolisSeattle
Avg. Household Income$69,397$110,781
Cost of Living Index111121.4
State Income Tax5.35 - 9.85%0%
Avg. Property Tax1.25%0.99%
Avg. Sales Tax8.025%10.1%
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Medical, FinanceTechnology, Aerospace, Retail
AffluenceModerately affluentHighly affluent
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessSignificantHigh

The move from Minneapolis to Seattle encompasses more than a change of scenery; it's a financial transition as well. Seattle's higher average household income, juxtaposed with its notably higher cost of living index, illustrates a city of greater affluence but with an elevated cost to match. The absence of state income tax in Washington can be appealing, yet Seattle's higher sales tax slightly mitigates this benefit. Moreover, the top industries in Seattle, notably technology and aerospace, contribute to its higher average income levels. As you consider this move, weigh these financial factors carefully to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Minneapolis vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for your move from Minneapolis, MN to Seattle, WA, understanding the communities awaiting you is key. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Minneapolis & Seattle , offering insights into the character and values of your future neighbors.

MinneapolisSeattle
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive policies, emphasis on social justiceProgressive policies, strong environmental focus
ReligionDiverse, with Christianity being predominantDiverse, less religious overall

Both Minneapolis and Seattle embrace liberal, Democratic political ideologies, with a shared focus on progressive policies. However, you'll find that local politics in Seattle often carry a stronger environmental agenda, reflecting the city's lush surroundings and commitment to sustainability. Religious diversity is present in both cities, though Seattle is known for its more secular population compared to the predominantly Christian Minneapolis. This shift may influence community events and cultural atmospheres you'll experience. Embracing these differences will enrich your transition and integration into your new Seattle community.

Minneapolis vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Minneapolis, MN to Seattle, WA? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Minneapolis & Seattle is essential for understanding what your daily commute and overall traffic experience will look like.

ComparisonMinneapolisSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2528
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingYes, easier than Minneapolis

In Minneapolis, the average commute time might be slightly shorter compared to Seattle, but both cities experience their share of traffic congestion, with Seattle being a bit more congested. However, Seattle shines in the availability and convenience of its public transit options, rated higher than Minneapolis. It's more feasible to live in Seattle without a car due to its robust public transportation system and more pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Whether you're using the light rail in Seattle or biking through Minneapolis's dedicated bike lanes, each city offers unique advantages for its residents. The difference lies in how these commuting options align with your lifestyle and commuting preferences.

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