Best Seattle to Anchorage Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Seattle to Anchorage Movers

Moving from the Emerald City to the Last Frontier marks an exciting chapter in your life, brimming with new opportunities and landscapes. You're swapping Seattle's innovative tech scene and bustling coffee culture for Anchorage's majestic mountains and close-knit community vibe. For such a significant journey, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, and we at Great Guys Moving ensure you're partnered with the best in the business for a seamless transition.

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Best Seattle to Anchorage Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Seattle Moves & More9.54A+Authorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
The Moving Man7.80A+Authorized For HHGContact
Air Van Moving6.80NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Anchorage to Seattle guide.

5 Best Seattle to Anchorage Moving Companies

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

S
Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
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 12/17/2024)

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
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 12/17/2024)

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
3
The Moving Man Logo
Good7.80/10
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
4
Air Van Moving Logo
6.80/10
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
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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.

Seattle vs. Anchorage Neighborhood Comparison

When planning a move, getting to know your new city by comparing it to the one you're leaving can provide a sense of familiarity. This guide aims to help by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Anchorage, AK , allowing you to find a new home that feels just right. Discover the Anchorage neighborhoods that best match your favorite Seattle spots.

SeattleAnchorageHow They're Similar
BelltownBootleggers CoveVibrant, waterfront living
Capitol HillSpenardArtsy, with a youthful vibe
BallardTurnagainFamily-friendly, with a rich history
Queen AnneRogers ParkUpscale, with scenic views
GreenwoodOceanviewQuiet, residential comfort
FremontBear ValleyNatural beauty, eclectic community
West SeattleSouth AdditionClose-knit, with beach access
University DistrictUniversity AreaEducational hub, lively
WallingfordRabbit CreekFamily-oriented, great schools
Pioneer SquareMountain ViewRich in history, cultural diversity

In Belltown, the heartbeat of Seattle's downtown with its high-rise apartments and waterfront parks, you'll find a similar vibe in Anchorage's Bootleggers Cove. Here, you can enjoy ocean views at Elderberry Park or dine at some of the city's most renowned eateries. If you love the youthful, creative energy of Capitol Hill, Spenard in Anchorage will feel like home, with its unique blend of art galleries, like the Anchorage Museum, and vibrant nightlife. For those drawn to the historic charm and family-friendly atmosphere of Ballard, Turnagain offers a slice of suburbia with access to trails and parks, such as Earthquake Park. Meanwhile, Fremont's eclectic mix and iconic troll statue have a counterpart in Bear Valley, where the natural setting and community-focused lifestyle are complemented by outdoor activities, drawing parallels with attractions like the Alaska Zoo.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Anchorage

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Seattle, WA to Anchorage, AK. By examining the pros and cons, you can better understand how this move might align with your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Frequent rain
  • Dense population
Anchorage, AK iconAnchorage, AK
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More snow, less rain
  • More open space
Anchorage, AK iconAnchorage, AK
  • Smaller music scene
  • Fewer restaurants
  • Less cultural variety
  • Less tech jobs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Diverse food options
  • Rich cultural activities
  • Major tech hub

Moving from Seattle to Anchorage introduces you to a unique blend of pros and cons. In Anchorage, you'll encounter breathtaking wilderness and outdoor activities right on your doorstep. Places like Chugach State Park offer expansive trails for hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing unlike anywhere in Seattle. Although Anchorage has fewer culinary options, establishments like Simon & Seafort's provide memorable dining experiences with stunning views. The vibrant local culture, showcased through venues like the Anchorage Museum and various neighborhood festivals, ensures you remain engaged. While you may miss Seattle's bustling tech scene and cultural diversity, Anchorage's close-knit community and the serene beauty of Alaska offer a compelling, albeit different, way of life.

Seattle vs. Anchorage Food Guide

Considering relocating often means immersing yourself in a new lifestyle, and what could be a more delicious aspect of life than food? In this comparison, we delve into the local cuisine between Seattle & Anchorage, offering insights into what culinary delights await you. Whether you're a food enthusiast or just curious about your future dining options, this guide will help you get acquainted with the local food scene where you're heading.

SeattleAnchorage
Most iconic local food itemSalmonKing Crab
Most popular meat dishTeriyakiReindeer Sausage
Most popular street food itemSeattle DogHalibut Tacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladAlaskan Blueberry Vegan Cake
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • Theo Chocolate Factory
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • Simon & Seafort's
  • Moose's Tooth
  • Glacier Brewhouse
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Seattle and Anchorage offer divergent yet appealing culinary landscapes reflecting their unique environments. In Seattle, the presence of fresh seafood is a given, with iconic dishes like Salmon and an array of international cuisines highlighting the city's diverse food scene. The Theo Chocolate Factory offers a unique experience mixing tours with sweet treats, illustrating Seattle's creative approach to food. On the other hand, Anchorage presents a rugged, yet refined culinary experience with local specialties such as King Crab and Reindeer Sausage being must-tries. The city's love for fresh, locally-sourced ingredients can be savored in places like Simon & Seafort's. While Seattle boasts a higher ranking in terms of foodie scenes and vegan options, Anchorage's dining is deeply intertwined with Alaskan culture, offering a taste of the state's vast wilderness and natural bounty.

Seattle vs. Anchorage Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Seattle, WA, and Anchorage, AK, will guide you in finding your next favorite spots, making the transition feel like home.

SeattleAnchorageWhat You'll Love
The Walrus and the CarpenterSimon & Seafort's Saloon & GrillBoth offer fresh, locally sourced seafood in a cozy, upscale environment.
CanlisMarx Bros. CafeEqually renowned for their fine dining experience and innovative Northwest cuisine.
Pike Place Chowder49th State Brewing CoKnown for their award-winning chowder and hearty Alaskan dishes.
Dick's Drive-InTommy's Burger StopBoth cult favorites for their straightforward, delicious burgers and shakes.
MamnoonYak & Yeti Himalayan RestaurantOffers a rich experience of Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisine with a similar homey vibe.
AlturaJens' RestaurantBoth are fine dining spots that specialize in Italian cuisine with a local twist.
Matt's in the MarketSouth Restaurant + CoffeehouseFeatures fresh, local ingredients in their dishes, echoing Matt’s commitment to regional cuisine.
Taylor Shellfish Oyster BarTurnagain Arm Pit BBQWhile focused on BBQ, they also provide a great selection of local seafood, mirroring Taylor's quality and freshness.
Renee Erickson's Sea Creatures RestaurantsOrsoShares a similar passion for seafood with a diverse menu that explores different flavors and preparations.
Skillet DinerSnow City CaféBoth have a laid-back, trendy atmosphere with a strong focus on breakfast and brunch menus.

When you begin to explore Anchorage's dining scene, you'll find establishments reminiscent of Seattle's diverse and vibrant restaurant landscape. For instance, stepping into Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill, you'll be greeted with the familiar sight of expertly prepared seafood dishes, much like those at The Walrus and the Carpenter. Similarly, the transition from Mamnoon to Yak & Yeti Himalayan Restaurant will be seamless for lovers of Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines, with both places offering a warm and inviting atmosphere alongside their authentic dishes. It's these culinary experiences that will ease your transition, making Anchorage feel just like home.

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Seattle vs. Anchorage Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing real estate between your current and future city is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle between Seattle, WA and Anchorage, AK will greatly inform your decision-making process. Let's dive into how these two cities stack up in the realm of real estate.

ComparisonSeattleAnchorage
Typical Architecture StyleModern, CraftsmanRanch, Contemporary
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Green SpaceHeated Garages, Large Lots

The disparity in median home prices and monthly rent between Seattle and Anchorage illustrates the considerable difference in living costs, with Anchorage being the more affordable option. Seattle's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its more urban lifestyle, offering residents easy access to a plethora of amenities and green spaces within walking distances, such as the Seattle Parks and Recreation. Meanwhile, the appeal of Anchorage real estate lies in its spaciousness and focus on natural beauty, illustrating a preference for large lots and features tailored to cold-weather living like heated garages. Both cities cater to different preferences in architecture, with Seattle favoring more modern and craftsman styles, while Anchorage homes tend towards a ranch and contemporary aesthetic, indicating a broader spectrum of choices to fit various tastes and needs.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Anchorage, AK

1. South Addition: Known for its quiet streets and proximity to Delaney Park Strip, giving your pets a sprawling green space for daily walks and exercise.

2. Turnagain: Offers easy access to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail where you and your pet can enjoy breathtaking views of Cook Inlet and encounter wildlife, perfect for active pets.

3. Rogers Park: This neighborhood is a peaceful area with a strong community vibe and several nearby dog parks, making it great for socializing your pets and meeting fellow pet owners.

Seattle vs. Anchorage Weather Considerations

Moving to a new city means adapting to new weather conditions. Understanding the differences between Seattle, WA weather and Anchorage, AK weather can help you prepare for the changes you'll encounter. This comparison aims to highlight what to expect in terms of climate, which plays a significant role in your daily life.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

60°F / 45°F

Anchorage, AK

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

22°F / 10°F

Anchorage, AK

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Seattle, WA

16

Anchorage, AK

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Seattle, WA

75

Anchorage, AK

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSeattleAnchorage
Air QualityGoodGood
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanosEarthquakes, Avalanches
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Anchorage, AK, expect significant changes primarily in winter conditions and daylight exposure. Anchorage experiences much colder winters, with average highs dipping to 22°F, contrasting Seattle's milder 47°F. Moreover, Anchorage's significant snowfall, averaging 75 inches annually compared to Seattle's 5 inches, demands preparation for snow-related activities and travel. Despite these contrasts, both cities offer unique opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, albeit in different seasonal wardrobes. Understanding these climate differences will help ease your transition and enhance your new living experience in Anchorage.

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

When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Anchorage, AK, it's essential to grasp how the financial aspects of your life might shift. This comparison will illuminate the cost of living, taxation, and economic environment in Seattle and Anchorage, equipping you with the knowledge you need for a smooth transition.

ComparisonSeattleAnchorage
Avg. Household Income$110,781$86,654
Cost of Living Index121.4128.4
State Income Tax0%0%
Avg. Property Tax0.99%1.18%
Avg. Sales Tax10.1%0%
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Healthcare, ManufacturingOil, Military, Tourism
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighModerate

Moving from Seattle to Anchorage, you'll notice several financial changes. While both cities enjoy the benefit of no state income tax, the average household income in Seattle is notably higher. However, this comes with a cost; Seattle's cost of living is significantly higher than Anchorage's. In terms of taxation, Anchorage stands out with no sales tax, compared to Seattle's hefty 10.1% rate. The primary industries differ greatly, with Seattle leading in technology and healthcare, while Anchorage's economy relies on oil, the military, and tourism. These factors, among others, contribute to the distinct economic landscapes of each city, influencing affluence, poverty levels, and homelessness rates.

Seattle vs. Anchorage Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome to our quick guide designed to give you a snapshot of the political and religious landscape you're navigating as you move from Seattle, WA, to Anchorage, AK. This comparison of the politics and religion between Seattle & Anchorage is meant to provide a glance at the differences and similarities that await you in your new home.

SeattleAnchorage
Political Make-upProgressive/LiberalModerately Conservative
Local PoliticsStrong emphasis on social issues, environmental policiesMix of conservative fiscal policies and progressive social stances
ReligionDiverse; non-religious/secular, Christianity, Buddhism, etc.Diverse; Christianity (majority), other faiths present

Moving from Seattle to Anchorage, you'll notice a shift in the political climate; Anchorage tends to lean more conservatively, especially on fiscal matters, though it maintains progressive views on several social issues, reflecting a mix that might feel somewhat familiar yet distinct. The religious scene in both cities is diverse, with Christianity being predominant in Anchorage. However, both cities offer communities for a wide array of beliefs, ensuring that regardless of your religious or non-religious leanings, you'll find a group that aligns with your values. Engaging with local politics and finding your religious or secular community can greatly help in feeling settled and connected in your new city.

Seattle vs. Anchorage Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When you're planning to move from Seattle, WA, to Anchorage, AK, understanding the differences in the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Anchorage is crucial. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, assisting you in making informed decisions for your move.

ComparisonSeattleAnchorage
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)27.319.5
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?PartiallyDifficult

In both cities, your commute experience will vary significantly. Seattle's average commute time is longer due to heavier traffic congestion, ranked at 7 out of 10. Its public transit system, rated 6 out of 10, offers a relatively good network of buses, light rail, and ferries, making it easier to get around without a car, though still challenging in certain areas. On the other hand, Anchorage, with its lower traffic congestion score of 3 and a shorter average commute time, may seem more appealing. However, the city has a less extensive public transit system, rated 4 out of 10, making it more difficult to rely solely on public transportation. For those moving to Anchorage, owning a car is almost a necessity for daily commuting and exploring the vast natural landscapes surrounding the city.

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