Best Washington to Michigan Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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WA to MI Moving Specialists

Moving from the evergreen expanses of Washington to the Great Lakes allure of Michigan marks not just a journey across states, but an exciting venture into a new chapter of your life. You're leaving behind the tech-savvy, coffee-rich Pacific Northwest for Michigan's automotive heartland, surrounded by vast lakes and vibrant seasons. It's crucial to ensure this significant transition is as smooth as possible by entrusting your move to trusted and reliable professional movers. That's where our expertise comes in, providing you with the best options through an unbiased ranking algorithm, making sure your adventure starts on the right note.

Washington iconArrow iconMichigan icon

Best Washington to Michigan Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Pro-Low Moving9.68A+Authorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
First Due Movers9.26A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Help-U-Move9.22A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers9.21NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Handle With Care Moving & Delivery 9.06A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Michigan to Washington guide.

6 Best WA to MI 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
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
First Due Movers Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,542+ data points

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington f...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Help-U-Move Logo
Exceptional9.22/10
based on 1,091+ data points

About Help-U-Move

Help-U-Move is a veteran-owned, locally operated small business in Pasco that handles over 4,000 moves yearly. It has provided residential a...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Statewide Moving
  • Out of State Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

482337 / 252568

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers Logo
Exceptional9.21/10
based on 1,004+ data points

About Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers

Lake Coeur d’Alene Movers is a premier moving company in North Idaho, offering services throughout the region. Voted Best Moving Company in ...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/25/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3119758 / 87269

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved62,500 (2021)
View Full Review
5
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 10/17/2024)

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
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 Washington to Michigan

Moving from one state to another offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes when considering relocating from Washington to Michigan. By comparing the cons of living in Washington to the pros of moving to Michigan, and vice versa, we aim to offer a comprehensive view to help make your decision easier.

CONs
PROs
Washington iconWashington
  • High living costs
  • Frequent rain
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less auto industry
Michigan iconMichigan
  • More affordable
  • Distinct seasons
  • Less congestion
  • Auto industry jobs
Michigan iconMichigan
  • Smaller cities
  • Fewer mountains
  • More conservative
  • Fewer tech jobs
Washington iconWashington
  • Vibrant city life
  • Outdoor activities
  • Progressive culture
  • Tech job opportunities

When diving deeper into the qualities of both states, numerous local attributes stand out. For example, leaving behind the vibrant neighborhoods like Capitol Hill in Washington might seem daunting at first. However, Michigan's own charm, with places like Ann Arbor's Main Street, teeming with cafes and boutiques, offers a fresh and engaging community. The scenic beauty of the Great Lakes in Michigan provides a different, yet equally breathtaking, backdrop compared to Washington's Olympic Peninsula. While you might miss the tech-driven economy and progressive culture of Seattle, cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids are undergoing significant revitalizations, offering new opportunities in the auto industry and an increasingly diverse cultural scene. Exploring Michigan, you'll discover a plethora of local spots such as the historic Eastern Market in Detroit, a hub for fresh food, vibrant art, and dynamic communities, inviting newcomers to dive into the local way of life right away.

Washington vs. Michigan Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington & Michigan, highlighting how food embodies local culture and living experiences. This guide aims to equip you with a richer understanding of what to expect food-wise as you transition to your new home.

WashingtonMichigan
Most iconic local food itemSalmonCherry Pie
Most popular meat dishPhoConey Dog
Most popular street food itemTaco TrucksPasty
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladLentil Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Washington to Michigan, you're transitioning from a coastline enriched with seafood to a state known for its cherries and hearty comfort foods. Washington’s signature salmon dishes can be a fresh departure when you start indulging in Michigan's famous cherry pies. Seattle's food truck scene offers a diverse range of street food options, from tacos to an international array of cuisines, while Michigan prides itself on its pasties, a local delicacy found in cities like Marquette and Calumet. For vegans, both states offer a thriving scene, but Washington's Seattle and Olympia have unique offerings like quinoa salads prevalent in their local vegan restaurants. In Michigan, plant-based eaters can enjoy creative dishes like lentil burgers, especially prominent in Ann Arbor's dining scene. Moreover, visiting iconic eateries such as Pike Place Chowder in Washington or Zingerman's Deli in Michigan can give you a taste of the state’s culinary essence...

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Washington vs. Michigan Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, analyzing the real estate market of your destination is crucial. This guide compares key housing aspects between Washington and Michigan , focusing on cost, architecture, and overall lifestyle. The chart below highlights these differences to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonWashingtonMichigan
Typical Architecture StyleModern & CraftsmanColonial & Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen-concept, eco-friendlyLake access, spacious backyards

While the median home price in Washington significantly exceeds that of Michigan, offering modern and craftsman architectural styles, Michigan presents a more affordable market with colonial and ranch homes prevalent. The lifestyle in Washington generally has higher walkability and bikeability scores, reflecting its urban nature, especially in cities like Seattle. Contrastingly, Michigan real estate listings often highlight lake access and spacious backyards, indicating a preference for outdoor living. If you're seeking an urban lifestyle with a focus on eco-friendly living, Washington might be the right choice. However, for those who prioritize affordability and outdoor space, Michigan offers compelling options.

Washington vs. Michigan Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Washington to Michigan, understanding how the weather patterns compare is crucial. This insight helps you prepare for changes in weather, specifically focusing on Washington and Michigan. From seasonal temperatures to natural disaster frequencies, such differences can significantly impact your daily life and activities.

Summer icon
75°F/55°F

Washington

81°F/62°F

Michigan

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F/37°F

Washington

31°F/18°F

Michigan

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Washington

32

Michigan

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
5

Washington

60

Michigan

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashingtonMichigan
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersFloods, EarthquakesSnowstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Washington and Michigan experience a diverse range of weather conditions, there are notable differences. Michigan endures harsher winters with significantly more snowfall than Washington, reflecting a substantial adjustment for those relocating. Despite Michigan enjoying more sunny days annually, its winters can be starkly colder, indicating the need for preparedness in winter gear and home heating solutions. Moreover, moving from the earthquake-prone areas of Washington to Michigan introduces new natural disaster considerations like tornadoes, emphasizing the importance of understanding local emergency measures. Such distinctions underline the necessity of adapting your lifestyle and home to align with the local weather patterns of your new state.

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

When deciding to move from one state to another, it's crucial to compare financial aspects to gauge how well you'll adjust. This comparison, focusing on Washington to Michigan financial considerations, will help you visualize the differences in economic factors you're accustomed to.

ComparisonWashingtonMichigan
Avg. Household Income$91,306$66,986
Cost of Living Index104.191.2
State Income Tax04.25
Avg. Property Tax0.931.54
Avg. Sales Tax9.176
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Aerospace, AgricultureAutomotive, Agriculture, Tourism
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateHigher
HomelessnessHighModerate

In transitioning from Washington to Michigan, the most notable difference you'll find is in the cost of living and average household income. With Washington's cost of living notably higher than Michigan's, your dollars might stretch further in the latter, particularly because of the lower cost of living index at 89.6. This difference is balanced by Michigan's state income tax of 4.25%, a contrast to Washington's 0%. Additionally, the diverse top industries in both states—from technology and aerospace in Washington to automotive in Michigan—indicate varied job market landscapes, potentially affecting your employment opportunities post-move. It's essential to weigh these financial aspects along with the type of lifestyle and job industry you're aiming for in making your decision.

Washington vs. Michigan Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Washington to Michigan, understanding the community you're transitioning into is crucial. This quick snapshot focuses on the comparison of the politics between Washington & Michigan , along with a brief look at the religious make-up of each state, providing a clearer picture of where you might find your niche.

WashingtonMichigan
Political Make-upLean LiberalModerate/Mixed
Local PoliticsProgressive city policiesDiversified across regions
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedHigher religious affiliation

Both Washington and Michigan present unique political landscapes; with Washington tending towards more progressive politics, especially in urban areas like Seattle, compared to Michigan's more mixed political climate, where you might find a balance of liberal and conservative values depending on the region. Michigan's political diversity is evident in its local governance, varying significantly from liberal bastions like Ann Arbor to more conservative areas in its rural parts. Additionally, you'll find a difference in the religious landscape, where Michigan tends to have a higher rate of religious affiliation, which could influence local culture and community events to a degree not as prevalent in Washington. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your new home.

Education Guide When Moving from Washington to Michigan

Moving from one state to another can be a complex process, especially when considering educational opportunities for your family. To assist in this important part of your relocation, we compare the educational landscapes of Washington and Michigan. This will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Washington and Michigan .

WashingtonMichigan

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Washington
Washington State University
Seattle University
University of Michigan
Michigan State University
Wayne State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Cascadia Elementary (Seattle)
Medina Elementary (Medina)
Enatai Elementary School (Bellevue)
Rochester Adams High School (Rochester Hills)
Frankenmuth High School (Frankenmuth)
Northville High School (Northville)

Top 3 Middle Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Odle Middle School (Bellevue)
Redmond Middle School (Redmond)
West Middle School (Rochester Hills)
East Middle School (Farmington Hills)
Boulan Park Middle School (Troy)

Top 3 High Schools

International School (Bellevue)
Newport High School (Bellevue)
Lakeside School (Seattle)
International Academy (Bloomfield Hills)
Troy High School (Troy)
Novi High School (Novi)

Top 3 private high schools

Lakeside School (Seattle)
The Overlake School (Redmond)
The Bush School (Seattle)
Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills)
Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills)
Roeper School (Birmingham)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Bush School (Seattle)
The Overlake School (Redmond)
Eastside Preparatory School (Kirkland)
Greenhills School (Ann Arbor)
Detroit Country Day School (Beverly Hills)
Cranbrook Schools (Bloomfield Hills)

Top 3 School Districts

Bellevue School District
Lake Washington School District
Mercer Island School District
Okemos Public Schools
Birmingham Public Schools
Bloomfield Hills Schools

When comparing the educational opportunities between Washington and Michigan, it's clear that both states offer a range of high-quality options for students. In Washington, the focus on technology and international studies is evident with schools like the International School in Bellevue and Lakeside School in Seattle standing out. Michigan, on the other hand, lays strong emphasis on academic rigor and a comprehensive curriculum, with schools like International Academy in Bloomfield Hills and Okemos Public Schools consistently receiving high marks. Whether you're interested in public or private schooling, both states have competitive and esteemed institutions. Notably, universities like the University of Washington and the University of Michigan attract seniors from their respective states due to their prestigious programs and research opportunities.

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