Best West Virginia to Alaska Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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WV to AK Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state isn’t just a relocation; it’s the start of an exciting adventure and a significant life change. While you're leaving behind West Virginia's rugged mountains, charming small towns, and the inviting "Mountain State" spirit, you're stepping into Alaska's breathtaking landscapes, known as "The Last Frontier," renowned for its majestic wildlife and vibrant local cultures. Understanding the vast distance and differences between these states underscores the importance of entrusting your journey to professional movers who are both trustworthy and reliable, ensuring a seamless transition in this pivotal chapter of your life.

West Virginia iconArrow iconAlaska icon

Best West Virginia to Alaska Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Country Roads Moving LLC9.26NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Abates Moving Services LLC8.53NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Xclusive Movers8.50B-Authorized For PropertyContact
Central Van Lines8.16A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
The Moving Man7.80A+Authorized For HHGContact
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.6.93NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alaska to West Virginia guide.

6 Best WV to AK Moving Companies

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

Country Roads Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
based on 714+ data points

About Country Roads Moving LLC

Country Roads Moving is a Morgantown-based moving company that serves the greater North Central West Virginia area. It is licensed, insured,...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3094022 / 73556

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved210,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
A
Fabulous8.53/10
based on 347+ data points

About Abates Moving Services LLC

With Abates Moving Services LLC, you can expect your relocation to be stress-free and quick without feeling hurried at all. This local Morga...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving services
  • Packing and unpacking services
  • Short-term and long-term storage options

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3679007 / 1278788

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Xclusive Movers Logo
Fabulous8.50/10
based on 216+ data points

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4252111 / 1648375

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Central Van Lines Logo
Very Good8.16/10
based on 347+ data points

About Central Van Lines

Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where they need to be...Read More >>

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving services
  • Residential moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1243887 / 11266

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans44
Registered Drivers35
Total Annual Miles Moved487,000 (2019)
View Full Review
4
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
5
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. Logo
6.93/10
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 West Virginia to Alaska

Moving from one state to another involves weighing the good against the bad. This comparison of West Virginia to Alaska aims to reflect honestly on the disparities and perks of such a relocation. Through an examination of each state's living conditions, we hope to illuminate both the challenges and rewards that await.

CONs
PROs
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Lower average income
  • Less diverse landscapes
  • Smaller state parks
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Booming job sectors
  • Higher average income
  • Vast natural beauty
  • Large national parks
Alaska iconAlaska
  • More isolation
  • Higher cost of living
  • Harsher winters
  • Less historical sites
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Close-knit communities
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • Richer history

When considering a move from West Virginia to Alaska, thinking about what you're seeking is key. West Virginia offers a charm through its close-knit communities found in towns like Charleston, where the West Virginia Culture Center Showcases the state's rich history. Contrastingly, Alaska presents a starkly different environment, with its booming job sectors in cities like Anchorage and vast natural landscapes such as Denali National Park. Yet, the higher cost of living and more isolated communities in Alaska might be a downside for some. Keep in mind, Alaska's diverse environments from the fjords of Kenai Fjords National Park to the eateries and art scenes in cities like Fairbanks and Juneau, offer unparalleled experiences for those willing to brave its harsher winters and higher expenses.

West Virginia vs. Alaska Food Guide

When considering a move, understanding the essence of local culture through food is invaluable. This comparison of the local cuisine between West Virginia & Alaska will illuminate the culinary scenes of both areas, allowing you to taste what your life might be like in these diverse locations.

West VirginiaAlaska
Most iconic local food itemPepperoni RollSalmon
Most popular meat dishVenisonKing Crab
Most popular street food itemHot DogsReindeer Sausage
Most popular vegan foodMorel MushroomsKelp and Seaweed
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Tudor’s Biscuit World
  • Pies & Pints
  • Black Sheep Burrito & Brews
  • The Moose’s Tooth
  • Tracy's King Crab Shack
  • Glacier Brewhouse
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While West Virginia charms with its comfort foods like pepperoni rolls from Tudor’s Biscuit World, Alaska offers a fresh taste of the wild with its salmon and king crab dishes. For those exploring the streets for a quick bite, West Virginia's hot dogs are a go-to, whereas in Alaska, you might find yourself savoring the unique flavors of reindeer sausage. Alaska's focus on fresh, local seafood and wild plants, notably from places like The Moose’s Tooth and Tracy's King Crab Shack, hints at its higher health consciousness and adventurous foodie scene. Both states offer unique culinary delights that reflect their local traditions and natural resources, making them fascinating places for food enthusiasts to explore.

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West Virginia vs. Alaska Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal aspect when considering a move. Understanding how West Virginia's and Alaska's housing markets compare can significantly influence your decision. This guide compares cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects of housing in both states, helping you navigate this crucial step in your relocation process.

ComparisonWest VirginiaAlaska
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, RanchLog Cabin, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingMountain views, PrivacyWildlife, Proximity to nature

Moving from West Virginia to Alaska introduces you to a significant shift in housing characteristics. The median home price in Alaska is notably higher, reflecting its unique location and the cost associated with living in a more remote and rugged environment. Alaska's architecture prominently features log cabins and modern designs, which cater to the state's challenging climate while embracing its natural beauty. Despite both states having lower walkability scores, Alaska offers slightly better bikeability and a somewhat more pronounced urban lifestyle, particularly in cities like Anchorage compared to West Virginia's rural charm. Emphasizing the connection to nature, real estate listings in Alaska frequently highlight wildlife sightings and proximity to natural landscapes, illustrating a lifestyle deeply intertwined with the outdoors.

West Virginia vs. Alaska Weather Considerations

If you're moving from one location to another, it is crucial to understand how the weather will compare in West Virginia and Alaska. This comparison will help you anticipate changes and prepare accordingly.

Summer icon
85°F / 62°F

West Virginia

61°F / 51°F

Alaska

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
41°F / 21°F

West Virginia

28°F / 12°F

Alaska

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
45

West Virginia

22 (Varies widely by region)

Alaska

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33

West Virginia

75 (Varies widely by region)

Alaska

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWest VirginiaAlaska
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersFloods, StormsEarthquakes, Avalanches
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from West Virginia to Alaska, you will experience significant changes, especially in regards to temperature and daylight. Alaska's summer temperatures are milder, and winters are colder compared to West Virginia. The drastic reduction in the number of days of sunshine in Alaska, coupled with its higher humidity and lower UV index, suggests a darker and wetter climate. The nature of natural disasters shifts as well, with Alaska prone to earthquakes and avalanches, unlike West Virginia's floods and storms. Adapting to these environments involves not just wardrobe changes but also preparing for varied natural events and understanding the local nuances of weather patterns.

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

When considering a move from West Virginia to Alaska, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial aspects compare. This comparison will help ensure you're prepared for the financial changes that come with relocating.

ComparisonWest VirginiaAlaska
Avg. Household Income$54,329$88,121
Cost of Living Index95132.6
State Income Tax3% - 6.5%None
Avg. Property Tax0.59%1.18%
Avg. Sales Tax6.5%None
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Retail, ManufacturingOil, Tourism, Fishing
AffluenceLowerHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessLesserMore evident

Upon examining the financial aspects between West Virginia and Alaska, a few key points stand out. The average household income in Alaska is significantly higher, which correlates with its higher cost of living index. However, this increased income does not translate to higher state income or sales taxes, as Alaska has neither, compared to West Virginia's range of 3% to 6.5% for income and a 6.5% sales tax rate. The main industries also differ greatly, with Alaska's economy reliant on oil, tourism, and fishing, compared to West Virginia's focus on healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Despite the higher cost of living in Alaska, the absence of state income and sales tax may balance financial planning for you. It's important to consider these financial implications in addition to the increased opportunities and unique lifestyle Alaska offers.

West Virginia vs. Alaska Political & Religious Comparison

Relocating from West Virginia to Alaska presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in diverse cultural settings. This quick comparison highlights the politics between West Virginia & Alaska , alongside religious landscapes, offering a glimpse into what shapes the communities in both states.

West VirginiaAlaska
Political Make-upLean conservativeMixed, with both conservative and liberal areas
Local PoliticsStrong emphasis on coal and energy policiesFocus on oil, natural resources, and environmental regulations
ReligionPrimarily Christian, with a significant Protestant populationDiverse, including Christian, Native spiritual practices, and other religions

While West Virginia's politics traditionally tilt towards conservativism, particularly with a focus on coal and energy, Alaska presents a more complex political landscape that mirrors its geographical and cultural diversity. The state's political leanings can vary significantly by region, shaped largely by local interests such as oil and environmental preservation. In terms of religion, West Virginia has a substantial Christian population, predominantly Protestant. Alaska, on the other hand, showcases a rich tapestry of religious beliefs, including a blend of Christian denominations, native spiritual practices, and other faiths, reflecting its multicultural inhabitants. Embracing these differences will be key to your seamless transition.

Education Guide When Moving from West Virginia to Alaska

Moving from one state to another presents a unique opportunity to explore educational environments that differ in many aspects. This guide aims to compare the differences between school options when considering moving from West Virginia to Alaska, giving you a better understanding of educational opportunities in both states.

West VirginiaAlaska

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

West Virginia University
Marshall University
West Virginia State University
University of Alaska Anchorage
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Alaska Pacific University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Weimer Elementary School - Morgantown
Suncrest Primary School - Morgantown
North Elementary School - Morgantown
Bayshore Elementary - Anchorage
Trailside Elementary - Anchorage
Northern Lights ABC School - Anchorage

Top 3 Middle Schools

Winfield Middle School - Winfield
Bridgeport Middle School - Bridgeport
Suncrest Middle School - Morgantown
Mears Middle School - Anchorage
Gruening Middle School - Eagle River
Romig Middle School - Anchorage

Top 3 High Schools

George Washington High School - Charleston
Morgantown High School - Morgantown
Wheeling Park High School - Wheeling
South Anchorage High School - Anchorage
West High School - Anchorage
Dimond High School - Anchorage

Top 3 private high schools

Parkersburg Catholic High School - Parkersburg
Charleston Catholic High School - Charleston
Wheeling Central Catholic High School - Wheeling
Grace Christian School - Anchorage
Holy Rosary Academy - Anchorage
Anchorage Christian Schools - Anchorage

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Not availablePacific Northern Academy - Anchorage
Lumen Christi High School - Anchorage
Birchwood Christian School - Chugiak

Top 3 School Districts

Monongalia County Schools
Kanawha County Schools
Harrison County Schools
Anchorage School District
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District

Exploring the educational opportunities in West Virginia and Alaska reveals significant differences, particularly in school rankings and destinations for college-bound seniors. West Virginia universities, such as West Virginia University and Marshall University, are popular among the state's graduates, while Alaska offers unique opportunities through the University of Alaska Anchorage and the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The top elementary, middle, and high schools in both states, located in their respective major cities, offer varying levels of academic and extracurricular activities, indicative of the diverse educational landscapes. Particularly in Alaska, the options for private K-12 education, including schools such as Pacific Northern Academy, suggest a robust selection of private schooling unavailable in West Virginia. Finally, understanding the top school districts, like Anchorage School District in Alaska compared to Monongalia County Schools in West Virginia, can guide you in deciding the optimal location for your family's educational needs.

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