Moving from Washington to Montana is something you want to prepare for as much as possible. Above all, an interstate relocation requires a lot of attention to detail. When picking your movers, make sure to check the Verified Movers reviews to find the right ones. However, there’s also so much more to know about this move. For that reason, let’s get over some of the most important details of this relocation.
The Main Changes Between the Two States
Before you get into the delicate parts of the relocation, it’s necessary to get some information about Montana. Washington and Montana are two very different states. There’s a lot to look at before you explore the interstate moving companies Washington reviews and find the help you need. From the financial aspects of the move to the differences in climate, you want to be as prepared as possible for this task. Let’s go over some of the main details to look for.
The landscape of Montana
Montana is a beautiful state full of amazing views. There’s a lot to check out and enjoy. From towering mountains to vast plains, there’s a lot for you to explore after moving from Washington. On top of that, after the interstate moving companies Montana help you relocate, you can expect plenty of changes that will be more or less obvious to you. When it comes to the landscape of Montana, here are some changes that you will surely notice.
The scenic beauty of the state
Natural beauty is something that crowns the state. For example, Glacier National Park is a place that you don’t want to miss as it offers outstanding lakes and amazing glaciers. Besides that, Yellowstone Park is also a place that you can enjoy without any doubt. The geothermal wonder, Old Faithful, showcases the earth’s natural marvels in all their glory. On top of that, you can enjoy Flathead Lake, the biggest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. After your relocation, there are some outstanding landscapes that you will absolutely enjoy in Mississippi.
Change in weather
Different regions of Maine will have different climates. For example, Northern Maine will experience almost subarctic conditions with long winters, while the summers are mild and short. When you look at Central Maine, you can expect a humid and continental climate. That includes hot summers but also freezing winters. When you look at Southern Maine, the winters are mild, and the summers get very hot. Finally, Coastal Maine will experience cool summers and mild winters.
In comparison, Washington’s western area is wet with a lot of rainfall and constantly changing weather. On the other hand, the eastern parts of the state are much drier and arid. Think about that before you relocate to Maine.
Wildlife and the beautiful outdoors
There’s a variety of wildlife and animals that you can encounter in Montana. While on your walks in the state’s wildlife, you can encounter a lynx, moose, and even an elk. However, you also need to be aware of grizzlies and wolves and keep yourself on designated paths if you decide to explore the wilderness.
When it comes to the concrete places to check out, we invite you to visit the Rocky Mountain Front Eagle Migration Area, as it’s home to the golden eagles and their outstanding beauty. On top of that, Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge is also a place to check out its variety of wildlife. In general, Montana will have something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
Adjust to Moving From Washington to Montana Financially
Money will have a huge impact on your decision to move. A relocation from Washington to Montana will definitely impact your finances in a variety of ways, starting from the moving costs. So, check out the Olympic Moving and Storage reviews alongside many others you can find on Verified Movers and compare the experiences of others. Of course, budgeting will be a necessary step to take to truly feel at home after you complete the move. Let’s go over some of the most important things when it comes to money in Montana and how it compares in Washington, including:
- Housing costs
- Other costs of living
- Job market
- Salary
Housing costs
Montana might not be the biggest state, but it still offers a huge variety. For that reason, the state’s housing market will need to be looked at from a county-by-county aspect. On one side, you have Gallatin County, which has a very high price for the rest of the state. The median estimated value of a home in this area is around $617,358. On the other hand, you have more affordable parts of Montana. Garfield County is a great example of a county that will appeal to those who are looking for more affordable living. There, you can expect the median estimated value of a home to be as low as $74,750. Overall, before your move from Washington, make sure that you analyze the perfect place in Montana that will fit your needs.
The other costs of living
Obviously, every part of each state will have its differences. In general, Montana’s costs will be 2.2% higher than the national average. However, the state’s biggest city. Bozeman, the costs will be around 25% higher than the national average. Before you explore the top movers in Seattle, make sure that you compare Seattle and Bozeman as great examples of cities of similar importance in their states. When looking at overall costs, you can expect Bozeman to be around 31% cheaper than Seattle. So, it’s definitely a move you might want to consider.
The job market
Of course, you can’t even consider moving from Washington to Montana before you analyze the job market. Some of the top industries in Montana include tourism, technology, real estate, construction, and many more. We already mentioned the natural beauty of the state, which makes it easy for the tourism industry to employ almost 70,000 people. On top of that, technology is on the rise, and jobs in manufacturing and forestry are easy to find. You have places like Billings where the healthcare industry stands out. Before you contact the interstate movers Billings it’s also good to know that it’s an IT sector and manufacturing center. whatever your decision, Montana will offer quality job opportunities.
The average salary in Montana
Finally, understanding salaries will be a big part of your decision. For that reason, let’s compare the two states and find out where you earn more. When it comes to Montana, the average annual salary is approximately $56,009. However, However, there are also some higher-paying jobs. For instance, engineers earn an average of $91,649 per year​.
When it comes to the minimum wage, in Washington, it’s around $16, while Montana’s has been recently bumped up to $10 per hour. All these factors are something not to overlook when moving to Montana.
Educational Options
Montana offers a range of quality educational institutions. For higher education, Montana Technological University, recognized for its STEM programs, is a top choice. If you’re a student from Spokane looking for opportunities, before choosing among the interstate moving companies Spokane, you want to analyze what awaits you in the area. One of the best places to get your education is the University of Montana. On the other hand, if you have young kids, the primary public education will stand out.
How Do You Get Around Montana?
In Montana, various transportation options facilitate travel throughout the state. For exmaple, if you plan to use interstate moving companies Yakima and want to settle in the city, it’s good to know how to get around. Thankfully, the state has plenty of options when it comes to transportation. Key airports like Billings Logan and Bozeman Yellowstone, served by major airlines, offer accessible air travel. Rail enthusiasts can use Amtrak’s Empire Builder, connecting Chicago to the Pacific Northwest with stops across Montana. Intercity and local bus services, including Jefferson Lines and Mountain Line, provide essential connectivity. For personalized travel, shuttle services and taxis, along with ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft, are available, especially in urban areas. Owning a car is practical for remote areas, while cities like Missoula and Bozeman offer public.
Healthcare Options in Montana
For those moving to Montana and seeking quality healthcare services, Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula stands out as a top choice. It is recognized for its high quality of care, excellent staffing, patient counseling, and accommodation and amenities. Additionally, Providence St. Patrick Hospital has received accolades for being the top heart center in Montana, and it has achieved multiple certifications and recognitions, including the Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification and the Healthgrades Excellence Award for Joint Replacement.
Fun and Entertainment After Moving From Washington to Montana
When the move is complete, you want to have some fun. Thankfully, Montana will have plenty of options to really enjoy and just be entertained. However, it all depends on what you like the most. Do you prefer a city like Bellingham and after the interstate moving companies Bellingham help you relocate and want to enjoy the city feel? Or are you someone who enjoys the outdoors more? There’s something for everyone in Montana. Here are some things to look at, including:
- Outdoor fun
- Cuisine
- Arts and culture
Outdoor fun
Discover the state’s stunning beauty through scenic drives like Going-to-the-Sun Road and Beartooth Highway. Explore the rich history at Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. The diverse terrain invites a variety of activities, such as hiking in Glacier National Park, horseback riding, and river rafting in West Yellowstone. Winter transforms the region into a snowy playground ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Whether it’s historical exploration or thrilling outdoor activities, Montana offers experiences to satisfy every adventurer’s spirit.
Cuisine
The state’s culinary scene is a delightful discovery. Billings’ The Burger Dive is famous for its award-winning burgers, like the “I’m Your Huckleberry”. In Big Sky, Horn & Cantle offers a taste of Montana with dishes like bison steaks and elk chops. Plonk Missoula mixes upscale dining with a diverse wine selection. Firehole Bar-B-Que Co in West Yellowstone is a haven for smoked meat lovers. Biga Pizza in Missoula impresses with traditional Italian-style brick-oven pizzas. For dessert, Loula’s in Whitefish serves renowned homemade pies, including the must-try huckleberry pie. Lastly, Lucca’s in Helena presents authentic Italian pasta dishes complemented by an exquisite wine list.
Arts and culture
Montana offers an amazing arts and culture scene that new residents from Washington can enjoy. The Montana Museum of Art and Culture, located on the University of Montana’s campus, is a notable destination with a diverse collection of over 12,000 objects, including works by Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso. Missoula stands out as a cultural hub, offering a wide array of galleries, theaters, festivals, and music events, making it a haven for art and culture enthusiasts. Western Montana and Glacier National Park also offer unique cultural experiences, highlighting the state’s rich heritage, Native American culture, and historical sites. These areas provide opportunities to explore art galleries, museums, and indigenous traditions, offering an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Montana.
Top Places in the State
Before moving from Washington to Montana, you want to pick the right place for you. There are several factors that you want to consider. However, it’s always personal preferences that will have the biggest impact on your decision. check out some of the most popular places to move to in Montana to give you a better perspective. Here are some of them, including:
- Bozeman
- Missoula
- Billings
- Helena
- Great Falls
Tips on How to Handle Your Relocation
- Research and choose a reputable moving company, comparing quotes and verifying their credentials.
- Pack systematically, starting with non-essentials and clearly labeling boxes.
- Protect fragile items with appropriate packing.
- Create an inventory for tracking and insurance purposes.
- Prepare an essentials box for immediate needs upon arrival.
- Arrange care for pets and plants, and update your address with the necessary parties.
- Confirm all details with the movers and have a plan for moving day to ensure a worry-free relocation
Take Advantage of What Montana Offers
Every relocation will come with its benefits. That’s why we’re sure that with our tips, moving from Washington to Montana will be a breeze, and you can focus on the things you’ll encounter. From the finances to the things you can enjoy, there’s a lot to explore in Montana. Take your time and make sure to feel at home in your new state!