Moving to Minnesota: costs, checklist and what to know

Minnesota at a glance for movers: Midwest region · largest city Minneapolis · capital Saint Paul · Central time.

What to know before moving to Minnesota

• Minnesota winters are among the coldest in the lower 48. A winter move needs a plan for snow removal, icy steps, and draining washing-machine hoses so they do not freeze.
• Minnesota does not charge sales tax on most clothing or groceries.
• Licenses and vehicles are handled by Driver and Vehicle Services, through many local deputy registrar offices.

Main cities and metros include Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester, Duluth, Bloomington. Minnesota borders Wisconsin, Iowa, South Dakota and North Dakota.

How much does it cost to move to Minnesota?

Estimated costs to move a typical 2-bedroom home (4,000–6,000 lbs) to Minneapolis, the largest city in Minnesota. Distances are approximate road miles (straight-line distance × 1.2). Packing service, car shipping and storage are not included.

These ranges come from Foyeric's moving cost model, not from quotes or a survey of Minnesota moves. Your real price depends on the mover, the season, your exact addresses and how much you ship. Tap a city to open it in the moving cost calculator and adjust it for your home.

Best time to move to Minnesota

Late May through September. Avoid December through February if you can.

Across the U.S., summer is the busiest and priciest moving season. Mid-month and mid-week dates are usually easier to book.

Minnesota new-resident checklist

• Get your Minnesota driver's license through the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) within 60 days.
• Title and register your vehicle, and switch your car insurance to a Minnesota policy.
• Register to vote at your new Minnesota address.
• Update your address with USPS, the IRS, your bank and your employer, and expect to file a part-year Minnesota state tax return.
• Find new doctors and transfer prescriptions; check that your health plan covers Minnesota.
• If you have kids, enroll them in school and bring records and immunization forms.

For the full timeline, from booking movers to unpacking, use our moving day countdown checklist.

Moving to Minnesota: FAQ

How much does it cost to move to Minnesota?

It depends mostly on distance and how much you own. By our model, moving a 2-bedroom home about 430 miles from Chicago to Minneapolis costs roughly $690–$1,330 if you rent a truck or $2,090–$4,850 with full-service movers. These are planning ranges, not quotes.

Does Minnesota have a state income tax?

Yes. Minnesota taxes wages. Rates and brackets change, so check the Minnesota Department of Revenue for the current year.

What is the sales tax in Minnesota?

Minnesota's statewide sales tax rate is 6.875%. Local taxes can add more, depending on the address.

How long do I have to get a Minnesota driver's license after moving?

60 days, according to the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS). Non-commercial new residents have 60 days; commercial drivers have 30 days. Bring proof of identity, your Social Security number and proof of your new address, and check the agency's site for the exact list.

When is the best time to move to Minnesota?

Late May through September. Avoid December through February if you can.

Sources and accuracy

Tax and license facts on this page should be confirmed with the Minnesota Department of Revenue and the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS), which publish the current rules. Rules change, and some cities and counties add their own taxes. Cost figures are model estimates explained on our methodology page. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.

Plan your move

See moving guides for all 50 states and DC