2026 National Averages
How Much Does Moving Cost?
Local and long-distance moves vary by distance, volume, and services like packing and furniture disassembly. Get in-home estimates for accuracy.
$250 – $1,800avg. national
Get Free QuotesPrice breakdown by task
Typical price ranges based on national averages. Your cost may vary by location and scope.
Local move (1BR)$250 – $500
2–4 hours, in-town
Local move (2BR)$400 – $900
Half-day typical
Local move (3BR house)$600 – $1,500
Full day
Long-distance (1BR, 500 mi)$800 – $1,500
Weight-based
Long-distance (3BR, 1000 mi)$2,000 – $5,000
Cross-country
Packing only$300 – $800
Materials + labor
Furniture-only move$150 – $500
Few items, local
Loading/unloading help$100 – $200
Per hour, per mover
Task
Low
High
Description
Local move (1BR)
$250
$500
2–4 hours, in-town
Local move (2BR)
$400
$900
Half-day typical
Local move (3BR house)
$600
$1,500
Full day
Long-distance (1BR, 500 mi)
$800
$1,500
Weight-based
Long-distance (3BR, 1000 mi)
$2,000
$5,000
Cross-country
Packing only
$300
$800
Materials + labor
Furniture-only move
$150
$500
Few items, local
Loading/unloading help
$100
$200
Per hour, per mover
What affects the price
- Distance (local vs. long-distance)
- Volume and weight of belongings
- Packing services vs. DIY
- Stairs, elevators, narrow access
- Season (summer peak pricing)
Money-saving tips
- Move mid-week and mid-month for better rates.
- Get at least three in-home estimates before deciding.
- Purge before you move—less weight = lower cost.
- Reserve movers 2–4 weeks ahead in peak season.
Frequently asked questions
How are moving costs calculated?
Local: Usually hourly (2–4 movers × hours). Long-distance: Often weight + distance. In-home estimates are more accurate than phone quotes.
Should I pack myself or hire packers?
Packing yourself saves money but takes time. Pros pack faster and reduce damage risk. Hybrid: pack fragile yourself, hire for bulky items.
What's not typically included in a move?
Specialty items (piano, pool table), storage, packing materials, and sometimes appliance disconnect. Clarify before booking.
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