Estimate the total cost of your upcoming move. Choose between hiring movers or a DIY truck rental, then factor in packing supplies, insurance, and other expenses.
Estimated Hours
6 hrs
for a 2-person crew
Hourly Rate
$100
typical per hour
Your Size
2 BR
5,000 lbs est.
Moving costs vary significantly by season. Your estimate may change based on when you move.
Off-Peak
Oct - Apr
$832
$-208 vs baseline
Fewer people move, more mover availability
Best rates and availability. Movers may offer discounts.
Shoulder
May, Sep
$1,040
Moderate demand, standard pricing
Good balance of weather and pricing.
Peak Season
Jun - Aug
$1,300
+$260 vs baseline
Highest demand, premium pricing
Book 4-6 weeks early. Weekday moves are cheaper.
Ways to reduce your estimated $1,040 moving cost.
Declutter Before Moving
10-20%Fewer items means a smaller truck and less labor. Sell, donate, or toss things you no longer need.
Save ~$156
Pack Yourself
15-25%Self-packing eliminates packing labor costs. Use free boxes from stores and social media.
Save ~$208
Move Mid-Week
10-15%Tuesday through Thursday moves are cheaper than weekend moves due to lower demand.
Save ~$125
Move in Winter
15-25%October through April rates are significantly lower. Movers often offer discounts during off-peak.
Save ~$208
Get Multiple Quotes
5-15%Compare at least 3 moving companies. Use quotes as leverage to negotiate better rates.
Save ~$104
Moving is one of the most stressful and expensive life events. The average local move costs $1,250 while the average long-distance move runs $4,890. Costs vary widely depending on distance, home size, time of year, and whether you hire professionals or do it yourself. Planning ahead and getting accurate estimates is the key to avoiding budget surprises on moving day.
Local movers typically charge $80-$120 per hour for a crew of two. A small apartment move (1-bedroom) usually takes 3-5 hours, while a larger home (3-4 bedroom) can take 8-12 hours. Long-distance moves are priced by weight and distance, typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
A DIY move with a rental truck is generally 30-50% cheaper than hiring full-service movers, especially for local moves. However, the savings shrink for long-distance moves when you factor in fuel, lodging, and your time. Hiring movers also reduces the risk of injury or damage to your belongings.
As of current tax law, moving expenses are only tax deductible for active-duty military members who move due to a permanent change of station. The general moving expense deduction for job-related relocations was suspended starting in 2018 through 2025.
Moving Budget Calculator
Estimate the total cost of your move — from hiring movers and buying supplies to deposits and setup expenses. Select your move type to start with suggested estimates.
Cost of Living Calculator
Compare your current monthly expenses to a new scenario — whether you're considering a move, a lifestyle change, or just want to see how your spending stacks up.