Moving Costs in 2026: Local vs Long Distance#

Whether you are moving across town or across the country, the cost question is the same: how much should I expect to pay? The short answer is $800 to $2,500 for a local move and $2,500 to $7,500 for a long-distance move, but the real number depends on how much stuff you have, how far it is going, and when you move.

We analyzed pricing from over 21,800 FMCSA-registered moving companies in our directory to put together the most current cost data available.

Average Moving Costs by Home Size#

Local Moves (under 50 miles)#

| Home Size | Avg. Weight | 2 Movers | 3 Movers | 4 Movers | |---|---|---|---|---| | Studio / 1 Bedroom | 2,000 lbs | $400-$800 | $550-$1,000 | N/A | | 2 Bedroom | 3,500 lbs | $700-$1,200 | $900-$1,500 | $1,100-$1,800 | | 3 Bedroom | 5,000 lbs | $1,000-$1,800 | $1,200-$2,200 | $1,500-$2,500 | | 4 Bedroom | 7,000 lbs | $1,500-$2,500 | $1,800-$3,000 | $2,200-$3,500 | | 5+ Bedroom | 9,000+ lbs | $2,000-$3,500 | $2,500-$4,000 | $3,000-$5,000 |

Local movers charge by the hour, typically $80-$120 per hour for a 2-person crew and $120-$180 per hour for a 3-person crew. Most local moves take 3-8 hours.

Long-Distance Moves (over 50 miles)#

| Home Size | 500 Miles | 1,000 Miles | 2,000 Miles | Cross-Country | |---|---|---|---|---| | Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,500-$2,500 | $2,000-$3,000 | $2,500-$4,000 | $3,000-$4,500 | | 2 Bedroom | $2,500-$4,000 | $3,000-$5,000 | $4,000-$6,000 | $4,500-$7,000 | | 3 Bedroom | $3,500-$5,500 | $4,500-$6,500 | $5,500-$8,000 | $6,500-$9,500 | | 4 Bedroom | $4,500-$7,000 | $5,500-$8,500 | $7,000-$10,000 | $8,000-$12,000 | | 5+ Bedroom | $6,000-$9,000 | $7,500-$11,000 | $9,000-$13,000 | $10,000-$15,000+ |

Long-distance moves are priced by weight and distance, not by the hour. The average cost per pound ranges from $0.50 to $0.80 for interstate moves.

Cost by City#

Moving costs vary by metro area due to labor rates, demand, and local regulations:

| City | Local Move (2BR) | Long-Distance (2BR, 1,000 mi) | vs. National Avg. | |---|---|---|---| | Houston, TX | $800 | $3,500 | -13% | | Phoenix, AZ | $750 | $3,200 | -17% | | Atlanta, GA | $850 | $3,600 | -8% | | Chicago, IL | $1,100 | $4,200 | +8% | | New York, NY | $1,400 | $5,200 | +33% | | Los Angeles, CA | $1,200 | $4,800 | +23% | | Miami, FL | $900 | $3,800 | -3% | | Seattle, WA | $1,100 | $4,500 | +15% | | Denver, CO | $950 | $4,000 | +3% | | Dallas, TX | $800 | $3,400 | -13% |

New York and Los Angeles are the most expensive markets due to parking restrictions, elevator fees, building access rules, and higher labor costs. Sun Belt cities offer the most competitive pricing.

Additional Moving Costs#

| Service | Cost | |---|---| | Packing services (full home) | $300-$1,500 | | Packing materials (boxes, tape, wrap) | $100-$400 | | Furniture disassembly/reassembly | $100-$300 | | Piano or specialty items | $200-$800 per item | | Storage (per month) | $75-$300 | | Insurance (full value protection) | $100-$500 | | Stair carry (per flight) | $50-$100 | | Long carry (over 75 feet) | $50-$150 | | Elevator fee | $50-$100 | | Shuttle service (if truck cannot reach) | $200-$500 |

These add-ons can increase the total bill by 20-40%. Always ask for a detailed written estimate that itemizes every charge.

How to Avoid Moving Scams#

The FMCSA registers and regulates interstate movers, but scams still happen. Here is how to protect yourself:

1. Verify the USDOT number. Every legitimate interstate mover must have a USDOT number. Search the FMCSA database to verify it is active and that the company has insurance on file.

2. Get a binding estimate. A "binding" estimate locks the price. A "non-binding" estimate is just a guess — the mover can (and often will) charge more on delivery day. Always request binding or binding not-to-exceed.

3. Watch for hostage loads. If a mover demands a large cash deposit upfront, loads your belongings, then demands significantly more money before delivering, that is a hostage load — and it is illegal. Report it to the FMCSA.

4. Read the contract. The Bill of Lading is a legally binding contract. Read every line before signing, especially the liability and claims sections.

5. Check reviews. Search movers near you to see ratings, complaint history, and FMCSA compliance status in our directory.

For more on choosing between national brands and independent operators, see our comparison of local vs national moving companies.

Tips to Save Money#

• Move midweek and mid-month. Weekend and end-of-month moves cost 15-25% more due to higher demand.
• Move in the off-season. September through April is the slow season for movers. Summer (June-August) is peak season with the highest rates.
• Declutter before you move. Every pound costs money on a long-distance move. Sell, donate, or trash items you do not need. A 20% reduction in weight saves $500-$1,500 on a cross-country move.
• Pack yourself. Professional packing adds $300-$1,500 to the bill. If you have the time, doing it yourself saves a meaningful amount.
• Get at least three quotes. Our data shows a 25-35% price spread between the lowest and highest quotes in the same market.

FAQ#

How far in advance should I book a mover?#

Book 4-6 weeks ahead for local moves and 6-8 weeks ahead for long-distance moves. During peak summer season, booking 8-12 weeks out is recommended to get your preferred dates and the best rates.

Does renters or homeowners insurance cover moving damage?#

Most policies do not cover items damaged during a move. Movers offer two types of coverage: Released Value Protection (free, covers $0.60 per pound per item — essentially nothing) and Full Value Protection ($100-$500, covers repair or replacement at current market value). Always opt for Full Value Protection.

How much do I tip movers?#

Industry standard is $20-$50 per mover for a local move and $50-$100 per mover for a long-distance move. Tip more for exceptional service, heavy items, or difficult conditions (stairs, extreme weather). Tips are not required but are appreciated.

Can I deduct moving costs on my taxes?#

The federal tax deduction for moving expenses was eliminated for most taxpayers in 2018. It remains available only for active-duty military members relocating due to a permanent change of station. Some states (California, New York, Massachusetts) still allow a state-level deduction.