Cost to Move a House

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Moving a house is a unique and complex process that involves specialized equipment and expertise. Here's a breakdown of the costs and factors to consider:


Average Costs

  • National Average: $15,000–$60,000
  • Cost per Square Foot: $12–$16
  • High-End Costs: $100,000+ (complex or long-distance moves)

Cost Breakdown by Home Size

| Home Size (sq ft) | Cost Range | |------------------------|---------------------| | 1,000 | $12,000–$16,000 | | 1,500 | $18,000–$24,000 | | 2,000 | $24,000–$32,000 | | 2,500 | $30,000–$40,000 |


Factors Influencing Costs

  • Home Size and Layout
  • Larger homes cost more due to weight, structural complexity, and potential disassembly/reassembly.

  • Distance and Route Challenges

  • Longer distances and routes with narrow roads, bridges, or utility lines increase costs.

  • Foundation Types

  • Houses on slabs or brick pilings are harder to move than those with crawl spaces or basements.

  • Permits and Regulations

  • Local permits are required for moving, new foundations, and road usage.
  • Permit costs range from $500 to $3,000.

  • Site Preparation

  • A new foundation, utility connections, and lot access may cost $10,000–$40,000.

  • Add-Ons and Accessories

  • Moving decks, porches, or garages adds to the cost. Detached items may require separate transportation.

  • Insurance

  • Coverage for potential damages adds $1,000–$5,000 to ensure protection.

  • Temporary Housing

  • Homeowners will need alternate living arrangements during the move.

Steps in the House-Moving Process

  • Preparation
  • Obtain permits, clear access, and disconnect utilities.

  • Lifting the House

  • Hydraulic jacks raise the house onto a trailer or wheels.

  • Transporting

  • The house is carefully moved to its new location (time depends on distance).

  • Reinstallation

  • House is placed on a new foundation, utilities reconnected, and finishing touches completed.

Pros and Cons of Moving a House

| Pros | Cons | |-----------------------------------|------------------------------------| | May be cheaper than rebuilding | Risk of structural damage | | Preserves sentimental or historic homes | Unexpected costs and delays | | Environmental benefits (reuse) | Requires complex logistics |


Ways to Save Money

  • DIY Prep Work:
  • Remove landscaping, disconnect utilities, and detach porches or decks yourself.
  • Shorter Moves:
  • Moving within the same lot or nearby is significantly cheaper.
  • Get Multiple Quotes:
  • Compare prices and experience from house-moving companies.

When to Hire Professionals

Moving a house requires expertise. Always hire experienced house-moving professionals for a safe and efficient process. Would you like tips on finding a qualified mover or help estimating costs for your specific situation?


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