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
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Larger homes cost more due to weight, structural complexity, and potential disassembly/reassembly.
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Distance and Route Challenges
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Longer distances and routes with narrow roads, bridges, or utility lines increase costs.
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Foundation Types
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Houses on slabs or brick pilings are harder to move than those with crawl spaces or basements.
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Permits and Regulations
- Local permits are required for moving, new foundations, and road usage.
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Permit costs range from $500 to $3,000.
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Site Preparation
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A new foundation, utility connections, and lot access may cost $10,000–$40,000.
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Add-Ons and Accessories
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Moving decks, porches, or garages adds to the cost. Detached items may require separate transportation.
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Insurance
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Coverage for potential damages adds $1,000–$5,000 to ensure protection.
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Temporary Housing
- Homeowners will need alternate living arrangements during the move.
Steps in the House-Moving Process
- Preparation
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Obtain permits, clear access, and disconnect utilities.
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Lifting the House
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Hydraulic jacks raise the house onto a trailer or wheels.
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Transporting
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The house is carefully moved to its new location (time depends on distance).
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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?
