Cost to Move Out of State

On February 25, 2026  By newsroom   Topic: Home Services


Average Costs

  • National Average: $4,600
  • Range: $600–$16,000
  • Cost Per Mile: $6–$16

Key Cost Factors

  • Distance
  • Moving companies charge per mile.
  • Example costs for moves up to 1,000 miles:
    | Distance | Average Cost |
    |----------|--------------------|
    | 100 miles | $600–$1,600 |
    | 500 miles | $3,000–$8,000 |
    | 1,000 miles| $6,000–$16,000 |

  • Home Size

  • Larger homes cost more to move due to higher volume and weight.
    | Bedrooms | Average Cost |
    |----------|--------------------|
    | Studio/1 | $700–$3,000 |
    | 2 | $1,000–$7,000 |
    | 5 | $3,000–$12,000 |

  • Labor

  • Hourly Rates per Mover:
    | Movers | Cost Per Hour |
    |----------|--------------------|
    | 1–2 | $25–$50 |
    | 4 | $100–$200 |

  • Weight

  • Movers charge $0.50–$0.80 per pound.
  • Example: A 5,000-pound move costs $2,500–$4,000.

  • Timing

  • Peak Season (Summer): Higher demand = Higher costs.
  • Off-Season (Winter): Lower rates.

  • Packing Supplies
    | Item | Cost |
    |-----------------------|---------------|
    | Small Boxes | $1–$2 each |
    | Bubble Wrap | $20–$40/roll |
    | Plastic Wrap | $10–$20/roll |

  • Tipping

  • Recommended: 10%–20% of total moving cost.

DIY Moving vs. Hiring Professionals

| Option | Pros | Cons |
|-----------------------|----------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|
| DIY Move | Lower cost, full control. | Labor-intensive, potential for injury.|
| Hire Pros | Less stress, faster, insured items. | Higher upfront cost. |

DIY Moving Truck Costs: $1,200–$2,100 for long distances.


Common Add-Ons for Out-of-State Moves

| Service | Average Cost |
|--------------------------|-----------------------------|
| Furniture Assembly | $35–$90 per piece |
| Piano Moving | $2.50–$10 per mile |
| Car Shipping | $700–$1,200 |
| Move-Out Cleaning | $120–$420 |
| Moving Insurance | ~$0.06 per pound |


Tips to Save Money

  • Declutter: Sell or donate items to reduce load weight.
  • Pack Yourself: DIY packing saves on labor and materials.
  • Schedule Off-Peak: Move during winter or weekdays for discounts.
  • Get Multiple Quotes: Compare services and negotiate rates.
  • Use Free Packing Materials: Recycle boxes or ask local stores for extras.

Ongoing Expenses Post-Move

  • Cost of Living: Adjust budget for new housing, groceries, utilities, and taxes.
  • Utilities: Research average electricity, gas, and internet costs.
  • Housing Costs: Factor in property taxes and potential HOA fees.

By preparing strategically and planning early, you can manage your out-of-state move efficiently while staying within budget!


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