How Much Does Moving Cost in 2026?
Everything you need to know about moving pricing — national averages, per-service breakdowns, state-by-state comparisons, and tips to get the best value for your money.
National Average Cost Range
$97 – $9,672
Based on typical project costs across the United States. Your actual costs depend on location, scope, and materials.
Moving Services & Pricing
National average costs for the most common moving services.
Local Moving
National average
$387 – $1,934
Long-Distance Moving
National average
$1,934 – $7,738
Packing Services
National average
$193 – $967
Storage
National average
$97 – $484
Commercial Moving
National average
$1,934 – $9,672
Specialty / Piano Moving
National average
$193 – $1,934
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Moving Cost Breakdown in National, Average
Average prices for common moving services in National. Actual costs depend on project details.
| Service | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Local Moving | $387 | $1,934 |
| Long-Distance Moving | $1,934 | $7,738 |
| Packing Services | $193 | $967 |
| Storage | $97 | $484 |
| Commercial Moving | $1,934 | $9,672 |
| Specialty / Piano Moving | $193 | $1,934 |
What Affects Moving Costs?
Understanding these factors helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Your Location
Moving costs vary significantly by state and city. Higher cost-of-living areas like California and New York typically pay 20–30% more than the national average, while southern and midwestern states are often below average.
Project Scope & Materials
The size, complexity, and material quality of your project are the biggest cost drivers. Premium materials, structural modifications, and specialty work increase costs — always get itemized quotes.
Seasonal Demand
Many moving services see peak demand in spring and summer, which can drive up prices. Scheduling during off-peak months (fall/winter) can often save 10–15%.
Getting Multiple Quotes
Homeowners who compare at least 3 quotes save an average of 15–20%. Don't just go with the first estimate — FinalQuote makes it easy to compare vetted professionals side by side.
Moving Costs by State
Compare average moving costs across the most populous states.
| State | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $90 | $9,048 |
| Alaska | $133 | $13,312 |
| Arizona | $101 | $10,088 |
| Arkansas | $89 | $8,944 |
| California | $144 | $14,352 |
| Colorado | $109 | $10,920 |
| Connecticut | $128 | $12,792 |
| Delaware | $107 | $10,712 |
| Florida | $102 | $10,192 |
| Georgia | $96 | $9,568 |
| Hawaii | $158 | $15,808 |
| Idaho | $98 | $9,776 |
| Illinois | $105 | $10,504 |
| Indiana | $94 | $9,360 |
| Iowa | $93 | $9,256 |
| Kansas | $93 | $9,256 |
| Kentucky | $92 | $9,152 |
| Louisiana | $95 | $9,464 |
| Maine | $110 | $11,024 |
| Maryland | $116 | $11,648 |
| Massachusetts | $137 | $13,728 |
| Michigan | $97 | $9,672 |
| Minnesota | $104 | $10,400 |
| Mississippi | $87 | $8,736 |
| Missouri | $92 | $9,152 |
| Montana | $100 | $9,984 |
| Nebraska | $95 | $9,464 |
| Nevada | $106 | $10,608 |
| New Hampshire | $119 | $11,856 |
| New Jersey | $130 | $13,000 |
| New Mexico | $97 | $9,672 |
| New York | $135 | $13,520 |
| North Carolina | $98 | $9,776 |
| North Dakota | $97 | $9,672 |
| Ohio | $95 | $9,464 |
| Oklahoma | $90 | $9,048 |
| Oregon | $114 | $11,440 |
| Pennsylvania | $105 | $10,504 |
| Rhode Island | $120 | $11,960 |
| South Carolina | $95 | $9,464 |
| South Dakota | $96 | $9,568 |
| Tennessee | $94 | $9,360 |
| Texas | $97 | $9,672 |
| Utah | $101 | $10,088 |
| Vermont | $116 | $11,648 |
| Virginia | $108 | $10,816 |
| Washington | $121 | $12,064 |
| West Virginia | $89 | $8,944 |
| Wisconsin | $98 | $9,776 |
| Wyoming | $99 | $9,880 |
| District of Columbia | $146 | $14,560 |
| Puerto Rico | $78 | $7,800 |
Moving Cost FAQ
Quick answers to the most common pricing questions.
How much does moving cost on average?
National average moving costs range from $97 – $9,672. Actual costs vary significantly based on your location, project scope, and the specific service needed. Getting multiple quotes is the best way to find the right price.
What's the most expensive moving service?
Among common moving services, commercial moving tends to be the most expensive, with national averages up to $9,672. The least expensive is typically storage, starting around $97.
What's the cheapest state for moving?
States with lower costs of living generally have lower moving costs. Mississippi, Arkansas, and Alabama typically have the lowest rates, while Hawaii, California, and New York tend to be the most expensive. Use our cost estimator above with your ZIP code for location-specific pricing.
How can I save money on moving?
The most effective way is to compare at least 3 quotes — homeowners who do save an average of 15–20%. Other tips: schedule during off-peak seasons, be flexible on timing, bundle related projects for a volume discount, and ask about financing options.
Should I choose the cheapest moving quote?
Not necessarily. Consider the provider's licensing, insurance, reviews, warranty, and experience — not just price. The cheapest option may cost more long-term if work needs to be redone. Look for the best balance of price, quality, and reliability.
Do moving costs include materials?
It depends on the provider and service. Most quotes for moving include both labor and basic materials, but premium or specialty materials may be priced separately. Always ask for an itemized quote so you understand exactly what's included before signing a contract.
How do I get an accurate moving estimate?
Start with our cost estimator above for a ballpark range based on your ZIP code. Then get free, no-obligation quotes from vetted professionals on FinalQuote — they'll assess your specific project scope to give you an exact price.
Related Cost Guides
Explore pricing for other home service categories.
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