Moving Cost Calculator

Estimate local or long-distance moving costs based on home size, distance, and additional services.

By Konstantin Iakovlev · Updated April 2026 · Source: BLS

Move Type
Home Size

Estimated Moving Cost

$900.00 - $1,170.00

Low Estimate

$900.00

High Estimate

$1,170.00

Est. Weight

5,000 lbs

Cost Breakdown

Base Moving Cost$900.00
Low Estimate$900.00
High Estimate (+30%)$1,170.00

Estimates are based on national averages. Actual costs vary based on season, specific location, mover availability, and additional services. Get 3+ quotes from licensed movers for accurate pricing.

Use the Moving Cost Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Relocation expenses are easier to plan for when you can see them before the truck arrives, whether you are moving a few blocks or several states away. The estimates here lean on projected 2026 figures, which run roughly 3-5% above 2025 as fuel and labor continue to climb. Seeing a realistic range early gives you room to compare options and choose the approach that fits your budget.

Several inputs drive the estimate through a weighted average: the volume of your belongings (inferred from home size), how far you are going, and any extra services you select. Short local moves hinge mostly on hourly labor and crew size, whereas long-distance jobs are priced largely by weight or volume combined with mileage. The model draws on 2026 benchmarks, such as $100-150 per hour for a three-person crew in urban markets and per-mile charges of $0.75-$1.50 for long hauls.

Treat the number as a planning figure rather than a quote, since the final bill shifts with the specific company, the time of year, and complications like tricky building access or unusually heavy pieces. Packing services and specialized handling are the line items people most often leave out, and they can move the total considerably. Before you commit, collect at least three binding estimates from established movers so you are comparing firm prices rather than guesses.

Example: Moving a 3-Bedroom Home 500 Miles with Packing Services

  1. 1 Input: Home Size: 3-Bedroom (approx. 7,000 lbs of goods), Distance: 500 miles, Additional Services: Full Packing Service, Disassembly/Reassembly of Furniture.
  2. 2 Calculation: Long-distance base rate (7,000 lbs x $0.75/lb = $5,250) + Mileage charge (500 miles x $1.00/mile = $500) + Full Packing Service (estimated 30% of base moving cost = $1,575) + Furniture services (estimated $300). Total estimated raw cost: $7,625.
  3. 3 Result: Your estimated moving cost would be approximately $7,625 - $9,150. This range accounts for potential variations in mover rates and specific service details.
  4. 4 Context: This estimate suggests a significant investment for a long-distance move with comprehensive services. You might consider self-packing non-fragile items or disassembling some furniture yourself to potentially reduce costs. Always get detailed quotes for a precise breakdown.

Source: BLS · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire movers?
Local moves average $800-$2,500 depending on home size. Long-distance moves (1,000+ miles) range from $3,000-$7,500 for a 2-bedroom home and $5,000-$14,000+ for a 4-bedroom home. Costs vary by distance, weight, and season.
What is the cheapest month to move?
October through April are the cheapest months for moving because demand is low. Summer months (June-August) are the most expensive due to high demand, especially around month-end dates.
Are moving expenses tax deductible?
For most Americans, no. The moving expense deduction is currently only available to active-duty military members who move due to a military order. Civilian moving expenses have not been deductible since 2018.