In 2024, 25.87 million Americans moved, with the cost to relocate across the country ranging from $2,000 to $8,000. Since finding the right home is the most important part of any move, many start their search early to avoid surprises.
Houzeo makes this easy. As America’s best home buying and selling website, you can browse listings, save your favorites, and buy your new home—all before relocating.
How Much Does It Cost to Move Across Country?
The average cost to move out of state for a coast-to-coast move could amount to anywhere between $3,000 and $10,300. However, this could vary based on where you move. Here is a rough estimate of moving costs cross country:
| Location | Cost |
| East Coast to West Coast | $4,600 to $10,300 |
| South East Coast to West Coast | $4,700 to $9,400 |
| East Coast to South East Coast | $3,000 to $8,000 |
| North East Coast to South East Coast | $3,000 to $8,000 |
You could experience a cost difference based on the transportation, location, and moving company. They typically charge you an estimated cost before the trip, which could vastly differ from the actual expense after. Make sure to consult your mover for the final prices.
6 Factors That Affect the Cost to Move
The approximate cost to move cross-country varies according to the choices you make. Here are 6 crucial factors that can affect your budget:
1. Distance
Professional movers often calculate the cost of the move based on the distance covered. You might have to pay anywhere between $900 and $2,500 for a local move. However, it would come up to $3,000 to $10,000 for a longer distance.
Yet, this isn’t the only factor to consider. The current average gas price per gallon is approximately $3.2, but this changes from state to state. This would affect the total expense of your move, so research beforehand to avoid any surprises.
2. Transportation Type
Cross-country moving costs would differ based on the type of transportation. For example, a larger vehicle can significantly increase your moving costs. Movers will also factor in the cost to load and unload your belongings.
So, if you go for the cheapest plans, you might have to do all the heavy lifting yourself. But moving is a lot of work, so we suggest you let the professionals handle most of it. Here’s the average cost to move across the country based on the mode of transportation you choose:
| Transportation Type | Cost |
| Rental Truck | $1,300 to $2,100 |
| Container | $700 to $3,200 |
| Full-Service Movers | $1,400 to $9,700 |
3. Home Size
There might be situations where you’d rather move your whole house instead of just your belongings. In this instance, movers consider the home size. Naturally, the larger your house, the higher the price. Depending on your home size, here is what the cost might come up to:
| Home Size | Avg cost to move 1,000 to 1,500 miles | Avg cost to move 2,500+ miles |
| 1-bed | $1,500 to $5,800 | $2,000 to $7,000 |
| 2- to 3-bed | $3,000 to $8,000 | $4,500 to $9,500 |
| 4- to 5-bed | $5,000 to 17,500 | $7,000 to $20,000 |
4. Weight
Weight is another crucial factor that movers use to calculate your cross-country moving cost. They often offer different estimates, the most crucial ones being:
- Binding Estimate: Movers provide a fixed price based on your shipment’s weight, so you know the cost upfront. This ensures budget stability and makes it a great option for long-distance moves, where the movers often cover any cost changes.
- Non-Binding Estimate: The movers might provide a general estimate of the cost. However, this wouldn’t be the final price. The final price will be determined by the volume or weight of your items. The heavier your belongings are, the higher the cost.
- Binding-Not-to-Exceed Estimate: This offers reliable predictability and flexibility in payments. This means the estimated price would be lower if your shipment weighs less than anticipated. This option protects you from inflated costs if it’s a complex or large move.
5. Packaging Supplies
This is another factor that can significantly increase the cost of moving cross country. But you can cut down on these expenses by using reusable bins that only cost around $5. You could also use items you already own like suitcases, towels, or more.
On the other hand, the cost of traditional packaging supplies can add up quickly. Boxes range from $1 to $5 per box, tape between $2.50 to $4 per roll, and bubble wrap around $20 to $50 per roll. This means, moving your 2-bed house could cost $400 or more.
6. Additional Fees to Consider
Here are a few extra fees depending on your moving needs:
- Moving Insurance: It can cost anywhere from $100 to $500. This depends on the provider, the value of your belongings, the coverage level, and your overall moving costs.
- Storage: For basic storage needs, units typically cost $100 to $300 per month, depending on the moving company. But if you opt for a larger storage unit, the cost would naturally be higher.
- Specialty Moving Services: If you want your shipment to arrive sooner, you might have to pay extra depending on the number of items. On the other hand, larger, delicate belongings like antiques or pianos would also command a premium price.
- Stair and Long Carry Fees: Moving companies may charge extra based on the number of stairs they have to climb. Additionally, movers will also hike up the price depending on whether they can park within 100–150 feet of your front door.
4 Easy Ways to Cut Moving Costs
Plan strategically to cut expenses and save money. Here are 4 ways to cut your cost to move cross-country:
1. Pick the Right Time
Choose an appropriate season for your big move. Rates often peak in May, September, and on weekends due to high demand. To save money, opt for a weekday or move during the off-season (October to April) when the real estate market is stagnant.
2. Recycle Packaging Supplies
Instead of buying new supplies, ask local retailers for free or discounted boxes. You can also get creative with supplies like suitcases, towels, and plastic bags. Thinking outside the box can save you money—literally!
3. Explore Discounts
Many companies offer discounts, and some even match lower quotes from competitors—just ask! Besides, military personnel, senior citizens, students, and early bookers have a high chance of getting better deals. Compare quotes beforehand to maximize savings.
4. Read the Fine Print
Hidden fees can often add up and that’s no secret. In fact, some movers add charges to the final estimate by default. If you overlook the fine print, it could cost you thousands. So, check for surprise charges and cancellation policies before you sign the contract.
» US Housing Market: Check the latest real estate trends before you lock in your home!
So, Should I Move Across the Country?
The average cost of moving across the country comes up to anywhere between $2,000 to $8,000. But the cost to move across country might differ based on the location you’re moving to. For a budget-friendly outcome, you would have to cut expenses across multiple factors.
With Houzeo, America’s best home-buying website, buying a house in the US is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
| Region | Moving To |
|---|---|
| Northeast | Connecticut | Maine | Massachusetts | New Hampshire | New Jersey | New York | Pennsylvania | Rhode Island | Vermont |
| Midwest | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Michigan | Minnesota | Missouri | Nebraska | North Dakota | Ohio | South Dakota | Wisconsin |
| South | Alabama | Arkansas | Delaware | Florida | Georgia | Kentucky | Louisiana | Maryland | Mississippi | North Carolina | Oklahoma | South Carolina | Tennessee | Texas | Virginia | Washington, D.C | West Virginia |
| West | Alaska | Arizona | California | Colorado| Hawaii | Idaho | Montana | Nevada | New Mexico | Oregon | Utah | Washington | Wyoming |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will it cost to relocate across the country?
The average cost of moving across country would be around $2,000 and $8,000. However, this depends on the company and transportation you opt for. Additionally, a coast-to-coast move may add up to $15,000.
Can I cut down the cost to move across the country?
There are 4 ways to cut the cost to move across the country. Pick the right time to move, use recycled packaging, read the fine print, and check if you are eligible for discounts.
How much does it cost to move a 4 bed house across country?
The average cross-country moving costs for your 4-bed house could total anywhere between $1,440 to $2,880. But the larger your home, the higher the prices. So, here's is how much it would cost.
Are home prices dropping in Florida?
State-wide home prices show varied local trends and rise across the year. Markets like Tampa and Miami see significant gains and experts forecast continued growth in 2025. You can also check the Florida homes prices trend before moving.
