Embarking on a new chapter in life by moving out of state is an exhilarating adventure filled with endless possibilities. However, amidst the excitement, one question looms large: How much does it truly cost to make that leap?
The average cost to move out of state is between $3,400 to $8,900, depending on various factors. These factors include the specific city/state you are moving to, how you plan to transport your belongings, the method of shipping your vehicles, and other relevant factors.
Unveiling the financial landscape of state-to-state relocation, this article serves as your compass, guiding you through the intricacies of expenses involved.
Prepare to uncover the hidden fees, discover cost-saving strategies, and gain a clear understanding of what it takes to turn your dreams of moving into a tangible reality. Brace yourself as we delve into the heart of the matter, leaving no dollar unaccounted for.
Average Cost of Moving to Another State
The average cost to move out of state is around $3,400 to $8,900. The price depends on various factors, such as the size of your home, the distance you’re moving, and whether you’re hiring professional movers.
Here’s what you need to know about the cost of moving out of state.
How Much Does Moving Out of State Cost?
The average cost of hiring out of state moving companies is $3,590 (distance of 1,000 miles). Prices can range from $1,300 to $8,400 depending on the size of your home and the number of items.
For example, a studio apartment may cost around $1,800- $3,800 to move, while a four-bedroom house may cost around $3,950 to $8,400.
The long-distance moving cost is calculated based on the weight and volume of your belongings, the distance of your move, and whether you’re moving during the peak season (May through September). Refer the below movers’ costs chart for more details:
Average Cost of a Move with Professional Out of State Movers [Chart]
| Studio to 1 Bedroom | 2 to 3 Bedrooms | 4 to 5 Bedrooms | 5+ Bedrooms | |
| More than 250 miles | $1,800 to $2,300 | $2,350 to $3,950 | $3,950 to $4,700 | $4,900+ |
| More than 1,000 miles | $2,400 to $2,900 | $3,000 to $7,800 | $7,800 to $8,100 | $8,500+ |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,200 to $3,800 | $3,900 to $7,900 | $8,400+ | $8,900+ |
Average Moving Costs for Popular Interstate Moving Routes
Below are some of the popular state to state moving routes:
- California to Texas
- California to Arizona
- New York to Florida
- California to Washington
- New York to California
- Massachusetts to New York
California to Texas
On average, moving your stuff from California to Texas will cost anywhere from $1,142 to $6,843.
| Size of the Move | Professional Moving Company | Moving Container | Truck Rental |
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,355 to $4,900 | $1,340 to $2,929 | $1,083 to $1,400 |
| 2 to 3 Bedrooms | $3,200 to $6,900 | $2,592 to $3,890 | $1,242 to $1,653 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $5,500 to $9,500 | $3,723 to $4,603 | $1,544 to $2,291 |
Related: Moving from California to Texas – Detailed Guide
California to Arizona
The average cost to move from California to Arizona ranges from $914 to $5,375.
| Size of the Move | Professional Moving Company | Moving Container | Truck Rental |
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,274 – $3,513 | $1,226 – $2,239 | $884 – $1,297 |
| 2 to 3 Bedrooms | $2,403 – $5,475 | $1,817 – $3,548 | $923 – $1,511 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $3,688 – $8,220 | $2,643 – $3,887 | $1,253 – $1,767 |
Related: Moving from California to Arizona – Detailed Guide
New York to Florida
From New York to Florida, the average cost of relocation ranges from $1,107 to $7,048.
| Size of the Move | Professional Moving Company | Moving Container | Truck Rental |
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,392 – $5,232 | $1,294 – $2,273 | $1,206 – $1,469 |
| 2 to 3 Bedrooms | $3,203 – $7,508 | $2,286 – $3,510 | $1,207 – $1,806 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $5,684 – $9,837 | $3,404 – $4,665 | $1,486 – $2,436 |
Related: Moving from New York to Florida – Detailed Guide
California to Washington
Moving from California to Washington typically costs between $2,182 and $7,982.
| Size of the Move | Professional Moving Company | Moving Container | Truck Rental |
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,432 – $5,717 | $2,304 – $3,732 | $2,054 – $2,661 |
| 2 to 3 Bedrooms | $3,775 – $7,882 | $3,725 – $5,664 | $2,162 – $3,195 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $7,980 – $12,668 | $4,674 – $6,810 | $2,884 – $3,976 |
New York to California
The average cost to move from New York to California ranges from $1,200 to $7,748.
| Size of the Move | Professional Moving Company | Moving Container | Truck Rental |
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,459 – $5,347 | $1,469 – $2,701 | $1,249 – $1,686 |
| 2 to 3 Bedrooms | $3,663 – $7,748 | $2,692 – $3,997 | $1,300 – $1,833 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $6,775 – $11,556 | $3,453 – $4,894 | $1,601 – $2,283 |
Related: Moving from New York to California – Detailed Guide
Massachusetts to New York
The average cost to move from Massachusetts to New York ranges from $1,107 to $6,843.
| Size of the Move | Professional Moving Company | Moving Container | Truck Rental |
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,275 – $4,864 | $1,294 – $2,573 | $1,056 – $1,659 |
| 2 to 3 Bedrooms | $3,313 – $6,943 | $2,396 – $3,610 | $1,107 – $1,806 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $5,384 – $9,948 | $3,654 – $4,665 | $1,386 – $2,236 |
Compare Popular Out of State Moving Companies
When planning an out of state move, one of the biggest decisions is choosing a moving company. There are a variety of options to consider, each with their own unique pricing and services offered.
Here, we will compare some of the most popular out of state moving companies to help you make an informed decision.
Allied Van Lines
- Best for Customized Moves
- Favorable Cancellation Policy
- Auto Transport Services
North American Van Lines
- Best for Complicated Moves
- Highly Customized Services
- Live GPS Tracking
International Van Lines
- Best for State to State Moves
- Nationwide Coverage
- Estimate Breakdowns
Factors Affecting the Cost of an Out of State Move
The out-of-state moving cost vary based on different factors. Below we have given different options for out-of-state moving.
Using a Professional Out of State Moving Company
If you’re moving out of state, you may consider hiring a professional company. Hiring professional out of state movers to load, transport, and unload will make the interstate moving experience much easier than doing it yourself. However, professional moving services come at a cost.
Moving prices can range from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on the size, the distance you’re moving, and the time of year. Hence, it is advisable to get multiple moving quotes from different companies to compare rates and services.
Read the fine print and understand what is included in the price quote before hiring a mover.
Using a Moving Container
You may consider renting a moving container if you want to save money on your out-of-state move. Moving container companies like PODS and U-Pack offer long-distance moving services at a fraction of the cost of professional out of state movers.
The cost of a moving container will vary based on distance, storage time, container size, and the number of containers required. However, you can expect to pay around $2,000 to $5,400 for a long-distance move using a moving container.
If you choose to store your container in a climate-controlled facility, that will also affect the rental cost.
Using A Truck Rental – DIY Move
If you’re planning to move a smaller home or apartment, you can save some money by renting a moving truck and doing the move yourself (DIY Move). Truck rental companies like U-Haul and Budget Truck Rental offer interstate moving services for do-it-yourselfers.
Prices for truck rentals vary depending on the size of the truck, the distance you’re moving, and the time of year. Moving prices can range from $800 to $ 2,200.
The cost of renting a moving truck will vary based on distance, rental length, truck size, and whether you need additional equipment like furniture pads or a dolly. If you’re moving a long distance, you may also have to pay for tolls and gas.
Compare Moving Quotes in 30 Seconds
Click on your state to get a customized quote from an Out of State Moving Company today that will account for your needs and budget.
Top-rated Out of State Moving Companies of 2023
A few popular and trusted moving companies are:
Allied Van Lines
Allied Van Lines are a full-service moving company that offers packing, transportation, and storage services for long-distance moves. The company is located in Chicago and has more than 400 moving agents working throughout North America, serving all 50 US states.
Why We Recommend Allied Van Lines
- Award Winning Moving Company with more than 94 years of experience
- Offers full-service packing and unpacking services
- Specialty item moving available (pool tables, vehicles, etc.)
Useful: Read Allied Van Lines Review
North American Van Lines
North American Van Lines is a family-owned moving company that has been in business since 1933. The company offers full-service moving and storage services for long-distance and international relocation.
Why We Recommend North American Van Lines
- A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
- Provides insurance and coverage options
- Have more than 85 years of experience
- Flexibility and customization
Useful: Read North American Van Lines Review
PODS
PODS was constructed in 1998 to make moving and storage easier and more convenient. With over two decades of experience, PODS is the perfect company to help you relocate. In addition to having a presence in nearly every state across America, this portable storage container business also has locations overseas in four different countries.
Why We Recommend PODS.
- Convenient and Flexible Storage Options
- Affordable Pricing
- Customer-Focused Service
Useful: Read PODS Review
International Van Lines
It is a full-service moving company mastering long-distance and international moves. The company has been in business since 2000 and offers a wide range of moving services to make your out-of-state move as seamless as possible.
Why We Recommend International Van Lines
- A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
- Fully licensed and insured
- Full-service moving and storage services
- Flexible payment options
Useful: Read International Van Lines Review
Mayflower Transit
Mayflower Transit is one of the oldest and most experienced moving companies in the United States. The company was founded in 1927 and has grown to more than 600 locations across the country. Mayflower Transit offers a wide range of services to help make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Why We Recommend Mayflower Transit
- A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
- More than 90 years of experience
- Full-service moving and storage services
- Flexible payment options
Useful: Read Mayflower Transit Review
Popular Moving Container Companies
Some popular moving container companies for interstate relocation are:
U-Haul
Founded in 1945, U-Haul is the most popular moving container company in the United States. The company has more than 15,000 locations across the country and offers a wide range of services to make your relocation process as seamless as possible.
Why We Recommend U-Haul
- More than 70 years of experience
- A wide range of services and locations
- Flexible payment options
Penske Truck Rental
It is one of the most popular truck rental services used by Americans. It was founded in 1969 and had been offering its pocket-friendly moving service with loads of additional features for 51 years.
Why We Recommend Penske Truck Rental
- Flexible rental periods
- Transparent Pricing
- Guaranteed Reservations
Budget Truck Rental
Budget Truck Rental is one of the most popular truck rental companies in the United States. The company was founded in 1998 and has grown to more than 2,800 locations across the country. Budget Truck Rental offers a wide range of services to help make your move as seamless as possible.
Why We Recommend Budget Truck Rental
- Affordable Prices
- Plenty Of Discounts
- Easy Online Reservation
Enterprise Truck Rental
Founded in 1999, Enterprise Truck Rental is one of the most popular truck rental companies in the United States. The company offers a wide range of services to make your out-of-state move as seamless as possible.
Why We Recommend Enterprise Truck Rental.
- A Large Variety of Trucks
- Free Miles for your Move
- Affordable Prices
Home Depot Truck Rental
Home Depot Truck Rental was founded in 1978 and has grown to more than 2,200 locations across the country. Home Depot is one of the most popular home improvement stores in the United States. The company also offers a truck rental service.
Why We Recommend Home Depot Truck Rental
- No Reservation System
- Unlimited Miles
How do I estimate Out of State Moving Costs?
Calculating how much does it cost to move out of state is not as easy as calculating the same for a local move because there are more factors to consider.
You can calculate the long-distance moving cost by using the below-given formula:
(Total Distance of Your Move) X (Weight of the Shipment) X (Rate per Pound per Mile)) + (Fee for Additional Services Used) + (Moving Insurance Cost)
To estimate your moving costs, you can also use our moving cost calculator. This calculator will consider the size of your home, the distance of your move, and whether you’re hiring professional movers and will give you the average cost of out-of-state moving. It will also give you an estimate of the additional costs associated with moving out of state.
Factors affecting the interstate moving cost:
Moving out of state is affected by several factors, such as the size of your home, the distance you’re moving, and whether you’re hiring professional movers. Here’s a closer look at each of these factors:
- The size of your home: The bigger your home, the more belongings you have, and the more expensive it will be to move them.
- The distance of your move: The further you move, the higher the cost. (refer the movers costs chart above)
- Whether you’re hiring professional movers: If you’re hiring professional movers, you’ll need to factor in the cost of their services.
- The time of year you’re moving: Moving during the peak season (May through September) is more expensive than moving during the off-peak season (October through April).
- Additional costs: Additional costs are associated with moving out of states, such as storage fees, packing materials, and insurance.
What additional services are you going to avail of?
While calculating “how much does it cost to move out of state”, you mustn’t forget to consider the additional services required for a long-distance relocation. These include
- Specialty items: Pool tables, hot tubs, motorcycles, safes, and other large items that are difficult to transport and will contribute to your overall expense. These “bulky goods” will usually cost a few hundred dollars more to transport.
- Packing Supplies: Some moving companies will include the cost of packing supplies in their estimate, while others will charge for them separately. You will be charged for the packing supplies your mover uses, including bubble wrap, mattress covers, TV boxes, and packing paper. Be sure to ask about this so you can budget accordingly.
- Long carry fees: If the mover can’t park their truck close enough to your front door, they may charge a long carry fee. Long carry fees might cost hundreds of dollars depending on the size of the move.
- Stair carry fees: If your belongings have to be carried down a long flight of stairs or up more than three flights, you may be charged a stair carry fee. The stair carry fees can vary based on the number of stairs, and the time it will take to move your belongings.
- Elevator fees: If you live in an apartment complex or high-rise or have a narrow elevator, you may be charged an elevator fee. The elevator fee is usually a flat rate, but it can vary depending on the time of day and the number of stops the movers have to make.
- Unpacking services: If you want your movers to unpack your belongings, they will charge an additional fee. Unpacking services can range from $50 to $200, depending on the size of the move.
- Storage: If you need to store your belongings for a while, you will be charged a storage fee. If you want to keep your belongings for a short period, you may be able to find a storage facility that offers a discount for new customers. But if you need to keep your belongings for an extended period, you will be charged a higher fee.
How can you reduce the cost of your out of state move?
You can do a few things to reduce the cost of your out of state move.
- Sell, donate, or trash- anything you don’t need.
- Adjust your move date to an off-peak time of year.
- Get multiple quotes from different moving companies.
- Pack your belongings yourself to save on professional packing fees.
- Flexible pickup & delivery dates can save you money.
- Book early to get the best deals on moving services.
- Ask for price matching if you find a better deal elsewhere.
- Get free packing supplies from retailers.
- Look for discounts and coupons from moving companies.
What is the Cheapest Way to Move Out of State?
The cheapest way to move out of state is to pack your belongings yourself, rent a truck or van, and drive. This will save you the cost of hiring professional movers, but it can be time consuming and physically taxing.
You will also have to factor in the cost of gas for the drive, food and accommodations along the way, and insurance for your vehicle. If you’re looking for a more convenient solution without breaking the bank, consider getting quotes from budget movers who offer discounts or price-matching services.
Related: Cheapest Out of State Movers
How Much Money Should You Save to Move to a Different State?
The average person needs at least three months of living expenses saved up before moving to a new state, according to most experts.
You must research about the average cost of living in your new state or city, as well as the cost of housing and other basic expenses. Track your monthly spending and figure out how much you need to save in order to move to the new state.
Recommended Useful Resources
- Out of State Moving Checklist
- Top-rated Long Distance Moving Companies
- Best Cross Country Movers in the U.S.
- Coast to Coast Moving Companies
- Average Cost to Move Across the Country
