Moving Guide
How Much Does It Cost to Move?
Based on BLS OES 2023 wage data and industry cost models.
Quick Answer: Moving Cost Ranges
Moving costs vary significantly by distance, home size, timing, and the specific mover you hire. Here are federal-data-based estimates:
Local Move (2BR)
$600-1,200
under 50 miles
Long-Distance (2BR)
$3,000-6,000
500+ miles
Mover Median Wage
$17.88 /hr
BLS OES 2023
Peak Season Premium
20-30 %
May-Sep
| Home Size | Local (<50 mi) | Medium (100-500 mi) | Long (500+ mi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $300–$600 | $800–$1,500 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $400–$800 | $1,000–$2,000 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| 2 Bedroom | $600–$1,200 | $1,500–$3,000 | $3,000–$6,000 |
| 3 Bedroom | $900–$1,800 | $2,500–$4,500 | $4,000–$8,000 |
| 4+ Bedroom | $1,500–$3,000 | $4,000–$7,000 | $6,000–$12,000 |
What Drives Moving Costs?
Five main factors determine what you'll actually pay:
40% of long-distance move cost
25% of total cost
20% wage variation by region
15% peak-season premium
1. Distance
Distance is the biggest cost driver for long-distance moves. Long-distance movers typically charge by weight plus mileage. Local movers charge hourly. The break-even point where long-distance pricing kicks in is typically around 50–100 miles.
2. Volume/Weight
Interstate movers charge by actual weight (measured on certified scales) or by cubic feet. A 2-bedroom home typically weighs 3,000–5,000 lbs. Every 1,000 lbs adds roughly $200–$400 to long-distance costs depending on mileage.
3. Regional Wages
BLS OES data shows mover wages vary significantly by region. Western markets (CA, WA, OR) are 20% above the national median. Northeast is 15% above. Southern states are 10% below the national median of $17.88/hr. This directly affects the labor component of your quote.
4. Season and Timing
Peak season (May–September) costs 20–30% more than off-peak. Moving mid-month and mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) saves an additional 10–20% vs. weekends and month-end. The cheapest time to move: Tuesday in January or February.
5. Additional Services
Packing services add $300–$2,000+ depending on home size. Specialty items (pianos, safes, art) add $150–$500 each. Storage-in-transit adds $50–$200/month. Stair carries and long-carry fees apply when trucks can't park close.
Our Cost Model
PlainMove estimates use this formula from BLS data:
Where hourly_rate is the BLS OES 2023 regional median wage for SOC 53-7062 (Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers), and total_hours includes both loading/unloading and driving time.
Always get multiple quotes. Federal data provides a baseline, but actual prices from movers depend on their specific pricing model, availability, and operational costs. Get at least 3 binding estimates from FMCSA-registered carriers before booking.
Every figure on PlainMove is computed directly from federal source data, no number is typed in by an editor. This page draws directly on federal source data, no figure is typed in by an editor. See our editorial standards & corrections policy, the methodology behind these numbers, or report a data error.