How Much Should I Budget for a Local Move?

Most people can expect to budget between $500 and $2,000 for a local move. The exact cost depends on the size of your home, how far you’re moving, and whether you choose to hire movers or handle the job yourself.

While local moves cost less than long-distance moves, they still involve important planning and expenses. The total cost varies based on several factors, from the amount of furniture to the need for additional services like packing, storage, or moving specialty items. Knowing what affects your moving expenses will help you build a realistic moving budget and avoid surprises on moving day.

What Counts as a Local Move?

A local move typically takes place within the same city or metropolitan area and does not cross state lines. If you’re moving within 100 miles, you’ll generally fall into this category. Most local movers charge by the hour instead of by the weight or distance, which is more common for long-distance moving.

Hourly rates average between $80 and $120 per hour for a crew of two movers and a truck. If your move involves more rooms or takes more time, the rate increases due to the need for more workers or longer service. This pricing model makes it easy to understand the base cost, but extra services and fees can raise the final total.

What Affects the Price of Local Moves

The size of your home plays a major role in how much you’ll spend. A studio apartment might only require a few hours of labor, while a three-bedroom house may need a full crew and a larger truck. The number of boxes, the types of furniture, and the number of trips required all factor into your moving estimates.

The distance of your move, even within the same city, still makes a difference. Shorter routes mean less time on the road and lower transportation costs. But if movers face delays due to traffic, parking, or access issues like stairs or elevators, the total cost increases. Always share accurate information about your current and new home so movers can plan accordingly.

Additional Services That Add to Your Moving Expenses

Some costs aren’t always included in the hourly rate. Extra services can provide convenience, but they also come with additional fees.

Packing and unpacking, for example, save you time, but increase your moving budget. The same applies to furniture disassembly and reassembly, temporary storage, and protective packing materials like bubble wrap.

If you have heavy items or specialty items such as pool tables, pianos, or safes, expect to pay more. These items require extra labor, equipment, or time and often lead to higher charges. Not all local movers are trained to handle difficult items, so it’s important to choose professionals who offer these services.

Common Extra Fees and Hidden Costs

Some parts of the move cost more than you might expect. These additional charges may not be included in the base quote and can affect your total cost. Be aware of possible extra fees such as:

• Long carry charges if movers need to walk more than 75 feet from the truck to your door
• Stair fees for multiple flights at either location
• Fuel surcharges or travel time fees, even for short moves
• Charges for moving during peak seasons or weekends

Ask questions during your initial consultation and request a full breakdown of your moving quotes. A reputable professional moving company will give clear pricing and explain when extra costs apply.

When You Move Matters

Timing can play a large role in how much you spend. The time of year, week, or even day can change your moving quote. Summer tends to be the busiest moving season, and higher demand means higher prices. Weekends and the first or last days of the month are popular choices and often book fast, making them more expensive.

If you have flexibility with your moving date, try planning your move during a weekday or outside of peak seasons. This can help lower rates and ensure more availability when hiring professional movers.

DIY Move vs. Hiring Professional Movers

You may consider a DIY move to save money. Renting a truck and handling the move yourself can cost less upfront, but it also adds complications. You’ll need to handle the heavy lifting, rent or buy equipment, and pay for fuel. If you’re moving alone or don’t have help, the risks and strain may outweigh the savings.

Hiring professional movers simplifies the process. While it costs more, it provides efficiency, safety, and peace of mind. Movers come prepared with the right equipment, protect your belongings, and know how to navigate stairs, tight hallways, and loading restrictions. For larger homes or moves with valuable items, hiring local movers is often the better option.

What to Expect Based on Home Size

Moving costs vary not just by distance, but by how much stuff you’re moving. Here’s a general idea of what to expect based on the size of your home:

• A studio apartment move may cost between $400 and $700
• A one-bedroom apartment may range from $500 to $900
• A two-bedroom move typically falls between $700 and $1,200
• Homes with three or more bedrooms may range from $1,000 to $2,000 or maybe even more

These estimates include labor and transportation but may increase with additional costs like packing, specialty items, or scheduling during peak times.

Check out our moving cost calculator to get a general estimate for your upcoming move!

Tips for Managing Your Moving Budget

Planning ahead can help you control your moving expenses. Decluttering your home before the move reduces the volume and weight, saving time and labor. Get detailed moving quotes from several reputable moving companies so you can compare services and avoid hidden fees.

Keep a moving checklist and track your estimated expenses. Note the cost of materials like boxes, tape, and protective padding—these add up, especially if you’re packing yourself.

Ask movers whether they offer flat rate pricing or if they charge by the hour. A flat rate can help you better predict your total cost. Just be sure to disclose everything about your move, including access issues or specialty items, so the quote remains accurate.

Planning the Cost of Your Local Move with Confidence

So, on average, budget between $500 and $2,000 depending on the size of your home, the details of your move, and the services you choose. Local moves may be less complex than long-distance moves, but they still involve planning, labor, and potential extra fees.

From choosing your moving date to deciding whether to hire movers, each decision influences your final moving budget. With the right preparation, you can control costs, avoid surprises, and ensure a smoother next move.