How Much Does it Cost to Move to Another State in 2025?

Relocating to a new state is a big step—financially, logistically, and emotionally. Whether you’re chasing a new job, better weather, or a fresh start, the first question most people ask is: “How much will it cost?”

The truth: The cost to move to another state in 2025 can range anywhere from $1,200 to $12,000+, depending on factors like distance, home size, moving method, and services chosen. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

In this guide, we’ll break down all the costs you should expect, from obvious ones like truck rentals to the hidden expenses that surprise many movers. You’ll also find cost-saving tips and real-life examples to help you budget smarter.

Key Factors That Determine Your Interstate Moving Cost

Every move is unique, but these core elements will shape your total bill:

Distance Between States

The farther you move, the higher the fuel, labor, and transport costs.

• Shorter interstate moves (under 250 miles) might cost $1,200–$3,000.
• Cross-country moves (2,000+ miles) can exceed $8,000 for a full-service move.

Size & Weight of Your Shipment

Moving a studio apartment is vastly cheaper than moving a 4-bedroom home. Moving companies price based on total shipment weight or cubic footage.

• Small move: 1,500 lbs (studio)
• Medium move: 3,500 lbs (2–3 bedroom)
• Large move: 7,000+ lbs (4+ bedroom)

Type of Moving Service

There are four main ways to move interstate:

• Full-service movers: They pack, load, transport, and unload. Most expensive, most convenient.
• Partial service: You pack; they load and transport.
• Moving container (POD): You load, they transport; can store until you’re ready.

Time of Year

Peak season (May–September) can raise prices by 20–30%. Off-peak (October–April) often yields better rates.

Average Interstate Moving Costs by Service Type (2025)

Note: Costs assume 1,000–2,000 miles distance and basic services.

Full Breakdown of Interstate Moving Costs

Full-Service Movers

Pros:

• Stress-free: they handle everything.
• Professional packing = lower risk of damage.
• Faster move timeline.

Cons:

• Most expensive option.
• Less flexibility in timing.

What’s Included:

• Packing materials & labor
• Loading/unloading
• Transport & fuel
• Basic liability coverage

Extra Costs You Might Face:

• Long carry fees (if truck can’t park near home)
• Elevator fees
• Shuttle service for narrow streets
• Specialty item handling

Moving Containers

Companies like PODS, U-Pack, and 1-800-PACK-RAT drop off a container, you load it, and they drive it to your new home.

Pros:

• Flexible loading/unloading window.
• Often cheaper than full-service movers.
• Can double as temporary storage.

Cons:

• You still do the heavy lifting.
• Limited delivery times in some regions.

Rental Trucks (DIY Moves)

You rent a truck (U-Haul, Penske, Budget), pack it, drive it, and unload it yourself.

Pros:

• Cheapest way to move interstate.
• Flexible route and timing.

Cons:

• Requires driving a large truck long-distance.
• Fuel, tolls, and lodging add up.

Hidden Costs:

• Fuel (8–12 mpg for large trucks)
• Insurance coverage
• Moving equipment rental (dollies, blankets)
• Hotel stays

Hidden & Overlooked Costs of Moving to Another State

Even if you get a quote, there are costs that often fall outside:

Travel Costs for You & Family

• Flights or road trip expenses
• Hotel nights on the way
• Meals during travel

Housing Costs

• Security deposits
• First/last month’s rent
• Temporary housing if your new home isn’t ready

Utility & Service Setup

• Internet & cable installation fees
• Utility deposits for electricity, gas, water

Vehicle Costs

• Shipping a car (average $700–$1,500 cross-country)
• New license, registration, and emissions tests

Miscellaneous

• New furniture or appliances
• Pet relocation fees
• Cleaning services for old home

Cost Examples for Popular Interstate Moves (2025)

Example 1: Dallas, TX → Denver, CO (~800 miles)

• Full-Service Movers: $4,200 for 2-bedroom, mid-summer
• Container Service: $2,900
• DIY Truck: $1,750 + fuel (~$350)

Example 2: New York, NY → Orlando, FL (~1,100 miles)

• Full-Service Movers: $5,000 for 3-bedroom
• Container Service: $3,800
• DIY Truck: $2,300 + tolls (~$120)

Example 3: Los Angeles, CA → Charlotte, NC (~2,400 miles)

• Full-Service Movers: $9,500 for 4-bedroom, including packing
• Container Service: $6,500
• DIY Truck: $3,900 + hotels (~$400)

How to Save Money on Your Interstate Move

Moving to another state doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With a little planning and some strategic choices, you can cut hundreds—or even thousands—off your moving bill without sacrificing safety or efficiency. Here’s how:

1. Downsize Before You Pack

Every extra pound you move adds to your cost. Whether you’re hiring movers or renting a truck, the price is tied to weight (or space).

Action Steps:

• Sell: Use Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or a garage sale to sell furniture, appliances, and clothes you no longer use.
• Donate: Give usable items to Goodwill, Salvation Army, or local shelters. You might also get a tax deduction.
• Recycle: Safely dispose of broken electronics, outdated decor, or damaged furniture.

Example:

If you remove 500 lbs of belongings before your move, you could save $200–$400 on weight-based moving quotes.

Pro Tip: Ask yourself, “Do I want this enough to pay to move it 1,000 miles?”

2. Compare Multiple Quotes

Don’t settle for the first price you hear. Interstate moving costs can vary wildly between companies for the same service.

Action Steps:

• Get at least three in-home or virtual estimates from licensed movers.
• Make sure each quote includes identical services so you’re comparing apples to apples.
• Ask about binding not-to-exceed estimates to avoid surprise charges.

Example:

For a 2-bedroom move, one company might quote $4,500, another $5,800, and a container service $3,600—same route, same volume. That’s a $2,200 difference just by comparing.

Pro Tip: Use FMCSA’s mover search tool to verify USDOT registration before booking.

3. Move During Off-Peak Times

Peak moving season (May–September) brings higher demand—and higher rates. If your timeline is flexible, shifting your move date can lead to significant savings.

Action Steps:

• Target late fall, winter, or early spring for your move.
• Avoid holiday weekends and the first/last week of the month.
• Ask movers if they offer mid-week discounts—Tuesday through Thursday often has lighter demand.

Example:

A Boston-to-Atlanta move might cost $6,000 in June but drop to $4,800 in January—a 20% savings just by adjusting timing.

Pro Tip: If you must move in summer, book at least 6–8 weeks in advance to lock in lower rates before last-minute surges.

4. Pack Yourself (Hybrid Move)

Labor costs add up fast. By packing your own boxes, you cut the number of hours your movers spend on the job.

Action Steps:

• Buy supplies in bulk from warehouse clubs or online.
• Label boxes clearly with room and contents—this speeds unloading too.
• Leave large furniture disassembly to movers if you’re unsure about tools or safety.

Example:

Professional packing for a 3-bedroom home can cost $800–$1,200. Doing it yourself could bring that cost down to under $200 for materials.

Pro Tip: Pack smart—heavy items in small boxes, light items in large boxes. This prevents damage and makes moving day faster.

5. Use a Freight Trailer Service

Freight companies like U-Pack or ABF Freight drop off a trailer at your home. You load it, they drive it to your new location, and you unload it. You pay only for the space you use.

Action Steps:

• Measure your load size accurately; you’re billed by linear feet.
• Secure furniture with straps and padding inside the trailer.
• Be ready to load/unload within the company’s time window to avoid extra fees.

Example:

A 15-foot section of a freight trailer from Chicago to Dallas might cost $2,500, compared to $5,000 for a full-service move.

Pro Tip: This option is especially cost-effective for long-distance moves where you have too much for a moving container but don’t want to pay for a full truck.

Choosing the Right Interstate Moving Company

Check Licenses & Reviews

Interstate movers must have a USDOT number. Check FMCSA’s website for complaints and insurance.

Understand the Quote Types

• Binding Estimate: Price won’t change unless you add items/services.
• Non-Binding Estimate: Final cost may vary based on actual weight.
• Binding Not-to-Exceed: Best protection—you won’t pay more if shipment weighs more than estimated.

Insurance Coverage

Basic coverage is 60 cents per pound per item; consider full-value protection for expensive goods.

Cost Checklist for Moving to Another State

Final Tips for Budgeting Your Interstate Move

• Add 10–15% cushion for unexpected costs.
• Keep receipts for possible tax deductions (if moving for work and eligible).
• Label boxes clearly—lost or damaged items can cause costly delays.
• Consider hybrid moving (e.g., hiring movers for loading + container transport).

Conclusion

The cost to move to another state in 2025 can vary widely—from a budget-friendly $1,200 DIY move to a $12,000+ full-service relocation. Your exact price depends on distance, home size, moving method, and timing.

By understanding all the cost components—and preparing for hidden expenses—you can set a realistic budget, avoid last-minute stress, and arrive at your new home with your finances intact.

If you’re planning your interstate move now, compare options early, book reputable services, and start downsizing—your future self (and your moving bill) will thank you.