Hiring movers in 2025 costs $300–$8,000+ depending on your state, home size, and distance. The average local move runs $600–$1,200, and the average interstate move is roughly $4,300 (American Moving & Storage Association). Below are real 2025 price ranges by region, plus the exact factors that push your quote up or down.
What determines how much movers cost?
Three variables drive 80% of your price: distance (local vs. interstate), weight or home size, and labor rates in your state. A studio in rural Ohio and a 4-bedroom in San Francisco can differ by a factor of ten. Roughly 60–70% of any moving bill is labor, which is why high-wage states cost more.
To estimate your own move quickly, run your details through the moving cost calculator before you call a single company.
How much does a local move cost by region?
Local moves (under ~50 miles) are billed hourly. A two-person crew with a truck averages $120–$200 per hour nationally, but the regional spread is wide.
| Region | Avg local move (2-3 BR) | Hourly crew rate | | --- | --- | --- | | Northeast (NY, MA, NJ) | $1,200–$2,800 | $160–$250/hr | | West Coast (CA, WA, OR) | $1,100–$2,600 | $150–$240/hr | | Mountain West (CO, AZ, NV) | $800–$1,800 | $120–$190/hr | | South (TX, FL, GA, TN) | $700–$1,600 | $110–$180/hr | | Midwest (OH, IL, MI) | $700–$1,500 | $100–$170/hr |
How much does an interstate move cost?
Interstate moves are priced by weight × distance, typically $0.40–$0.70 per pound per 1,000 miles. A 1-bedroom (about 3,000 lbs) moving 1,000 miles averages $1,500–$3,000; a 3-bedroom (about 7,000 lbs) averages $3,500–$6,500. Coast-to-coast moves for large homes regularly exceed $8,000.
Why are NYC and California so expensive?
New York City moves cost 40–80% more than the national average because of Certificate of Insurance requirements, elevator reservations, parking permits, and union labor. California's high wages and long internal distances push large-home moves past $4,000 even within the state. For the full picture, read our moving to California honest guide and moving to New York City guide.
Trusted Texas carrier
Texas remains one of the most affordable big states to move within, with local 3-bedroom moves averaging $900–$1,600. If you are moving in or to Texas, One World Van Lines is our recommended licensed and insured carrier serving Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston.
How can I lower my moving cost?
- Move mid-week and mid-month between October and April to save up to 20%.
- Declutter before you book — every pound on an interstate move costs money.
- Pack yourself to avoid $500–$1,500 in full-service packing charges.
- Compare at least three verified quotes on moving.art instead of accepting the first bid.
Ready to get real numbers? Compare your household moving options and request free quotes from verified carriers today.