How Much Does It Cost to Hire Movers? (2026 Guide)
Real moving cost data for 2026 — broken down by home size, distance, and service type. Use our free calculator for a personalised estimate.
→ Use our free Moving Cost Calculator to get your estimate
Moving cost by home size (2026 averages)
| Home Size | Local Move | Long Distance (500 mi) | Cross Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $300–$800 | $1,000–$2,500 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| 2 bedrooms | $600–$1,500 | $1,500–$4,500 | $3,500–$6,500 |
| 3 bedrooms | $1,200–$3,500 | $3,500–$8,000 | $5,000–$10,000 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,500–$5,000 | $5,000–$12,000 | $8,000–$16,000 |
How movers calculate their price
Local movers charge by the hour: typically $25–$50 per mover, billed as a team. Two movers with a truck cost $100–$200/hour. Three movers cost $150–$250/hour. Most companies have a minimum of 2–4 hours.
Long-distance movers charge by weight and distance. Average household goods weigh 3,000–7,000 lbs for a 2–3 bedroom home.
What makes moves more expensive
Timing: Moving in June–August costs 20–40% more. Month-end weekends are also pricier. Tuesday–Thursday moves in October–March get the lowest rates.
Stairs: Most movers charge $50–$75 extra per flight of stairs.
Long carry: If the truck can't park within 75 feet, expect a $50–$100+ surcharge.
Specialty items: Pianos cost $150–$350 extra. Hot tubs and pool tables cost $200–$600.
How to save money on your move
- Move off-peak: Mid-week, mid-month moves in fall or winter are consistently cheaper
- Declutter first: Less weight = lower cost on long-distance moves
- Pack yourself: Self-packing saves 30–50% vs full-service
- Get 3 binding quotes: Prices vary significantly between companies
How much does it cost to move a 3-bedroom house?
A 3-bedroom local move typically costs $1,200–$3,500 with professional movers. A long-distance 3-bedroom move costs $3,500–$8,000+ depending on distance.
Is it cheaper to rent a truck or hire movers?
Renting a truck yourself costs $200–$800 for a local move — 50–70% cheaper than hiring movers. PODS are a middle-ground at $1,000–$3,000 for long distance.
How do I estimate moving costs?
Use our free Moving Cost Calculator for a rough estimate, then get binding quotes from at least 3 licensed movers.