Planning a cross-country move can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to budget for this major life transition. Whether you're relocating from Miami to Seattle or moving from New York to Los Angeles, understanding the true cost of a cross-country move is essential for making informed decisions about your relocation.
The average cost of all moves is $3,020 in 2025, but cross-country relocations typically cost significantly more than local moves. Based on current market data, the cost to move across the country ranges from $1,500 to $20,000, depending on the home size, distance, packing services included, and whether you hire professional movers.
For most families, the typical cross-country moving cost for a 2-3 bedroom home ranges from $6,700 to $9,250. However, this range can vary dramatically based on several key factors that we'll explore below.
Most cross-country movers calculate costs partially based on the weight of your shipment, typically charging between $0.50 and $0.80 per pound. The further you're moving and the more belongings you have, the higher your costs will be.
Your home size directly impacts your moving costs since larger homes typically contain more belongings:
Studio/1-Bedroom Apartment: Expect to pay on the lower end of the spectrum, typically $2,000-$4,500 for a cross-country move.
2-3 Bedroom Home: As mentioned, this falls into the $6,700-$9,250 range for most professional moving services.
4+ Bedroom Home: Large homes can easily reach $10,000-$15,000 or more, especially with full-service options.
DIY Moving: DIY long-distance moves can cost $1,550 to $2,350 or more, and this accounts for packing supplies, truck rental, fuel, and mileage. While this option saves money upfront, it requires significant time, effort, and planning.
Full-Service Professional Movers: Hiring full-service movers costs $1,400 to $9,700 or more, depending on the distance and any additional services. This includes packing, loading, transportation, and unloading.
Hybrid Options: Many people choose a middle-ground approach, handling some aspects themselves while hiring professionals for others.
If you decide to hire professionals for packing, on average, it costs $900 to $1,500 to have a moving company pack you. The cost varies by home size, with packing for a one-bedroom apartment ranging from $250 to $500, while a three-bedroom home can cost $1,000 or more.
Many cross-country moves require temporary storage. Storage units cost around $100 to $450 per month for average storage needs but can increase if special items (like sports cars) need additional protections.
Some moving companies may add unexpected charges. Some moving companies may hide additional fees in their estimates, such as administrative fees and fuel charges. Always request detailed, written estimates and ask about potential additional costs.
Moving during off-peak seasons (fall and winter) can significantly reduce costs. Summer is the most expensive time to move due to high demand.
The less you move, the less you'll pay. Consider selling, donating, or discarding items you no longer need before getting quotes from moving companies.
Prices can vary significantly between companies. Obtain at least three detailed quotes to compare services and pricing.
Some companies offer discounts for flexible delivery windows, as this allows them to optimize their routes and schedules.
When selecting a moving company for your cross-country relocation, research is crucial. Look for companies with:
For residents in Florida considering a cross-country move, W Moving and Storage offers comprehensive relocation services with transparent pricing and experienced professionals who understand the unique challenges of long-distance moves from Miami and surrounding areas.
When budgeting for your cross-country move, consider these expense categories:
Moving Services: 60-70% of your total budget Packing Supplies: 5-10% of your budget Travel Expenses: 10-15% of your budget Temporary Storage: 5-10% of your budget Miscellaneous/Buffer: 10-15% of your budget
Typically, most people will spend anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000 dollars on a cross-country move, with the wide range reflecting the many variables involved. While this represents a significant investment, proper planning and choosing the right moving partner can help ensure you get value for your money.
Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best value. Focus on finding a reputable moving company that offers transparent pricing, quality service, and peace of mind during this major life transition.
Moving across the country is one of life's biggest adventures, and having the right team on your side makes all the difference. Whether you're leaving Miami for new opportunities or relocating to South Florida, proper planning and budgeting will help ensure your move goes smoothly.
Start by getting detailed quotes from multiple companies, decluttering your belongings, and creating a comprehensive moving timeline. With the right preparation and realistic budget expectations, your cross-country move can be the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life.
