What this tool does
This calculator estimates the total cost of moving between two of the 11 cities: the move itself, travel on the road, and the first month's rent and deposit in the new city.
How to use it
- Pick where you are moving from and to.
- Choose your home size and moving method.
- Adjust the deposit and other costs.
How it works
Distance is estimated from city-center coordinates (straight line plus 18% for roads). Moving cost = base + a rate per 1,000 lbs per 1,000 miles by method. Weights, rates and rents are Rate and Reason estimates.
Worked example
Using the default inputs:
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Moving container for about 3,500 lbs | $1,424 |
| Gas and hotel nights on the drive | $0 |
| First month's rent in Atlanta (estimate) | $1,650 |
| Security deposit | $1,650 |
| Other (utilities setup, cleaning, travel) | $600 |
| Total | $5,324 |
Estimated total cost to move: $5,324. New York City to Atlanta, about 880 road miles.
Distance and the amount you move drive the moving bill, and the method multiplies it: full-service movers cost several times a rental truck for the same load. Move-in cash in Atlanta ($3,300) is often as large as the move itself, so it belongs in the same budget.
What drives the cost
Distance, the amount you move and the method. Coast-to-coast moves with full-service movers cost the most; a short container move between nearby cities such as Houston and Dallas costs the least.
Typical one-bedroom moves between these cities
These examples use the calculator’s estimates for a one-bedroom household (about 3,500 pounds) and show only the cost of moving belongings, before travel, deposits and first month’s rent.
| Move | Road miles (approx.) | Moving container | Full-service movers |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City to Miami | 1,289 | $1,667 | $3,695 |
| New York City to Houston | 1,673 | $1,895 | $4,259 |
| Boston to Washington DC | 465 | $1,176 | $2,483 |
| Chicago to Atlanta | 695 | $1,313 | $2,821 |
| San Francisco to Seattle | 802 | $1,377 | $2,978 |
| Los Angeles to Dallas | 1,461 | $1,769 | $3,947 |
| Washington DC to Atlanta | 640 | $1,281 | $2,741 |
Actual quotes can differ a lot from these estimates. Interstate movers must give you a written estimate, and a binding or not-to-exceed estimate protects you from a much higher bill on delivery day. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration lets you look up a mover’s registration before you book.
Tips
- Get binding written estimates from movers registered with FMCSA.
- Sell or donate heavy items before a long move.
- Moves in summer and at month-end cost more.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move across the country?
From a few thousand dollars with a rental truck to well over $10,000 with full-service movers, before move-in costs.
How do I check a moving company?
Interstate movers must have a USDOT number; look them up on FMCSA's Protect Your Move site.
Are moving expenses tax-deductible?
For most people, no — only active-duty military moving under orders can deduct them.
Sources
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, legal, real estate, or insurance advice. Consult a licensed professional before making decisions.