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The Moving and Stress Guide: Statistics, Tips, and More

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If you’re feeling overwhelmed by an upcoming relocation, keep in mind that moving stress is completely normal. Moving stress is so common that 55% of people rate the experience as “highly stressful,” and they rank it as worse to deal with than getting divorced or beginning a new job.

But why is moving so stressful? There are a lot of reasons, including the fact that the process comes with both physical and emotional challenges that put you and your entire household to the test. Not to mention the financial burden. With many Americans living paycheck to paycheck, adding in the cost of a move puts tremendous pressure on those responsible for the bill.

Thankfully, there are a lot of ways to make it easier on yourself. In this guide, you’ll find statistics, tools, and coping strategies to help you manage moving stress and make the transition easier.

Moving Stress Statistics

When moving stress starts to settle in, it helps to know that you’re not alone. Our research shows that relocating can put a significant strain on many people’s finances, health, and well-being. Here’s what the data says about the hidden health toll of moving:

How Stressful Is Moving?

  • 55% say that moving rates 7+ on a 10-point stress scale
  • 1 in 10 describe moving as traumatic or “crisis-level”
  • 53% say moving was more stressful than expected, while 22% say it was much worse
  • 31% would pay $10,000 to avoid moving again

Top Stressors of Moving

  • 52% cite finances as the #1 stressor
  • 41% report stress on household members, while 38% cite logistical chaos
  • 47% say packing is the most stressful task, followed by 42% for cleaning the old home, and 39% for handling logistics like utilities and movers

Mental & Emotional Health Impact

  • 55% feel overwhelmed because of their move
  • 50% report anxiety
  • 47% feel fatigued
  • 45% experience burnout
  • 37% struggle to sleep during a move

Women experience more intense stress symptoms than men, including:

  • 62% vs. 43% report feeling overwhelmed
  • 50% vs. 38% report burnout
  • 43% vs. 30% report irritability
  • 41% vs. 30% report difficulty sleeping

How Stressful Is Moving Compared to Other Life Events?

  • 29% would rather get divorced than go through another move
  • 36% would rather have a colonoscopy
  • 21% would prefer to lose their job

Why Moving Is So Stressful

Moving is particularly taxing because it affects every aspect of your life, from your job to your relationships. It disrupts major life factors, such as where you live and where your kids go to school, and minor things, such as where you shop for groceries. The process comes with logistical and emotional challenges for everyone.

The Logistics of Moving

Woman planning moving logistics in cluttered room filled with boxes and furniture

Moving is a puzzle that never seems to end. As soon as you decide to relocate, you’ll need to sell your home or get out of your lease. Movers are a great help — but before booking, you must choose a moving day that works for you, your current and future employers, and everyone in your household.

Moving also comes with a significant amount of administrative work. Depending on your situation, you may need to research new schools, disconnect and reconnect utilities, change your address, and update your insurance coverage.

Then, there’s the packing, which 47% of people say is the most stressful part of moving. And it’s no wonder why. You have to sort and declutter — and decide whether to sell, donate, or toss the extra items — before you can box up each room. The entire process can take weeks to complete.

The Emotions of Moving

Relocating can be an emotional experience filled with highs and lows. The prospect of new adventures and opportunities is exciting, but you might also be sad to leave friends and familiar places.

These intense emotions, coupled with the fear of the unknown, can add to the stress of moving. You might find your mood changing from one day to the next as you realize what it means to leave a comfortable home and job and start fresh.

Money challenges can be emotionally exhausting — for 52% of people, financial strain is the most stressful part of moving, especially when the move requires you to miss weeks or months of work. In fact, work interruptions are a major source of stress for 35% of men and 26% of women.

Moving Is Stressful for the Entire Household, Not Just Us

Mother comforting child about moving stress while sitting on couch in new home

When you’re moving with other people, you’re not the only one feeling the pressure of a relocation — it hits everyone in your household. Your kids might worry about changing schools and making new friends. Your partner could stress about money, finding a new routine, and supporting the family through the transition.

This fact — that your family is struggling — can be a significant source of stress for you. In fact, 41% of people say it’s one of the most difficult parts of moving. It’s normal to feel guilty or responsible, especially if you’re the driving force behind the move.

Compounding stress can cause issues in your relationships over the course of a move. If you’re like most people, stress can make you feel less patient or more easily irritated. It’s not surprising, then, that fighting with your partner is one of the biggest problems that come with moving.

Common Signs of Moving Stress

An overwhelming majority of people (95%) experience at least one negative stress symptom when they’re moving, but moving stress isn’t always easy to identify. It can manifest in a wide variety of ways, depending on your personality and your situation.

For some people, the symptoms of stress are obvious. They might feel more anxious or irritable than usual, or they might find themselves fighting with other people in the household. In some cases, feelings of overwhelm could make it difficult to make progress on packing and planning.

Signs of moving stress can also be subtle, showing up in seemingly unrelated areas of your life. For example, you might find that you’re having unusually intense dreams. Stress can also make you get sick — so if you’re down with the cold or flu, the move might be the cause.

Not sure if you’re dealing with stress symptoms? According to our research, these are the most common signs of moving anxiety and stress, and the percentage of people who report them:

  • Overwhelm – 55%
  • Anxiety – 50%
  • Fatigue – 47%
  • Feeling burnt out – 45%
  • Irritability – 38%
  • Difficulty sleeping – 37%
  • Decision fatigue – 30%
  • Stress dreams – 25%
  • Fighting with a partner or family member – 24%
  • Brain fog – 21%
  • Panic attacks – 19%
  • Getting sick – 13%

Who Feels Moving Stress the Most?

Moving stress affects people disproportionately based on lifestyle factors. For example, families with young children are very likely to feel high levels of stress during a move because kids come with a completely separate set of logistics. In addition to meeting their own needs, parents must find and vet new childcare providers, schools, play areas, activities, and doctors.

 

“To prevent a stressful last-minute rush, create a schedule as soon as you have a moving date… If you’re moving on July 1 and you think it will take four weeks to declutter and pack, for example, you should start at the beginning of June.”

 

People who relocate frequently, such as students and young professionals, can also experience intense moving house stress. Students constantly transition from their parents’ homes to school, which can be expensive and time-consuming. For young professionals moving to advance their careers, each transition requires a housing search and building a new social circle.

However, moving stress doesn’t necessarily ease up as you get older. Advanced professionals moving for jobs might have bigger salaries, but they may also be paying to move a family. And since the stakes are higher in terms of career and finances, they also have more riding on the new job.

Strategies and Tools to Reduce Moving Stress

The data is clear: moving in general is stressful. However, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it. With the right strategies and tools, you can plan a move that’s easier on you and everyone in your household.

Keys to a Low-Stress Move

When it comes to figuring out how to make moving less stressful, the magic is often in the planning. By tackling the sources of stress proactively, you can enjoy a more relaxed experience.

1. Plan backwards from your moving date

There’s nothing worse than racing to pack the night before your movers arrive. To prevent a stressful last-minute rush, create a schedule as soon as you have a moving date. Estimate how much time it will take to complete each task — finding housing, packing, booking movers, cleaning your house, etc. — and work backwards.

If you’re moving on July 1 and you think it will take four weeks to declutter and pack, for example, you should start at the beginning of June. And if you’re anticipating an eight-week housing search, you should start looking at listings in April or May.

Mapping out the timeline this way can be an important reality check. It reminds you of how much there is to do and how much time each task takes, which helps prevent you from procrastinating. Taking action early and working gradually is the key to stress-free moving.

2. Divide the responsibilities of moving

Friends smiling while packing moving boxes together

If you have a partner, don’t try to collaborate on every moving task. Instead, consider your to-do list and divide the tasks fairly based on each person’s availability, skills, and interests.

Here’s the key: each person should take full ownership of the task. That means that if your partner is responsible for setting up new utilities, they’re in charge of all the decisions and scheduling. And if you’re in charge of the new lease, you should also make the deposit and find out about move-in requirements.

This strategy eliminates a lot of questions and discussions, which can reduce stress for both people. You don’t have to weigh in on when to connect the power in your new home, and your partner doesn’t have to remind you to ask about reserving an elevator on moving day.

3. Implement an organizational system for your move

Disorganization can make your move more chaotic, which increases stress. That’s where a system comes in — it collects important information and helps you stay on task.

As you start the process, create a folder on your computer or designate a physical container. Use it to store copies of all relevant documents: leases, utility contracts, real estate documents, HOA rules, truck rental agreements, and moving-company contracts. With everything in one place, you’ll know where to look when you forget the size of your moving truck or what day the internet service will be active.

 

“Money challenges can be emotionally exhausting — for 52% of people, financial strain is the most stressful part of moving, especially when the move requires you to miss weeks or months of work.”

 

While you’re at it, create an inventory of every item in your home. As you pack, number each box, and every time you put an item in a box, add the box number to your inventory list. This simple strategy eliminates the need to dig through multiple boxes when you’re hunting for the coffee maker or hair dryer.

Tools to Make Moving Easier

With the right systems and resources, you can take control of your move and cut down on stress at every stage.

  • HireAHelper’s moving checklist: Use this checklist to identify all the tasks involved in your move and build a schedule.
  • HireAHelper’s change of address checklist: This guide helps you make a list of all the organizations and institutions you’ll need to contact to change your address.
  • Apps and AI tools: Use ChatGPT or moving apps to help you create a budget, make a packing plan for your specific house size, make an inventory, and delegate tasks according to each person’s availability.

Emotional Coping Strategies During a Move

Once you’ve tackled the practical stressors of moving, it’s time to tackle the emotional challenges. Protecting your mental health before, during, and after the move can reduce stress for you and your family.

Use these coping strategies to manage your emotions when moving:

  1. Set time limits for decision-making: Decision fatigue can add emotional stress when you’re moving, so instead of agonizing about what to pack or donate, set a time limit. For example, you might give yourself 30 minutes to sort a box of items into keep, sell, donate, and discard piles.
  2. Outsource everything you can: Take a look at your to-do list, and outsource the tasks that don’t require your direct involvement. Instead of hauling your old couch to a thrift store, schedule a pickup or instead of running to the grocery store, get your groceries delivered. Your tasks will still get done, and there will be fewer demands on your attention.
  3. Stick to your schedule: When you’re in the thick of moving, it’s difficult to make time for a regular exercise class or happy hour with friends. Keep these engagements whenever possible — you’ll feel happy and relaxed as you go back to packing.

Professional Help That Can Ease Stress

Sometimes, the best way to reduce emotional stress is to bring in the professionals. If you’re starting to feel the pressure, you can hire professional movers to do the heavy lifting and driving. If there’s room in the budget, you can even add on a packing service for extra convenience.

Is the stress of moving starting to take over your life? Consider seeking professional mental health support. A therapist or counselor can help you work through the emotions and learn how to deal with moving in a healthy way.

Final Thoughts

Moving stress is normal, but it doesn’t have to get out of control. With comprehensive planning and the right support systems, you can make stress more manageable. The key to success? Anticipate common sources of stress and find ways to address them in advance.

If you’re dealing with moving stress, take heart — it’s uncomfortable but temporary. Once the move is complete, your life will likely return to normal. And when it does, you’ll enjoy the long-lasting benefits of an exciting new life chapter.

21 Easy to Forget Steps When Moving to A New State

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Deciding how to move to another state is a big undertaking, especially compared to local moves. In addition to finding a new home, packing, and transporting your stuff, there are a bunch of administrative details to take care of.

Because your new state has its own systems and laws, you’ll need to change your driver’s license, insurance policies, memberships, and more. Then, there’s the process of finding new schools and healthcare providers and transferring your records.

With all there is to do, it’s easy for things to fall through the cracks, but there’s no need to worry. We’ve created a convenient checklist to help you plan a structured, low-stress move and avoid the common pitfalls people tend to forget about.

What to Consider Before Moving to Another State

Moving to a new state can be an exciting adventure. But before you commit, you should figure out how the move will affect your lifestyle and financial situation.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Cost of living: To get an idea of how much more expensive or affordable it is to live in your new location, use a cost of living comparison calculator. If you’re moving to a new state without a job, make sure your savings can tide you over until you start earning a paycheck again.
  • Taxes: Compare the income tax and property tax rates in your current and new states. If taxes are higher, make sure there’s room in your budget.
  • Job market: If you’re not moving for a job, research the opportunities in your new location. Are there plenty of openings that interest you? Do the salary ranges meet your needs? Spend some time on forums or social media groups to see what local job seekers have to say, too. They can tell you how competitive the hiring processes are.
  • Lifestyle changes: Consider how your lifestyle will change in the new state. If you’re moving to a more expensive place, you might have less disposable income for entertainment and dining out. Every place has its pros and cons, so you simply need to decide if the tradeoffs are worth it. For example, a small town might be less walkable than a big city, but you might have hiking trails in your backyard.
  • Residency: Every state has its own timeline for establishing residency. If you need residency to vote or get in-state tuition, make sure you’re allowing enough time for all these processes to complete.

Our Moving Out of State Checklist

Moving to a new state is a big endeavor, but it’s completely manageable. As you get started, a moving checklist can help you keep track of everything you need to do. Pay close attention to the timeline — some tasks, like budgeting and booking movers, are best done early.

Ready to get started? Here’s what you need to do when moving out of state:

1. Make a Budget Early When Moving to Another State

Couple calculating costs with calculator and a phone while making a moving budget

How much does it cost to move to another state? The answer varies.

According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a cross-country move is $4,572. Actual costs depend on how far you’re moving, how much you’re taking, and the type of moving help you need. Depending on your situation, you could pay anywhere from $550 to $9,500.

That’s a wide range, so it’s important to start budgeting early. Make sure to get estimates and leave plenty of time to save up the money you need. Also, no matter what your estimate is, you should add some cushion to your budget. Long-distance and cross-country moves can have all sorts of unexpected situations pop up, so it helps to have some extra funds in case of an emergency.

2. Ask Your Employer About Relocation Assistance

Are you moving out of state to take a new job? If so, your employer may offer out-of-state relocation assistance to help cover expenses such as moving company costs, storage, temporary housing, and more. Not every company will have this option, but some employers will make the investment for the right talent.

To find out if this is a benefit your company offers, reach out to your Human Resources department.

3. If Possible, Visit Your New Hometown at Least Once

If you’re moving to a new city or area you’re not familiar with, it’s a good idea to spend some time there before you move. You’ll want to explore different neighborhoods, look into the local shops and restaurants, test the walkability, and scope out your potential neighbors.

This is also a great time to tour new homes and possibly sign a lease. And if that’s not possible, you can pick a favorite neighborhood or two and do virtual home tours online.

And if you can’t make a trip at all before the actual move, do yourself a favor and at least look around with Google Maps.

4. Begin Planning 8 to 12 Weeks Ahead and Start Selecting Your Dates

Once you’re set on your new destination, it’s time to start planning and prepping for the actual relocation. Give yourself about 8-12 weeks to organize the move. This gives you plenty of time to pack, get movers, notify the right people and institutions about your move, and handle any obstacles that crop up.

The first item on the agenda? Pick a moving date. If you’re planning to use movers, booking earlier can help you get the date you want.

5. Consider the Season You’re Moving In

season moving

As you’re choosing a date, you should also think about the weather. If you can help it, you don’t want to spend all day unloading your belongings at the height of summer in Arizona or during hurricane season in Louisiana.

Research the climate for your new home and plan the move for when the weather is mild. You can look up your destination on a site like Climate-Data.org, which offers a ton of information about the average monthly temperature, precipitation, and more for cities around the world.

6. Decide If Full-Service or DIY Is Best for Your Long-distance Move

Typically, your decision on what moving service to choose comes down between cost vs. convenience.

If you want to leave the heavy lifting and driving to someone else, hire professional movers. Keep in mind that the convenience of this type of move also makes it the most expensive. Alternatively, if you want to save the most money, you might want to pick the DIY route. It’s much cheaper than a full-service move, but you’ll have to handle everything on your own — from packing to renting and driving the truck to unloading all your stuff at your new home.

Other long-distance move options

While full-service and DIY moves are your two major choices, there are some alternatives. If you want to save money without sacrificing all the convenience, you can hire movers to load and unload the truck for you. You’ll still need to rent the truck and drive yourself to your new location, but you’ll still pay less overall and still get some help from the pros.

 

“When you’re making an interstate move, you’ll also need to register your car with your new state’s DMV…Keep in mind that some states, including California and Georgia, charge a vehicle registration tax based on market value.”

 

Also, don’t forget you can use moving containers, which are an especially good option if there’s a gap between your move-out and move-in dates.

With this solution, you pack and load the container yourself at your own pace. Once you’re done, the company will come to pick it up and deliver it to your new home, or hold it at their storage centers. You can even hire professional movers to help you load and unload one if you need to.

7. Research the Best Long-Distance Moving Services for Your Specific Journey

Not sure which moving option to choose? Whether you’re hiring a moving company, driving a rental truck, or going with a shipping container, the distance you’re moving will make a big difference in your options.

For example, some companies only do local moves, which usually means a distance of 100 miles or less. If your new state is several hundred miles away, you’ll need to budget for higher moving costs and find a company specializing in longer distances.

Moving across several states or cross-country will always be the most expensive option, and these types of long-distance moves usually require a company with a national presence.

8. Get Your Packing Supplies Well Ahead of Time

Make sure you have all the necessary supplies handy for properly packing your belongings, and keep extra on hand just in case. You don’t want to have to run out in search of boxes or tape while you’re in the middle of packing.

Also, consider any specialized supplies you may need, such as wardrobe boxes, hangers, bubble wrap, box knives, permanent markers, and dollies.

To save money on these items, see if anyone has cheap or free moving boxes on sites such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Nextdoor. You can also check with local businesses.

9. Set Aside 6 to 12 Hours Per Room to Pack

Packing will probably take longer than you think. A 2-bedroom home can take 2 to 3 days or more, and that’s if you set aside the entire day for packing. If you have work or school obligations, or you can only squeeze in a few hours of packing a day, it will likely take much longer.

You do have the option of hiring movers to help you pack, though. As professionals, they know all the tricks and have the skills to pack much more quickly and efficiently. If you hire movers to pack up and load your belongings, they’ll probably finish within a day. The same 2-bedroom home that would take you days to complete requires about 6 to 12 hours for movers, assuming there’s a 2-person crew.

10. Figure out Your New Place’s Moving Policies

Some apartment buildings and other planned communities have strict rules around moving. For example, you may not be allowed to block certain streets or driveways or take up the elevators for too long.

Be sure to know these policies beforehand so you can plan around them. To find out, contact your building’s property manager or head of the homeowners association.

11. Find out If Your New Place Has Any Restrictions for Pets or Plants

You don’t want to run into any trouble getting your precious animals or plants to their new home. Some states, such as California and Hawaii, have strict rules around transporting animals and plants. Be sure to know what’s considered illegal, and prepare accordingly.

You can start with your destination state’s website (look for a “.gov” in the URL).

12. Utilize Car Shipping Services If Necessary

If you’re not driving your own vehicle to the new location, you need to sell or or you’ll need to have it shipped. Some moving companies will ship your car along with your belongings, but you may be able to save some money by hiring a company that specializes in shipping cars. The price varies based on your vehicle’s size and condition, the shipping distance, and the type of carrier.

 

“Some states have reciprocity agreements or other arrangements to help ease the process [of transferring professional licenses]. However, you should contact your state licensing board as soon as possible…”

 

When shipping a car, one of the biggest decisions to make is whether to go with open or closed transport. It’s probably safer to go with a closed container if you have a newer or luxury vehicle, as it’s better protected from the elements that way, although the cost can be as much as 60% higher. Also, be sure to get several quotes before choosing a car shipping company.

13. Cancel or Transfer Any Memberships

Belong to a gym or club? Many require at least one month’s notice before you cancel your membership, so be sure to get this done well before you move. If the organization has a location in the city you’re moving to, you may be able to transfer the membership instead.

14. Change Your Address and Set up Mail Forwarding

mail forwarded

Set aside some time before the move to change your address. This can take longer than you’d expect — you’ll need to give your new address to everyone from your insurance companies to government agencies and your kids’ schools.

To make sure you don’t miss any important mail in the transition, have your mail forwarded by the USPS.

15. Contact Your Banks and Lenders

Make sure you don’t miss any important payments — let your bank, credit card company, student loan servicer, and other financial institutions know that you’re moving. Give them your new address as soon as you have it. You may be able to do this by simply logging into your online banking platform or by calling the number on your card or statement.

16. Get Your Utilities Transferred

The last thing you want is to show up at your new place and have no water or electricity. To prevent this, research the options available in your new city for setting up a new service. Once you’ve selected the provider, it’s a good idea to get the ball rolling at least 2 weeks before your move.

Keep in mind that for some utilities, such as electricity, the service provider may run a soft credit check and/or require a deposit to approve your account.

17. Transfer Your Healthcare Records

A few weeks before you move, call your doctors, dentist, and other healthcare providers to ask about the procedure for transferring healthcare records. At a minimum, you’ll probably need to sign a release form.

If you already have a new doctor, you can simply ask each provider to send the records. Alternatively, you can request a print copy or have the records sent when you find new providers.

18. Have Your Child’s School Records Transferred

If you have kids, you must notify their school of the move. Ensure their school records, along with other important records such as health information and immunizations, get transferred to the new school.

You should be able to bring photocopies of these documents when you register them at their new school. However, you’ll eventually need to supply official, sealed copies of their transcripts, which include report cards and standardized test results.

19. Research Transferring Your Professional License

If you work as a doctor, dentist, lawyer, or other licensed professional, you may need to transfer your license or apply for a new one in the new state.

The process for transferring your license will depend on your state and profession. Some states have reciprocity agreements or other arrangements to help ease the process. However, you should contact your state licensing board as soon as possible to ensure you have enough time to complete the process before your move.

20. Update Your Driver’s License or ID Within 2Weeks

update license

Most states require you to get a new driver’s license within 2months of relocating, although some states’ timeframes are considerably shorter. Make sure you know how long you have to get a new license in your new state before you move.

You’ll need to book an appointment with your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Bring your current license, additional identification (such as your Social Security card or passport), proof of residence (such as a utility bill or W-2), and a form of payment.

Be sure to book your appointment in advance since slots tend to fill up quickly. You can find your local DMV office using this directory.

21. Update Your Vehicle Registration and Insurance

When you’re making an interstate move, you’ll also need to register your car with your new state’s DMV. Each state offers a grace period to update your registration, typically between 30 and 90 days.

Most states also require proof of insurance to register your car. Sign up for a new policy if you’re unable to remain with the same insurer (and don’t cancel your old one until you do) before registering.

Along with your new ID and proof of insurance, you’ll need proof of residency and your car’s title. Keep in mind that some states, including California and Georgia, charge a vehicle registration tax based on market value. It’s especially important to plan for this added expense if you have a newer car or luxury vehicle.

22. Register to Vote

Don’t forget your civic duty during your move! Check Vote.gov to find instructions for registering to vote in your new state. In many states, you can register to vote when you get a new driver’s license. Also, don’t forget to deregister with your previous home state if necessary.

23. Get a Handle on Taxes

One aspect of moving that you may not have considered — but that can impact your finances quite a bit — is the state income tax. Some states have a flat tax, meaning everyone pays the same tax rate. Others have a progressive tax system, which means you pay a higher tax rate on higher amounts of income. And a handful don’t charge income tax at all.

“Actual [moving] costs depend on how far you’re moving, how much you’re taking, and the type of moving help you need. Depending on your situation, you could pay anywhere from $550 to $9,500.”

Keep in mind that if you lived and worked in the same state all year, you only need to file one state return. However, if you moved to another state during the year (or otherwise lived in one state and earned income in another), you might need to file more than one return.

24. Find Your New Social Circle

A fresh start might be exactly what you need — but it’s also scary!

How do you move to another state and start over? First off, reframe the situation as an opportunity. The lack of familiar faces or a sense of belonging can potentially be overwhelming, but the good news is that you’re in total control.

Look for social groups, sports clubs, art collectives, or other groups that align with your interests. Hit a photography meet-up, join a run club, or go out to local establishments and introduce yourself to people. You can also find neighborhood meetups from online platforms like Nextdoor.

And remember, starting over isn’t just about meeting people. It’s also your chance to build new routines and habits. Have you always wanted to get up early and work out? Here’s your opportunity.

The Best States to Move To (and the Worst)

Ready to move but haven’t decided which state is the right option? The 2024-2025 HireAHelper Moving Migration Report revealed which states are most popular — and least popular — with people who want to relocate.

According to our data, Vermont had a whopping 61% more people moving into the state than out of it, and it might just be the best state to move to based on popularity. Next in line are Delaware, Hawaii, Oregon, and Georgia.

Which states were far less popular? According to the numbers, New Hampshire. In 2024, 34.3% more people left the state than moved in. The runners-up are the District of Columbia, New Mexico, Arizona, and Montana.

Moving Out of State Checklist

Here are the key action items for moving out of state so you always have them on hand:

An image with a moving out of state checklist

When Is the Best Time To Move?

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One of the biggest questions when it comes to moving —after where you’re moving — is when to make the trip. After all, getting the timing right allows you to fit the move into your life and can make a huge difference in the cost and the moving experience.

You probably already have an idea about when you’d like to move, but is there a best time for moving? You bet!

If cost is your top concern, the best time to move is during the off-season, mid-month, in the middle of the week, and first thing in the morning.

But sometimes, other factors besides cost, such as weather conditions and school schedules, can play a bigger role in your decision. For instance, families with school-aged children may prefer to move during summer break to avoid disrupting the academic year, while those in regions prone to intense winter weather conditions might favor milder seasons to ensure safer travel conditions.

Balancing these factors with cost considerations can help you find the ideal time for your move. Here’s what you should know as you plan your moving timeline.

When Is Moving Season?

toy boxes and a truck sit on top of a calendar

Just like in sports or hunting, there is a definite moving season. Moving activity typically peaks during the summer months — essentially, when the school is out and the weather is warmer. In fact, 45% of all moves happen between May and August, according to proprietary HireAHelper data.

During this period, movers often charge more because demand is at its highest. Movers also book up fast, so it can be harder to reserve the dates you want during the busy summer season. For long-distance moves, there can be longer timelines between pick-up and delivery dates as well.

If it’s best for your situation to move during the summer, you’ll want to reserve a date as soon as possible, ideally well ahead of the season. You may also want to consider a less expensive moving solution like driving a rental truck and hiring hourly moving help rather than booking a full-service mover. Or, give yourself enough time to shop around for moving companies to find the best price.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Move?

a yellow moving truck drives down a road lined with trees in autumn colors

Given what we know about the seasonality of moving activity, it follows that the best month to move would be outside of the busy summer season —between late fall and early spring. During this time, moving demand is lower, and generally so are prices.

As mentioned earlier, choosing the right time to move isn’t just about cost. You also have to think about weather conditions and other considerations.

While the “off season” is usually the best time to move, it’s not always the best for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each season to help you make the most informed decision about when to schedule your move.

Season Pros Cons
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather in most regions

– Less snow and ice to worry about

– Lower demand and better prices compared to the busy summer season

 – Possibility of rain

– Can conflict with spring break or school schedules
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather with less risk of snow and ice

– Ideal for families with kids (no school disruptions)

 – Higher demand can lead to higher costs

– Hot weather can impact heat-sensitive items like plants and artwork

– 60% of moves happen during this period, so movers book up fast
Fall (September-November) – Cooler weather

– Lower demand for moving services, which can mean better prices

– Mild weather conditions make moving easier

 – Back-to-school schedules can interfere

– Hurricane season in some regions (e.g., Southeastern states)
Winter (December-February) – Cheapest time to move

– Less competition for movers and homes

– Potential for good real estate and rental deals

 – Extreme winter temperatures and snow in many regions

– Risk of difficult weather conditions like ice or snowstorm delays

Regional considerations, like local events, road closures, and spring break traffic, can also impact your moving experience, even outside of peak moving season. For instance, the Atlantic hurricane season extends until the end of November 30 — something for those in Southeastern states like Florida and Georgia to watch out for.

Here are some regional moving tips to keep in mind:

Region Considerations
Northern U.S. Avoid winter moves due to snow and icy roads if you’ll be doing the driving yourself.
Southern U.S. Be mindful of peak summer heat and hurricane season.
Coastal areas Avoid spring break or other high-traffic beach holidays, and monitor storm patterns in hurricane-prone regions.
Mountainous areas Avoid winter moves due to snow and potential road closures.

When Is the Best Time of the Month to Move?

Not only are there better times of the year for moving, but there’s also a better time of the month to move.

About a third of the country rents their homes, and most renters move every one to four years. Thanks to most leases beginning early in the month, the first and last weeks tend to be the busiest for moving companies.

This means the middle of the month tends to be the most cost-effective time to move.

 

“If you’re moving during a warmer season, starting the move early in the day helps you and your movers avoid hauling boxes when the sun is at its hottest.”

 

While it’s common for rental leases to begin on the first of the month, sometimes renters have the flexibility to move in earlier with prorated rent, or they have the option of a middle-of-the-month lease start date. If this is a possibility for you, consider moving during the middle of the month for lower rates and greater mover availability.

In fact, some apartments may give special discounts when you move in in the middle of the month, just as they offer discounts during times of the year when occupancy is low.

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When is the best time to move into an apartment?

When apartment hunting, you can save money by signing a lease during non-peak times — during the fall (September through November) and winter (December through February).

The longer an apartment sits on the market, the more likely it is that the owner will drop the rent to attract a tenant. So, looking for an apartment before or after the seasonal rush is a great way to save. The tradeoff is that there will be fewer units available, so you’re less likely to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Depending on the terms of your lease, you might not have any flexibility about scheduling your move. But if you do have some wiggle room, aiming for the middle of the month is best, when movers have more availability and you may possibly pay less of a premium for their services.

When Is the Best Time of the Week to Move?

As you might guess, the most popular part of the week to move is the weekend. Most people get time off from work and school on the weekends — and so do their friends or family who are helping them out with the move. This means that weekdays are the best time of the week to move, and the earlier in the week, the better.

If you can swing it, take time off and move during the week. If you’re planning on hiring moving labor or a moving company, this is your best bet for booking movers before calendars fill up. You might even save money on your move (for instance, U-Haul’s truck rental prices are slightly lower on weekdays compared to weekends). As a bonus, you won’t have to worry about childcare if school is in session and you’re moving locally.

When Is the Best Time of Day to Move?

a woman stands by a sunny window holding a cup of coffee. A half-open moving box is behind her.

When it comes to moving day, the morning is the best time of day to move for several reasons.

First, your movers are more likely to show up on time. They won’t have any jobs to complete before yours, so there’s less chance of a delay. They’re also more likely to show up fresh and energized.

If you’re moving during a warmer season, starting the move early in the day helps you and your movers avoid hauling boxes when the sun is at its hottest.

Plus, a morning move means you arrive at your new place sooner, giving you ample time to unpack and get settled. Try to get started around 8 am to 10 am — earlier if possible. It’s an early start, but definitely worth it in the end.

FAQs: The Best Time to Move

a couple surrounded by moving boxes discusses something in front of a laptop

When is the best time to buy or rent a home?

It depends on what your priorities are. Just because you’ll find the lowest prices doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the “best” time for you to buy or rent.

That said, the height of the home-buying season tends to take place in the late summer and early fall. This means the best home prices can be found closer to the end of the year. Buying a home during this off-season means you’ll deal with less competition and find better prices, but there may be fewer homes on the market that meet your specific preferences or needs.

 

“…[T]he best month to move would be outside of the busy summer season —between late fall and early spring. During this time, moving demand is lower, and generally so are prices.”

 

Rental prices tend to hit their lowest points around December through March. This coincides with the best time of year to move, as there is less demand between the late fall and spring months. However, just as with buying a home, while you may have more negotiating power during these off-season months, there will be fewer rentals on the market.

If having more available inventory or aligning with your kids’ school year is more important to you, then doing your home shopping over the summer may be the best time of year. But you also might consider getting a head start in the spring or waiting until the tail end of the summer.

What month is the most expensive to move?

As the summertime is peak moving season, the most expensive months to move are June, July, and August. Because of the increase in demand, it’s common for movers to charge more for their services during this time. After Labor Day, moving activity decreases significantly, which is reflected in lower rates and roomier calendars.

When is the cheapest month to move?

Moving is cheapest at the tail end of the year and at the beginning of the year — during November through March. At this time, you can save as much as 20 to 30% on moving compared to the busy moving season. After this, as moving activity picks up, prices can rise significantly, depending on the moving solution you choose.

The Best Time to Move

“When is the best time to move?” is ultimately a personal question —the answer depends on your budget, priorities, and the unique circumstances of your move. Following the guidelines above will not only help you save some cash, but it can make a world of difference in your moving experience as well.

Need a helping hand? No matter what time you choose to move, making sure you have reliable, professional moving help is a must. Find the top-rated moving help near you to get started.

2022 Study: This Is the Most Expensive Year in History To Move

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Category: Money Saving, Moving Advice

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Key Findings:

  • So far in 2022, moving costs are 9% higher than in the same period in 2021
  • In May 2022, the average cost of a move was $427 — 15% higher than in May 2021
  • Moving was at its absolute cheapest during the height of the pandemic (2020; $320 on average) 
  • The average cost of a move is set to reach a high of $454 by August 2022, coinciding with peak demand for moving services
  • Moving in 2022 is more expensive in 39 out of the 45 states in which data is available, with Maine seeing a 51% YoY spike
  • The rise in the cost of moving affects 90 out of 108 cities, most notably Columbia, SC (+42%) and Seattle, WA (+39%)

 

In May 2022, inflation in the United States reached a 40-year high of 8.6%. That’s the highest it’s been since the recession of 1981, when the economy struggled to shake off the impact of the oil crisis of the late ’70s.

At HireAHelper, we don’t have the data going back decades, but the data we do have shows that the year-on-year increase in the cost of moving is also off the charts. In May 2022, an average move cost $427 — 15% more than a year ago.

And it’s not just a one-off. In the first five months of 2022, moving costs reached an average of $394, which is 9% higher than they were in the same period last year.

In part, that’s down to the rising prices of goods and services that are essential for the moving industry:

You get the picture. On the backdrop of high inflation, the ever-rising gas prices, and increases in costs of trucks and labor, moving costs are also rising to unprecedented levels.

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Up Since the Pandemic: How the Cost of Moving Changed Over Time

From 2018 to early 2021, the change in the cost of moving was relatively flat; rates would go up only 4% one month, then down 3% the next month.

Then, the global pandemic happened. This forced many to put their moving plans on hold, resulting in the cost of moving services declining for four months straight (February-May 2020). In May that year, the cost of a move on average was $320 — 10% cheaper than the year before and the cheapest it’s been in the last five years.

 

“Assuming 2022 will look like non-pandemic years in terms of when and how many people move…the average cost of a move will reach a record-high of $454 per move by August.”

 

As the pandemic eased and vaccinations picked up in 2021, moving activity resumed its typical levels and prices bounced back. During this period, moving costs were up by an average of 15% year-over-year. By August 2021, the cost of moving crossed the $400-mark, averaging $407 per move.

 

cost of moving over time 2022
(Click here for interactive version)

 

Since then, the cost of moving ebbed and flowed before reaching an astounding $427 in May of 2022. Way ahead of the inflation rate, the cost of moving is 15% higher than it was this time last year, and 10% higher than just a month ago.

In fact, since January 2021, the cost of moving has only gone up year-on-year. In other words, there hasn’t been a single month in that period where the cost of moving wasn’t higher than it had been 12 months prior. 

 

cost of move inflation 2022
(Click here for interactive version)

All Over The Place: Where Cost of Moving Soared Highest

Now that we know moving is becoming more expensive nationally, let’s have a look at how the cost of moving has changed in different parts of the country. 

Which states are seeing the greatest jumps in moving prices? In which cities are the moving costs spiking? Are there any states and cities that buck the overall trend?

Based on our figures, those moving in Maine are experiencing the biggest year-over-year spike in cost. The average so far this year is $525, which is some 51% higher than the $350 cost of an average move in the first five months of 2021.

Overall, so far there are five states where moving in 2022 costs a whopping 25% higher or more than during the same period last year. Besides Maine, these states are Nebraska (+30%), Utah (+28%), Alabama (+27%), Idaho (+27%), and Delaware (+26%).

 

(Click here for interactive version)

There were also five states where the cost of moving remained the same or decreased compared to May 2021. It should be pointed out that the percent decrease was quite marginal in all cases, and only reached a maximum of -6% in New Mexico and -5% in Minnesota.

 

“On the highest end, Columbia, SC (+42%) and Seattle, WA (+39%) saw an increase in moving costs of around 40% during the first five months of 2022, as compared to 2021.”

 

Cities followed a similar pattern to states. In 90 out of 108 cities for which there are representative data, we saw a significant increase in how much moving costs in May 2022 compared to in May 2021.

For the majority of cities, the price spike was between 10% and 25%. On the highest end, Columbia, SC (+42%) and Seattle, WA (+39%) saw an increase in moving costs of around 40% during the first five months of 2022, as compared to 2021. 

 

city by city cost
(Click here for interactive version)

 

Top among those few cities where moving costs didn’t spike are Rochester, NY (-25%), Knoxville, TN (-22%) and Milwaukee, WI (-15%). Curiously, the cost of moving in New York City stayed the same in 2022 as it was the year before.

High Season: Summer Signals Even Higher Moving Costs

As if it wasn’t high enough already, the cost of moving is likely to rise even more this summer. Partially, this is due to inflation, but to a greater extent, this is also due to the laws of supply and demand.

Peak moving season, i.e., the time of the year when Americans are most likely to move, is routinely observed from June through August. Roughly 40% of all moves that happen during any given year take place during the summer months, meaning that’s when the demand for moving services is the highest.

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This demand is reflected in the increased cost of moving during the summer. Based on our data going back to 2018, moving costs tend to peak in August. (The only exception was 2020 when, for reasons noted above, moving season shifted to autumn and the cost of moving was highest in October.)

What does this mean for 2022? Most likely, despite the already higher costs, moving is likely to get even more expensive as we get into the summer and the height of the moving season.

 

forecasting move cost 2022
(Click here for interactive version)

 

Assuming 2022 will look like non-pandemic years in terms of when and how many people move, our forecast suggests that the average cost of a move will reach a record-high of $454 per move by August.

This would make 2022 the most expensive summer for moving in the U.S. by far. Even though the average cost is likely to return to the $400-mark by year’s end, 2022 is projected to be the most expensive year for moving on record.

 

year on year move cost
(Click here for interactive version)

 

There’s not much we can do about inflation and rising gas prices, but you can still fight back against rising prices!

First, have a look at our guide to help figure out how much money you should spend on a move. Looking to rent a U-Haul? Check our tips on how to save on your truck rental. 

And if you are planning to move this summer, be sure to read our advice on how to save money on moving during peak moving season.

Sources and Methodology
All charts and tables are based on the analysis of 233,000 local moves in the U.S. booked through HireAHelper.com and our partners from January 2018 through May 2022.
States and cities with less than 100 moves in the last 12 months were excluded from the state-by-state and city-by-city analysis, respectively. However, calculations of the cost of moving by month of the year or day of the week do include data from all states and cities.
Illustrations by Elizabeth Gu
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