How much do movers cost in 2026?
The price of a move depends mostly on how much you own, the distance, the season and access at both homes. Below are guide prices from US moving cost guides published in 2026. You get a firm price after an in-home or video survey.
Hourly rates for local moves
Local movers (within about 50 to 100 miles) usually charge by the hour. The clock often starts when the crew leaves the depot, so travel time is added, often about one hour. Many movers have a minimum of 2 to 4 hours.
| Crew | Guide price per hour |
|---|---|
| 2 movers and a truck | $80 to $210 |
| 3 movers and a truck | $110 to $170 |
| 4 movers and a truck | $150 to $220 |
Local move prices by home size
The ranges are wide because guides use different data. The low figure is a simple move with few stairs, the high figure a busy city or a lot of furniture.
| Home | Local move |
|---|---|
| Studio or 1-bedroom | $350 to $1,200 |
| 2-bedroom | $800 to $2,200 |
| 3-bedroom | $1,200 to $3,200 |
| 4-bedroom | $1,800 to $4,500 |
| 5+ bedrooms | $2,500 to $6,000+ |
Extra costs
| Service | Guide price |
|---|---|
| Packing service | $300 to $1,000+ |
| Packing materials if you pack yourself | $100 to $300 |
| Temporary storage | $75 to $300 a month |
| Piano, upright (local) | $250 to $600 |
| Piano, grand (local) | $500 to $1,200+ |
The price also goes up when:
- you move between May and September (often 20 to 30% more)
- there are many stairs, no elevator or a long walk from the truck
- you have heavy items such as a piano, a gun safe or a pool table
- your building needs a booked elevator, a loading zone or a certificate of insurance
How to save money
- Get at least three written quotes and compare what is included
- Move midweek and outside the summer peak if you can
- Sell or donate what you don't need before the move
- Pack books, clothes and kitchen items yourself
- For a few items, compare a full crew with moving labor or a small-move service
Questions about moving costs
How much do movers charge per hour?
Most guides give about $80 to $210 an hour for 2 movers and a truck. Each extra mover adds roughly $30 to $50 an hour. Big cities are usually at the top of the range.
How much does it cost to move a 1-bedroom apartment?
A local 1-bedroom move usually costs about $350 to $1,200, depending on stairs, elevators and how far you go.
Is it cheaper to move in winter?
Often yes. Demand is highest from May to September, when prices can be 20 to 30% higher. Weekdays in the middle of the month are usually cheapest.
Do I need to tip movers?
Tipping is optional. A common guide is $20 to $50 per mover for a full day. See our guide on how much to tip movers.
Average prices including sales tax, from several price guides. Checked in November 2026. Always ask for a quote for your own situation.
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