Moving Costs: What to Expect Year-Round

Whether you’re moving up the street or across the country, there’s more to the moving process than packing boxes and loading a truck. Moving often goes hand in hand with buying or selling a home, which makes it both a logistical and a financial decision.

Moving costs don’t exist in a vacuum. In addition to the physical move itself, buying and selling a home comes with expenses that can add up quickly. That’s why preparation matters — especially for first-time buyers. Costs associated with buying a home may include your down payment, monthly mortgage payment, closing costs, home inspection, and any renovations you want to tackle before move-in. On the selling side, you may be paying for repairs or updates to get your home market-ready, closing costs, real estate commissionsThe "success tax" paid at the finish line of a property transaction, serving as a performance-based bounty that compensates agents for bridging the gap between a "For Sale" sign and a legally recorded deed.real estate commissionsThe "success tax" paid at the finish line of a property transaction, serving as a performance-based bounty that compensates agents for bridging the gap between a "For Sale" sign and a legally recorded deed., or even overlapping mortgage payments if you buy before your current home sells.

Down Payments and Closing Costs

Most buyers need some cash upfront to get to the closing table.

Closing costs typically include items like property taxes, homeowners insurance, appraisal fees, title services, and other expenses tied to finalizing your loan. They also cover services provided during the loan process, such as work completed by the appraiser or title company. Some costs are paid as they occur — for example, home inspections are often paid upfront — and those amounts are usually credited back within your total closing costs.

In many cases, buyers can negotiate with the seller to help cover some closing costs. Each loan program has its own guidelines for seller contributions, so it’s important to review your options with your lender first.

Most buyers will also need to make a down payment. Although 20% down payments are often associated with Conventional Loans, they’re far from the only option.

Expert Tip

For example, FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down, and other programs may offer low- or no-down-payment options for qualified buyers.

The right choice depends on your goals, finances, and eligibility, which is why working with a knowledgeable Mortgage Banker makes the biggest of differences.

Moving Costs Beyond the Truck

Moving expenses can vary widely depending on distance, timing, location, and how much help you need.

If you’re moving locally, you may be able to spread the move out over multiple trips or lean on friends and family for extra support. Meanwhile, long-distance moves require much more coordination and generally occur in one singular window of time.

Depending on your timeline, you may also need temporary lodging or storage if your move-out and move-in dates don’t align.

And keep in mind, moving costs aren’t just about the movers themselves. Utility setup fees, deposits, travel expenses, storage, and overlapping housing payments can all influence your total cost (and those expenses can change depending on the season and your personal circumstances).

Timing Your Move Throughout the Year

One factor many people overlook is timing. Moving costs can fluctuate significantly throughout the year. Summer tends to be the most expensive season due to higher demand, while winter months often offer lower rates. However, cheaper seasons may come with tradeoffs like limited availability, weather-related delays, or added labor time. Mid-week and mid-month moves are often more affordable than weekends or end-of-month moves, when demand is highest.

Winter Moves (December–February)

Winter is typically the least expensive time of year to move. Demand is lower, which means moving companies often have more availability and may offer reduced rates.

What usually costs less in winter:

• Professional moving services

• Truck rentals

• Storage due to lower demand

What to factor in:

• Weather-related delays or added labor time

• Shorter daylight hours

• Limited housing inventory in some markets

Winter moves can be a smart option for buyers who have flexible timelines and want to prioritize cost savings. However, there’s a trade-off. Weather risks and tighter schedules may offset some of those savings depending on your location.

Spring Moves (March–May)

Spring is considered a shoulder season for moving. Prices are typically higher than winter but lower than peak summer rates.

Why spring can be appealing:

• More housing inventory becomes available

• Milder weather makes moving easier

• Better mover availability than summer

Cost considerations:

• Rates begin to rise as demand increases

• Competition for popular moving dates may start early

We can look at the spring season as a striking balance between affordability and convenience, making it a popular choice for buyers who want flexibility without peak-season pricing.

Summer Moves (June–August)

As one might expect, summer is the busiest and most expensive time to move. Families often plan moves around school schedules, and homebuying activity is typically at its peak. At least, that’s been our experience.

Why summer costs more:

• High demand for movers and truck rentals

• Limited availability without advance booking

• Premium pricing for weekends and month-end dates

Additional expenses to watch for:

• Temporary lodging if closing timelines shift

• Storage costs due to tight schedules

• Higher fuel and travel costs for long-distance moves

While summer moves offer convenience, especially for families, they often come with higher overall costs and less flexibility.

Fall Moves (September–November)

Fall marks a slowdown in the moving market, which can lead to more competitive pricing.

Fall moving advantages:

• Lower demand than summer

• Improved availability and scheduling flexibility

• More predictable weather in many regions

Things to consider:

• Shorter days as winter approaches

• Potentially fewer homes on the market

For many movers, autumn offers a cost-effective window without the challenges of winter weather or summer pricing.

Timing Within the Month and Week Matters Too

Season isn’t the only factor that affects moving costs.

• Mid-week moves are often less expensive than weekends.

• Mid-month moves tend to cost less than moves at the beginning or end of the month.

• Peak demand around lease start and end dates can drive prices up regardless of season.

Tips for a More Stress-Free Move

Moving is pretty overwhelming…no way around it. BUT a little organization goes a long way, right?

Once you have a confirmed moving date, start packing early by focusing on non-essential items and infrequently used spaces, then work your way toward everyday necessities closer to move-in. Gathering boxes over time and decluttering as you go can greatly reduce your costs and efforts.

And no matter the season, preparation is everything. Booking movers early, building in a financial cushion, and staying flexible with timing can help keep your move on track. The cheapest move isn’t always the best one — the right move is the one that fits your timeline, budget, and long-term plans.

Moving, buying, or planning your next step? Keep moving around our Knowledge Center for more practical help.