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What Is The Average Residential Moving Cost in NYC?

Residential moving can be an exciting and exhilarating experience, but it can also be overwhelming when you consider all the logistics and expenses involved. If you're planning to relocate to the bustling city of New York, it's crucial to be well-informed about the average residential moving cost in NYC. Understanding the financial aspect of your move will enable you to plan and budget effectively, ensuring a smooth transition into your new home. 

In this article, we will explore the various factors that influence residential moving costs in NYC, helping you estimate and prepare for this significant expense. So, let's delve into the world of residential moving costs and uncover what it takes to relocate in the vibrant. 

residential moving cost

Budgets Rough Estimates

The cost of moving depends on several variables, but your inventory is the most accurate way to estimate it. 5 Star Movers calculated our average moving costs by NYC apartment size. We found that the price ranges are generally consistent with the number of rooms in an apartment. We found the following price ranges within New York City:

  • Studio – $420 – $700
  • Apartments with one bedroom – from $700 to $1100
  • Apartments with two bedrooms – $1100 to $1500
  • Apartments with three bedrooms – $1500 AND UP

Moving costs can vary widely, even if some companies offer a flat rate. This is because moving costs are based on several factors. 5 Star Movers quote is based on three main factors: inventory, distance, and the services you need. Remember that many movers depend on tips to make a living. Keep this in mind as you budget your move.

What Is The Average Residential Moving cost?

NYC movers' prices can vary depending on several factors. Here is a guide that will help you understand hourly moving costs.

Local NYC movers typically charge between $40 and $150 per mover per hour. This wide price range is due to the variety of moving jobs available and the moving company's professionalism. Uninsured movers found on Craigslist or TaskRabbit, for example, will charge much less than those at a professional moving company.

Other factors can also affect the cost. Long-distance moving can cost up to $200 an hour per mover. Moreover, you'll also be paying a premium for additional services like packing, unpacking, and furniture assembly/disassembly.

You can save money by booking a move during the week and the off-peak period (September to May). The summer and weekends are the busiest times for movers. If you're flexible, you can ask your local movers if they offer a deal for off-peak hours.

Sheer Volume / Time

If you hire a mover to transport your items to their new location, the quote you receive will be based on how many items you have to move. Moving companies charge customers based on the amount of work they do with them. The best way to estimate how much time will be spent is to determine what items will be moved. Volume is a good way to estimate the time a moving company takes for a job, but other factors must be considered.

Supplies for Moving

Packing is required to move the items into your house. Depending on the items you are moving, you might only need some boxes and tape. Packing paper, bubble wrap, and special boxes are needed if you have fragile items. The general rule is that one drawer or shelf in your house will fit into a medium/linen moving box. This means that a six-tiered bookcase will require six boxes. Our blog has a detailed list of moving supplies you should budget.

Packing Services & Additional Services

Professional movers offer full-service packing. This service includes full packing supplies and movers arriving at your house to pack all your belongings, disassemble furniture, and load trucks. You can ask professional movers to pack bulky or fragile items for you.

It may be the best option for people looking to save money. Paying movers for a professional packing service is another option. Ask your movers about all the services that they provide. This service can be useful if you're away from the time of moving.

How Long Will It Be Before Your Possessions Arrive At Their New Residence? 

It is important to consider this factor when calculating a NYC moving cost. This calculation considers the distance, traffic, accessibility, and other factors. New York City can be a difficult place to navigate for moving trucks, so even a short trip of a few kilometers may take longer than expected.

Move Into a Walk-Up Building

NYC may have the reputation of being a progressive, modern city, but many of its apartment buildings are old. Many of these buildings are “walk-ups,” meaning the apartments are only accessible via stairs. On a normal day, the stair commute can be a minor inconvenience. However, this can become a major headache on a moving day. The professionals can easily move items up and down the stairs, but it takes longer than an elevator. The longer a move takes, the more stairs the moving crew has to climb or descend.

Set the Date

Moving services, moving rentals, and moving supplies are in high demand. You can get a great deal if you move at the right time. You won't have the option to choose when you move because people usually do it for something other than fun. Most people move at the worst possible times. Moving is more expensive in the summer because families don't want to move their kids from school. A large percentage of New Yorkers rent their apartment. Most year-long leases end on the last or first day of each month. This makes moving to NYC a very busy time.

Additional NYC Costs

There may be additional NYC fees depending on where you are moving to and from. Parking your truck can be a hassle if you are renting one to move. You could also get a ticket if you don't take care. If you move to NJ or a new borough across the water, you may have to pay tolls. Second-hand websites like AptDeco will help you to save money on furniture purchases in NYC. You should also hire a cleaning company before you move into your new apartment. They are not the most expensive fees, but they should still be included in your budget.

Affordability

NYC Movers offers short-distance moves (like moving from Brooklyn or Manhattan to NYC) and long-distance moves, like LA to NYC. The affordability and cost of moving depend on several factors. Movers tend to charge hourly rates for short-distance moves depending on the time it takes. However, long-distance moves are priced according to the distance traveled and the volume of your possessions. Get an estimate from movers before hiring them, and remember to add the additional gratuity cost to the quoted price. Visit our guide on how to tip movers.

Research is essential for first-time movers before choosing the best option. Renting a U-Haul or PODS to drive your stuff is one of the most cost-effective options, depending on what you have. If renting a truck is something other than what you are willing to do, get several quotes from local movers to find the best deal.

Manhattan is one of many places to visit in New York. You can also check out other NYC boroughs such as Brooklyn, Queens Staten Island, The Bronx, and Brooklyn to find the borough that best suits your budget and style. Consider other nearby areas, such as New Jersey or Yonkers. While the average price of an NYC apartment can be quite high, some areas of NYC have a more affordable cost.

FAQs

What is the average cost of a local move?

Residential moving cost is between $300 to $1,500, depending on the distance, volume of belongings, and additional services required.

What is the average cost of a long-distance move?

The average cost of a long-distance move, which involves crossing state lines or covering significant distances, can vary widely but generally falls between $1,500 to $5,000 or more, based on distance, shipment weight, and services opted for.

What are the most important things to consider when hiring a moving company?

When hiring a moving company, it's crucial to consider their reputation, experience, and licensing/insurance status. Additionally, getting multiple quotes, checking customer reviews, and understanding the services offered will help you make an informed decision.

What are the best tips for packing for a move?

Some of the best moving packing tips include starting early, decluttering to reduce the load, using appropriate packing materials, labeling boxes by room, and keeping essential items separately for easy access.

How much does it cost to move into a two-bedroom house?

The cost to move a two-bedroom house depends on various factors like distance, moving services chosen, and additional requirements. It can range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more on average. Obtaining quotes from moving companies will provide a more accurate estimate for your situation.

Dillon Buckley
Moving Company Expert and Writer

Dillon Buckley is a distinguished Moving Company Expert, renowned for his extensive knowledge and expertise in the realm of the moving industry. With an exceptional talent for articulating complex moving processes into easily digestible information, he has earned recognition as a go-to authority for individuals seeking guidance on relocation, packing, and everything in between.