Enter your moving details to get a full relocation cost estimate, then log actual spend to see exactly how your budget holds up.
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Summary
Enter your moving details to get a full relocation cost estimate, then log actual spend to see exactly how your budget holds up.
How it works
Fill in estimated costs for each expense category in the Budget column.
As you incur expenses, enter the actual amounts in the Actual column.
The Difference column shows whether you are over or under budget per line.
The summary bar at the top tracks your total estimated cost vs. total actual spend.
Click Reset to start a fresh budget for a new move.
Use cases
Planning a cross-country move to estimate total out-of-pocket cost.
Comparing DIY van rental vs. full-service moving company bids.
Tracking relocation expenses reimbursed by an employer.
Budgeting for an apartment move including first month, last month, and security deposit.
Estimating temporary housing costs while waiting for a permanent home.
Keeping a record of moving expenses for tax purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
A local move (under 100 miles) typically costs $800–$2,500 for a two-bedroom home. A long-distance move (1,000+ miles) ranges from $2,500–$7,500 or more, depending on weight, distance, and services. Add deposits, travel, and setup fees and total out-of-pocket costs often run $5,000–$15,000 for an interstate relocation.
At minimum: moving company or truck rental, packing materials, travel (flights or fuel and hotels), security deposit, first and last month rent, utility connection fees, and storage if there is a gap between move-out and move-in. Many people underestimate new-home setup costs — cleaning supplies, curtains, hardware, and minor repairs add up quickly.
As of 2018, the federal moving expense deduction is suspended for most taxpayers through 2025. Active-duty military members moving under orders are still eligible. Some states allow their own moving deductions — check your state tax authority for current rules.
Get at least three binding estimates from FMCSA-licensed movers. A binding estimate locks in the price provided the inventory does not change. Non-binding estimates can increase at delivery. Always ask what is included — packing, disassembly, fuel surcharges, and elevator fees are common add-ons that inflate the final bill.
A security deposit is money held by the landlord to cover unpaid rent or damage. It is typically one to two months of rent, though this varies by state. Some landlords also require first and last month's rent upfront, so budget for two to three months of rent in cash before your first paycheck in the new location.
