Quick answer
A 2BR cross-country move ranges roughly $3,500 DIY, $6,000 hybrid (U-Pack/PODS), and $12,000-$18,000 full-service. We calculate real estimates for 1,176 city pairs using current U-Haul, container, and long-distance-mover market rates.
Moving Cost · 2026
Moving Cost Calculator
Real cost estimates for moving between 49 major US cities. DIY with U-Haul, hybrid container service (U-Pack/PODS), and full-service movers — all three tiers compared. Rates update annually from published market prices.
Popular Moves
San Francisco → Austin
1800 mi
New York → Miami
1311 mi
Los Angeles → Denver
996 mi
Chicago → Phoenix
1742 mi
New York → Nashville
910 mi
San Francisco → Seattle
815 mi
Boston → New York
228 mi
Los Angeles → Las Vegas
274 mi
New York → Los Angeles
2935 mi
San Francisco → New York
3079 mi
Seattle → Austin
2123 mi
Chicago → Tampa
1206 mi
Browse by Origin City
Click a city to see moving costs to every destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move cross-country?
For a 2-bedroom household moving cross-country (2,500+ miles), expect $3,500–$5,000 DIY with a U-Haul, $6,000–$8,000 with a U-Pack/PODS container, and $12,000–$18,000 full-service with professional movers. Studio/1BR saves 30–40%; 3BR+ adds 40–60%.
What is the cheapest way to move long distance?
DIY U-Haul or Budget Truck. You rent the truck, pay for fuel ($0.32-$0.50/mile depending on truck size and MPG), cover hotels along the route (1 night per 500 miles), and do the loading/unloading. For a 1BR household moving 1,500 miles, DIY runs $1,800-$2,400 total.
Are moving containers (PODS, U-Pack) worth it?
Yes for the schedule flexibility — the container is delivered to you, you load it at your own pace (1-3 days typical), and the company drives it to your destination. You skip the long-distance driving entirely. Costs more than DIY U-Haul (usually 2x) but less than full-service. Best for people who can't or don't want to drive a 26ft truck across the country.
How far in advance should I book a moving company?
Full-service movers: 4-8 weeks, especially May-September peak season. Container services (U-Pack, PODS): 2-4 weeks. U-Haul trucks: 1-2 weeks is usually fine but lock in early for the best one-way availability. Peak season (May-August) pricing is 15-30% higher than winter.