How Much Does It Cost to Move in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts — especially Boston — is one of the most expensive states to move in. September 1st ("Allston Christmas") is the single busiest and most expensive moving day due to student lease turnover. Local moves average $1,400. Book Boston September moves 8+ weeks out.
Average Moving Costs in Massachusetts — 2026
| Move Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Local move — professional movers | $1,400 |
| Long-distance move — professional movers | $5,000 |
| Mover hourly rate (per mover) | $65/hr |
| Moving truck rental (per day) | $145/day |
Averages based on a 2-bedroom local move. Long-distance averages assume 500+ miles.
What Affects Moving Costs in Massachusetts
Distance: Local moves are priced hourly ($65/mover/hr). Long-distance moves switch to a weight-plus-mileage model, which is why the jump from local to long-distance is so large.
Timing: Peak season (May–September) adds 15–30% to any quote. The last 3 days of a month are the most expensive — most leases expire on the 1st, so demand spikes.
Home size: Every additional bedroom adds roughly $100–200 to a local move (more movers or more hours). Long-distance moves price by weight — a 3-bedroom house weighs 3× a studio.
Access: Stairs, long carry distances, and tight elevator access trigger surcharges. Expect $50–100 per flight of stairs. Parking permits in dense Massachusetts cities can add $50–150.
Massachusetts Moving Cost by City
Metro areas with high demand and traffic typically run 15–25% above the state averages listed above.
Popular Routes To & From Massachusetts
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How much does it cost to move locally in Massachusetts?
Local moves in Massachusetts average $1,400 for a 2-bedroom home. Mover hourly rates run $65/hr per mover. Most local moves take 4–8 hours with a 2–3 mover crew.
How much does a long-distance move to or from Massachusetts cost?
Long-distance moves to or from Massachusetts average $5,000 with professional movers. DIY truck rentals typically run $1,200–2,500 depending on distance and truck size.
What is the cheapest way to move in Massachusetts?
Renting a moving truck yourself is the cheapest option — expect $145/day plus fuel. Booking movers for a weekday in the off-season (October–April) can save 20–30% vs. weekend peak rates.
When is the cheapest time to move in Massachusetts?
October through April is the cheapest time to move in Massachusetts. Avoid May–September (peak season), the last three days of any month, and weekends — all carry 15–30% premiums.
Which cities in Massachusetts are most expensive for moving?
Boston and Worcester typically run 15–25% above the state average due to higher demand, traffic congestion, and longer drive times between pickup and delivery.
Is Massachusetts gaining or losing residents?
Massachusetts is currently experiencing net outmigration, which can mean more mover availability and negotiating room on quotes.