How Much Does It Cost to Move in Tennessee?
Tennessee is a top migration destination — Nashville alone attracts 80+ new residents per day. Local moves average $880 statewide, but Nashville runs $1,000–1,200 due to explosive demand. Memphis and Knoxville remain affordable at $750–900. No state income tax is a major draw.
Average Moving Costs in Tennessee — 2026
| Move Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Local move — professional movers | $880 |
| Long-distance move — professional movers | $3,800 |
| Mover hourly rate (per mover) | $43/hr |
| Moving truck rental (per day) | $100/day |
Averages based on a 2-bedroom local move. Long-distance averages assume 500+ miles.
What Affects Moving Costs in Tennessee
Distance: Local moves are priced hourly ($43/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 Tennessee cities can add $50–150.
Tennessee Moving Cost by City
Metro areas with high demand and traffic typically run 15–25% above the state averages listed above.
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How much does it cost to move locally in Tennessee?
Local moves in Tennessee average $880 for a 2-bedroom home. Mover hourly rates run $43/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 Tennessee cost?
Long-distance moves to or from Tennessee average $3,800 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 Tennessee?
Renting a moving truck yourself is the cheapest option — expect $100/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 Tennessee?
October through April is the cheapest time to move in Tennessee. Avoid May–September (peak season), the last three days of any month, and weekends — all carry 15–30% premiums.
Which cities in Tennessee are most expensive for moving?
Nashville and Memphis typically run 15–25% above the state average due to higher demand, traffic congestion, and longer drive times between pickup and delivery.
Is Tennessee gaining or losing residents?
Tennessee is currently a net migration destination — more people are moving in than out, which keeps mover demand and prices elevated.