How Much Money Should You Save Before Moving Out of State?

Budgeting for a move to another state

Saving for the cost of moving out of state is a good idea, but how much you’ll spend on a move depends on several factors, like distance, equipment and timing. With all the variables related to moving, how can you budget for it?

Let’s review the expenses you can encounter while relocating to help you develop a solid financial plan for covering the cost. We’ll also look at how U-Pack® can save you money.

Savings plan for moving out of state: expenses to consider

Here are the key costs to include when planning a moving budget:

Moving services

Transporting your belongings will make up the bulk of your moving expenses. Start by requesting quotes from several companies to understand how much movers cost.

Compare pricing and services to choose the best option for your move and include the rate in your budget. Typically, DIY options like U-Pack are cheaper than full-service movers. Don’t forget to include storage or moving labor costs (if needed). Prices for those services will vary by company.

Try U-Pack’s moving cost calculator.

Moving gear and packing materials

Depending on the home size, plan to spend between $150 and $750 on moving supplies. This includes items like boxes, packing paper, tape and essential moving gear.

Personal travel

Getting you and your family to the new home also involves expenses. If you’re driving, you’ll need to budget for fuel. AAA’s gas cost calculator is a good resource for estimating those expenses.

If you’ll need hotel accommodations, the average rate is just over $150 per night, according to STR (a leader in hospitality data benchmarking).

Train tickets and airfare can vary between $100 and $1,000 per person. Remember to include taxi or rideshare fees for travel to and from the airport or train station.

If you’ll dine out while traveling, add an extra $50 to $75 per person daily for food.

Set-up fees for new home

In addition to mortgage or rent payments, there are other expenses related to setting up a new household in another state. Here are some helpful items to include in your budget:

• 1-2 months of living expenses (childcare, groceries, utilities, etc.)
• Employment costs for new jobs (commuting, supplies, uniforms, etc.)
• Fees for updating car registrations or driver’s licenses (Check with the local DMV for costs)
• Homeowners’ Association (HOA) fees, if applicable
• Insurance (homeowner or rental)
• Security deposit
• Utility deposits or connection fees

Miscellaneous

Planning for the unexpected should be an essential part of your moving budget. Include an extra $500 or more in the budget for unplanned expenses. These funds could help cover emergency car maintenance, child or pet sitting while loading or unloading, an extra day of travel or purchasing a necessity for the new home.

Example moving budget

Here’s an example budget for a 4-bedroom home move from Springfield, MO, to Fort Smith, AR, in July 2025. The price was accurate at the time of posting, and all amounts used in the budget are estimates. Actual costs will vary.

* AAA’s average gas price at the time of posting.

The best ways to save for a move

There are two main ways to save money: spend less or earn more cash. By combining one or more of these tips, you can begin saving to cover your moving costs.

Reduce expenses

Try these ideas to trim your household spending:

• Cancel gym memberships and exercise at home or work 
• Cook at home instead of dining out (or cut back on restaurant meals and takeout)
• Skip shopping trips for clothing, home decor or other items that can wait until after the move
• Temporarily (or permanently) cancel streaming services and subscriptions 
• Use a local library for entertainment (free book and movie rentals)

Increase income

Here are some ways to help fill your savings account:

• Declutter belongings and sell unwanted things online, in a consignment store or through a moving sale
• Save any windfalls (bonuses, gifts, tax refunds, etc.)
• Take an extra job or work a side hustle before moving day

Spend less on your out-of-state move with U-Pack

Another great way to stay on budget is to choose U-Pack for the cheapest out-of-state moving price. We’re ready to help!

Request your free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077. If you have questions about how U-Pack works or budgeting for your move, let us know in the comments or call to speak to a moving consultant.