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

Setting a realistic budget when moving to another state

When considering a move to another state, setting a realistic budget can be challenging.

Let’s review the expenses you may encounter when relocating to help you develop a plan to cover the costs. We’ll also look at how U-Pack® can save you money.

Moving expenses list: how much to save 

Here are the key costs to include when planning a budget for a long-distance move:

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 a long-distance move will cost.

Because each moving company prices things differently, it’s important to compare pricing and services to choose the best option for your move. Typically, DIY options like U-Pack are cheaper than full-service movers.

In addition to the moving service itself, don’t forget to include storage or moving labor costs in your budget if needed. Prices for those services will vary by company.

Try U-Pack’s moving cost calculator for a quick quote.

Moving gear and packing materials

Depending on the size of your home, expect to spend between $150 and $750 on moving supplies. This includes items like boxes, packing paper, tape and other 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.

The average rate for a hotel room for 1 night is just over $150, according to CoStar (a leader in commercial real estate information, analytics and news).

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

Add an extra $50-$75 per person, per day, for food if you plan to dine out while traveling.

Set-up fees for the new household

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 the purchase of a necessity for the new home.

Example moving budget

Here’s an example budget for a 3-bedroom home move from Tulsa, OK, to Paducah, KY, in August 2026. 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.

Save for your move

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

Reduce expenses

Try these ideas to reduce 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

Stick to your budget with U-Pack’s out-of-state moving services

A proven way to stay on budget is to choose U-Pack for your long-distance move. 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.

We’re ready to help!