Boston Moving Cost Calculator (2026)

Local moves in Boston run $115–$175 per hour with two movers. September 1 is the city's notorious 'Allston Christmas' moving day when most leases turn over — book by June or expect 50%+ premium and limited choice.

Moving cost planning in Boston — person planning a moving budget
Pricing

Boston cost by home size

Home sizeLocal moveInterstate move
Studio$345–$875$1,760–$4,440
1 Bedroom$460–$1,050$2,400–$5,772
2 Bedroom$690–$1,575$3,200–$7,400
3 Bedroom$920–$2,100$4,640–$11,470
4+ Bedroom$1,265–$2,800$6,240–$15,910

What raises Boston prices

  • • Building access (elevator reservations, COI requirements, freight windows)
  • • Parking and permit lead times
  • • Stair carries and long-carry distances
  • • Specialty items: pianos, art, oversized appliances

What lowers Boston prices

  • • Mid-week, mid-month booking
  • • Off-peak season (outside May–September)
  • • Self-packing all boxes; movers handle furniture only
  • • Multiple binding quotes from FMCSA-verified carriers

Frequently asked questions

How much do movers cost in Boston?
Local moves in Boston typically run $400–$2,400 for a 1–2 bedroom apartment with two movers, while interstate moves from Boston average $2,500–$7,000 for the same home size. Final price depends on distance, packing services, and date.
Do I need a parking permit to move in Boston?
September 1 is the city's notorious 'Allston Christmas' moving day when most leases turn over — book by June or expect 50%+ premium and limited choice.
When is the busiest moving season in Boston?
Late May through August is the peak window in Boston, with the heaviest volume around month-end weekends. Top-rated companies book out 4–6 weeks in advance during this period.
Should I get an in-home estimate or an online quote?
For local moves under 2,500 lb, an online or phone estimate is usually accurate. For interstate moves out of Boston or 3+ bedroom households, request a video survey or in-home estimate so the binding price reflects your actual inventory.
What's the most reliable way to verify a Boston mover?
Check the company's USDOT number on the FMCSA SAFER website, look at their BBB profile and current accreditation, and read recent reviews on Google and Yelp. Avoid any mover unwilling to share a USDOT number on request.
How long does a typical Boston move take?
A 1-bedroom local move in Boston usually takes 3–5 hours with two movers. A 3-bedroom local move runs 7–10 hours, and most movers won't book a same-day move past 4 PM start time.