New Orleans, LA to Memphis, TN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from New Orleans to Memphis typically costs $1,900–$5,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 394 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from New Orleans to Memphis
Moving from New Orleans, LA to Memphis, TN typically costs $1,900–$5,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 394-mile move from New Orleans to Memphis, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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2-3 bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- AB Moving recently quoted $4,577 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $5,172 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $6,911 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
Key factors that impact the cost of your New Orleans to Memphis move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,200 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,800 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in New Orleans.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $400 to $1,000, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Memphis, TN to New Orleans, LA guide.
Best New Orleans to Memphis movers by type
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Best professional movers from New Orleans to Memphis
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from New Orleans to Memphis much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
How we chose the best LA→TN movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 32 Louisiana movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from New Orleans to Memphis
Many movers find Memphis easier on the wallet than New Orleans - roughly 41% less for singles and 44% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,842 for one person in Memphis versus $3,134 in New Orleans. For a family of four, it's $4,402 compared with $7,905.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| New Orleans | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,813 | $1,187 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,150 | $1,571 |
| Average home value | $231,649 | $143,715 |
| Average income (per capita) | $51,116 | $48,090 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,134 | $1,842 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,905 | $4,402 |
| Unemployment rate | 11.0% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 10.0% | 9.75% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 0.0% |
- When relocating from New Orleans to Memphis, expect to find rent about 26% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 38% more affordable in Memphis compared to New Orleans.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 6% lower in Memphis compared to New Orleans.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Memphis, as the cost of living for a single person is 41% lower compared to New Orleans.
- A move to Memphis can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 44% less than what it costs in New Orleans.
- The unemployment rate in Memphis is about 27% lower than in New Orleans. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Memphis and New Orleans (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between New Orleans and Memphis:
| Living Expense | New Orleans | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $244.46 | $213.78 |
| Cell phone plan | $58.50 | $58.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.35 | $4.12 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.03 | $2.83 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.50 | $19.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $124.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $61.75 | $37.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in New Orleans than in Memphis.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in New Orleans than in Memphis.
- Eggs cost more in New Orleans than in Memphis.
- Bread is more expensive in New Orleans than in Memphis.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in New Orleans than in Memphis.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in New Orleans than in Memphis.
- Gym memberships cost more in New Orleans than in Memphis.
How life is different in New Orleans vs. Memphis
| New Orleans | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 383,997 | 633,104 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 58 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 66 | 41 |
| Crime index | 67.31 | 77.49 |
| Safety index | 32.69 | 22.51 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Memphis's population is about 65% greater than New Orleans.
- Memphis's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than New Orleans's score of 7.
- Memphis is less walkable than New Orleans with a score of 35 out of 100 vs New Orleans's 58 out of 100.
- Memphis has a bike-friendliness score of 41 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as New Orleans, which has a score of 66.
- Memphis's crime rate is higher than New Orleans with a score of 77.49 compared to New Orleans's 67.31. This means that Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New Orleans neighborhoods are safer than 67.31%.
- Memphis is considered to be less safe than New Orleans with a score of 22.51 vs New Orleans's 32.69.
- Air quality in Memphis is Good, and in New Orleans it's Good.
Other things to consider for your New Orleans to Memphis move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Tennessee’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Tennessee does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Memphis. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Memphis
Planning your move to Bluff City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Memphis.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Binghampton
- Cooper-Young
- Crosstown
- Downtown
- Midtown
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bartlett
- Cordova
- East Memphis
- Germantown
- River Oaks-Kirby-Balmoral
Things to do in Memphis
After settling into your new Tennessee home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Memphis has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Memphis features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Graceland, National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Shelby Farms Park, Mud Island River Park, Tom Lee Park, and Levitt Shell — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Memphis Grizzlies (NBA)Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from New Orleans to Memphis?
Planning your move from New Orleans to Memphis? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in New Orleans.
When is the cheapest time to move from New Orleans to Memphis?
Because most people are moving from New Orleans to Memphis in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from New Orleans to Memphis take?
The 394-mile journey from New Orleans, LA to Memphis, TN, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in New Orleans offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Memphis.
Are there special savings available from movers in New Orleans?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in New Orleans?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In New Orleans, 7 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Louisiana has 18 piano movers and 11 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.