Seattle, WA to New York City, NY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Seattle to New York City typically costs $5,300–$10,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,839 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Seattle to New York City
Moving from Seattle, WA to New York City, NY typically costs $5,300–$10,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,839-mile move from Seattle to New York City, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $7,006 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $2,865 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a moving container.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $9,971 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
3 Bedrooms
Feb 18, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 07, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 26, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 19, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 15, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 15, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 05, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 04, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 01, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Seattle to New York City
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Seattle to New York City might be as low as $3,100, while a four-bedroom could reach $15,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Seattle.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,900 to $4,900 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from New York City, NY to Seattle, WA guide.
Best Seattle to New York City movers by type
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Best professional movers from Seattle to New York City
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Seattle to New York City, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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
Best overall value
How we chose the best WA→NY movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 94 Washington movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Seattle to New York City
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - New York City runs about 52% higher for singles and 54% higher for families than Seattle.
Singles spend around $5,683 in New York City versus $3,740 in Seattle; families pay $15,081 compared with $9,801.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Seattle | New York City | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,306 | $3,992 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,655 | $8,817 |
| Average home value | $842,068 | $752,778 |
| Average income (per capita) | $77,845 | $78,058 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,740 | $5,683 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,801 | $15,081 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.8% | 11.2% |
| Sales tax | 10.35% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 10.9% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 120% higher in New York City than in Seattle, which may impact your monthly finances.
- With home prices being nearly 11% cheaper in New York City, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in New York City and Seattle, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in New York City, as the cost of living for a single person in New York City is 52% greater than in Seattle. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to New York City, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 54% more than it is in Seattle.
- The unemployment rate in New York City exceeds that of Seattle by about 133%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 23% lower in New York City than Seattle, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- New York has a state income tax, while Washington does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Seattle and New York City, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Seattle | New York City |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $250.22 | $186.67 |
| Cell phone plan | $60.15 | $57.90 |
| Dozen eggs | $6.07 | $6.33 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.84 | $5.04 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $28.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $135.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.35 | $159.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Seattle than in New York City.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Seattle than in New York City.
- Eggs are less expensive in Seattle than in New York City.
- Bread costs less in Seattle than in New York City.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Seattle than in New York City.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Seattle than in New York City.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Seattle than in New York City.
How life is different in Seattle vs. New York City
| Seattle | New York City | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 737,015 | 8,258,035 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 10 |
| Walkability score | 74 | 88 |
| Bike friendliness score | 71 | 69 |
| Crime index | 58.88 | 50.83 |
| Safety index | 49.23 | 49.17 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- New York City's population is about 1020% greater than Seattle.
- New York City's public transportation score of 10 out of 10 is higher than Seattle's score of 8.
- New York City is more walkable than Seattle with a score of 88 out of 100 vs Seattle's 74 out of 100.
- Both New York City and Seattle have similar bike-friendliness scores (71 vs 69), meaning New York City is about as safe for cyclists as Seattle. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- New York City's crime rate is lower than Seattle with a score of 50.83 compared to Seattle's 58.88. This means that New York City neighborhoods are safer than 50.83% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Seattle neighborhoods are safer than 58.88%.
- New York City and Seattle have a similar safety level, with scores of 49.17 and 49.23.
- Air quality in New York City is Good, and in Seattle it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Seattle to New York City move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state's safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a New York moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in New York, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to New York City without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They're responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in New York City
Ready to relocate to The Big Apple? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in New York City.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Astoria, Queens
- Lower East Side, Manhattan
- Murray Hill, Manhattan
- Upper East Side, Manhattan
- Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Best neighborhoods for families
- Battery Park City, Manhattan
- Forest Hills, Queens
- Great Kills, Staten Island
- Park Slope, Brooklyn
- Riverdale, Bronx
Things to do in New York City
Now that you've made the move to New York, it's the perfect time to explore New York City. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in New York City include museums and art centers like the The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Met Cloisters, and New York Public Library.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Central Park, The High Line, Bryant Park, and Washington Square Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Brooklyn Nets (NBA)Long Island Nets (NBA G League)New York City FC (MLS)New York Giants (NFL)New York Islanders (NHL)New York Jets (NFL)New York Knicks (NBA)New York Liberty (WNBA)New York Mets (MLB)New York Rangers (NHL)New York Red Bulls (MLS)New York Yankees (MLB) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Seattle to New York City?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Seattle to New York City. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Seattle.
When is the cheapest time to move from Seattle to New York City?
With many people choosing to move from Seattle to New York City in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Seattle to New York City take?
Covering 2,839 miles, the move from Seattle, WA to New York City, NY typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Seattle movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in New York City can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Seattle offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers provide military discounts. 3 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Seattle can handle specialty items for my move to New York City?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Seattle, 47 movers can handle pianos. 35 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of WA, there are 72 piano movers and 45 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
