Wilmington, DE to Lafayette, LA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Wilmington to Lafayette typically costs $2,800–$6,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,303 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Wilmington to Lafayette
Moving from Wilmington, DE to Lafayette, LA typically costs $2,800–$6,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,303-mile move from Wilmington to Lafayette, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- United Van Lines recently quoted $5,304 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $5,022 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $1,858 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Wilmington to Lafayette
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Wilmington to Lafayette might be as low as $2,200, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,100.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Wilmington.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $900 to $2,600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Lafayette, LA to Wilmington, DE guide.
Best Wilmington to Lafayette movers by type
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Best professional movers from Wilmington to Lafayette
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Wilmington to Lafayette, 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
How we chose the best DE→LA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 10 Delaware 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 Wilmington to Lafayette
Many movers find Lafayette easier on the wallet than Wilmington - roughly 49% less for singles and 3% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,785 for one person in Lafayette versus $3,533 in Wilmington. For a family of four, it's $4,208 compared with $4,350.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Wilmington | Lafayette | |
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| Average 1 BR rent | $1,933 | $1,200 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,200 | $1,725 |
| Average home value | $307,799 | $214,264 |
| Average income (per capita) | $49,354 | $59,490 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,533 | $1,785 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,350 | $4,208 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.3% | 5.8% |
| Sales tax | 0.0% | 9.45% |
| State income tax | 6.6% | 4.25% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 56% higher in Lafayette than in Wilmington, which may impact your monthly finances.
- With home prices being nearly 30% cheaper in Lafayette, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 21% higher in Lafayette than in Wilmington, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Lafayette. The cost of living for a single person is 49% less compared to Wilmington.
- The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Lafayette and Wilmington, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won't notice a significant change in expenses.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 44% lower than Wilmington, Lafayette boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Lafayette has a sales tax, while Wilmington does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
- Income taxes are 36% lower in Louisiana than in Delaware. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Wilmington and Lafayette, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Wilmington | Lafayette |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $126.92 | $244.46 |
| Cell phone plan | $44.10 | $52.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.05 | $4.35 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.56 | $2.99 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $17.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $72.50 | $76.11 |
| Gym membership | $33.50 | $61.33 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Wilmington than in Lafayette, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Wilmington than in Lafayette.
- Eggs are less expensive in Wilmington than in Lafayette.
- Bread is more expensive in Wilmington than in Lafayette.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Wilmington than in Lafayette.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Wilmington than in Lafayette.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Wilmington than in Lafayette.
How life is different in Wilmington vs. Lafayette
| Wilmington | Lafayette | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 70,898 | 121,374 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 74 | 42 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 47 |
| Crime index | 67.32 | 45.75 |
| Safety index | 32.68 | 54.25 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Lafayette's population is about 71% greater than Wilmington.
- Lafayette's public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Wilmington's score of 6.
- Lafayette is less walkable than Wilmington with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Wilmington's 74 out of 100.
- Lafayette has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Wilmington, which has a score of 52.
- Lafayette's crime rate is lower than Wilmington with a score of 45.75 compared to Wilmington's 67.32. This means that Lafayette neighborhoods are safer than 45.75% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Wilmington neighborhoods are safer than 67.32%.
- Lafayette is considered to be safer than Wilmington with a safety index of 54.25 vs Wilmington's 32.68.
- Air quality in Lafayette is Good, and in Wilmington it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Wilmington to Lafayette 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: If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Louisiana moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Louisiana, 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 Lafayette 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 free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen 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 Lafayette
Ready to relocate to The Hub City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lafayette.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Saint Streets
- Freetown-Port Rico
- Downtown Lafayette
- Scott
- Youngsville
Best neighborhoods for families
- Youngsville
- Erath
- Maurice
- Broussard
- Milton
- Scott
- Cade
Things to do in Lafayette
Now that you've made the move to Louisiana, it's the perfect time to explore Lafayette. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lafayette include museums and art centers like the Lafayette Science Museum, Acadian Cultural Center, Children's Museum of Acadiana, and Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Evangeline State Park, Acadiana Park Nature Station, and Girard Park Center, 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 Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns (Sun Belt) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Wilmington to Lafayette?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Wilmington to Lafayette. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Wilmington.
When is the cheapest time to move from Wilmington to Lafayette?
With many people choosing to move from Wilmington to Lafayette 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 Wilmington to Lafayette take?
Covering 1,303 miles, the move from Wilmington, DE to Lafayette, LA typically takes three to eight days. Some Wilmington movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lafayette can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Wilmington offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers in Wilmington offer AAA member savings. 3 movers provide military discounts. 2 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 Wilmington can handle specialty items for my move to Lafayette?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Wilmington, 49 movers can handle pianos. 39 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of DE, there are 8 piano movers and 4 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.