Winston-Salem, NC to Dayton, OH Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Winston-Salem to Dayton typically costs $2,000–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 409 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Winston-Salem to Dayton
Moving from Winston-Salem, NC to Dayton, OH typically costs $2,000–$5,400 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 409-mile move from Winston-Salem to Dayton, 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
- American Van Lines recently quoted $4,412 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $1,444 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,132 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 06, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 16, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 13, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 29, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 22, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 06, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 03, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 02, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 02, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Winston-Salem to Dayton
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Winston-Salem to Dayton might be as low as $1,100, while a four-bedroom could reach $7,700.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Winston-Salem.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $400 to $1,100 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Dayton, OH to Winston-Salem, NC guide.
Best Winston-Salem to Dayton movers by type
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Best professional movers from Winston-Salem to Dayton
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Winston-Salem to Dayton, 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 NC→OH movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 115 North Carolina 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 Winston-Salem to Dayton
Many movers find Dayton easier on the wallet than Winston-Salem - roughly 34% less for singles and 28% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,593 for one person in Dayton versus $2,420 in Winston-Salem. For a family of four, it's $3,788 compared with $5,265.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Winston-Salem | Dayton | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,490 | $1,192 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,260 | $1,683 |
| Average home value | $248,806 | $135,815 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,431 | $62,673 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,420 | $1,593 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,265 | $3,788 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 6.8% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 3.5% |
- Good news! When moving to Dayton from Winston-Salem, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 29% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 45% cheaper in Dayton, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Dayton and Winston-Salem, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Dayton. The cost of living for a single person is 34% less compared to Winston-Salem.
- Relocating to Dayton could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 28% lower than in Winston-Salem.
- The unemployment rate in Dayton exceeds that of Winston-Salem by about 31%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Dayton exceed those in Winston-Salem by 7%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 22% lower in Ohio than in North Carolina. 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 Winston-Salem and Dayton, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Winston-Salem | Dayton |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $188.00 | $200.37 |
| Cell phone plan | $52.67 | $44.17 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.71 | $3.02 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.95 | $2.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.50 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $57.50 |
| Gym membership | $17.50 | $33.34 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Winston-Salem than in Dayton, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Winston-Salem than in Dayton.
- Eggs cost more in Winston-Salem than in Dayton.
- Bread is more expensive in Winston-Salem than in Dayton.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Winston-Salem than in Dayton.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Winston-Salem than in Dayton.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Winston-Salem than in Dayton.
How life is different in Winston-Salem vs. Dayton
| Winston-Salem | Dayton | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 249,545 | 137,644 |
| Transportation score | 3 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 22 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 29 | 47 |
| Crime index | 32.67 | 4.0 |
| Safety index | 67.33 | 40.68 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Dayton's population is about 45% less than Winston-Salem.
- Dayton's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Winston-Salem's score of 3.
- Dayton is more walkable than Winston-Salem with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Winston-Salem's 22 out of 100.
- With a score of 47 out of 100, Dayton is more bike-friendly than Winston-Salem, which has a score of 29 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Dayton's crime rate is lower than Winston-Salem with a score of 4.0 compared to Winston-Salem's 32.67. This means that Dayton neighborhoods are safer than 4.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Winston-Salem neighborhoods are safer than 32.67%.
- Dayton is considered to be less safe than Winston-Salem with a score of 40.68 vs Winston-Salem's 67.33.
- Air quality in Dayton is Moderate, and in Winston-Salem it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Winston-Salem to Dayton 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: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Ohio moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Ohio, 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 Dayton 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. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives 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 Dayton
Ready to relocate to Gem City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Dayton.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Oakwood
- Centerville
- Springboro
- Five Points
- Bellbrook
Best neighborhoods for families
- Downtown
- Webster Station
- South Park
- Oregon District
- Shroyer Park
- Five Oaks
- Gratton Hill
Things to do in Dayton
Now that you've made the move to Ohio, it's the perfect time to explore Dayton. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Dayton include museums and art centers like the National Museum of the US Air Force, America's Packard Museum - The Citizens Motorcar Co., Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and Dayton International Peace Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, Carriage Hill MetroPark, RiverScape MetroPark, and Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, 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 Dayton Dragons (Baseball-Midwest League)Wright State Raiders (Horizon League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Winston-Salem to Dayton?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Winston-Salem to Dayton. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Winston-Salem.
When is the cheapest time to move from Winston-Salem to Dayton?
With many people choosing to move from Winston-Salem to Dayton 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 Winston-Salem to Dayton take?
Covering 409 miles, the move from Winston-Salem, NC to Dayton, OH typically takes one to four days. Some Winston-Salem movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Dayton can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Winston-Salem offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military 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 Winston-Salem can handle specialty items for my move to Dayton?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Winston-Salem, 15 movers can handle pianos. 10 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NC, there are 77 piano movers and 37 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.
