Factors that influence moving costs from Manchester to Lafayettetoggle

The cost of Manchester movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Manchester to Lafayette might cost as little as $1,708, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $12,908.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Manchester, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,231 to $2,961. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Manchester to Lafayette

Moving from Manchester to Lafayette means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Manchester than in Lafayette, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Manchester compares to Lafayette so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Manchester Lafayette
Average rent cost $2,004 $2,825
Average home value $410,329 $214,264
Average income (per capita) $67,132 $59,490
Cost of living (single person) $2,449 $1,785
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,256 $4,208
Unemployment rate 3.8% 5.8%
Sales tax 0.0% 9.45%
State income tax 4.0% 4.25%
  • Rent prices in Lafayette are 41% higher than in Manchester, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Lafayette.
    Home prices in Lafayette are 47.8% lower than in Manchester.
  • Income in Lafayette is 11.4% lower than in Manchester, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Lafayette include LHC Group, King-Patin, and Guyโ€™s Towing Service.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Lafayette is 27.1% lower than in Manchester. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Lafayette is 19.9% lower than in Manchester.
  • The unemployment rate in Lafayette is 52.63% higher than in Manchester.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Lafayette, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lafayette are 9.45% higher than in Manchester.
  • State income taxes in Lafayette are 6.25% higher than in Manchester.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,186.61 in Lafayette to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Manchester.

How life is different in Manchester vs. Lafayette

Lafayette Manchester
Population 121,374 115,644
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 3
Walkability score 42 51
Bike friendliness score 47 42
Crime Index 45.75 56.09
Safety Index 54.25 43.91
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lafayette's population is about 5% greater than Manchester.
  • Lafayette's public transportation has a similar score to Manchester.
  • Lafayette is less walkable than Manchester with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Manchester's 51 out of 100.
  • With a score of 47 out of 100, Lafayette is more bike-friendly than Manchester, which has a score of 42 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Lafayette's crime rate is lower than Manchester with a score of 45.75 compared to Manchester's 56.09. This means that Lafayette neighborhoods are safer than 45.75% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Manchester neighborhoods are safer than 56.09%.
  • Lafayette is considered to be safer than Manchester with a safety index of 54.25 vs Manchester's 43.91.
  • Air quality in Lafayette is good, and in Manchester it's good.

Other things to consider for your Manchester vs. Lafayette move

  • Weather: It's best to plan your move to Lafayette during April, October and November.
  • 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: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: If youโ€™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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Louisiana moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Louisiana, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toLafayette Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Lafayette

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "Hub City" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Lafayette to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Saint Streets
  • Freetown-Port Rico
  • Downtown Lafayette
  • Scott
  • Youngsville

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Youngsville
  • Maurice
  • Milton
  • Scott
  • Cade

Things to do in Lafayette

Once youโ€™re settled into your new home in Louisiana, itโ€™s time to get out and discover what Lafayette has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโ€™s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Lafayette features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Lafayette Science Museum, Acadian Cultural Center, Children's Museum of Acadiana, Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, and Lafayette Art Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Evangeline State Park, Acadiana Park Nature Station, and Girard Park Center โ€” among other spots โ€” perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Louisiana Raginโ€™ Cajuns (Sun Belt) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Manchester to Lafayette?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Manchester to Lafayette. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Manchester.

When is the cheapest time to move from Manchester to Lafayette?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Manchester to Lafayette, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Manchester to Lafayette take?

The 1,673-mile journey from Manchester, NH to Lafayette, LA typically takes four to 15 days. Some movers in Manchester offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Lafayette.

Helpful moving resources