Quick answer: A move from New York City to Columbus costs $564–$5,868 and takes one to six days. The main factors that determine the cost and time are how much you're moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the 536-mile move yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Columbus to New York City guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from New York City to Columbus

Picking a long-distance moving company for your journey from New York City to Columbus isn't always easy. With so many choices out there, figuring out who you can really rely on can feel overwhelming.

No need to waste hours comparing moving companies — we've done the work for you. Our top picks stand out for their glowing reviews, affordable rates, and wide range of services to fit any move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your NY to OH movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 121 New York movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

The best local movers servicing New York City to Columbus moves

Finding a trusted local moving company in New York City that offers long-distance services to Columbus can be a challenge. With so many movers advertising similar services, it's tough to know who really delivers on quality.

Good news — we've done the homework for you. Our team reviewed top local movers in New York City who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from New York City to Columbus.

  1. Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Great Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. Roadway Moving : 4.86 out of 5 stars
  4. Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  5. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/PieceofCakeMoving/, https://twitter.com/pieceofcakemove?lang=en
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes relocating feel like a breeze for most customers, with 94.5% of nearly 9,000 reviews giving positive feedback. Their crews often win praise for being efficient, friendly, and showing care with belongings, making moves run quickly and protecting furniture well. Many also mention good communication and stress-free experiences, even for moves under tough conditions.
Some reviewers highlight organized packing and transparent pricing as standout qualities that set Piece of Cake above their competition in major cities. Still, a small but notable group (5%) describe frustrating experiences such as item damage, surprise charges not made clear upfront, or missing boxes—and a handful share stories of items lost or mishandled during long-distance moves. A few neutral reviews point out that while customer support is responsive, the packing service can fall short of expectations. Compared to similar companies, Piece of Cake is recognized for consistent service, but it’s important for customers to ensure item lists are accurate and to monitor the moving process. For those seeking a smooth, hands-off move with careful, reliable movers, Piece of Cake comes highly recommended, but vigilance is wise to prevent issues common in the industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (212) 651-7273

Company Info

State license #: 40244

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3066988

Alternate Names: Piece of Cake Moving & Storage LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/greatmoversnyc/, https://twitter.com/greatmoversny
95% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input about Great Movers stands out for its consistency—210 out of 221 reviews are positive, amounting to 95% glowing feedback. Clients repeatedly praise the company for efficient, friendly, and highly professional service. Most cite careful handling of possessions, quick and seamless moves, affordable pricing, and clear communication as standouts.
People frequently highlight stress-free relocations, respectful crews, and precise timing, making Great Movers an appealing choice for those seeking reliability. Negative feedback, only 5%, centers largely on significant damages to items, disappointing insurance payouts, and surprise charges. Some report unprofessional behaviors during complaints and claim poor handling of property damage issues. Compared with other movers, Great Movers excels in customer satisfaction and cost-effectiveness, but documented damages and insurance disputes are notable risks, so care is warranted on that front.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 306-9980

Company Info

State license #: 39493

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2180117


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RoadwayMoving/, https://x.com/roadwaymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top-rated moves aren’t a myth—Roadway Moving receives glowing feedback for being fast, careful, and professional. Out of 790 reviews, 92% are positive. Most customers highlight efficient and friendly crews, meticulous furniture handling, speedy packing and delivery, and excellent communication throughout the move.
Crews wrap and organize everything to prevent damage, and many note stress-free experiences even during complicated or long-distance moves. Many find the booking process easy and the pricing transparent. A few reports mention delays or lost items, and some cite poor communication or surprise charges when things go wrong. Damage to items, lost communication, and unexpected fees lead the small number of negative reviews. Overall, customer input suggests Roadway stands out for reliability, detailed care, and customer focus—making them a stronger choice than many moving competitors, particularly for those seeking peace of mind on move day.
Show more
Get a Quote (212) 812-5240

Company Info

State license #: 38589

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 1854436


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/DumboMoving, https://twitter.com/dumbomoving
55% of all reviews were positive
42% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call Dumbo Moving a go-to for affordable, fast, and careful moves. Over 2,100 feedback entries show more than half of the input is positive and under 43% negative. Clients praise the team's efficient service, attention to detail, courteous crew, fair quotes, and how quickly they finish both local and long-distance jobs.
Many appreciate their careful handling of everything from fragile furniture to electronics. Several people highlight reliable performance compared to pricier competitors, with many repeat customers saying they always get what they expect. On the downside, hundreds report cost problems—unexpected charges, extra fees for minor add-ons, and surprise upcharges once belongings are in the truck. A significant portion warn of property damage left unresolved or poorly compensated, and complaints about staff that come off as unhelpful or pushy are common. While speedy moves and competitive rates stand out, the risk of extra charges and inconsistent customer care means Dumbo moves faster than some firms but often delivers a less predictable experience. Fewer companies inspire such loyalty—or frustration—in a crowded industry.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 222-8282

Company Info

State license #: 36990

Years in Business: 18

DOT #: 1543241


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/gentlegiantmove?lang=en
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback for Gentle Giant Moving Company stands out thanks to an unusually high satisfaction rate: 128 reviews analyzed, with 96% reporting a positive experience. Most clients highlight respectful, professional crews who work efficiently, handle belongings with care, and maintain excellent communication throughout the move. Many mention that moves—whether simple or complex—are quick and problem-free, with polite staff consistently exceeding expectations even in challenging circumstances.
On the downside, a small number of clients express frustration over higher-than-expected costs, unexpected charges, and communication delays, especially for long-distance moves. Rare negatives cite slow follow-up or items arriving late. Damage to items is scarcely mentioned compared to competitors, making Gentle Giant’s reputation for careful handling particularly notable. Overall, Gentle Giant earns more praise for reliability, professionalism, and care than most moving companies, with very few clients dissatisfied.
Show more
Get a Quote (718) 907-1830

Company Info

State license #: 36518

Years in Business: 43

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from New York City to Columbus?

New York City movers charge $110 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,274 - $3,576 $842 - $2,028 $549 - $981
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,193 - $5,868 $1,582 - $3,093 $564 - $1,187
4+ bedrooms $4,006 - $8,609 $2,046 - $3,868 $696 - $1,431
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 536 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from New York to Ohio

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from New York to Ohio, you can expect prices to land between $1,274 and $3,576. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,193 to $5,868 for the trip from NY to OH. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $4,006 and $8,609.

Cost of moving containers from New York to Ohio

Moving from New York to Ohio? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $842 and $2,028. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,582 to $3,093. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,046 up to $3,868. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from New York.

Cost of moving truck rentals from New York to Ohio

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you'll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $549 and $981. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $564 and $1,187. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You're likely looking at anywhere from $696 up to $1,431 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from New York City to Columbustoggle

The cost of New York City movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from New York City to Columbus might cost as little as $1,274, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,505.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in New York City, 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 $549 to $1,315 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from New York City to Columbus

Moving from New York City to Columbus means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in New York City than in Columbus, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how New York City compares to Columbus so you know what to expect before you relocate:

New York City Columbus
Average rent cost $4,340 $1,441
Average home value $752,778 $238,832
Average income (per capita) $78,058 $65,075
Cost of living (single person) $5,683 $2,784
Cost of living (family of 4) $15,081 $7,249
Unemployment rate 11.2% 5.7%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.5%
State income tax 10.9% 3.5%
  • Rent prices in Columbus are 67% lower than in New York City, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Columbus.
    Home prices in Columbus are 68.3% lower than in New York City.
  • Income in Columbus is 16.6% lower than in New York City, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbus — including Ohio State University, The State of Ohio, and JPMorgan Chase — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Columbus. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 51.0% lower than in New York City.
  • A move to Columbus 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 51.9% less than what it costs in New York City.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbus is 49.11% lower than in New York City.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbus, since the city's sales taxes in Columbus are 6.25% lower than in New York City.
  • One perk of moving to Columbus is paying less in state income taxes, which are 67.89% lower than in New York City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,469.65 in Columbus to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New York City.

How life is different in New York City vs. Columbus

Columbus New York City
Population 905,748 8,258,035
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 10
Walkability score 41 88
Bike friendliness score 48 69
Crime Index 49.65 50.83
Safety Index 50.35 49.17
Air Quality Good Good
  • Columbus might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 89% less than New York City.
  • Getting around Columbus without a car might be more difficult than in New York City. Columbus has a public transportation score of 5 out of 10, whereas New York City is ranked 10. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Columbus neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as New York City. Based on its score of 41 out of 100, Columbus isn't as walkable as New York City, which has a score of 88 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Columbus, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than New York City. While New York City has a bike-friendliness score of 69 out of 100, Columbus earned a 48. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • You can anticipate the same crime rate in Columbus as New York City. With the crime index, lower scores are better because they indicate less crime. Cities with scores of 20 or below, for example, have much fewer instances of crime than those with scores of 80–100.
  • Columbus is generally as safe as New York City, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
  • The air quality in Columbus and New York City is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your New York City vs. Columbus move

  • Weather: Columbus doesn't get the snowfall that more northern Ohio gets but it does have some of the severe weather that's common in the midwest such as strong lightning storms and hail. In general, you can expect all 4 seasons in Columbus so take that into account when choosing the time of the year that you move.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Ohio, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Ohio doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • 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 Columbus without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Columbus

Now that you've chosen Arch City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Columbus to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Short North
  • Victorian Village
  • Clintonville
  • Ashville

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bexley
  • Clintonville
  • Gahanna
  • Hilliard
  • Upper Arlington

Things to do in Columbus

After settling into your new Ohio home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbus has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Columbus features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Beeler Gallery, Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, Central Ohio Fire Museum, Columbus Historical Society, and Columbus Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Scioto Mile, Topiary Garden, and Schiller Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Columbus Crew (MLS), Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA), Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL), or Columbus Clippers (AAAE) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from New York City to Columbus?

If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from New York City to Columbus. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in New York City.

When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Columbus?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from New York City to Columbus 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 New York City to Columbus take?

Covering 536 miles, the move from New York City, NY to Columbus, OH typically takes one to six days. Some New York City movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Columbus can help bridge the gap.

Helpful moving resources