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($966) Cost to Move From Harrisburg, PA to Dayton, OH

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 438 miles from Harrisburg to Dayton has an average cost ranging from $406 to $5,010. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–four days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Harrisburg to Dayton

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Harrisburg to Dayton

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Harrisburg to Dayton. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 13 interstate moving companies in Harrisburg. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Dayton.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Harrisburg to Dayton

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 438-mile move from Harrisburg to Dayton using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,068 – $3,487
  • Moving Container $869 – $1,582
  • Rental Truck $365 – $714
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,849 – $5,010
  • Moving Container $1,205 – $2,337
  • Rental Truck $406 – $831
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,123 – $6,830
  • Moving Container $1,492 – $2,990
  • Rental Truck $490 – $988
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Roadway Moving
Columbia, PA Mutual, OH
4 Bedrooms
Oct 18, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Hummelstown, PA Covington, OH
Studio apartment
Oct 17, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
New Cumberland, PA Springdale, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 03, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Tower City, PA Dayton, OH
Studio apartment
Sep 27, 2025
United Van Lines
North Lebanon, PA Greenville, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 17, 2025
American Van Lines
Lower Paxton, PA Vandalia, OH
4 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Springettsbury, PA Lewisburg, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 22, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Shiremanstown, PA Pleasant Hill, OH
Studio apartment
Aug 20, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Millerstown, PA Milledgeville, OH
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 14, 2025
Safeway Moving
Dauphin, PA Brookville, OH
3 Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Dayton, OH to Harrisburg, PA guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Harrisburg to Dayton moves

Organizing a move from Harrisburg to Dayton can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 18 local movers in Harrisburg known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Harrisburg to Dayton.

  1. Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Spirit Moving Company LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. The Armstrong Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. Keystone Moving and Junk Removal: 4.28 out of 5 stars
  5. Maya’s Movers LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
6.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc. means working with a team known for efficiency, professionalism, and careful service. Out of 259 reviews, 92.7% report positive experiences, making this company a standout in the moving industry. Customers consistently mention the staff’s courtesy, professionalism, and attention to detail. Moves are often completed quickly and without issue, and communication from the office to the moving crew earns praise for keeping customers informed and at ease. On the flip side, a few clients have faced issues like damaged items, inaccurate quotes, and communication breakdowns. Complaints about property damage and unexpected costs are more frequent than with similar services. Despite some negative feedback, the vast majority of input highlights reliability, speed, and a crew that takes extra care with belongings.
Get a Quote (717) 774-7838

Company Info

State license #: 702302

Years in Business: 127

DOT #: 10676

Alternate Names: Harrisburg Storage Co. , M.F. Rockey Moving Company , Penn Hershey Transfer , Harrisburg Transfer Company , George W. Weaver

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.8% of all reviews were positive
8.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Spirit Moving Company stands out for its professionalism, attentive handling, and courteous team, according to 98 customer feedback reports. Approximately 92% of customers delivered glowing input, often praising the movers’ professionalism, careful approach, efficiency, and timely completion of moves. Many also describe the staff as friendly and the booking process as seamless. Repeat customers and strong word-of-mouth recommendations highlight a reputation many local companies do not achieve. On the negative side, about 8% experienced issues such as damage to property or belongings, missed appointments, and unresolved incidents like missing items. These negative experiences mostly relate to claims of careless handling, lack of reliability, and problems reaching or receiving response from management. Compared to the moving industry norm, Spirit Moving Company receives a notably higher share of positive mentions for professionalism and genuine care. While instances of poor outcomes exist, the majority found Spirit Moving Company dependable and highly recommend their service.
Get a Quote (717) 978-3050

Company Info

State license #: 8921736

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3214709

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.7% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers often call Armstrong Relocation the gold standard of moving. Out of 225 reviews analyzed, more than 90% featured positive feedback. Most praise the team’s professionalism, attention to detail, speed, careful handling, and responsive communication. Crews consistently arrive on time, treat belongings and homes with respect, and finish quickly. Many note estimates are accurate, and several say Armstrong’s pricing beats competitors. On the downside, a handful of customers report property damage and long waits for claim resolution. Some cite trouble reaching staff or unexpected extra costs. Compared with industry standards, Armstrong receives far fewer serious complaints, and its teams are routinely described as the most professional movers customers have hired. The company earns strong trust and repeat business, with negative feedback mostly centered on damage claims, rare billing issues, or isolated incidents of poor communication.
Get a Quote (717) 492-4155

Company Info

State license #: 8917264

Years in Business: 76

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
98.9% of all reviews were positive
1.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Five-star service shines through in nearly every piece of customer feedback for Keystone Moving and Junk Removal. Out of 190 reviews, 98.9% express satisfaction, with the team earning praise for professionalism, efficiency, careful handling, friendly attitudes, quick moving times, and fair pricing. Customers frequently describe Keystone’s staff as courteous and respectful, with movers arriving promptly and communicating clearly throughout the process. Input emphasizes both speed and careful attention to belongings, with repeated reports of moves completed ahead of schedule and without damage. Many note the affordability compared to competitors. A few isolated complaints highlight issues with deposit refunds and pricing estimates, contrasting sharply with the consistent satisfaction elsewhere. Compared to typical moving companies—which often struggle to maintain reliability and care—Keystone stands out for delivering a pleasant, seamless moving experience nearly every time.
Get a Quote (717) 712-5094

Company Info

State license #: 8920233

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3011826

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.1% of all reviews were positive
2.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Maya’s Movers LLC stands out for its consistently high customer satisfaction, with feedback from 103 reviews showing 97% positivity. Customers frequently mention the professionalism and courtesy of the staff, the speed and efficiency of the moving process, careful handling of items, and a friendly team, all contributing to straightforward and stress-free experiences. Numerous people mention efficient service and a quick moving process that handles even challenging logistics with ease. Negative feedback is minimal, with isolated complaints focused on a lack of communication, particularly during the estimate process, and infrequent issues with responsiveness. Compared to most moving companies, Maya’s Movers is noted for outstanding staff demeanor and consistent, careful work, while retaining room for improvement in initial communication with prospective customers.
Get a Quote (717) 825-4738

Company Info

State license #: 8921045

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3128183

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Harrisburg to Dayton?

On average, moving companies in Pennsylvania charge about $143 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $966 – $3,089 $673 – $1,507 $384 – $659
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,849 – $5,010 $1,205 – $2,337 $406 – $831
4+ bedrooms $3,123 – $6,830 $1,492 – $2,990 $490 – $988
*Estimated cost ranges for a 438-mile move from Harrisburg to Dayton are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Harrisburg to Dayton

When planning a move to Dayton from Harrisburg, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $966 and $3,089. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,849 and $5,010 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,123 to $6,830.

Cost of moving containers from Harrisburg to Dayton

When you’re heading from Harrisburg to Dayton, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $673 and $1,507. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,205 and $2,337. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,492 to $2,990. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Pennsylvania easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Harrisburg to Dayton

A moving rental truck from Harrisburg to Dayton is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $384 to $659. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $406 to $831, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Harrisburg to Dayton costs around $490 to $988.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Harrisburg to Dayton

The cost of Harrisburg movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Harrisburg to Dayton may only cost $1,451, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $5,848.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Harrisburg.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($384–$908), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Harrisburg to Dayton

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Dayton runs about -14% higher for singles and 5% higher for families than Harrisburg.

Singles spend around $1,593 in Harrisburg versus $1,849 in Harrisburg; families pay $3,788 compared with $3,612.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Harrisburg Dayton
Average 1 BR rent $1,550 $1,192
Average 3 BR rent $1,946 $1,683
Average home value $230,038 $135,815
Average income (per capita) $73,256 $62,673
Cost of living (single) $1,849 $1,593
Cost of living (family of four) $3,612 $3,788
Unemployment rate 13.4% 6.8%
Sales tax 6.0% 7.5%
State income tax 3.07% 3.5%
  • Rent is about 23% less expensive in Dayton than in Harrisburg, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 41% cheaper in Dayton than in Harrisburg.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 14% less in Dayton than in Harrisburg.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Dayton. The cost of living for a single person there is 14% below that of Harrisburg.
  • The cost of living for a family between Dayton and Harrisburg remains comparable, differing by roughly 5%, so your overall expenses won’t dramatically change.
  • Dayton has a lower unemployment rate than Harrisburg by about 49%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes in Dayton surpass those in Harrisburg by 25%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 14% more in Ohio than in Pennsylvania. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Harrisburg versus Dayton:

Living Expense Harrisburg Dayton
Basic utilities $160.00 $200.37
Cell phone plan $59.67 $44.17
Dozen eggs $4.26 $3.02
Loaf of bread $3.72 $2.61
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $65.00 $57.50
Gym membership $27.50 $33.34
  • Basic utilities cost less in Harrisburg than in Dayton, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Harrisburg than in Dayton.
  • Eggs cost more in Harrisburg than in Dayton.
  • Bread is more expensive in Harrisburg than in Dayton.
  • The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Harrisburg than in Dayton.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Harrisburg than in Dayton.

How life is different in Harrisburg vs. Dayton

Harrisburg Dayton
Population 50,099 137,644
Transportation score 6 6
Walkability score 68 45
Bike friendliness score 57 47
Crime index 64.18 4.0
Safety index 35.82 40.68
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • Dayton’s population is about 175% greater than Harrisburg.
  • Dayton’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Harrisburg, making them very similar.
  • Dayton is less walkable than Harrisburg with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Harrisburg’s 68 out of 100.
  • Dayton has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Harrisburg, which has a score of 57.
  • Dayton’s crime rate is lower than Harrisburg with a score of 4.0 compared to Harrisburg’s 64.18. This means that Dayton neighborhoods are safer than 4.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Harrisburg neighborhoods are safer than 64.18%.
  • Dayton is considered to be safer than Harrisburg with a safety index of 40.68 vs Harrisburg’s 35.82.
  • Air quality in Dayton is Moderate, and in Harrisburg it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Harrisburg to Dayton move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Harrisburg and Dayton are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is 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: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Ohio, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Dayton. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Dayton

With your sights set on Gem City, these are some of the most popular 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

With your move to Ohio complete, you can dive right into experiencing Dayton. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Dayton is home to museums and cultural arts 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: The city’s Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, Carriage Hill MetroPark, RiverScape MetroPark, and Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back 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 Harrisburg to Dayton?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Harrisburg to Dayton. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Harrisburg.

When is the cheapest time to move from Harrisburg to Dayton?

Want to save on your move from Harrisburg to Dayton? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Harrisburg to Dayton take?

The 438-mile move from Harrisburg, PA, to Dayton, , takes one to four days. Some Harrisburg movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Dayton.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Harrisburg?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 14 movers in Harrisburg provide piano moving services. 9 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 77 piano movers and 55 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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