How we chose the best moving companies for your TN to NJ move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 71 Tennessee movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
-
Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
-
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.
How much does it cost to move from Tennessee to New Jersey?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Tennessee
to New Jersey, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,220 – $4,523 |
$743 – $1,937 |
$579 – $1,094 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,482 – $6,111 |
$1,376 – $2,830 |
$631 – $1,247 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,962 – $7,943 |
$1,814 – $3,563 |
$799 – $1,579 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 891-mile relocation from TN to
NJ, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Tennessee to New Jersey
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Tennessee to New Jersey, you’ll likely pay between
$1,220
and $4,523.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,482 and $6,111
for the same journey (TN to NJ).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,962
to $7,943.
Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to New Jersey
When you’re heading from Tennessee to New Jersey, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $743 and
$1,937. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,376 and
$2,830. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,814
to $3,563. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Tennessee easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Tennessee to New Jersey
A moving rental truck 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
$579
to $1,094.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $631
to $1,247, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Tennessee to New Jersey costs around
$799 to
$1,579.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from TN to NJ
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Tennessee to New Jersey. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
-
How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
-
The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Tennessee when demand for movers is highest.
-
DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from TN to NJ
If you’re moving to New Jersey from Tennessee, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Tennessee vs. New Jersey
Understanding how costs compare between Tennessee and New Jersey can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Tennessee |
New Jersey |
| Average rent |
$1,047 |
$1,368 |
| Average home cost |
$319,208 |
$534,773 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$64,035 |
$97,126 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
114 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
9.55% |
6.6% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
10.7% |
-
Rent is about 31% higher in New Jersey than in Tennessee. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
-
Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in New Jersey are typically about 68% higher than in Tennessee.
-
You’re likely to earn about 52% more in New Jersey than in Tennessee. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
-
The cost of living is 27% higher in New Jersey than in Tennessee. If you’re making the move to New Jersey with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
-
The unemployment rate in New Jersey is about 42% higher than in Tennessee. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
-
Sales tax in New Jersey is 31% lower than in Tennessee. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in New Jersey can really help cut down your living expenses.
-
New Jersey has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in New Jersey vs. Tennessee
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how New Jersey and Tennessee line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
New Jersey |
Tennessee |
| Population |
9,290,841 |
7,126,489 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-46.1 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
22ºF |
27ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
53″ |
| Annual snow |
23″ |
5″ |
| Crime index |
16.2 |
29.24 |
-
The population of New Jersey is approximately 30% greater than the population of Tennessee.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
-
In the most recent presidential election, New Jersey voted Democratic, while Tennessee went Republican.
-
In New Jersey, summer highs are around 85°F, close to 88°F in Tennessee.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
-
Winter temperatures usually fall to 22°F in New Jersey and 27°F in Tennessee.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
-
In New Jersey, you’ll see about 48 inches of rain each year — nearly identical to the 53 inches you’re used to in Tennessee.
While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
-
Each year, New Jersey sees about 23 inches of snowfall, while Tennessee averages just 5 inches.
With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
-
New Jersey is a safer choice than Tennessee, boasting a lower crime index of 16.2 compared to 29.24.
You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Tennessee vs. New Jersey
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in New Jersey and Tennessee:
| Pros of living in Tennessee |
Pros of living in New Jersey |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| No income taxes |
Diversity |
| Legendary music scene |
World-class entertainment |
| Natural beauty and parks galore |
Leading education |
| Delicious southern comfort food |
Superb health care |
Comparing the cons of living in Tennessee vs. New Jersey
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Tennessee for New Jersey:
| Cons of living in Tennessee |
Cons of living in New Jersey |
| Tendency for severe weather |
Extreme weather |
| Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
Congested population |
| Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
High cost of living |
| Traffic congestion |
High tax burden |
| High urban crime rates |
Terrible traffic |
Other things to consider for your Tennessee to New Jersey move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
-
State licensing:
In New Jersey, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs handles the regulation of in-state moving companies.
The state’s Division of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that warehousemen (public storage companies) and public movers provide safe, reliable, and ethical services while adhering to all relevant state rules and regulations. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
-
State regulator:
You can verify a New Jersey moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in New Jersey, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
-
Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to New Jersey right on schedule. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection is the most economical option as it incurs no cost. It is provided by movers at no additional charge, but the coverage is minimal. Under this option, no more than 60 cents per pound per article is the responsibility of the mover. For example, if a delicate china set weighing 20 pounds is lost or damaged by the mover, only $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds) would be received. If coverage for the full value of your items is needed, consultation with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider is recommended.
-
Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in New Jersey
While you’re in New Jersey, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in New Jersey
- Cape May Lighthouse
- Silverball Retro Arcade Asbury Park
- Battleship New Jersey
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Newark Museum
Parks in New Jersey
- Branch Brook Park
- Laurel Acres Park
- The Frelinghuysen Arboretum
- Roosevelt Park
- Bergen County Zoological Park
Sports teams in New Jersey
- New Jersey Devils (NHL)
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Jets (NFL)
- New York Red Bulls (MLS)
Universities in New Jersey
- Princeton University
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Seton Hall University
- Montclair State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Tennessee to New Jersey?
Do movers transport your car from Tennessee to New Jersey?
What are the benefits of moving from Tennessee to New Jersey?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Tennessee to New Jersey to enjoy all the great benefits New Jersey provides, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and diversity.
Is it cheaper to live in Tennessee or New Jersey?
Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in New Jersey.
Housing
is much more affordable in Tennessee,
with average rent about 23% less and home prices 40% lower than in New Jersey.
The tax rate is about the same between Tennessee and New Jersey.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Jersey?
Thinking of moving to New Jersey on your own? You’ll want to earn around $54,567 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,483 per month, or around $7,579 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Trenton and Newark tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Tennessee?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Military members can find special pricing from 5 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 3 movers.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 2 moving companies.
Educators and teachers get access to discounts from 1 movers.
Law enforcement personnel qualify for special rates with 2 companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
Tennessee moving services
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
When moving from Tennessee to New Jersey, you’ll likely pay between $2,482–$6,111 with professional movers, roughly
$2,103 for a moving container, and about
$939
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
