How we chose the best moving companies for your TN to NY 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 York?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Tennessee
to New York, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,128 – $4,564 |
$805 – $1,825 |
$573 – $1,162 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,289 – $5,858 |
$1,376 – $2,752 |
$664 – $1,354 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,184 – $8,024 |
$1,889 – $3,463 |
$776 – $1,693 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 918-mile relocation from TN to
NY, 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 York
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Tennessee to New York, you’ll likely pay between
$1,128
and $4,564.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,289 and $5,858
for the same journey (TN to NY).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,184
to $8,024.
Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to New York
When you’re heading from Tennessee to New York, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $805 and
$1,825. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,376 and
$2,752. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,889
to $3,463. 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 York
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
$573
to $1,162.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $664
to $1,354, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Tennessee to New York costs around
$776 to
$1,693.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from TN to NY
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Tennessee to New York. 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 NY
If you’re moving to New York from Tennessee, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Tennessee vs. New York
Understanding how costs compare between Tennessee and New York can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Tennessee |
New York |
| Average rent |
$1,047 |
$1,507 |
| Average home cost |
$319,208 |
$482,742 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$64,035 |
$81,386 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
4.4% |
| Average sales tax |
9.55% |
8.52% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
10.9% |
-
Rent is about 44% higher in New York than in Tennessee. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
-
Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in New York are typically about 51% higher than in Tennessee.
-
You’re likely to earn about 27% more in New York than in Tennessee. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
-
The cost of living is 11% higher in New York than in Tennessee. If you’re making the move to New York 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 York is about 33% 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 York is 11% lower than in Tennessee. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in New York can really help cut down your living expenses.
-
New York 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 York 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 York and Tennessee line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
New York |
Tennessee |
| Population |
19,571,216 |
7,126,489 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 60-40 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
16ºF |
27ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
53″ |
| Annual snow |
62″ |
5″ |
| Crime index |
21.51 |
29.24 |
-
The population of New York is approximately 175% 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 York voted Democratic, while Tennessee went Republican.
-
New York sees average summer highs of 81°F, compared to 88°F in Tennessee.
Cooler summers mean less extreme heat, lower energy bills, and easier outdoor living.
-
In the coldest months, New York sees lows of 16°F compared to 27°F in Tennessee.
That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
-
In New York, you’ll get about 44 inches of rain each year — less than the 53 inches you’re used to in Tennessee.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
-
Each year, New York sees about 62 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 York is a safer choice than Tennessee, boasting a lower crime index of 21.51 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 York
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in New York and Tennessee:
| Pros of living in Tennessee |
Pros of living in New York |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Natural beauty |
| No income taxes |
Arts |
| Legendary music scene |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Natural beauty and parks galore |
Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities |
| Delicious southern comfort food |
Distinct seasons |
Comparing the cons of living in Tennessee vs. New York
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 York:
| Cons of living in Tennessee |
Cons of living in New York |
| Tendency for severe weather |
High tax burden |
| Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
Rough winter weather |
| Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
High cost of living |
| Traffic congestion |
Poor quality healthcare |
| High urban crime rates |
Populous |
Other things to consider for your Tennessee to New York 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:
New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
-
State regulator:
You can verify a New York moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in New York, 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 York 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. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
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 York
While you’re in New York, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in New York
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- The Strong National Museum of Play
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- New York State Museum
- Erie Canal Museum
Parks in New York
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Central Park
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Robert Moses State Park
Sports teams in New York
- Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA)
- Buffalo Bills (NFL)
- Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
- New York City FC (MLS)
- New York Islanders (NHL)
Universities in New York
- Cornell University
- Columbia University in the City of New York
- New York University
- University of Rochester
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Tennessee to New York?
Do movers transport your car from Tennessee to New York?
What are the benefits of moving from Tennessee to New York?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Tennessee to New York to enjoy all the great benefits New York provides, such as natural beauty and arts.
Is it cheaper to live in Tennessee or New York?
Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in New York.
Housing
is much more affordable in Tennessee,
with average rent about 31% less and home prices 34% lower than in New York.
The tax rate is about the same between Tennessee and New York.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New York?
Thinking of moving to New York on your own? You’ll want to earn around $78,058 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $5,550 per month, or around $12,661 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like New York City and Brooklyn 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 York, you’ll likely pay between $2,289–$5,858 with professional movers, roughly
$2,064 for a moving container, and about
$1,009
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
