How we chose the best moving companies for your TN to VA move
Using rate data from 71 Tennessee movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
-
Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
-
Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Tennessee to Virginia?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Tennessee
to Virginia with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,114 – $3,335 |
$664 – $1,649 |
$424 – $819 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,120 – $5,055 |
$1,211 – $2,255 |
$439 – $916 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,923 – $8,065 |
$1,678 – $2,877 |
$598 – $1,184 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 552-mile move from TN to
VA, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Tennessee to Virginia
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Tennessee to Virginia,
you can expect to spend between $1,114
and $3,335.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,120 to
$5,055 on the same route
(TN to VA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Tennessee to Virginia typically runs between
$3,923 and
$8,065.
Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to Virginia
Moving from Tennessee to Virginia? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $664 and
$1,649. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,211 to
$2,255. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,678 up to
$2,877. 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 Tennessee.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Tennessee to Virginia
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$424 and
$819.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$439 and
$916.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $598 and
$1,184.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from TN to VA
There are many factors that influence Tennessee moving costs. The cost to move from Tennessee to Virginia will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
-
When you move: Summer moves in Tennessee fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
-
Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from TN to VA
Moving between Tennessee and Virginia involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Tennessee vs. Virginia
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Tennessee and Virginia. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Tennessee |
Virginia |
| Average rent |
$1,047 |
$1,440 |
| Average home cost |
$319,208 |
$392,682 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$64,035 |
$87,249 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
9.55% |
5.73% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
5.75% |
-
Rent costs 38% more in Virginia compared to Tennessee. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
-
Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Virginia to be about 23% more than what you’ll find in Tennessee.
-
Great news — you’re likely to make about 36% more in Virginia compared to Tennessee. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
-
Moving to Virginia will cost you 11% more than living in Tennessee, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
-
Virginia has a lower unemployment rate than Tennessee by about 12%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
-
Sales tax is 40% lower in Virginia compared to Tennessee, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
-
Virginia 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 Virginia vs. Tennessee
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Virginia differs from Tennessee in these areas.
|
Virginia |
Tennessee |
| Population |
8,715,698 |
7,126,489 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-48 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
27ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
53″ |
| Annual snow |
14″ |
5″ |
| Crime index |
19.3 |
29.24 |
-
If you’re relocating from Tennessee to Virginia, you’ll notice that Virginia has about 22% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
-
In the last presidential election, Virginia voted Democratic and Tennessee voted Republican.
-
Summer highs in Virginia average 87°F, almost the same as 88°F in Tennessee.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
In Virginia, winter lows are about 25°F, while Tennessee averages 27°F.
With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
-
In Virginia, you’ll see about 44 inches of rain each year, less than the 53 inches you’re used to in Tennessee.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In Virginia, it snows about 14 inches annually while Tennessee gets only about 5 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
Virginia offers a safer environment than Tennessee, with a crime index of 19.3 versus 29.24.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Tennessee vs. Virginia
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Virginia stacks up against Tennessee:
| Pros of living in Tennessee |
Pros of living in Virginia |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Strong economy |
| No income taxes |
Beautiful scenery |
| Legendary music scene |
Abundance of outdoor activities |
| Natural beauty and parks galore |
Enjoyable four season weather |
| Delicious southern comfort food |
Strong military presence |
Comparing the cons of living in Tennessee vs. Virginia
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Tennessee to Virginia, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Tennessee |
Cons of living in Virginia |
| Tendency for severe weather |
High cost of living |
| Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
Unpredictable weather |
| Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
Bad traffic congestion |
| Traffic congestion |
Lack of public transportation |
| High urban crime rates |
Air noise pollution |
Other things to consider for your Tennessee to Virginia move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
-
State licensing:
In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Virginia moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Virginia right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
-
Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Virginia
Get ready to discover Virginia. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Virginia
- Colonial Williamsburg
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- Historic Jamestowne
- Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe
- Military Aviation Museum
Parks in Virginia
- Mill Mountain Star & Park
- Morven Park
- The Mariners’ Museum & Park
- Great Falls Park
- Leesylvania State Park
Sports teams in Virginia
- Fredericksburg Nationals (Low-A East)
- Loudoun United FC (USL Championship)
- Lynchburg Hillcats (Low-A East)
- Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)
- Norfolk Tides Baseball (Triple-A East)
Universities in Virginia
- University of Virginia
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- George Mason University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- College of William & Mary
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Tennessee to Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from Tennessee to Virginia?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Tennessee to Virginia
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Tennessee to Virginia?
More and more folks are relocating from Tennessee to Virginia to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as strong economy and beautiful scenery.
Is it cheaper to live in Tennessee or Virginia?
Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in Virginia.
Housing
is more affordable in Tennessee,
with average rent about 27% less and home prices 19% lower than in Virginia.
The tax rate is about the same between Tennessee and Virginia.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Virginia?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Virginia, aim for an income of around $72,647 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $19,977 if you’re flying solo, or $4,783 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Neabsco and Virginia Beach usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Tennessee?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Tennessee.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 5 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 3 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Teachers and educators receive discounted rates with 1 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 2 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
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 planning a move from Tennessee to Virginia, professional movers typically run between
$2,120 and $5,055, a moving container averages about
$1,733, and a rental truck is around
$677.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
