Salt Lake City, UT to Columbus, OH Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Salt Lake City to Columbus typically costs $3,400–$8,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,694 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Salt Lake City to Columbus
Moving from Salt Lake City, UT to Columbus, OH typically costs $3,400–$8,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,694-mile move from Salt Lake City to Columbus, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- American Van Lines recently quoted $3,665 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $1,093 for a 2 bedroom using a rental truck.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $10,237 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 26, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 17, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 07, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 02, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 31, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 27, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 20, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Salt Lake City to Columbus
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Salt Lake City to Columbus might be as low as $2,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,000.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Salt Lake City.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,100 to $3,200 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbus, OH to Salt Lake City, UT guide.
Best Salt Lake City to Columbus movers by type
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Best professional movers from Salt Lake City to Columbus
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Salt Lake City to Columbus, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best UT→OH movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 33 Utah movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Salt Lake City to Columbus
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Columbus runs about 28% higher for singles and 50% higher for families than Salt Lake City.
Singles spend around $2,784 in Columbus versus $2,172 in Salt Lake City; families pay $7,249 compared with $4,827.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Salt Lake City | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,618 | $1,567 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,727 | $2,957 |
| Average home value | $549,528 | $238,832 |
| Average income (per capita) | $63,975 | $65,075 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,172 | $2,784 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,827 | $7,249 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 5.7% |
| Sales tax | 7.75% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 3.5% |
- Switching from Salt Lake City to Columbus won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- With home prices being nearly 57% cheaper in Columbus, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Columbus and Salt Lake City, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Columbus, as the cost of living for a single person in Columbus is 28% greater than in Salt Lake City. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Columbus, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 50% more than it is in Salt Lake City.
- The unemployment rate in Columbus exceeds that of Salt Lake City by about 90%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are effectively the same in Columbus and Salt Lake City (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
- Income taxes are 29% lower in Ohio than in Utah. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Salt Lake City and Columbus, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Salt Lake City | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $183.16 | $263.89 |
| Cell phone plan | $67.42 | $60.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.28 | $3.21 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.36 | $2.98 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $82.50 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $27.89 | $46.25 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Salt Lake City than in Columbus, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Salt Lake City than in Columbus.
- Eggs cost more in Salt Lake City than in Columbus.
- Bread is more expensive in Salt Lake City than in Columbus.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Salt Lake City than in Columbus.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Salt Lake City than in Columbus.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Salt Lake City than in Columbus.
How life is different in Salt Lake City vs. Columbus
| Salt Lake City | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 200,133 | 905,748 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 59 | 41 |
| Bike friendliness score | 74 | 48 |
| Crime index | 34.64 | 49.65 |
| Safety index | 65.36 | 50.35 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Columbus's population is about 353% greater than Salt Lake City.
- Columbus's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Salt Lake City's score of 8.
- Columbus is less walkable than Salt Lake City with a score of 41 out of 100 vs Salt Lake City's 59 out of 100.
- Columbus has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Salt Lake City, which has a score of 74.
- Columbus's crime rate is higher than Salt Lake City with a score of 49.65 compared to Salt Lake City's 34.64. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Salt Lake City neighborhoods are safer than 34.64%.
- Columbus is considered to be less safe than Salt Lake City with a score of 50.35 vs Salt Lake City's 65.36.
- Air quality in Columbus is Good, and in Salt Lake City it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Salt Lake City to Columbus move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Ohio moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Ohio, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- 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: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Columbus
Ready to relocate to The Arch City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Columbus.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Short North
- Victorian Village
- Clintonville
- Grandview Heights
- Ashville
- Dublin
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bexley
- Clintonville
- Gahanna
- Hilliard
- Upper Arlington
Things to do in Columbus
Now that you've made the move to Ohio, it's the perfect time to explore Columbus. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Columbus include museums and art centers like the Beeler Gallery, Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, Central Ohio Fire Museum, and Columbus Historical Society.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Scioto Mile, Topiary Garden, and Schiller Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Columbus Crew (MLS)Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA)Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)Columbus Clippers (AAAE) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Salt Lake City to Columbus?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Salt Lake City to Columbus. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Salt Lake City.
When is the cheapest time to move from Salt Lake City to Columbus?
With many people choosing to move from Salt Lake City to Columbus in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Salt Lake City to Columbus take?
Covering 1,694 miles, the move from Salt Lake City, UT to Columbus, OH typically takes four to 15 days. Some Salt Lake City movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Columbus can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Salt Lake City offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 2 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Salt Lake City can handle specialty items for my move to Columbus?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Salt Lake City, 18 movers can handle pianos. 13 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of UT, there are 26 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
