How Much Does Moving House Cost in Major Australian Cities?

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How Much Does Moving House Cost in Major Australian Cities?
March 21, 2025

Moving your home is a major moment, but it’s also a time with different costs that differ based on the location distance, location, and nature of the services required. When you’re moving across the street or the country, knowing the costs associated with the move can aid in budgeting. Here we will discuss the typical cost of moving to Australia’s largest cities, including Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra.

Factors Affecting Moving Costs

Before we get into the specific costs for a city, there are a few variables that affect the price of removals to your home:

  • The size of the move – larger homes require more packing supplies along with labour and transport space.
  • Distance-based moves are more affordable than long-distance and interstate moves.
  • Accessibility – Elevators, stairs, and narrow driveways could make a difference in the price.
  • Additional Services like packing and unpacking furniture, furniture disassembly, and storage services add to the cost.
  • The timing of moving The time of the move (weekends or summer) could cost more.

What Services Do Removalists Offer?

Moving House Cost in Major Australian Cities

Removalists provide a wide range of services to help with moving homes, offices and even companies. They typically provide:

  1. Unpacking and packing Expertly pack your items using protective materials, and then unpack at the time of moving to a different site.
  2. Furniture removal and reassembly Removal of large furniture pieces for ease of transport and then reassembling when you arrive.
  3. The loading process and unloading Secure the transport and loading of goods in moving trucks. Then unload the truck when it arrives at its destination.
  4. Transportation Safe transportation of goods is the use of specially designed moving vehicles.
  5. Storage Services Storage Services Storage options to store your belongings for a long time or temporarily for your possessions.
  6. Speciality items handling moving important, delicate or valuable items like antique pianos paintings, antiques or even artwork.
  7. Pet & Vehicle Transport Moving pets or vehicles if necessary.
  8. Cleansing Services Cleaning at the end of lease or post-move clean-up services for offices or homes.
  9. Insurance coverage Insurance plan of security for objects which are moved.
  10. Interstate & International Moving – Coordinating moves between states or countries.

Let’s Look at the Cost of Living in Major Cities

1. Moving Costs in Brisbane

Moving your house in Brisbane can cost anywhere between $360 to $3,000 depending on the size of your home and the distance required for the relocation as well as any other services you require.

Here is an outline of typical costs for moving in Brisbane:

Average Moving Costs in Brisbane

1-Bedroom Apartment$2,520 – $3,150
2-Bedroom Unit$585 – $850
3-Bedroom House$924 – $1,230
4-Bedroom House$2,520 – $3,150

Factors Affecting Moving Costs in Brisbane

  1. Moving distance Locally moving within Brisbane is less expensive than moving across the state.
  2. Larger quantities of belongings – More things mean a bigger truck and a higher cost of labour.
  3. Accessibility Accessibility – or parking restrictions may result in additional charges.
  4. Moving Time The weekend and peak season moving (December from January) are more costly.
  5. Additional services like moving furniture and packing it, unpacking it of furniture and storage may raise the cost.
Brisbane city skyline at dusk with river view and illuminated buildings

The cost of Moving Home in Brisbane depends on a variety of factors, but with an effective strategy, you can lower the price. If you are hiring a professional house removalist or doing the work yourself, you must begin planning and consider different options to find the most efficient and cost-effective removal service.

Book Cheapest Removalists In Brisbane: https://movingchamps.com.au/qld/brisbane/brisbane/

2. Moving Costs in Melbourne

Moving home in Melbourne could cost from $470 to more than $2,000, based on variables like how big your property is as well as distance and other services such as storage and packing. Here’s an overview of the average cost of moving to help plan your budget for the move.

Average Moving Costs in Melbourne

Home SizeEstimated Cost
1-Bedroom Apartment$470 – $750
2-Bedroom Unit$650 – $1,250
3-Bedroom House$710 – $1,910
4-Bedroom House$1,500 – $2,500

Tips to Save on House Removal Costs in Melbourne

  • Make last-minute reservations, which could cost you money.
  • If you are moving during non-peak hours, doing so during the week or in mid-month is typically less expensive.
  • Clean out any clutter before moving – sell items or donate them to help reduce the amount of transportation.
  • Comparing Quotes: Receive several quotes from Melbourne removalists who will work on your house to receive the best price.
  • If you are crossing states, sharing the space of your truck with the other driver can help you save money.
Aerial view of Melbourne city skyline with lush greenery and modern skyscrapers at sunset

Moving your home from Melbourne is costly. But, with careful planning and strategies for saving money, it is possible to manage your relocation. Whatever the reason, whether you are moving within a city or outside of the state, comparing the prices of different moving companies and making reservations ahead of time will enable you to discover the most affordable cost.

Book Cheapest Removalists In Melbourne: https://movingchamps.com.au/qld/brisbane/brisbane/

3. Moving Costs in Sydney

Sydney is one of the most expensive cities in Australia. Moving costs may be more expensive than in other areas. The total cost is contingent on the size of your home, the distance to it, as well as other services. Moving House Costs in Sydney will be $840 and $3,000+.

Average Moving Costs in Sydney

Home SizeEstimated Cost
1-Bedroom Apartment$840 – $1,100
2-Bedroom Unit$1,100 – $1,350
3-Bedroom House$1,150 – $1,520
4-Bedroom House$2,500 – $3,000+

Factors Affecting Moving Costs in Sydney

  1. Moving distance Local moves are cheaper and long-distance or interstate moves can cost a lot.
  2. Accessibility and traffic Sydney’s bustling streets, toll roads, and parking restrictions can result in cost-plus.
  3. The size of the move – The more boxes and furniture you own the more expensive the move.
  4. The time of the move – The cost of moving on weekends during public holidays or during peak season (December through February) will be more expensive.
  5. Additional Services like packing storage, unpacking, and furniture disassembly all add to the total price.
Scenic view of Sydney Opera House and ferries on Sydney Harbour under a bright blue sky

Moving into a house in Sydney is expensive. However, with careful planning, you can lower expenses. When you are moving within the city or moving to another state, comparing the costs of house movers and deciding on the best time to move will ensure you find the most affordable price.

Book Cheapest Removalists In Sydney: https://movingchamps.com.au/nsw/sydney-greater/sydney/

4. Moving Costs in Adelaide

Adelaide is among the cities that are more affordable in Australia for relocating homes. But, prices differ based on variables like the size of your home and distance as well as other services such as storage and packing. On average, moving houses in Adelaide could cost between $550 to $1,500.

Average Moving Costs in Adelaide

Home SizeEstimated Cost
1-Bedroom Apartment$550 – $850
2-Bedroom Unit$650 – $1,250
3-Bedroom House$850 – $1,350
4-Bedroom House$1,250 – $1,500

Factors Affecting Moving Costs in Adelaide

  1. The distance of Move Distance of the Move – Local moves are more affordable, while interstate relocations cost more.
  2. Quantity of Items – The greater the number of furniture and other belongings the higher the price.
  3. Accessibility staircases, narrow hallways, or parking spaces that are difficult to access can increase the price of a property.
  4. The timing of moving The cost of moving on public holidays, weekends or during peak times could be more expensive.
  5. Additional Services such as packing furniture assembly storage, unpacking, and packing will be added to the total cost.
Aerial view of Adelaide city skyline with parklands, River Torrens, and modern buildings on a sunny day

Adelaide provides reasonably affordable home moving services in comparison to other major Australian cities. By planning and selecting the most cost-effective option, you will reduce the cost of the cost of moving.

Book Cheap Moving Services In Adelaide: https://movingchamps.com.au/sa/adelaide-greater/adelaide/

Local removalists are competitive in their rates, which makes them one of the top cities for low-cost relocations.

5. Moving Costs in Perth

Moving your home in Perth is usually less expensive than Sydney or Melbourne However, costs may differ based on aspects like the size of the home as well as the distance to move and other extra services. On the average, removals of homes in Perth are priced between $500 and $2,000+.

Average Moving Costs in Perth

Home SizeEstimated Cost
1-Bedroom Apartment$500 – $800
2-Bedroom Unit$700 – $1,300
3-Bedroom House$900 – $1,600
4-Bedroom House$1,500 – $2,000+

Factors Affecting Moving Costs in Perth

  1. The distance of the move Moving locally within Perth is more affordable than long-distance or interstate relocations.
  2. Quantity of Items Boxes and furniture need larger trucks as well as additional labour, which can increase costs.
  3. Accessibility – Stairs, narrow driveways, and challenging parking spots could result in additional charges.
  4. The time of the move – The peak seasons for moving (weekends, holidays, weekdays, and summer) will cost you more.
  5. Additional Services like packing removal, packing removal of furniture, and storage are added to the total price.
Perth city skyline at sunset with modern architecture and illuminated sculptures in Elizabeth Quay

Moving to Perth is less expensive than other cities in the eastern part of the country However, planning can assist you in saving more. When you’re planning to move locally or interstate, obtaining estimates from a variety of house movers, and selecting the day of your move that is not busy will help you cut costs.

Book Professional Removalists in Perth: https://movingchamps.com.au/wa/perth-greater/perth/

6. Moving Costs in Canberra

Moving your home in Canberra is typically more affordable than Sydney however it can be expensive depending on the home size, distance from the move, and additional services like packing and storage. Moving house in Canberra could cost anywhere between $600-$2500plus.

Average Moving Costs in Canberra

Home SizeEstimated Cost
1-Bedroom Apartment$600 – $900
2-Bedroom Unit$750 – $1,400
3-Bedroom House$1,100 – $1,800
4-Bedroom House$1,800 – $2,500+

Factors Affecting Moving Costs in Canberra

  1. The distance of relocation Moving locally within Canberra is less expensive than interstate moves.
  2. Larger quantities of belongings boxes and furniture mean an increased size of trucks and more cost of labour.
  3. Accessibility staircases, narrow hallways, or parking restrictions could increase the price.
  4. The time of the Move The peak seasons (summer weekends, weekend days and public holiday days) are generally associated with more expensive rates.
  5. Additional Services: Packing storage, unpacking, and handling special needs for fragile items are added an additional cost to the total.
Scenic view of Canberra at sunrise with hot air balloons and people relaxing on a grassy hill

Moving your home in Canberra is cost-effective when you plan and select the best House Removalists. If you are moving locally or across the country getting quotes from a variety of companies and moving out of peak hours will help you find the best price. Because of its design and larger roads accessibility issues are not as frequent, which means that there are fewer costs.

Book Affordable Removalists in Canberra: https://movingchamps.com.au/act/canberra-greater/canberra/

Interstate Moving Costs in Australia

Moving your home across state lines across state borders in Australia is a substantial logistical and financial challenge. The cost for interstate relocations is contingent on the distance, size of the home, and other options like storage, packing, and special handling. On average, Interstate Relocation costs for Australia can range from $1,500 up to more than $6,000, based on the particulars of the relocation.

Cost Estimates for Interstate Moves

The cost of moving across state lines is mostly dependent on the cities that are involved. In the case of shifting between Sydney to Melbourne generally costs between $3000 and $4500, while moving between Melbourne to Perth due to the huge distance, could cost between $4,500 and $7,000. Moving between close cities, like Canberra to Sydney is generally less expensive, and ranges from $1500 to $2,500.

Factors Affecting Interstate Moving Costs

Professional movers packing and labeling boxes in a modern home interior
  1. Distance of the move – The more distance you must move your possessions the more costly because of fuel usage or labour costs, as well as transport logistics.
  2. Quantity of Items Furniture and other belongings need larger trucks as well as additional labour, which can increase the total cost. Reducing the size of your belongings before moving will help cut costs.
  3. The type of service you can avail Full-service removals, which includes packing, transportation, and unpacking will cost more money than transport-only services. Backloading, which is where you share space on the truck with other moving companies, is a cost-effective alternative.
  4. Moving during peak season (summer weekends, summer and holiday weekends) is more expensive because of the increased demands for moving companies. If you are planning a midweek move or mid-month move may assist in securing higher prices.
  5. Accessibility – If your existing or new residence has stairs, narrow hallways, narrow corridors, or parking issues Removalists might charge additional for the extra amount of time and effort.
  6. The insurance industry and special handling If you have delicate or expensive items like artwork, antiques, and pianos, then you might require special handling services that will increase the cost overall.

Also Read: How to Avoid Common Mistakes When Moving Interstate in Australia

Ways to Save on Interstate Moving Costs

  • Compare multiple quotes – Different removalists for your home provide different rates and services. Comparing at least three quotes will allow you to find the best price.
  • Clear out your home prior to moving – Donating or selling your items and furniture that are no longer needed reduces the number of items you have to move which ultimately reduces the cost.
  • Think about Backloading Services if you’re flexible on time backloading (sharing a truck moving with other trucks travelling towards the same route) could significantly reduce expenses.
  • Plan Last-minute changes typically have higher prices. Early booking ensures greater availability and lower rates.
  • Removals during off-peak periods Avoiding peak season and weekends could result in less expensive removal costs.

How to Reduce Moving Costs

Moving houses can be costly. However, with the proper plan, you can cut expenses significantly. No matter if you’re moving locally, or across the country, these strategies will allow you to reduce the cost of house removals while ensuring effectiveness.

Moving House Cost

1. Declutter Before Moving

One of the simplest ways to lower the cost of moving is to limit the amount of items you need to carry. The more items you own, the bigger the truck needed and the more the cost of labour. Before you move, you should go through all your belongings.

  • Sell your stuff online or through an auction.
  • Give to charity or donate items you no longer require.
  • Responsibly remove broken or unneeded items.
  • By reducing the size that you move you will cut costs for house movers and possibly earn money.

2. Get multiple quotes from House Removalist

Different House Removalists do not have the same costs and it’s important to obtain at least three estimates before selecting a removalist. Be sure to look for:

If you’re seeking top-quality service and a cost-effective solution, Moving Champs is the perfect choice.

Pricing that is transparent and without hidden charges.

Reputation and reviews for the highest quality of service.

Options for insurance in the event of damages during the move.

Comparing the different removal companies can help you find the most affordable price without sacrificing the quality of service.

3. Move During Off-Peak Times

Moving expenses tend to be higher on weekends, holidays, and peak seasons (especially during summer). To reduce costs:

  • The best time to move midweek is in times of lower demand.
  • Pick mid-month, not the end or beginning of the month. This is when the majority of leases are due to expire.
  • Make a reservation in advance to secure lower rates before prices rise.
  • Planning your move for more quiet times could bring substantial savings.

Also Read: DIY vs. Hiring Bathtub Removalists: Which Option is Better?

4. Consider Backloading Services

If you’re planning to move across the country or have a flexible schedule, backloading is an efficient alternative. back-loading is sharing space with other vehicles that are moving toward the same location, which can reduce transportation costs. This is great for:

  • Less clutter and smaller moves.
  • Long-distance relocations in which no truck is required.
  • Moving with a budget and looking for low-cost alternatives.
  • A lot of house moving companies provide back-loading at just a fraction of the cost.

5. Pack Your Belongings

Packing services can be expensive So doing it yourself could save you many hundreds. For a lower cost:

  • Utilize recycled or free boxes from local shops as well as Facebook Marketplace.
  • Use towels and clothing as padding rather than bubble wrap.
  • Label boxes clearly so that packing is simpler and less likely to cause damage.
  • If you’re still struggling, you can hire a house removalist to move heavy furniture, but take care of smaller items by yourself.

6. Use DIY Moving Options for Short Distances

Local moves, hiring a moving truck, and making the move yourself can be more affordable than hiring professionals to move your house. You can:

  • You can rent a moving truck or trailer for a day.
  • Get your family and friends to assist instead of hiring moving companies.
  • Make use of the van or ute to make smaller trips instead of a big truck.
  • DIY moves are great for small distances and families, as they can help you reduce the cost of labor.

7. Look for Discounts and Moving Deals

Many House Removalists offer discounts as well as promotions, particularly for early bookings. To save money:

  • Find deals online on websites of companies that handle moving.
  • Find out about senior or student discounts if they are available.
  • Services that are part of a bundle (such as moving and storage) receive discounted packages.
  • Even tiny discounts can add up to substantial savings on removals of your home.

Also Read: 11 Essential Tips For Stress-Free Interstate Removal

Conclusion

The cost of moving your home differs greatly based on your area, the size of your home, and the type of services needed. When you’re hiring house moving professionals like moving champs to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, or Canberra making a plan beforehand and looking at quotes will assist you in saving money. Take into consideration the other aspects and services that impact the cost of your move to make it as simple and cost-effective as possible.

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