How Much Does It Cost to Move in West Virginia?
West Virginia has among the lowest moving costs in the US. Local moves average $750. Mountain terrain can add complexity — narrow roads and steep grades may require smaller trucks or multiple trips. Mover availability is limited outside Charleston and Morgantown.
Average Moving Costs in West Virginia — 2026
| Move Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Local move — professional movers | $750 |
| Long-distance move — professional movers | $3,400 |
| Mover hourly rate (per mover) | $36/hr |
| Moving truck rental (per day) | $88/day |
Averages based on a 2-bedroom local move. Long-distance averages assume 500+ miles.
What Affects Moving Costs in West Virginia
Distance: Local moves are priced hourly ($36/mover/hr). Long-distance moves switch to a weight-plus-mileage model, which is why the jump from local to long-distance is so large.
Timing: Peak season (May–September) adds 15–30% to any quote. The last 3 days of a month are the most expensive — most leases expire on the 1st, so demand spikes.
Home size: Every additional bedroom adds roughly $100–200 to a local move (more movers or more hours). Long-distance moves price by weight — a 3-bedroom house weighs 3× a studio.
Access: Stairs, long carry distances, and tight elevator access trigger surcharges. Expect $50–100 per flight of stairs. Parking permits in dense West Virginia cities can add $50–150.
West Virginia Moving Cost by City
Metro areas with high demand and traffic typically run 15–25% above the state averages listed above.
- Charleston
- Huntington
- Morgantown
- Parkersburg
- Wheeling
Calculate Your West Virginia Moving Cost
Get an itemized estimate for your specific move — truck or movers, flights, housing deposits, storage, and contingency. Free, no account required.
Open Free Moving Cost Calculator →FAQ — Moving in West Virginia
How much does it cost to move locally in West Virginia?
Local moves in West Virginia average $750 for a 2-bedroom home. Mover hourly rates run $36/hr per mover. Most local moves take 4–8 hours with a 2–3 mover crew.
How much does a long-distance move to or from West Virginia cost?
Long-distance moves to or from West Virginia average $3,400 with professional movers. DIY truck rentals typically run $1,200–2,500 depending on distance and truck size.
What is the cheapest way to move in West Virginia?
Renting a moving truck yourself is the cheapest option — expect $88/day plus fuel. Booking movers for a weekday in the off-season (October–April) can save 20–30% vs. weekend peak rates.
When is the cheapest time to move in West Virginia?
October through April is the cheapest time to move in West Virginia. Avoid May–September (peak season), the last three days of any month, and weekends — all carry 15–30% premiums.
Which cities in West Virginia are most expensive for moving?
Charleston and Huntington typically run 15–25% above the state average due to higher demand, traffic congestion, and longer drive times between pickup and delivery.
Is West Virginia gaining or losing residents?
West Virginia is currently experiencing net outmigration, which can mean more mover availability and negotiating room on quotes.