Relocating for a new physician role comes with the opportunity for career growth but also the challenge of managing the logistics and costs of moving. That’s why understanding what you can expect in a relocation package is essential before committing to a new position.

If you’re considering a move, knowing what is both typical and reasonable to ask for can help you negotiate effectively and avoid unexpected expenses. If you want to get a detailed estimate tailored to your move, you can also use a relocation package calculator for personalized numbers.

Whether you’re actively searching or just gathering information, having clarity on relocation support will make your transition smoother and less stressful. For a broader overview, don’t forget to check our comprehensive physician relocation pillar page.

What is a reasonable relocation package?

When asking yourself, how much relocation assistance should I ask for, it’s important to align your expectations with industry norms and the specifics of your move. A “reasonable” relocation package should sufficiently cover most of the expenses involved with moving your household, travel and temporary living arrangements.

Most physician relocation packages range between $10,000 and $20,000 depending on factors like:

  • Distance of the move (local vs. cross country)
  • Size of your household and amount of belongings
  • Whether you’re relocating with family or solo
  • Specific needs like pet transportation or vehicle shipping
  • Local cost of living and housing market dynamics

This amount is often enough to cover moving company fees, travel expenses for you and your family, temporary housing for 30-60 days and incidentals such as utility setup and lease-breaking fees.

If your move involves selling a home, some packages also include assistance with realtor fees or reimbursement for losses on your previous home sale. For large or complex moves, it’s reasonable to ask for additional support, especially if  relocating a family or multiple vehicles.

What is an appropriate relocation bonus?

In addition to reimbursing actual expenses, many employers offer a relocation bonus—a lump sum cash payment meant to help offset the upfront costs of moving that may not be fully covered by reimbursements.

Understanding the typical relocation expenses list can help you assess if the bonus you’re offered is adequate. Common items covered include:

  • Professional movers and packing services
  • Transportation costs (airfare, mileage, vehicle shipping)
  • Temporary lodging and meals while traveling
  • Storage fees for household goods
  • Utility connection and disconnection fees
  • Miscellaneous costs like pet relocation or school enrollment fees

A typical relocation bonus might range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on your role and the complexity of your move. Some employers combine this bonus with other moving reimbursements, while others offer it as a standalone lump sum.

The bonus is often taxable, so it’s worth factoring in the tax impact when evaluating how much to ask for. A relocation bonus provides flexibility—you can use it for incidental costs that aren’t directly reimbursed or to cover deposits and other one-time expenses.

How much should I ask for in a relocation package?

Knowing relocation package examples can empower you to confidently request a package that meets your needs. When deciding how much to ask for, consider:

  • Obtaining quotes from moving companies based on your inventory and distance
  • Estimating travel costs for your family, including airfare or mileage reimbursement
  • Factoring in temporary housing costs based on the new location’s rental market
  • Anticipating fees for breaking leases, setting up utilities and other administrative costs
  • Adding a buffer for unforeseen expenses such as pet transport or vehicle registration

It’s advisable to document these estimates to share with your prospective employer during negotiations. Many healthcare organizations expect relocation discussions and are open to adjusting packages when presented with reasonable justifications.

For a more tailored figure, try using a relocation package calculator—these tools take your specific moving details into account and provide an estimate of expected costs, helping you pinpoint an amount to request.

How is relocation assistance calculated?

Relocation assistance isn’t always a flat number; it’s often calculated based on the projected or actual costs related to your move. Understanding how the relocation package calculator works can help demystify the process.

Calculators typically factor in variables like:

  • Distance between your current and new home
  • Size of your household goods
  • Number of family members relocating
  • Travel method and associated costs
  • Temporary housing needs and duration

Employers may use these tools internally to determine an offer or rely on third-party moving companies for quotes. Sometimes, assistance is offered as direct reimbursement—where you submit receipts and get repaid—or as a lump sum based on the calculator’s output.

Knowing this can help you prepare documentation or quotes in advance to justify your requests during contract negotiations.

Understanding how much you should expect in a relocation package is key to ensuring your move as a physician is financially smooth and free from surprises. Whether it’s covering moving expenses, providing a relocation bonus or calculating assistance precisely, knowing the components and benchmarks can empower you to negotiate confidently.

If you want to get a precise estimate based on your unique situation, try our relocation package calculator. It’s designed to provide clear guidance tailored to your move.

Ready to explore your next physician opportunity? Visit PracticeLink to search physician job listings, connect with top employers and access the Physician Resource Center that provides guidance through your job search and relocation journey.