Moving is a significant life transition. For physicians, it often coincides with new job opportunities and complex logistics. Understanding what you’ll need to budget—and what may be covered by your employer—is key to avoiding financial surprises. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just finishing your residency, this breakdown of physician relocation costs will help you prepare for every phase of your move.

To get organized from the start, develop a relocation expenses list for a realistic idea of how everything from travel and transportation to packing materials and storage fits into the picture.

What are typical moving expenses?

Costs associated with moving vary dramatically depending on distance, the size of your household and the level of service you require. Typical moving costs usually fall into the following categories:

  • Professional movers: Hiring a full-service moving company to pack, load, transport and unload your belongings is convenient but costly. Depending on your home size and the distance, this can range from $1,200 to over $10,000. 
  • Truck rental: DIY moves using a truck rental (like Penske or U-Haul) can save money. Expect to spend $20–$40 per day for the truck, plus mileage and fuel. You can hire independent helpers to assist with loading the truck and again to help unload once you’ve arrived at your new destination.
  • Packing supplies: Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, mattress covers and shrink wrap typically cost $100–$300 for an average household.
  • Storage: If you can’t move directly into your new home, temporary storage units add to your total—around $90–$300 per month for standard units. 
  • Travel costs: Fuel, flights, meals and lodging during the transition can add up, especially for cross-country moves. Many states have toll highways with substantial discounts if you have a toll pass. Order your pass in advance to save on toll costs.

What is a qualified moving expense?

In the past, many moving-related costs were tax deductible, but the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act suspended these deductions through 2025—except for active-duty military members. However, many employers—especially healthcare organizations recruiting physicians—offer relocation expenses paid by employer as part of the job offer.

Qualified moving expenses generally covered or reimbursed by an employer include:

  • Temporary housing and travel during relocation
  • Transportation of household goods
  • Real estate-related costs (temporary storage, home selling fees)
  • Licensing and credentialing fees for the new state

When negotiating your contract, don’t assume anything is guaranteed. Clarify your reimbursements, payment schedule and if there’s a payback clause for resigning early.

What is the average total cost of moving?

When all major costs are combined—movers, packing supplies, travel and storage—a moving expenses list can climb quickly. Here’s a rough breakdown of national averages:

  • Local move (under 100 miles): $1,000–$2,500
  • Long-distance move (over 100 miles): $4,000–$7,000+
  • Cross-country move: $6,000–$10,000+
  • International relocation: $10,000–$20,000+, depending on container shipping, customs and time zones

For physicians moving for a new role, relocation packages typically cover around $10,000–$15,000. Actual expenses can exceed that depending on family size, timeline and preferences.

How do you calculate how much it will cost to move?

Every move is unique, which is why a free moving cost calculator can be a valuable tool. These calculators factor in the size of your home, distance, services needed and moving date to provide an accurate estimate.

Several reputable moving companies offer these tools online, allowing you to:

  • Compare quotes from multiple providers
  • Decide between DIY and full-service options
  • Budget for hidden or less obvious costs (e.g., stair fees, bulky item surcharges, insurance)

To ensure your estimate is accurate, have your origin and destination addresses, inventory list and timeline ready before using a calculator.

Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, understanding your expected moving expenses puts you in control of the process. Use this guide to anticipate typical costs, ask the right questions during job negotiations and compare services using a reliable free moving cost calculator.

If you’re a physician or APP interested in a job opportunity in a different city or state, PracticeLink can help. PracticeLink’s job board hosts tens of thousands of listings from employers across the country. Visit PracticeLink.com to explore job opportunities with relocation assistance, and read more career advancement articles in our Resource Center to learn how to make your transition as smooth and cost effective as possible.