Key takeaways
Your new lease is signed or your start date is set, but the cost of movers, deposits and travel is more than your savings can cover. Knowing how to finance a move can help you bridge that gap without derailing your budget. The average local move typically costs $800 to $2,500, and a long-distance move often runs $2,500 to $7,500 or more, according to Opendoor.
The seven options below range from free help to borrowed money.
If your move is tied to a new job or a transfer, ask your employer about relocation assistance before spending your own money. Relocation packages commonly take one of three forms:
For most civilian workers, employer moving reimbursements are treated as taxable income, so plan for the tax impact. Members of the military moving under permanent change of station (PCS) orders often receive moving benefits, and active-duty service members may also deduct certain unreimbursed moving expenses. If you are moving because of eviction, hardship or a domestic safety concern, 211.org can connect you with local housing grants and nonprofit relocation aid.
Selling items that have no sentimental value can raise cash and reduce your moving bill at the same time. Furniture, appliances and bulky decor are often cheaper to buy used at your destination than to pack, load and ship.
This approach is especially helpful for long-distance moves, where moving costs are often based on weight and fragile items are more likely to break in transit.
Moving and relocation loans are generally unsecured personal loans marketed for moving expenses, and they work like any other personal loan. You receive a lump sum and repay it in fixed monthly installments over a set term. Can I get a loan to help me move? In most cases, yes. Most banks, credit unions and online lenders offer personal loans that can be used for moving costs, and approval depends largely on your credit and income.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Predictable monthly payment | Monthly payments may be high for larger loans |
| Competitive rates if you have good credit | Missed payments can lead to fees, collections and credit damage |
| Often a better fit for larger, more expensive moves | Origination fees can reduce the amount you receive |
Before you get a loan, compare offers from several lenders using these factors:
Choose the offer with the lowest overall cost that still fits your monthly budget. If you own a vehicle or another valuable asset, a secured loan that uses it as collateral may offer a lower rate, though you risk losing the asset if you cannot repay.
A credit card for moving expenses can be convenient, particularly for smaller moves or costs that arise along the way. If you qualify for a new card with a 0 percent introductory APR, you may be able to pay for the move over several months without interest, and a rewards card can earn cash back or points on large purchases. Our overview of credit card types can help you compare options before you apply for a credit card.
This may not be an option if your existing cards lack the available credit for a full move or if you cannot qualify for a new card. Carrying a large balance also raises your credit utilization, which can lower your score.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sensible if you can pay the balance quickly | Interest often adds up faster than with a loan if you carry a balance |
| Better for smaller, more manageable moves | High balances can hurt your credit score |
| Rewards, if the card offers them | Using your available credit restricts what you can spend on other expenses |
Some moving companies, furniture retailers and travel sites accept buy now pay later plans, which split a purchase into a few installments. Many plans charge no interest if you pay on time, and approval is often easier than for a traditional loan.
The trade-off is a short repayment window, typically a few weeks to a few months, which can mean repaying large sums quickly. Missed payments may trigger late fees, and returns or refunds can be complicated if items are damaged in transit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Splits large payments into smaller installments over a few weeks | Late fees for missed payments |
| Many plans charge no interest if you pay on time | A short repayment window can mean repaying large sums quickly |
| Easier approval than some other financing options | Refunds through a BNPL provider can be complicated |
Borrowing from a family member can provide flexible terms with little or no interest and no credit check. Put the amount and repayment schedule in writing.
Large loans with no interest may have tax implications. In 2026, gifts of more than $19,000 to one person generally must be reported to the IRS, so a relative lending a significant sum may want to consult a tax professional.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No credit check | Potential strain on the relationship |
| Often more flexible terms | Large amounts may need to be reported to the IRS as a gift |
| Little to no interest | Mismatched expectations about how and when you will repay |
Crowdfunding platforms let friends, family and supporters contribute toward your moving costs.
Contributions do not need to be repaid, but results are not guaranteed, and platforms typically charge processing fees on each donation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Helps cover immediate costs without debt | Platforms typically take a percentage of funds raised |
| Can provide encouragement during a major life change | Sharing financial needs publicly can feel uncomfortable |
| Does not need to be repaid | There is no guarantee you will reach your goal |
The least expensive move is often the one you need to finance the least. These steps can lower your total cost before you borrow:
Your credit can also affect what you pay to move. A higher score may help you qualify for lower loan rates and smaller security deposits on rentals and utilities, which makes your credit worth reviewing before you apply for financing.
Learning how to finance a move often comes down to a combination of savings, assistance and borrowing, and setting aside money in an emergency fund can make your next move easier. If you are still weighing the hassle of moving against the cost, compare every option above before committing.
If you plan to use loans to help with moving costs, your credit will influence the rates you are offered, and inaccurate information on your credit report can lead to higher costs. Start with a free credit assessment to see where you stand. Our advocates can help you identify potentially inaccurate items and challenge them with the credit bureaus.
A move typically costs $800 to $2,500 for a local relocation and $2,500 to $7,500 or more for a long-distance move with professional movers. Your total depends on distance, the size of your home, the time of year and whether you pack yourself.
You can often get a moving loan with bad or fair credit, but you will likely pay a higher interest rate and may face lower loan limits. Adding a cosigner or offering collateral can improve your chances of approval and help you secure better terms.
Financing a move can affect your credit score through a hard inquiry when you apply and through the new account or higher balance that follows. On-time payments on moving loans or credit cards can help your credit over time, while late payments and high card balances can lower your score.
Many online lenders can approve a moving loan within minutes and fund it within one to a few business days. Banks and credit unions may take longer.
Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.
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