How Many Times Does the Average American Move — And the Real Costs Behind It

Americans are known for being mobile, and the numbers back this up. The average American relocates approximately 11.7 times throughout their lifetime, according to data from Steinway Moving and Storage. That might sound excessive until you think about your own life — college moves, job changes, bigger homes for growing families, downsizing in retirement. It all adds up faster than you’d expect.

Americans Move Way More Often Than You’d Think

Most of this movement happens during early adulthood. Between ages 18 and 45, the average person makes about five or six moves. After 45, relocation slows down considerably — you’re likely to move just two or three more times for the rest of your life.

To illustrate how this typically unfolds: you might move away for college at 22, then relocate for your first job at 26. A bigger apartment follows at 29, then a house upgrade when starting a family at 33. After the kids grow up and leave home, you might downsize or move to a warmer climate in your 60s. By the time you reach 75, you could be settling into a retirement community. That’s roughly 11 relocations across different life chapters.

Your Moving Timeline Across Different Life Stages

The reasons behind these moves are fairly consistent. A new job opportunity — especially one offering better pay or career advancement — drives many relocations. Family changes matter too: that one-bedroom apartment suddenly feels cramped when a baby arrives, prompting a move to a house. Later, when kids leave home, parents often downsize to something more manageable.

Neighborhood quality matters at every life stage. Young professionals might prefer urban living for career convenience, while families with children prioritize good schools. Retirees frequently move to areas with better weather and lower maintenance requirements.

Breaking Down the Real Cost of Relocation

Here’s where moving gets serious: expenses. According to Forbes, the average local move costs about $2,000 for a three-bedroom home. Long-distance relocations run significantly higher at roughly $5,500. Most moving companies charge between $25 and $125 per mover per hour, and you’ll need at least two people even for small apartments.

Beyond labor, there’s the cost of physically transporting your belongings. Gas prices directly impact this, especially for cross-country moves. Insurance for your property typically costs between 1% and 5% of its total value — don’t skip this to save money. Professional packing services add another $250 to $1,400 or more, depending on volume. Shipping vehicles adds $1,200 to $2,100 per car.

When you tally everything up, moving becomes a significant expense in your life budget. The average American’s 11.7 relocations means ongoing financial planning for these transitions. Understanding these costs ahead of time — and budgeting accordingly — transforms moving from a stressful scramble into a manageable life event.