Moving house is exciting. But it can also feel stressful when you don’t know how much it will cost to move house. If you are asking, “How much does it cost to move house in the UK?”, you are not alone. Most people worry about hidden fees, removals company charges, and legal costs. This guide breaks everything down in a simple, honest, and clear way.
What Is the Average Cost of Moving House in the UK?
The average cost to move house in the UK is between £8,000 and £15,000.
Your exact moving costs depend on:
- The price of the house
- Distance of the move
- Removals company fees
- Legal and survey costs
- Whether the property is freehold or leasehold
Average Moving Costs Breakdown (UK)
| Cost Type | Typical Cost Range |
| Removals company | £400 – £2,000 |
| Solicitor / Conveyancing | £800 – £2,000 |
| Stamp Duty | £0 – £250,000+ |
| Survey | £400 – £1,500 |
| Mortgage fees | £0 – £2,000 |
| Packing materials | £50 – £200 |
| Storage (if needed) | £50 – £300 per week |
These are estimated UK averages and may change depending on location and property type.
Read also: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide on How to Pack for Moving House
Main Costs When Moving House
1. Removals Company Costs
Hiring a removals company is one of the biggest moving costs. Prices depend on:
- Size of your house
- Number of items
- Distance moved
- Packing services
- Stairs or difficult access
2. Solicitor and Conveyancing Fees
You must pay a solicitor or conveyancer to handle legal work. This includes:
- Property searches
- Contracts
- Transfer of ownership
Typical cost: £800 – £2,000
3. Stamp Duty (Biggest Cost for Many Buyers)
Stamp Duty is a tax paid when buying a house in the UK.
It depends on:
- Property price
- Whether you’re a first-time buyer
- If it’s a second home
Read also: House Moving Checklist 2026 | Plan Your Perfect Move
Example:
| House Price | Stamp Duty |
| £250,000 | £2,500 |
| £350,000 | £7,500 |
| £500,000 | £15,000 |
4. Survey and Valuation Fees
A survey checks the condition of the house. It helps you avoid expensive surprises later.
Typical cost: £400 – £1,500
5. Mortgage and Broker Fees
You may pay for:
- Mortgage arrangement
- Valuation
- Broker advice
Typical cost: £0 – £2,000
6. Packing Materials and Storage
Boxes, tape, and wrapping materials add up. Storage may be needed if your move is delayed.
Typical cost: £50 – £300 per week
What Affects Moving Costs?
| Factor | How It Affects Cost |
| Distance | Longer moves cost more |
| Property size | More items = higher removals cost |
| Leasehold property | Extra legal work = higher fees |
| Stamp Duty | Higher property price = higher tax |
| Time of year | Summer moves cost more |
| Packing services | Adds £200–£600 |
| Storage needs | Adds weekly fees |
Read also: Best Time of Year to Move House in London (updated 2026)
Hidden Costs People Often Forget
Many people only plan for removals and legal fees. But extra costs can surprise you.
These include:
- Council tax overlap
- Utility reconnection
- Cleaning services
- Parking permits for moving vans
- Furniture disassembly
How to Reduce Your Moving Costs
Here are smart ways to save money:
- Compare removals companies
- Move mid-week instead of weekends
- Declutter before moving
- Pack items yourself
- Avoid peak summer months
- Choose a basic survey instead of a full one
- Negotiate solicitor fees
Leasehold Property vs Freehold: Cost Differences
If you are buying a leasehold property, costs are higher.
Extra charges include:
- Leasehold information pack
- Management company fees
- Ground rent checks
Extra cost for leasehold: £200 – £800
Read also: Quick Checklist for House Removals in London
Moving House Costs for Different Property Types
| Property Type | Average Moving Cost |
| Flat | £6,000 – £10,000 |
| Terraced house | £8,000 – £12,000 |
| Semi-detached house | £10,000 – £14,000 |
| Detached house | £12,000 – £18,000 |
Why Planning Your Budget Matters
Many people run out of money during a move.
This causes:
- Delays
- Stress
- Poor service choices
Planning your moving costs early helps you:
- Choose the right removals company
- Avoid debt
- Stay in control
Expert Tip
Property experts and financial advisors recommend budgeting 10–15% of your house price for moving costs. This protects you from unexpected fees.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to move house in the UK? For most people, the total is between £8,000 and £15,000.
Your real cost depends on:
- House price
- Removals company
- Legal fees
- Distance
- Stamp Duty
Plan early. Compare quotes. Keep a safety budget. This way, your move will be smoother and less stressful.
FAQs
How much does it cost to move house in the UK?
The average cost is between £8,000 and £15,000 depending on property price, location, and services used.
What is the biggest cost when moving house?
Stamp Duty is usually the biggest cost, followed by solicitor fees and removals company charges.
Can I move house cheaply?
Yes. You can save money by packing yourself, comparing removals companies, and avoiding peak seasons.
Do leasehold properties cost more to move?
Yes. Leasehold properties have extra legal fees and management charges.
How far in advance should I budget moving costs?
Start budgeting as soon as you plan to move or start house hunting.