Not all of us have the luxury of choosing when to move, but if you’re undecided on your moving date, there are many perks to moving in different seasons.
You’re close to setting a moving date and you know your basic moving costs and you’re getting ready to pack up. There are many factors that can help determine the timing behind your move: location, weather, budget, family issues, work flexibility, school dates, and the list goes on.
Keep in mind that the most popular times to move vary from state to state, and even between cities. Whether you’re buying a home for the first time or are experienced with the home selling process, here’s everything you need to consider while choosing the best time of year to move.
Off-Peak moving season: Fall and winter
There are many pros to moving during the off-peak season.
- Off-peak moving season is the best season for those who are looking to move on a tight budget. Some moving companies can lower the rates as much as 30%.
- The busiest moving season (summer) is over, so conditions will be less crowded and there won’t be as much competition from other homebuyers.
- Cooler weather contributes to saving energy—your movers will be more efficient because they’re not being dragged down by sweltering heat.
- The roads will likely be less congested, and the move will go faster.
Weather conditions are a clear reason influencing the drop in demand for movers during the fall and winter. But because this is an anticipated result, moving companies lower the prices to attract people.
If you define the best month of the year to move by cost, you will save on a move anywhere from late September to early April. On the other hand, if you’re living in a very cold climate, then you may be better off avoiding a move during the coldest months of winter.
Peak moving season: Spring and summer
Peak moving season stretches from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend. Why? The weather is ideal! At least when it’s not terribly hot and humid outside. And school is out! It’s easier to move kids on a school break.
Moving companies will capitalize on these ideal conditions by raising the price due to high demand. College students move in the early fall and late spring since leases usually end around these points. So you may want to avoid moving in early September if you live in a college town.
Reasons you may opt to move between Memorial and Labor Day:
- You’re concerned about icy roads and treacherous conditions during winter.
- You have school-age children and want to avoid moving during the chaotic school year.
- You’re making a major interstate relocation and winter will make that process very difficult.
Don’t make the decision to buy a home on your own
There are many things to consider before purchasing and moving into a new home. With LegalShield, you can have help from a local expert. Work with an experienced real estate attorney to make the best decision.
LegalShield provides access to legal services offered by a network of provider law firms to LegalShield Members through member-based participation. Neither LegalShield nor its officers, employees or sales associates directly or indirectly provide legal services, representation or advice. See a plan contract at legalshield.com for specific state of residence for complete terms, coverage, amounts, and conditions. This is not intended to be legal or medical advice. Please contact a medical professional for medical advice or assistance and an attorney for legal advice or assistance.
