Moving Costs Calculator

Moving Costs in Canada and the Tax Deduction

Moving costs in Canada depend on distance, home size, timing, and whether you hire professional movers or do it yourself. Local moves within the same city typically cost $800–$1,500 for a two-bedroom home with professional movers. Long-distance moves across provinces are priced by weight and distance and can range from $3,000 to $8,000 or more. Summer months (June through August) are peak season, and moving on weekends or at month-end often commands a premium of 10%–25% over off-peak rates.

If you moved at least 40 kilometres closer to a new job, business location, or post-secondary school, CRA allows you to deduct eligible moving expenses on Form T1-M. Deductible costs include transportation and storage, travel expenses (meals and lodging for you and your family during the move), temporary living expenses near your new home (up to 15 days), costs of cancelling a lease, and legal fees related to purchasing a new home if you sold your old one. The deduction can only be claimed against income earned at the new location.

Average Moving Costs by Home Size (Local Move)

To reduce costs, declutter before the move to lower the weight and volume being transported, book movers well in advance, choose a mid-week or mid-month date, and handle packing yourself where possible. For long-distance moves, get binding estimates from at least three carriers and confirm that the quote covers insurance—basic carrier liability is typically only $0.60 per pound, which is insufficient for most households.