How Much Does It Cost to Move in Brooklyn?

Moving in Brooklyn is exciting, but understanding the moving costs ahead of time can save you stress and unexpected expenses.
The total price of a Brooklyn move depends on many factors—from the size of your apartment to the distance between neighborhoods, the type of packing service you choose, and even seasonal demand across the boroughs of New York City.

Typical Moving Services and Rates

Professional movers in Brooklyn generally charge either an hourly rate or a flat fee.

A small studio move across the same city block may cost a few hundred dollars, while relocating a large household with heavy items think sectionals, wardrobes, or a grand piano can climb into the thousands.

Licensed moving companies often include a basic insurance policy.

Additional liability coverage is recommended if you own delicate furniture, fine art, or high-end electronics.

Many residents hire a full packing service, where professional packers bring moving boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other supplies.

Some Brooklyn movers offer eco-friendly reusable crates, which reduce waste and protect fragile items.

You might also need temporary storage units if there’s a gap between your old and new location.

That storage is another cost to factor in.

Apartment & Brownstone Considerations

The type of property makes a difference.
Moving into a walk-up brownstone in Park Slope, Carroll Gardens, or Brooklyn Heights often requires extra labor for narrow staircases and historic architecture.
Elevator buildings in Downtown Brooklyn or Williamsburg may charge service fees or require a certificate of insurance from your moving company before granting access to the freight elevator.
Some landlords also request a refundable damage deposit for the move-in day.

Up-Front Housing Costs

Beyond the moving truck, new residents must budget for first month’s rent, a security deposit, and sometimes a broker’s fee often 10–15% of annual rent.

Many apartments require an application fee for background and credit checks, and pet owners may face a pet deposit or ongoing pet rent.
In high-demand Brooklyn neighborhoods such as DUMBO, Greenpoint, or Bushwick, these initial housing expenses can exceed the cost of hiring the movers themselves.

Utilities and Setup

Don’t forget about utility activation.

Setting up electricity, gas, water, and heating accounts typically involves a one-time setup charge or deposit.
Installing internet, Wi-Fi routers, and cable service also adds to the bottom line.
If you’re transferring a cell phone plan or upgrading to a higher-speed fiber connection, build those fees into your moving budget.

Transportation and Permits

Parking a large moving truck on a busy Brooklyn street can require a temporary parking permit.

In dense areas like Bed-Stuy or Crown Heights, movers may need to secure loading zones or schedule around street-cleaning rules.
If you’re driving your own rental truck, consider fuel costs, toll bridges, and possible traffic violations that can add surprise charges.

Hidden and Seasonal Costs

The time of year influences prices.

Summer moves are popular across New York City, so moving companies raise their rates.

A winter move might be cheaper but requires careful planning for snow and ice.

Additional hidden costs include professional cleaning services to reclaim your security deposit, disposal fees for unwanted household items, and optional moving insurance upgrades.

Cost of Living After the Move

While not part of the one-day moving expense, the ongoing Brooklyn cost of living from monthly rent and utilities to groceries, public transportation, and subway passes affects your overall relocation budget.

For example, a monthly MetroCard or OMNY fare for commuting adds up quickly if you’re working in Manhattan or traveling across multiple boroughs.

Example Budget Breakdown

Here’s a sample scenario for a one-bedroom apartment move within Brooklyn:

• Professional movers and truck: $700–$1,200

• Packing supplies and service: $150–$300

• Storage unit (1 month): $150–$250

• Security deposit and first month’s rent: often $2,500+

• Broker’s fee (if applicable): up to 15% of annual rent

• Utility activation and internet: $100–$200

These numbers vary, but they illustrate how quickly the combined entities movers, packing service, storage, utilities, rent, and broker’s fees add up.

Key Takeaway

Moving to Brooklyn involves far more than hiring a truck.

The total cost depends on the neighborhood, the size of your home, the level of service, and multiple related expenses such as application fees, insurance, and transport permits.
By accounting for every entity from moving boxes to pet deposits you can create a realistic budget and enjoy a smooth relocation to your new Brooklyn apartment or brownstone.