MoveCostGuide

Long Distance

Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Seattle, WA

960 miles · 20h 6m drive · Estimated cost $2,174$3,404 for a 2-bedroom move

960 miles
20h 6m drive
Cost Index: 1.181.17

Cost Estimate: Los Angeles to Seattle

Average costs for a 2-bedroom move. Use the calculator below for a custom quote.

Full Service

Movers handle everything

$2,782
Range: $2,174$3,404
  • Professional packing & unpacking
  • Loading, transport & unloading
  • Basic valuation coverage

Partial Service

You pack, movers move

$2,099
Range: $1,679$2,527
  • You pack your own boxes
  • Movers load, transport & unload
  • Save 20–35% vs. full service

DIY Move

Rent a truck, do it yourself

$1,737
Range: $1,204$2,272
  • Truck rental + gas + equipment
  • No labor costs — you do the lifting
  • Full control over your schedule

Custom Moving Calculator

Adjust home size, move type, and extras to get a personalized estimate for your Los Angeles to Seattle move.

Cheapest Moderate Expensive

Estimated Moving Cost

Los Angeles, CASeattle, WA · 960 miles

Low

$2,174

Estimated

$2,782

High

$3,404

🟢 Off-peak pricing · March

Where Does Your Money Go?

Full-service cost breakdown for a 2-bedroom long distance from Los Angeles to Seattle.

Total$2,783
Labor(22.8%)
$555$714
Transportation(52.5%)
$1,152$1,771
Packing(18.6%)
$360$675
Insurance(3.7%)
$62$158
Tips(2.3%)
$44$86

Best Time to Move

Moving costs from Los Angeles to Seattle vary significantly by season.

January is the cheapest month (save up to 15%), while July is the most expensive (+30%).

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
CheapestModerateExpensive
Origin

Los Angeles

California
Destination

Seattle

Washington
Cost of Living Index
118
117
Average Rent (1BR)
$2,500
$2,200
Average Rent (2BR)
$3,200
$2,800
State Income Tax
13.3%
None
Avg High Temperature
75°F
59°F
You'll save ~12% on housing
Average rent in Seattle is $2,500/mo vs $2,850/mo in Los Angeles
Top Neighborhoods
Los Angeles
  • Silver Lake
  • Santa Monica
  • Highland Park
  • Los Feliz
  • Culver City
Seattle
  • Capitol Hill
  • Ballard
  • Fremont
  • Queen Anne
  • Columbia City

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Expert advice for your 960-mile move from Los Angeles to Seattle.

1

Get a binding estimate

Long-distance moves from Los Angeles to Seattle can have surprise costs. A binding or not-to-exceed estimate protects you from a ballooning bill.

2

Move in winter to save big

January and February rates are 15–30% lower than the summer peak. If your timeline is flexible, a winter move from pays for itself.

3

Ship your car separately

At 960 miles, driving two vehicles is exhausting and expensive. Auto transport typically costs $800–$1,500 and eliminates wear on your car.

4

Inventory everything

Create a detailed, numbered inventory with photos before the movers arrive. This is essential for filing claims if anything goes missing or gets damaged.

5

Research your new city

Before arriving in Seattle, research neighborhoods, school districts, and local utilities so you can hit the ground running.

6

Use a portable container

Companies like PODS or U-Pack let you pack on your schedule and can be more affordable than traditional long-distance movers.

Top Moving Companies for Los Angeles to Seattle

These nationally recognized movers service the Los Angeles to Seattle route. Compare their rates and read reviews before choosing.

United Van Lines

$$$
4.3
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationInternational
  • Extensive nationwide agent network for reliable coverage
  • Offers a comprehensive online tracking and shipment management system
  • Strong reputation with decades of industry experience
Get a Free Quote

Allied Van Lines

$$$
4.2
Long DistanceMilitaryCorporate Relocation
  • Wide range of service options including packing and unpacking
  • Transparent online quote process with detailed estimates
  • Strong military and government relocation program
Get a Free Quote

Mayflower

$$$
4.1
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationStorage
  • Offers flexible moving and storage bundles
  • Provides detailed shipment tracking throughout the move
  • Well-established claims process for damaged items
Get a Free Quote

North American Van Lines

$$$
4
Long DistanceCorporate RelocationGovernment
  • Assigned personal move coordinator for each customer
  • ProMover certified with strong safety track record
Get a Free Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to move from Los Angeles to Seattle?
The average cost for a 2-bedroom full-service move from Los Angeles, CA to Seattle, WA ranges from $2,174 to $3,404, with a typical cost around $2,782. A DIY move with a rental truck averages $1,737. Actual costs depend on home size, time of year, and additional services.
How long does the drive from Los Angeles to Seattle take?
The distance from Los Angeles to Seattle is approximately 960 miles. The estimated driving time is 20h 6m, though actual drive time may vary based on the route, traffic, and road conditions. Professional movers may take 3–4 days to deliver your belongings.
What's the cheapest month to move from Los Angeles to Seattle?
January is typically the cheapest month to move, with rates up to 15% below average. The most expensive month is July, when rates increase by about 30%. Moving mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) also helps reduce costs by 10–20%.
Should I hire movers or do it myself?
For a 960-mile move, hiring professional movers is usually worth the investment. The logistics of a long-distance move are complex, and the physical toll of driving a large truck hundreds of miles can be overwhelming. Compare your DIY cost of ~$1,737 vs. full-service at ~$2,782 to decide.
How far is Los Angeles from Seattle?
Los Angeles, CA is approximately 960 miles from Seattle, WA. This is classified as a long distance and the drive takes roughly 20h 6m.
What size moving truck do I need for a move from Los Angeles to Seattle?
For a 2-bedroom home, a 15–17 foot truck is usually sufficient. For 3-bedroom homes, plan on a 20–22 foot truck. For 4+ bedrooms, you will likely need a 26-foot truck or may need to consider two trips. When in doubt, size up — packing a too-small truck wastes time and risks damage.

Moving to Seattle from elsewhere?

Compare moving costs from other cities to Seattle, WA.