memphis to fl

---
title: "Moving from Memphis to Florida: Costs, Movers & What to Know First"
description: "Moving from Memphis to Florida? Real cost estimates ($1,182–$7,923), top Memphis movers rated, cost of living comparison, and practical tips before you go."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Memphis to Florida", "Memphis to Florida movers", "Memphis to Florida moving cost", "Memphis moving companies", "Memphis FL relocation", "long distance movers Memphis", "cost of living Memphis vs Florida"]
---

# Moving from Memphis to Florida: Costs, Movers & What to Know First

If you're moving from Memphis to Florida, you already know you're not just changing your zip code—you're trading a famously affordable Southern city for one of the most popular (and pricier) destinations in the country. The move runs roughly 888 miles depending on your destination in Florida, and the costs and lifestyle shift are both significant.

Before you start collecting quotes, use the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a realistic baseline. Then come back here for specifics on which Memphis companies handle long-haul moves well, what the numbers actually look like, and what changes when you cross into Florida.

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## Local moving companies in Memphis

Out of 7 Memphis movers equipped to handle state-to-state relocations, here are the five worth considering for a Memphis-to-Florida move.

1. The Armstrong Company — 4.5 / 5
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.44 / 5
3. Cord Moving and Storage — 4.42 / 5
4. All My Sons Moving & Storage — 4.44 / 5
5. Guardian Moving Systems — 4.48 / 5

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### The Armstrong Company

**4690 Hungerford Road, Memphis, TN 38118**

- 4.5 / 5 overall
- [14 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/armstrong-relocation-memphis-2)
- [197 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=armstrong+relocation+memphis+tn)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/memphis/profile/moving-companies/armstrong-relocation-company-0543-192)

**91% positive | 7% negative** (out of 213 reviews)

Armstrong sets the bar for reliability out of Memphis. Across 213 reviews, the consistent theme is professional, communicative crews who work fast and handle belongings carefully—even on tricky long-distance routes. Where things occasionally go sideways is on the back end: a small number of customers have reported difficulty getting compensation after damaged or missing items. That's worth knowing before you sign. Still, 91% satisfaction for a [long-distance mover](/best/long-distance-movers) operating interstate is a genuinely strong number.

**Years in business:** 68 | **DOT #:** 1170867  
**Also operates as:** Armstrong Transfer & Storage Company; United Van Lines agent

**Services:** Local, interstate, international · Packing & unpacking · Office moves · Pianos, art, antiques · Storage · Fragile-only packing · Credit cards accepted

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### TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

**3560 Sky Harbor Cove, Memphis, TN 38118**

- 4.44 / 5 overall
- [44 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/two-men-and-a-truck-memphis-southeast-memphis)
- [644 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=two+men+and+a+truck+memphis)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/memphis/profile/moving-companies/two-men-a-truck-0543-44029079)

**78% positive | 21% negative** (out of 259 reviews)

Two Men and a Truck earns solid marks for speed and professionalism, and plenty of customers report final bills that came in at or below the original quote. The problem is when things go wrong. Negative reviews cluster around unexpected fees, damaged items, and management that's hard to reach after the move. If you book them, get an itemized quote and ask explicitly about any potential add-on charges. For a straightforward move that goes as planned, most customers are satisfied—but the 21% negative rate is higher than I'd like to see.

**Years in business:** 35 | **DOT #:** 2527384

**Services:** Local and interstate moves · Packing & unpacking · Pianos · Safes · Storage · Credit cards accepted

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### Cord Moving and Storage

**3264 Democrat Road, Memphis, TN 38118**

- 4.42 / 5 overall
- [7 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/cord-moving-and-storage-company-memphis-memphis)
- [218 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=cord+moving+and+storage+company+memphis+tn)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/memphis/profile/moving-companies/cord-moving-storage-company-0543-13000890)

**90% positive | 7% negative** (out of 220 reviews)

Cord has been in business for over a century—104 years—which says something about how they operate. They run as an agent for [North American Van Lines](/company/north-american-van-lines), giving them reach beyond a typical local carrier for a move this long. Nine out of ten reviews are positive, with timely arrivals and clear communication cited repeatedly. Complaints that do appear tend to involve communication gaps when delays happen and occasional item damage. A strong choice if you want local expertise backed by a national network.

**Years in business:** 104 | **DOT #:** 181102

**Services:** Local and interstate moves · Packing & unpacking · Office moves · Pianos · Crating · Storage · Credit cards accepted

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### All My Sons Moving & Storage

**5454 Summer Avenue, Memphis, TN 38134**

- 4.44 / 5 overall
- [121 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/all-my-sons-moving-and-storage-memphis-3)
- [1,942 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=all+my+sons+memphis)
- [BBB Grade: A](https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/memphis/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/all-my-sons-moving-storage-0543-44051953)

**63% positive | 35% negative** (out of 341 reviews)

All My Sons has the largest review sample of any company on this list, which makes the data more reliable. At 63% positive, they're decent by regional standards—but that 35% negative rate is the highest here and it's almost entirely about one thing: surprise charges. Customers describe efficient, careful crews who do good work, then get hit with fees that weren't disclosed upfront. If you use All My Sons, push for a fully itemized quote and ask point-blank about any scenario that could add to your final bill. The work quality is there; the pricing transparency needs work.

**Years in business:** 26 | **DOT #:** 902281

**Services:** Local, interstate, international moves · Packing & unpacking · Office moves · Pianos, antiques · Crating · Storage · Safes · Credit cards accepted · Deposit required

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### Guardian Moving Systems

**4226 Clarke Road, Memphis, TN 38141**

- 4.48 / 5 overall
- [17 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/guardian-moving-systems-memphis-2)
- [184 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=guardian+moving+systems+4226+Clarke+Road+Memphis)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/memphis/profile/moving-companies/guardian-moving-systems-inc-0543-196)

**89% positive | 9% negative** (out of 202 reviews)

Guardian operates as an agent for [Mayflower](/company/mayflower), pairing local Memphis crews with a national carrier's infrastructure—a combination that generally works well on longer routes. Of 202 reviews, 88.6% are positive, with customers consistently praising fast, courteous service and strong communication. The 9% negative feedback involves property damage and late deliveries—not unusual for interstate moves, but worth asking about their claims process before you book.

**Years in business:** 39

**Services:** Local and interstate moves · Packing & unpacking · Office moves · Pianos, art, antiques · Crating · Storage · Credit cards accepted

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## Local moving services in Memphis, TN

A quick look at how many of the 7 Memphis interstate movers offer specialty add-on services:

| Service | # of Movers | % |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 7 | 100% |
| Small moves | 4 | 57% |
| Antiques | 5 | 71% |
| Art | 4 | 57% |
| Pianos | 7 | 100% |
| Fragile-only packing | 2 | 29% |

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## Cost to move from Memphis, TN to Florida

These are realistic cost ranges for an 888-mile move, broken down by home size and service type. Data reflects pricing as of January 2026.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,182 – $4,294 | $734 – $1,821 | $549 – $1,123 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,381 – $5,518 | $1,318 – $2,688 | $635 – $1,258 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,072 – $7,923 | $1,919 – $3,449 | $758 – $1,590 |

*Estimates are based on a Memphis, TN to Florida move of approximately 888 miles. Final pricing will vary based on move size, packing services, access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. Compare quotes from at least three companies before booking.*

### Cost to hire movers from Memphis to Florida

For a studio or one-bedroom, you're looking at $1,182–$4,294 to hire a full-service moving company. A two- or three-bedroom home runs $2,381–$5,518. Moving a larger household—four or more bedrooms—typically falls in the $4,072–$7,923 range.

Those ranges are wide because a lot of variables come into play on a move this long: whether you need packing services, what floor you're on, and how accessible both locations are.

### Cost of moving containers from Memphis to Florida

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are worth considering if you want flexibility on timing without paying full-service prices. You pack and load; the container company handles transport. For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $734–$1,821. A two- to three-bedroom comes in at $1,318–$2,688, and a larger home runs $1,919–$3,449. You're trading some money for labor, but you typically get more flexibility on delivery windows than a standard mover offers.

### Cost of moving truck rentals from Memphis to Florida

[Rental trucks](/best/truck-rentals) are the cheapest option, but the trade-off is real: you're driving 888 miles and doing all the loading and unloading yourself. For a studio or one-bedroom, rental costs run $549–$1,123 (fuel included in the estimate). A two- to three-bedroom runs $635–$1,258, and a four-bedroom-plus household is $758–$1,590.

Factor in meals, a probable overnight stay, and the physical toll of moving a full household before you decide this is the budget-friendly play.

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## Factors influencing moving costs from Memphis to FL

A few things will move your final number in either direction:

- **Move size:** The cost difference between a one-bedroom and a four-bedroom is enormous on a long-distance move—more than it would be locally.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak moving season. If your timeline allows it, a fall or winter move will typically get you better rates and easier scheduling.
- **DIY vs. professional mover:** Renting a truck costs less upfront, but factor in fuel, your time, physical labor, and the risk of injury or damage before calling it a bargain.

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## What you should know before moving from Memphis to FL

[Tennessee](/movers/tennessee) to [Florida](/movers/florida) is a meaningful cost-of-living jump, and I'd rather you know that before you're signing a lease. Memphis is one of the more affordable major cities in the country. Florida—depending on where you land—is not.

### Compare cost of living: Memphis vs. Florida

| | Memphis, TN | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,299 | $1,444 |
| Average home cost | $143,715 | $392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) | $48,090 | $67,917 |
| Cost of living index | 86 | 102 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 2.9% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 0.0% |

*Sources: Memphis — World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Florida — Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

Here's what those numbers actually mean for your budget:

- **Rent** is about 11% higher in Florida. Noticeable, but manageable if you've planned for it.
- **Home prices** are the sticker shock—roughly 173% higher in Florida than Memphis. If you're buying, that's a completely different financial picture.
- **Income** averages about 41% higher in Florida per capita, which helps offset the cost increase for most working adults.
- **Overall cost of living** is roughly 19% higher in Florida. It compounds across groceries, utilities, and services over time.
- **Unemployment** in Florida runs 2.9% versus Memphis's 8.0%—a 64% gap. For anyone who's job hunting, Florida gives you meaningfully better odds.
- **No state income tax** in either place. That's an advantage you don't lose in the move.

### How life is different in Memphis, TN from Florida

| | Memphis, TN | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 633,104 | 22,610,726 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51–46 | Republican 51–48 |
| Summer high | 91°F | 91°F |
| Winter low | 30°F | 49°F |
| Annual rain | 54″ | 55″ |
| Annual snow | 3″ | 0″ |
| Crime index | 77.49 | 21.39 |

*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270toWin, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces, Wikipedia.*

A few things worth unpacking:

- **Summer heat** is essentially identical at 91°F—but Florida's heat season is longer and the humidity is different. Don't assume it'll feel the same.
- **Winters** are the biggest quality-of-life change. Florida's average winter low of 49°F versus Memphis's 30°F means no ice, no frozen pipes, and real savings on heating bills.
- **Rainfall** is nearly the same (54–55 inches annually), but Florida concentrates it into heavy summer afternoon thunderstorms rather than Memphis's more distributed pattern.
- **Snow:** Florida gets essentially none. Memphis sees around 3 inches a year. If you're tired of it, you won't miss it.
- **Crime index** is dramatically lower in Florida (21.39) compared to Memphis (77.49). That's one of the most significant quality-of-life differences between the two.
- **Politics:** Memphis skews Democratic; Florida has leaned Republican in recent elections. Worth factoring in if community environment matters to you.

### Other considerations when moving to Florida

There's logistical groundwork to handle beyond just booking a truck. A few things to work through before moving day:

- **HOA rules:** Many Florida neighborhoods have HOAs with specific move-in day policies—time windows, truck size restrictions, required deposits. Confirm these before you schedule.
- **Elevator reservation:** Moving into a condo or multi-story building? Most require advance booking of service elevators. Call the building manager early.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Florida cities require a permit to park a large moving truck on a public street. Check with the local municipality before your move date.
- **State licensing:** Florida requires moving companies to register annually with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Verify that any company you hire holds a current Florida license before handing over a deposit.
- **State regulator:** You can check a mover's Florida license status directly on the official state regulator's website.
- **Moving permits:** Florida doesn't require a general moving permit, but local parking rules vary—check for your specific destination city.
- **Change of address:** File your [USPS change of address](https://moversguide.usps.com/) at least a week before your move date to ensure mail follows you without a gap.
- **Moving insurance:** Every mover is required to offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge, but it only covers 60 cents per pound per item. That's not going to cover a damaged TV or piece of furniture. Ask your mover about Full Value Protection, or get a quote from a third-party insurance provider if you're moving anything valuable.
- **Moving checklist:** Use the [MoveFinders moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to make sure nothing gets missed in the weeks before your move.

### Things to do in Florida

Once you're settled, Florida has a lot going for it beyond the weather.

**Museums**
- Wynwood Halls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dali Museum

**Parks**
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest

**Sports teams**
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)

**Universities**
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University

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## FAQ

### How long does a move from Memphis to Florida take?

Most Memphis-to-Florida moves take two to seven days, depending on your carrier and destination within Florida. Summer moves can stretch toward the longer end of that window. Before booking, ask any mover you're considering what their standard delivery window is for this specific route—don't assume it's the same as what their website says generically.

### Can I find movers that build custom crates in Memphis?

Yes. Four of the seven Memphis interstate movers offer custom crating, which is worth using if you're moving artwork, antiques, or other fragile high-value pieces. When requesting quotes, ask specifically about crate construction, interior padding, and lead times.

### What is the best way to get a car from Memphis to Florida?

For most people, professional [auto transport](/best/car-shipping) is the right call rather than driving a second vehicle 888 miles. Get quotes from a few reputable carriers and compare open versus enclosed transport options based on your vehicle type and budget.

### Why are people moving from Memphis to Florida?

Primarily: weather, jobs, and safety. Florida offers milder winters, a significantly lower unemployment rate, and a dramatically lower crime index than Memphis. The trade-off is a higher cost of living—but for many people making this move, the lifestyle gains outweigh the financial adjustment.

### Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Memphis?

The five companies reviewed above are the strongest options out of Memphis for interstate moves. For a broader view of top-rated [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) that may service this route nationally, check the MoveFinders rankings.

### Can I pay for my move from Memphis, TN, with cash?

Two Memphis movers accept cash. That said, cash payment is uncommon in the industry—most companies prefer card, ACH, or cashier's check for documentation. Expect to pay a deposit to secure your move date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery (timing varies by company). Confirm accepted payment types and the payment schedule before you book.

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*Ready to get real numbers? [Compare moving quotes with our cost calculator](/calculator) or review our [guide to choosing a mover](/resources/how-to-choose-a-mover) before you commit to anything.*