Moving a house is not something people do every day. It’s a massive project that requires planning, the right equipment, and an experienced crew. If you own a 2000 sq ft house and are considering moving it to a new location, you’re probably wondering: how much will it cost?
The cost of moving a house depends on several factors such as the size of the home, the distance it needs to be moved, and the complexity of the job. While every situation is unique, understanding the typical price range and what contributes to the cost can help you make an informed decision.
Average Cost to Move a 2000 Sq Ft House
On average, moving a house of 2000 sq ft can cost anywhere from $150,000 to $250,000 or more. This estimate includes the structural moving, labor, permits, and additional site work needed. However, these costs can change depending on local conditions, the type of foundation, and the distance of the move.
The large size of a 2000 sq ft house makes it a major undertaking. Unlike moving personal belongings, relocating an entire structure requires lifting the house off its foundation, securing it on hydraulic dollies, and carefully transporting it to the new site. Because of this, the job is priced by square footage, weight, and complexity.
If you live in areas with challenging terrain or strict regulations, the final cost may be on the higher side. In contrast, short moves across flat land with fewer obstacles will likely be less expensive. For example, if you are researching Backyard Moves Services in La Vista, NE, you’ll see how local geography and permit fees can play a big role in pricing.
Factors That Affect the Cost
1. Distance of the Move
The longer the distance, the more expensive the move will be. Short, local moves are less costly than relocating a house across cities or states. Fuel, equipment wear, and road planning all add up.
2. House Size and Weight
A 2000 sq ft home is quite large, which means more preparation, equipment, and crew members are required. Heavier homes, especially those made with brick or stone, will cost more to move compared to lighter wood-frame houses.
3. Foundation Type
Whether your home sits on a slab, crawl space, or basement foundation impacts the complexity. Homes on basements usually cost more to move because of the extra work involved in detaching them.
4. Permits and Regulations
Every city or county requires specific permits for moving a house. These fees vary depending on the local government. You may also need permissions for cutting power lines, closing streets, or preparing the new site.
5. Route Challenges
If the path to the new location involves narrow roads, power lines, bridges, or uneven terrain, the price increases. Clearing these obstacles often requires additional crews and equipment.
6. Preparation Work
Before the move, utilities must be disconnected, and sometimes parts of the house need to be dismantled for safe transport. After relocation, the house also needs a new foundation and reconnection of all services, adding to the total cost.
Additional Expenses You Should Expect
Many homeowners are surprised by the hidden costs that go beyond simply “lifting and moving” the house. Here are some extra expenses to consider:
- Site preparation at the new location, including excavation or leveling.
- New foundation construction, which can cost $20,000 to $40,000 or more depending on design.
- Utility reconnection like plumbing, electrical, gas, and internet.
- Insurance coverage to protect against accidental damages.
- Temporary housing while your house is being relocated and re-settled.
These add-ons can significantly affect the final bill, so it’s important to factor them into your budget.
Is Moving a 2000 Sq Ft House Worth It?
Whether it makes sense to move a house of this size depends on your situation. For some, preserving a historic home or relocating a property for sentimental value justifies the cost. For others, the price may exceed the value of simply buying or building a new home.
If your current home has unique architecture, sentimental importance, or high-quality materials that would be difficult to replace, moving it could be the right choice. However, if you are mainly motivated by saving money, you’ll want to carefully compare the costs of moving versus building new.
Professional Help for Large and Specialty Moves
Because moving a 2000 sq ft house is so complex, it’s essential to work with skilled professionals. A company that specializes in large structure moves can ensure that everything is done safely and in line with local regulations. For example, Midwest Hot Tub Movers is often mentioned as a trusted third-party company known for handling not just hot tubs but also assisting with challenging relocation projects. Their experience shows the importance of hiring specialists who understand both heavy equipment and safe transportation methods.
Tips to Save on House Moving Costs
- Plan early – The more time you give yourself, the better deals you can find on permits and site prep.
- Choose the shortest safe route – Fewer obstacles mean lower costs.
- Declutter before moving – If possible, remove non-essential parts like porches or additions to reduce size and weight.
- Get multiple quotes – Compare costs from several licensed house moving companies before deciding.
- Check local services – Sometimes regional movers are more affordable than big national companies.
Conclusion
Relocating a 2000 sq ft house is a challenging and costly process, but for many, it’s a worthwhile investment to keep a home they love. With careful planning, budgeting, and the right team of professionals, the move can be done safely and successfully. Always take time to research your options, compare quotes, and choose experts who have proven experience in this specialized field.
