Whether you’ve lived in Denver your whole life or are a new transplant, you’re already familiar with the benefits of calling the Mile High City home.
No other city in the United States allows you to enjoy urban amenities one minute and scenic views and amazing outdoor activities, from hiking to biking and mountain climbing, the next.
It’s no wonder you don’t want to leave the city, but you are ready to upgrade your living situation!
Local Moving in the Mile High City Doesn’t Need to be Complicated or Expensive
You just need to find the right Denver movers to help you coordinate the relocation.
Check out this simple guide to help you save big money on moving costs.
And why, when you are ready to plan your move, working with a local moving company instead of a faceless national chain is always the best bet.
Why Saving Money on Local Moves Matters
You’re not imagining things: The cost of living in Denver, CO, is rising at a rapid rate.
The higher costs of groceries, housing, transportation, and services are due to increased demand, a growing focus on luxury homes, and a rapidly expanding population.
Like most Denverites, you are focused on saving money, including lowering your average moving costs.
Planning, organization, and working with an established local moving company is the best way to save time and cash on your upcoming move.
Rocky Movers not only offers the most affordable local moving services, but we also understand the unique needs and challenges facing our friends and neighbors in the metro area.
Understanding the Cost of a Local Move in Denver
Your family, circumstances, and needs are unique, but there are universal factors that will impact how much you will pay to relocate in the metro area in 2025.
The number of bedrooms has a significant impact on your moving costs.
Here is the average national cost in 2025 based on bedrooms alone:
- Studio apartment: $435-$725
- 1 bedroom: $580-$870
- 2 bedroom: $725-$1,050
- 3+ bedroom: $1,700 and up
Moving Companies Also Factor in Other Costs
- Distance
- Volume
- Labor
- Time of year
**The summer months are the busiest time to move and therefore, the most expensive.
Some Local, Denver-specific Dosts
- Permits
- Parking costs and restrictions
- HOA rules and regulations
To learn even more, here is a simple moving to Denver guide!
Top Cost-Saving Strategies for Local Moves
The average Denver mover’s cost is growing, but this doesn’t mean there aren’t still several clever and old-fashioned ways you can relocate within the metro area for less.
Keeping your local moving costs in check really isn’t complicated, especially if you follow these simple strategies:
Plan Ahead to Lock in the Best Rates
Booking at least 6-8 weeks before your expected moving date not only saves money, but also ensures you secure a top Denver moving company.
Remember, premier movers in Denver are in high demand, so don’t wait until the last minute!
Summer, specifically June through August, is the peak moving season in Denver.
Higher demand equals higher prices, so to save money, plan your Denver relocation for the off-season, which in Colorado is the late-fall through winter and early-spring.
Even something as simple as planning a mid-week move rather than relocating on the weekend can save you hundreds of dollars.
Declutter Before You Move
The best moving advice any friend, family member, or professional mover will give you is to declutter before the move.
Moving fewer boxes saves on packing materials, equals lower labor and trucking costs, and can significantly cut your packing time.
Whether you are hiring long-distance movers or moving locally, here is how to plan a stress-free moving experience by simply getting rid of your stuff:
- Utilize the easy three-pile system. Divide all your belongings into three piles: Keep, donate/sell, or toss.
- Locate local donation centers. Give away any unwanted items to local donation centers, including the Denver Rescue Mission and Goodwill of Colorado.
- Recycle unwanted items – including electronics. Never throw away electronics and instead, recycle broken computers, televisions, and cellphones.
- Host a yard sale. Raise money for the moving process while eliminating clutter by hosting a yard sale!
Pack Smart to Cut Costs
Between boxes and tape, bubble wrap, and furniture blankets, the cost of packing materials can add up quickly.
Don’t forget to factor in the time it takes to protect fragile items.
There is a better way to save minutes and cash: Professional packing services.
When considering the cost of packing supplies and the time lost, hiring a professional packing service is often more cost-effective.
Professional Movers in Denver are Equipped for All Types of Moves
Professional movers arrive with all necessary supplies, and because they are experienced, they can pack your entire home in a matter of hours.
These professionals charge an hourly rate, and most movers offer packing service.
If you prefer packing, thoughtful preparation is critical, including knowing where to grab cheap or free packing supplies in Denver:
- Local stores, including liquor or grocery stores
- Facebook Marketplace
- The neighborhood app Nextdoor
Working with What You Have
In addition to scoring boxes, there are several other ways to save on packing materials, including:
- Use items from around the home, including paper towels and empty egg cartons.
- Stuff valuables and fragile items inside clothing packed in suitcases
- Borrow storage totes from friends and family.
Leverage Portable Storage and Hybrid Solutions
Many are turning to portable storage pods instead of hiring traditional movers.
On paper, it might seem more inexpensive and convenient, but you will miss the personalized touch and expertise provided by traditional local or long-distance moving companies.
Instead, rely on a new hybrid approach that combines DIY packing or partial packing services with hiring local movers to help ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new neighborhood.
Denver Moving Company Tips to Optimize Moving Day Logistics
Early planning doesn’t just mean securing boxes and hiring a moving company.
Creating a solid plan for moving day will help ensure more stuff is loaded faster, prevent accidents, and help you avoid breaking your moving budget on unexpected costs.
If your new address is in a busy downtown or historic neighborhood, such as LoDo, Cherry Creek, or Capitol Hill, secure parking permits ahead of time to prevent costly delays.
Schedule your move for times when there is less traffic.
In Denver, this is typically Tuesday and Wednesday.
Unexpected delays can ruin an otherwise successful move while dramatically increasing the relocation’s overall costs.
Want to become an expert in navigating a relocation to downtown Denver?
Check out this downtown Denver moving guide.
Use Tax Deductions and Employer Assistance
Everyone knows hiring cheap movers and avoiding hidden fees will cut costs.
Here are two insider hacks to help you cut the Denver cost of moving even more:
- If you are relocating due to a military or job-related move, some or all of your moving expenses may be covered or tax-deductible.
- Inquiring about relocation reimbursements for local transfers from employers.
Hire a Licensed Local Mover vs. DIY
Moving is expensive, which is why you’re saving money by asking friends and family to help you lug your household items to a new location in the city.
You’re only moving across town; how expensive can a DIY move be?
Don’t Forget to Factor in These Overlooked Costs of a Do-It-Yourself Relocation
- Moving truck rentals
- Fuel
- Tolls
- Insurance
- Time away from work
Moving Should Be Left to Local Movers in Denver at Rocky Movers.
We offer:
- Transparent pricing
- Efficiency
- Reliability
Seasonal Cost-Saving Tips for Denver Moves
In a perfect world, you could plan your move around the season to save.
Unfortunately, whether you are moving to the growing suburbs or downtown, your schedule is based on your job, kids, and moving company availability.
Don’t worry, there are still several ways you can save money, no matter what time of year, but only if you plan ahead.
Winter Moves (Dec–Feb)
For obvious reasons, Denverites tend to avoid moving in the winter.
There are lower prices and increased availability, but take the proper precautions:
- Shovel and deice all paths to the front entrance.
- Prevent damage with flooring protector sheets.
- Move all boxes to the front room to prevent heavy traffic throughout your house.
Spring Moves (Mar–May)
Moving in the spring is also generally cheaper.
Keep an eye on the weather and be prepared for rain and thunderstorms.
Some movers offer flexible scheduling, which allows you to change the moving time and date in the event of inclement weather.
Summer Moves (Jun–Aug)
For most homeowners, the beautiful weather and flexible work schedule make a summer move more convenient.
To save during the peak season, schedule your move at least 6-8 weeks in advance.
Move during the mid-week, particularly Tuesday and Wednesday, to keep expenses down.
Fall Moves (Sep–Nov)
Schedule for autumn relocation after your yearly fall cleanout.
Decluttering before the move, combined with the cost-saving advantages of moving during the fall, can save you hundreds.
Local Resources to Help Cut Costs
Look to your friends, family, and local stores to cut down the approximate cost of your move:
- In addition to the suggestions above, look for free or cheap sturdy boxes on LetGo, OfferUp, and Craigslist.
- Community recycling and donation programs offer free boxes.
- Declutter and sell furniture locally on LetGo, OfferUp, and Facebook Marketplace.
Are you moving from the bustling city to the sleepy suburbs?
Read our guide to what to expect when moving to Denver’s suburbs.
Mistakes to Avoid That Increase Costs
Moving mistakes don’t have to occur, as long as you are thoughtful, plan ahead, and learn about the most common blunders to avoid:
- Waiting until the last minute to pack or book Denver movers.
- Not checking mover credentials. Ask movers for proof of insurance and licensing.
- Ignoring parking/permit requirements.
- Forgetting to measure furniture for tight spaces.
Complete packing services cost extra, make your life easier, but they aren’t for everyone.
Read this full packing service pros and cons to learn more.
How Rocky Movers Helps You Save on Local Moves
Starting your new life doesn’t need to drain your bank account
Let Rocky movers, the best movers in the Denver Metro area, help you save cold, hard cash on your local relocation.
We offer:
- Flat-rate and hourly pricing transparency.
- Free estimates and in-home/virtual surveys.
- Special offers, repeat customer discounts, and senior/military discounts.
- Free packing supplies for local moves!
We love to save you money, including providing our customers with top moving hacks!
Make Your Next Move Affordable & Stress-Free with the Best Denver Movers Near You
Hiring an inexpensive moving service doesn’t mean you are sacrificing quality.
Rocky Movers offers competitive pricing and additional services, including free packing materials and packing services, that the other guys won’t provide.
We invite you to secure a free, cost-saving estimate from Rocky Movers.
Contact Rocky Movers today for a customized, budget-friendly moving plan in Denver.
Local Moving Companies FAQs
What is the cheapest month to move in Denver?
Scheduling your move off-peak times can save you, but what specifically is the cheapest time to move in the Mile High City?
December, with its chilly temperatures, high chances of snow, and busy families who want to enjoy the holiday season rather than pack and move, is the least expensive month to move in Denver.
Is it more cost-effective to hire movers or rent a moving truck for a local move?
It may seem like securing a truck and enlisting friends is the most cost-effective way to move.
However, when you factor in the cost of fuel, truck rental pricing, time off work, and compensating loved ones, a DIY move is actually more expensive.
Moving companies also offer insurance, which means if anything is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will be compensated.
The same can’t be said if a friend drops a vase or you lose your laptop.
How much should I budget for a local move in Denver?
Several factors impact your moving costs, including the number of bedrooms, time of year, and packing supplies.
You should budget at least $500 to $1,500 to cover all costs, both expected and unexpected.
Can I negotiate prices with Denver movers in 2025?
You can absolutely negotiate pricing with local movers.
Follow these strategies to help you get the best deal possible:
- Secure quotes from at least three or four reputable movers in Denver.
- Ask if companies offer discounts, such as military or senior discounts.
- Remain flexible on your moving dates.
Where can I get free moving boxes in Denver?
There are several places to get free durable boxes throughout the Denver area:
- U-Haul Customer Connect Box Exchange
- Facebook Marketplace
- Ring Neighbors App
- Offerup
- Craigslist
Additionally, we offer free packing supplies on every local move, and our professional movers will pack everything for you on your moving day.
You will only be charged for the labor time.
How much does a local move in Denver typically cost?
Local moving rates in Denver often range from about $145 to $225 per hour for a two-person crew with a truck, with flat rates sometimes available for larger homes.
Most local movers charge by the hour, while long-distance moving companies traditionally charge based on the distance, volume of household goods, number of trucks, and fuel costs.
Your moving company can help you determine the cost of your move.
Should I rent a truck or secure movers in Denver?
More factors besides cost should be considered when deciding whether to outsource your move or rent a truck.
Ask yourself these questions before making any final decision:
- Do you have the time to pack, load, and unload boxes?
- Are you physically able to handle the physical stress of a DIY move?
- Are there friends and family available to help with the move?
If you still aren’t convinced, here are some more reasons why hire local movers.
How can I reduce the hourly cost of professional movers in Denver?
Local movers typically charge by the hour, allowing you to save significantly through proper planning and some effort.
You can lower your moving bill by:
- Ensuring movers can park directly in front of your home or as close as possible.
- Disassembling furniture in advance saves on labor and makes loading/unloading more efficient.
- Move boxes in the front room or front lawn.
- Keep the walkways and hallways clear.
- Make sure all boxes are packed and secure before the move.
