Moving house in the UK can be an expensive endeavor, with costs varying widely depending on factors such as property value, location, and the services required. On average, UK homeowners can expect to spend between £8,885 and £30,048 when moving house, with the median cost hovering around £13,978. This figure includes various expenses such as legal fees, stamp duty, removal costs, and other associated charges.
The cost of moving house has risen significantly in recent years, with some estimates suggesting it has more than doubled over the past decade. This increase is largely due to rising property prices, which affect related costs such as stamp duty and estate agent fees. Additionally, inflation and increased demand for moving services have contributed to higher removal costs.
To help you understand the breakdown of moving costs, here’s a table outlining the average expenses for a typical UK house move:
| Expense Category | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Estate Agent Fees | £2,765 |
| Conveyancing | £1,040 |
| Stamp Duty | £2,115 |
| Removal Company | £1,181 |
| Surveyor Fees | £500 |
| EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) | £80 |
Breakdown of Moving Costs
Understanding the various components that contribute to the overall cost of moving house can help you budget more effectively. Let’s break down the major expenses you’re likely to encounter during the moving process.
Estate Agent Fees
Estate agent fees typically represent one of the largest expenses when selling a property. In the UK, these fees usually range from 1% to 3% of the final sale price, plus VAT. For an average-priced UK home, this can amount to around £2,765. However, it’s important to note that estate agent fees are negotiable, and some online agents may offer lower fixed fees.
Conveyancing Costs
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one party to another. The average cost of conveyancing in the UK is about £1,040, but this can vary depending on the property value and complexity of the transaction. This fee typically covers:
- Legal paperwork and searches
- Land Registry fees
- Handling of stamp duty payments
- Liaison with the seller’s solicitor
It’s advisable to obtain quotes from several conveyancers to ensure you’re getting a competitive rate.
Stamp Duty
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a significant cost for many home buyers in the UK. The amount you’ll pay depends on the property’s purchase price and whether you’re a first-time buyer or purchasing an additional property. As of 2025, the stamp duty thresholds are set to change, potentially increasing costs for many buyers. The current average stamp duty payment is around £2,115, but this can be much higher for more expensive properties.
Removal Costs
The cost of hiring a removal company in the UK averages £1,181 for a three-bedroom house moving 50 miles. However, this can range from £300 to £5,000 depending on factors such as:
- The size of your property
- The distance of your move
- The amount of belongings you’re moving
- Additional services like packing and storage
To save money on removal costs, consider:
- Decluttering before you move
- Packing items yourself
- Moving mid-week when rates may be lower
- Getting multiple quotes from different removal companies
Surveyor Fees
A property survey is not legally required but is highly recommended to identify any potential issues with the property you’re buying. The cost of a survey depends on the type you choose:
- Condition Report: £300-£900
- HomeBuyer Report: £400-£1,000
- Building Survey: £600-£1,500
The average cost for a survey is around £500, but investing in a more comprehensive survey could save you money in the long run by identifying potential problems early.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
An EPC is a legal requirement when selling a property in the UK. It provides information about the property’s energy efficiency and typically costs around £80. The certificate is valid for 10 years, so if you’re selling a property that already has a valid EPC, you won’t need to pay for a new one.
Additional Costs to Consider
While the expenses mentioned above constitute the bulk of moving costs, there are several other factors that can add to your total expenditure. Being aware of these can help you avoid unexpected financial surprises during your move.
Mortgage Fees
If you’re buying a property with a mortgage, you may encounter several fees:
- Arrangement fee: Typically £1,000-£2,000
- Booking fee: Usually £100-£250
- Valuation fee: Around £150-£1,500 depending on property value
Some lenders may offer fee-free mortgages, but these often come with higher interest rates. It’s important to consider the total cost over the life of the mortgage, not just the upfront fees.
Storage Costs
If there’s a gap between moving out of your old property and into your new one, you might need to store your belongings. Storage costs in the UK average around £25 per week for a 50 square foot unit, but prices can vary significantly depending on location and the amount of space required.
Mail Redirection
To ensure you don’t miss important correspondence, it’s advisable to set up mail redirection with Royal Mail. The cost for this service ranges from £33.99 for three months to £66.99 for 12 months.
Cleaning Costs
Whether you’re leaving your old property in good condition for the new owners or want to ensure your new home is spotless before you move in, professional cleaning services can cost between £100 and £350 depending on the size of the property.
Home Insurance
You’ll need to arrange buildings insurance from the date you exchange contracts on your new property. Contents insurance is also advisable from the day you move in. The cost of home insurance varies widely depending on factors such as property value, location, and level of cover, but budgeting £300-£500 annually is a good starting point.
FAQs About How Much Does It Cost To Move House UK?
- What is the average cost of moving house in the UK?
The average cost of moving house in the UK is approximately £13,978, but this can range from £8,885 to £30,048 depending on various factors. - How can I reduce the cost of moving house?
You can reduce costs by decluttering, packing yourself, comparing quotes for services, and moving during off-peak times. - Do first-time buyers pay less when moving house?
Yes, first-time buyers often pay less due to stamp duty relief and potentially lower estate agent fees if they’re only buying, not selling. - How much do removal companies charge in the UK?
Removal companies in the UK charge an average of £1,181 for a three-bedroom house move, but costs can range from £300 to £5,000. - Are there any hidden costs when moving house?
Hidden costs may include mortgage fees, storage costs, mail redirection, and cleaning services, which can add several hundred pounds to your total moving expenses.