With the real estate market in a positive state for homeowners, the decision to sell your home and move to a new area or an upgraded property is entirely in your hands. This freedom to choose when to move might lead you to wonder, when is the best time to move?
As home sellers are making an astounding profit on their home investments, now is the period to move. However, when the best time to move during the year is important to consider for a smooth, seamless, and comfortable relocation.
To help you plan your moving timeline, we’re exploring the pros and cons of moving during the different seasons and sharing our expert opinion of when the best time to move really is.
Best Time to Move by Season
When you have the opportunity to choose when you move to a new home, you can consider the benefits of the downfalls that each season brings.
Moving in the Winter
Pros
- More affordable moving services
- Lower rent prices
- Furniture stays in good shape
Cons
- Cold weather and possible snow delays
- Hectic holiday schedules
A winter move is not for the faint of heart! Jam-packed with holiday celebrations, work and family parties, and cold weather, a winter move can prove to be difficult for many, especially families with children. However, if you’re moving into an apartment, rent prices tend to be lower during the winter months. Professional moving companies, due to the lack of demand during the winter, also have favorable rates for moving during these colder months.
Another positive thing to note about moving in the winter is that your furniture and belongings, especially antique items, can withstand the cold much better than the heat during long, cross-country moves.
Moving in the Spring
Pros
- Spring cleaning and decluttering mode for packing
- Ideal weather
- Good rates for professional movers
Cons
- Rainy and unpredictable weather
- Middle of the school year for kids
As we thaw from the harsh winter months and welcome the warmth of spring, the weather becomes more ideal for moving to a new home. The sun starts to shine brighter, and the days become a tad longer, allowing more time to pack and physically move.
While you’re already in spring cleaning mode, it’s a great opportunity to declutter your home while packing for your move. Additionally, as the spring is the lead-up to peak moving season, you can still find great rates for professional movers.
However, the weather can be unpredictable during the spring, leading to rainy days and cooler temperatures. It’s also the middle of the school year for kids, meaning moving them to a new district could disrupt their education.
Moving in the Summer
Pros
- Longer sunny days
- School is out of session
- Slower period
Cons
- Sweltering heat
- High moving costs
The summer is the most popular time of year to move for families. According to Apartments.com, 60% of moves in the US happen during the summer.
There are a few factors that make this season so popular for moving.
- School is no longer in session
- College students are graduating and moving out of their apartments
- Sunny and warm weather
- Longer days
Logistically, the summer is a good time to move, but it can bring high moving costs due to the high demand for trucks and professional labor. Let’s also not forget about the sweltering heat that comes along with the summer months.
Moving in the Fall
Pros
- Ideal weather
- Good rates for professional movers
Cons
- School starts again
- Holidays begin to roll around
As summer winds down and life gets back to normal, moving in the call could be a great opportunity. The weather starts to cool off, and schedules begin to relax as school starts again. As people begin to pick up their routines, fewer people are moving, meaning the price of professional movers stabilizes.
Of course, there are challenges of moving in the fall, though. School starts back up for the kids, holidays begin to creep around come October, and the weather can change quickly depending on your location.
The Best Time to Move According to Experts
In our expert opinion, the best time to move is from April to June and from September to November. These shoulder periods of peak moving season are favorable in weather, moving rates, and overall schedule.
It’s also a good idea to move in the middle of the day during the week to avoid rush hour traffic, especially when moving in a city.
Hire the Best Movers for the Best Time to Move
When you’re ready to move, no matter what time of year, Mike Hammer Moving is here to help! Our team of professional movers and packers is here to make your move simple, easy, and relaxing.
Request a free quote for your move today!
