When is the Best Time to Move?

Planning a move is exciting but complex. Choosing the best time to move can save you time and money, making the process smoother. Here’s what you need to know about choosing the ideal season, day, and lease transition period when moving into a new apartment.

Best Time of Year to Move

Each season offers unique pros and cons for moving. The best time to move depends on several factors, such as ease of moving, budget, and apartment availability. Here’s a breakdown by season:

 

Spring

Spring is often considered one of the best times to move. With mild weather, loading and unloading boxes is more comfortable, without the intense heat of summer or winter's chill. Apartment availability tends to increase as leases end during this season, offering a wider selection of new homes. Moving in spring is often more budget-friendly than summer, as peak season hasn’t begun.

Pros: Mild weather, moderate costs, good apartment availability
Cons: May experience rain, schedules fill up quickly as summer approaches

Summer

Summer is the peak moving season for good reason. Schools are on break, making it a convenient time for families to relocate without disrupting children’s education. With more people moving, however, moving costs tend to increase, and apartment availability can become competitive. Planning ahead is a necessity if you’re considering a summer move to avoid inflated prices and limited availability.

Pros: Flexible schedules, good weather
Cons: High demand and prices, limited apartment availability

Fall

Fall offers a balance of moderate weather and lower moving costs. Moving companies usually have more availability, and apartment prices are often lower than in summer. This season is also ideal if you’re moving before the holiday rush. With fewer people moving, you’ll have more options and lower costs for rental services.

Pros: Lower moving costs, good weather, availability of apartments and movers
Cons: Weather can be unpredictable as winter approaches

 

Winter

Winter is the least popular season for moving due to cold weather and holiday schedules. However, if you don’t mind bundling up, winter can be the best time to move if you’re looking to save on costs. Apartment rents may be lower, and moving companies are more likely to offer discounts. The downside is the potential for snow and ice depending on your location.

Pros: Lower costs, easy scheduling, reduced competition
Cons: Harsh weather, risk of delays due to weather conditions

 

 

Best Time of Day to Move

If you’re planning a moving day, consider starting early in the morning. This lets you make the most of daylight and avoid heavy traffic. Mornings tend to be cooler—a bonus during summer. If morning isn’t an option, aim to move midday to avoid peak rush hours.

 

Planning Your Lease Transition

When moving from one apartment to another, timing the end of your current lease and the start of a new one can be tricky. Ideally, aim for a one- to two-week overlap between leases. This buffer allows you to avoid the stress of moving out and into a new place in one day. Overlap is helpful if unexpected delays occur, like a maintenance issue in your new apartment.

If you’re looking to minimize overlap and save on rental costs, consult with your property manager. Many apartment communities, like those managed by Greystar, understand the timing complexities and may offer flexible lease options.

 

When Is the Best Time to Move Into an Apartment?

So, after all is said and done, when is the best time to move into an apartment? It depends on your circumstances, but spring and fall offer a balance of moderate weather, availability, and manageable costs. Summer is ideal if flexibility is your priority, while winter may work best if you’re budget-conscious.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Spring and fall provide mild weather and a good mix of availability, and cost-effective rates
• Summer is convenient for families but can be costly.
• Winter offers savings but comes with challenging weather.
• The morning is the best time of day to move to avoid traffic and maximize daylight.

 

Find Your Ideal Apartment with Greystar

By choosing the best time to move based on your priorities, you can reduce stress, avoid peak-season costs, and find a great apartment that fits your lifestyle. If you're considering a move, Greystar offers apartments that fit your needs nationwide. We prioritize creating spaces where residents feel at home and connected.

Ready to start your search? Browse available apartments today.

 

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