Key Takeaways- Moving to Australia from the USA costs between $10,000 and $15,000+, depending on shipping volume, visa, and travel.
- Top international movers include Laser Moving, Ruby International, and Uplift Movers.
- U.S. citizens need a visa; the Skilled Independent visa and Permanent Resident visa are popular options.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from the USA to Australia?
On average, the cost to relocate to Australia is around $10,500, but this varies widely based on your shipment size, origin, and moving services required.
Breakdown of Typical International Moving Costs
| Origin | Estimated Costs | Shipping Time |
| East Coast (e.g., New York) | $3,500 – $11,800 | 5–11 weeks |
| West Coast (e.g., Los Angeles) | $3,100 – $10,600 | 5–11 weeks |
*Last updated October 2025
What Influences Relocation Costs?
- Volume of Goods: More belongings = higher costs
- Distance to port: The costs vary from East vs. West Coast
- Services included: packing, storage, and insurance add costs
- Local charges in Australia: Local delivery and customs fees
Related article
Read more about container shipping costs to Australia from the US.
How Expensive Is It to Move to Australia in 2025?
Depending on the additional costs and circumstances, the total relocation costs to Australia can range from $6,000 to over $15,000.
Additional relocation Expenses:
- Visa application fees: $300–$4,500
- Travel costs (flights): $800–$2,000
- Temporary housing: $2,000+
- Customs and duty fees: variable
Top International Moving Companies USA to Australia
Choosing a reliable international moving company is crucial for a successful relocation. Here are some top-rated companies that can help with your move to Australia:
Sirelo Top Mover
9.5
437
Naperville
40 ratings as Professional
40 ratings as "Professional"
Services Offered: Full-service moving, Packing, Transportation, Storage, International relocations
Pros
Excellent communication
Professionalism
Competitive pricing
Cons
Occasional compliance issues
8.5
126
Miami
15 ratings as Professional
15 ratings as "Professional"
Services Offered: Full-service moving, Packing, Transportation, Storage
Pros
Professional staff
Good communication
Affordable rates
Cons
Unclear communication at times
9.1
56
Fort Lee
5 ratings as Good Price
5 ratings as "Good Price"
Services Offered: Full-service moving, Packing, Transportation, International relocations
Pros
Affordable rates
Reliable service
Good communication
Cons
Limited availability during peak seasons
Moving to Australia: Free Shipping Quotes
Fill in our quote form now and receive up to 5 free moving quotes for your removal to Australia.
Visa Requirements for Moving to Australia
U.S. citizens must apply for a visa. The process and costs vary based on your immigration path.
Can Americans Move to Australia?
Yes, Americans can move to Australia with the right type of visa. See below the different visa options:
How to Apply for an Australian Visa?
Is Australia Currently Sponsoring Immigrants?
Yes, currently, certain skilled occupations are in demand and eligible for sponsorship visas.
Living in Australia as an American
Australia offers high quality of life, universal healthcare, and a strong job market. However, costs in major cities can be high.
Cost of Living in Australia vs. the US
The cost of living in Australia is, on average, 3.9% lower than in the USA (excluding rent), but grocery prices are slightly higher.
Cost of Living Example: New York vs. Sydney
| Expense | New York | Sydney |
| Meal, inexpensive restaurant | 25.5 USD | 16.21 USD |
| 1,5 L of water | 2.49 USD | 1.19 USD |
| Monthly bus pass | 133.00 USD | 140.98 USD |
| 1L gasoline | 0.92 USD | 1.22 USD |
| 1 BD rent in the center | 4,021.21 USD | 2,182.28 USD |
*For more detailed cost comparisons, for your preferred state and city, see Numbeo
Pros and Cons of Living in Australia
Pros
High standard of living
Excellent healthcare system
Beautiful natural landscapes
Friendly and diverse culture
Cons
High cost of living in major cities
Distance from other countries
Strict immigration policies
Vast distances between cities
How to Move to Australia from the USA: Step-by-Step
Checklist:
- Choose a licensed international mover
- Apply for the appropriate visa
- Declutter and pack strategically
- Arrange shipping and insurance
- Notify banks, utilities, USPS, etc.
- Open a bank account in Australia
- Organize healthcare coverage
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Moving to Australia with Pets
You’ll need:
- Health certificate from a USDA-accredited vet
- Rabies vaccinations
- Microchipping
- Quarantine reservations (if required)
Check the DAFF Australia for more detailed pet import regulations.
Ready to Move to Australia?
We hope that you feel ready to move to Australia and enjoy the unique nature, wildlife and beautiful beaches the country has to offer. If you are left with any questions at this point, have a look at out FAQs and linked articles below.
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