Factors that influence moving costs from Nashville to Lafayettetoggle

The cost of Nashville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Nashville to Lafayette might cost as little as $1,395, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,615.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Nashville, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $601 to $1,367. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Nashville to Lafayette

Moving from Nashville to Lafayette means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Nashville than in Lafayette, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Nashville compares to Lafayette so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Nashville Lafayette
Average rent cost $1,971 $2,825
Average home value $428,678 $214,264
Average income (per capita) $79,020 $59,490
Cost of living (single person) $3,108 $1,785
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,447 $4,208
Unemployment rate 4.5% 5.8%
Sales tax 9.75% 9.45%
State income tax 0.0% 4.25%
  • Rent prices in Lafayette are 43% higher than in Nashville, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Lafayette.
    Home prices in Lafayette are 50.0% lower than in Nashville.
  • Income in Lafayette is 24.7% lower than in Nashville, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Lafayette include LHC Group, King-Patin, and Guyโ€™s Towing Service.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Lafayette is 42.6% lower than in Nashville. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Lafayette is 50.2% lower than in Nashville.
  • The unemployment rate in Lafayette is 28.89% higher than in Nashville.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Lafayette, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Lafayette are 3.08% lower than in Nashville.
  • State income taxes in Lafayette are 4.25% higher than in Nashville.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,722.97 in Lafayette to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Nashville.

How life is different in Nashville vs. Lafayette

Lafayette Nashville
Population 121,374 689,447
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 4
Walkability score 42 96
Bike friendliness score 47 72
Crime Index 45.75 49.1
Safety Index 54.25 50.9
Air Quality Good Good
  • Lafayette's population is about 82% less than Nashville.
  • Lafayette's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Nashville's higher score of 4.
  • Lafayette is less walkable than Nashville with a score of 42 out of 100 vs Nashville's 96 out of 100.
  • Lafayette has a bike-friendliness score 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Nashville, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
  • Lafayette and Nashville have a similar crime rate.
  • Lafayette and Nashville are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Lafayette is good, and in Nashville it's good.

Other things to consider for your Nashville vs. Lafayette move

  • Weather: It's best to plan your move to Lafayette during April, October and November.
  • HOA rules: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: If youโ€™re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Louisiana, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Louisiana doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Lafayette without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Lafayette

With your sights set on "Hub City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Lafayette.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Saint Streets
  • Freetown-Port Rico
  • Downtown Lafayette
  • Scott
  • Youngsville

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Youngsville
  • Maurice
  • Broussard
  • Scott
  • Cade

Things to do in Lafayette

Now that you've made the move to Louisiana, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Lafayette. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Lafayette, such as the Lafayette Science Museum, Acadian Cultural Center, Children's Museum of Acadiana, Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, and Lafayette Art Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Evangeline State Park, Acadiana Park Nature Station, and Girard Park Center โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Louisiana Raginโ€™ Cajuns (Sun Belt) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Nashville to Lafayette?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Nashville to Lafayette. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Nashville.

When is the cheapest time to move from Nashville to Lafayette?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Nashville to Lafayette, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Nashville to Lafayette take?

The 642-mile journey from Nashville, TN to Lafayette, LA typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Nashville offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Lafayette.

Helpful moving resources