Why Moving House Is One of Life’s Most Stressful Experiences – Even More Than Childbirth, Say Brits

For many people in the UK, the idea of moving house conjures images of chaos, cardboard boxes, misplaced keys, endless paperwork, and sleepless nights.

But beyond the mess and logistics, new data has confirmed something that homeowners have long suspected — moving home is one of the most stressful experiences in adult life, even ranking above childbirth, job interviews, and dental visits.

In a recent survey conducted by OnePoll for Compare My Move, a group of 2,000 UK homeowners were asked to reflect on the events in life that caused them the most stress.

The results? One in three people (33%) ranked moving home as more stressful than having a baby, losing a friend, or starting a new job.

In fact, only the death of a loved one (at 65%) and the dual challenges of divorce or caring for a sick relative (both at 39%) ranked higher.

This article explores why moving house is so taxing, what elements make it such a minefield of emotions and logistics, and—crucially—what steps homeowners can take to make the process more manageable.

Survey Results: Where Moving House Ranks Among Life’s Most Stressful Moments

In the Compare My Move poll, respondents were able to select multiple answers from a list of life events.

The findings paint a revealing picture of how Brits experience stress:

What stands out is that day-to-day stressors, such as job interviews or public speaking—both frequently cited as anxiety triggers—rank well below the disruption of moving.

Even childbirth, a major medical and emotional milestone, was selected by fewer than one in five participants.

Why Is Moving House So Stressful?

There’s no single cause of stress when it comes to relocating.

Instead, it’s a combination of emotional upheaval, financial pressure, time constraints, and sheer physical labour that turns the act of moving into one of life’s most dreaded experiences.

1. Emotional Disruption

Leaving behind a home is rarely just about bricks and mortar.

A house can represent memories, identity, routines, and a sense of stability.

Even if the move is a positive step—such as upgrading to a bigger property or relocating for a better job—the disruption to one’s emotional landscape is undeniable.

2. Complex Logistics

Arranging a move involves coordinating multiple elements: solicitors, estate agents, mortgage lenders, utility companies, removal firms, and often school placements for children.

When even one cog in the machine stalls, the domino effect can quickly unravel weeks of planning.

3. Financial Pressure

With average house prices in the UK still sitting well above £280,000 and the cost of moving estimated at around £11,000, the financial burden of relocation is immense.

Add in unexpected costs like legal fees, property repairs, or last-minute removals, and the whole ordeal can feel like a fiscal free-fall.

4. Physical Demands

Packing boxes, lifting furniture, cleaning, navigating staircases with wardrobes—it’s easy to underestimate the physical strain of a move.

Even with help from professionals, it’s rare for movers to escape unscathed from bruised shins or sore backs.

5. Time Sensitivity

In the UK, where chain-dependent property transactions are the norm, timelines are often unpredictable and subject to last-minute changes.

A delay with one buyer or seller can cause a chain reaction, resulting in collapsed sales, lost deposits, or emergency accommodation.

How to Make Moving House Less Overwhelming

Dave Sayce, co-founder of Compare My Move, acknowledges the challenges:

“These survey results confirm what many of us already feel – moving home is one of life’s biggest stressful events. But with the right preparation and support, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.”

Here are his five top tips for taking the edge off the stress of moving:

1. Start Planning Early

Create a detailed checklist broken down by weeks or stages leading up to the move.

Be sure to include legal deadlines, packing targets, and the appropriate contacts to inform about your address change.

The earlier you start, the less likely you’ll be scrambling last minute.

2. Declutter Before You Pack

Don’t wait until the moving truck arrives to sort through your belongings.

Use the opportunity to donate, recycle or bin items you no longer use.

This reduces what needs transporting and may lower removal costs.

3. Choose a Trusted Removal Firm

Do your research.

Look for companies with good reviews, competitive pricing, and flexible packages.

Consider getting insurance in case anything is damaged in transit.

4. Label Everything Clearly

A simple but vital step. Mark boxes with both contents and room location—e.g., “Kitchen – Pots and Pans.”

It’ll make your life a lot easier on unpacking day.

5. Pack a First-Night Essentials Box

Set aside a clearly labelled box for items you’ll need right away.

Think: kettle, mugs, toothbrushes, phone chargers, loo roll, snacks, and a change of clothes.

Additional Strategies to Reduce Stress

✅ Consider Temporary Storage

If dates don’t align or your chain is fragile, consider placing belongings in short-term storage.

It removes pressure and keeps items secure while arrangements are finalised.

✅ Arrange Child or Pet Care

If you have children or pets, having them out of the way on moving day can reduce anxiety for everyone involved.

Ask friends or relatives to help out.

✅ Don’t Forget Utilities

Notify energy suppliers, water, internet providers, and your local council in advance.

Doing so prevents duplicate charges and service interruptions when you move in.

✅ Take Time Off Work

Try to book a few days off either side of the move.

This gives you breathing space to manage complications and settle into your new space without having to immediately jump back into work emails.

The Psychological Impact: It’s Not Just the Boxes

For many, the act of moving can bring up unexpected emotions—from grief over leaving behind a beloved home to anxiety about unknown neighbours or new environments.

This emotional strain shouldn’t be underestimated.

Moving house is a recognised trigger for mental health issues, particularly when paired with other major life changes.

It’s important to talk about stress during this time. Whether with a partner, friends, or even a professional, sharing the load can ease the pressure.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Move, Don’t Let It Break You

Moving home is undeniably one of the most emotionally and physically demanding events many of us will face.

But while the statistics show it ranks higher than childbirth or job interviews in the stress league, it’s also a step forward—a fresh start, a new chapter.

By planning ahead, seeking support, and keeping expectations realistic, you can take control of the process and reduce the emotional weight of the transition.

As daunting as it might seem, remember: the boxes will get unpacked, the sofa will fit through the door, and your new home will soon feel like your sanctuary.