We’ve all been the new neighbor at some point—Googling plumbers, hunting for a hair salon, and hoping someone tells us where the good tacos are. For local businesses, this moment is your golden opportunity.
Every year, millions of people make a move—and with every move comes a wave of fresh opportunities for local businesses. New movers aren’t just potential customers; they’re actively seeking services, trying out new brands, and building habits in a new community.
Acquiring customers who are open to change is critical.
And movers are exactly that.
5 Benefits of Reaching New Movers
Let’s unpack 5 reasons new movers are the ultimate growth opportunity for your business in 2026. (and of course, no bubble wrap is required!)
1. New Movers Are Open to Trying New Brands
When people move, they’re shedding old routines and familiar brands. Their familiar coffee shop, dry cleaner, dentist – it all resets.
This is a moment where they are creating a new routine and looking to establish connections in a new area.
Which means a big opportunity for you to get in front of movers when they are seeking you out.
In fact, according to Porch Group Media, 90% of new movers say they’re willing to try a new brand for products or services
2. New Movers Spend an Average of $11,000 Per Move
Moving isn’t cheap. New movers spend around $11, 000, with 7 in 10 making major purchases before moving. That’s significant spending potential, and the earlier you connect, the more you can capture.
And they’re buying all the things—from last-minute impulse splurges and takeout dinners to big-ticket furniture, fresh décor, and all the little essentials that make a new house feel like home.
It doesn’t stop after the first wave of purchases. Many movers continue spending heavily for months as they get settled, making decisions on everything from meal delivery and fitness memberships to childcare and pet care. That extended buying window gives your business multiple chances to connect, especially if you’re positioned as part of their new routine.
The earlier your business connects, the more likely you are to maintain that customer.
3. Movers are More Likely to Try Promotions
New movers are actively searching for deals as they settle into their new community. This is the perfect moment to offer discounts or special offers that not only encourage them to choose you but also leave a lasting impression—keeping your brand top of mind long after the move.
According to Cleanlist, 80% of new movers will take advantage of coupons before, during, and after the move.
Some great ideas of offer to consider include:
Home Services
- Free or discounted home inspection (plumbing, HVAC, electrical)
- 10–20% off first pest control treatment
- Free gutter cleaning with roof inspection
- Discounted lawn care or landscaping service (e.g., first mow free)
- $50–$100 off handyman services
- One-time free home cleaning or maid service discount
Restaurants & Food Delivery
- Free appetizer or dessert with purchase of entrée
- Buy one, get one free (pizza, sandwiches, coffee drinks)
- $10 off first delivery order
- Free kids’ meal with adult purchase
- Exclusive “new neighbor” meal bundle discounts
Retail & Grocery Stores
- Free reusable grocery bag or $5 gift card for new customers
- Discount on home essentials or pantry stock-up items
- Membership rewards sign-up bonus (extra points or coupons)
Pet Services
- Free first grooming session or discounted pet wash
- Free doggie daycare trial day
- Discounted pet supplies or treats at local pet shops
Automotive Services
- Free oil change with service purchase
- Discounted car wash or detailing
- Free tire rotation or safety check for new residents
4. Movers Are Actively Hunting for Trusted Local Recommendations
Relocating to a new place means searching for trustworthy providers, from doctors to restaurants and automotive services. Your local business can stand out by being the first one they find and trust in their new community.
One proven way to reach movers when they’re most open to recommendations is through Welcome Wagon’s new mover giftbook. The book is a great resource for new movers, full of offers, recommendations, and coupons from local brands in their community.
This is a great moment to build trust before your competitors even show up. When I moved into a new neighborhood a few years ago, we are all tired that first night – and hungry – but the kitchen was completely empty. A local pizza shop had slipped a ‘welcome to the neighborhood’ coupon into our mailbox, and that made the decision easy. We ordered dinner, had a great first meal in our new home, and that pizza place quickly became one of our regular spots.
In the mist of all the chaos that comes with moving, being there when a new mover needs you goes a long way to creating a lasting impression.
5: Movers Can Turn into Loyal, Long-Term Customers
When you deliver a great first experience, movers tend to stick with you. Building loyalty early pays off through repeat business and ongoing revenue growth.
According to Strata, new movers are 5× more likely to become long-term loyal customers compared to non-movers.
That means investing in a thoughtful welcome and consistent follow-up is important. Winning over movers early sets the stage for them becoming a long-term customer.
Conclusion
New movers represent a very impactful growth opportunity for local businesses. They are prime candidates for long-term customers because of the way a local business can come into contact with them.
New movers show how important it is to make a connection early, and what the impact of leaving a lasting impression can be.
Learn how Welcome Wagon can help with your next campaign.
New Mover Marketing Solutions for Local Businesses
For more information and ideas to help you fuel your new mover marketing strategy, contact Welcome Wagon! Founded in 1928 to welcome new movers to their community, Welcome Wagon is committed to connecting with new homeowners through their mailboxes and online.
