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Iowa to Rhode Island Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- When moving from Iowa to Rhode Island, a two-bedroom move with professional movers is commonly $2,700–$5,500.*Estimates assume a 2–3 bedroom household with three–eight day delivery. Your costs and timelines vary by home size, distance, and seasonality.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from Iowa to Rhode Island is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
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Who are the best movers to move from Iowa to Rhode Island?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from Iowa to Rhode Island is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from Iowa to Rhode Island below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from Iowa to Rhode Island
We recommend using a professional, long-distance mover for your Iowa to Rhode Island move, since they’re built for the coordination a 1,254 mile journey can require. After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from Iowa to Rhode Island.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Rhode Island?
It costs between $2,700–$8,000 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from Iowa to Rhode Island. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,254-mile move from IA to
RI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 03, 2026. moveBuddha curates a nationwide set of thousands of validated moving prices, with monthly updates reflecting seasonal patterns and evolving market conditions. Final charges may fluctuate due to move size, optional services, access/parking constraints, fuel rates, and booking dates. For the best read on cost, gather multiple mover quotes.
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Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
United Van Lines
Bertram, IA
›
Newport East, RI
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 02, 2026
$9,659
Mayflower Transit
Neola, IA
›
Lincoln, RI
Studio apartment
Jan 02, 2026
$4,473
Mayzlin Relocation
Springbrook, IA
›
South Kingstown, RI
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 02, 2026
$6,509
North American Van Lines
Letts, IA
›
Smithfield, RI
4 Bedrooms
Dec 10, 2025
$6,255
PODS
St. Donatus, IA
›
Portsmouth, RI
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 07, 2025
$1,871
Roadway Moving
Ely, IA
›
Scituate, RI
2 Bedrooms
Nov 16, 2025
$4,168
Allied Van Lines
Keota, IA
›
North Providence, RI
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 12, 2025
$5,107
Joyce Van Lines
Whiting, IA
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Middletown, RI
3 Bedrooms
Nov 10, 2025
$5,169
American Van Lines
Shell Rock, IA
›
Glocester, RI
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 06, 2025
$3,884
Colonial Van Lines
Greenfield, IA
›
Barrington, RI
2 Bedrooms
Nov 06, 2025
$3,506
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Rhode Island?
Moving from Iowa to Rhode Island can cost anywhere from $1,131–$7,761, but most people pay around $2,690–$5,510 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,131 – $4,629 | $855 – $2,137 | $779 – $1,400 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,690 – $6,454 | $1,640 – $3,296 | $825 – $1,682 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,605 – $8,040 | $2,095 – $3,957 | $1,068 – $1,990 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,254-mile move from IA to RI using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $2,690 – $6,454 to hire a moving company to move you from Iowa to Rhode Island. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,131 – $4,629
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,690 – $6,454
- 4+ bedrooms: $4,605 – $8,040
How much do moving containers cost from Iowa to Rhode Island?
Using a moving container from Iowa to Rhode Island costs, on average, $1,640 – $3,296. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $855 – $2,137
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,640 – $3,296
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,095 – $3,957
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from Iowa to Rhode Island will costs you between $825 – $1,682, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $779 – $1,400
- 2–3 bedrooms: $825 – $1,682
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,068 – $1,990
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from Iowa to Rhode Island, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from IA to RI?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Rhode Island — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $914 in Iowa to $1,195 in Rhode Island, and average home values go from $220,277 to $467,485.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (89 vs. 100), unemployment (3.0% vs. 4.6%), and taxes — including average sales tax (6.94% vs. 7.0%) and state income tax (4.4% vs. 5.99%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| Iowa | Rhode Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $914 | $1,195 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $467,485 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $81,370 |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 4.6% |
| Average sales tax | 6.94% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 5.99% |
Will rent be more expensive in Rhode Island?
Rent is about 31% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
Avg rent: $914 vs. $1,195
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 112% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
Avg home value: $220,277 vs. $467,485
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 15% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
Avg income (per capita): $70,571 vs. $81,370
Is the overall cost of living higher in Rhode Island?
The cost of living is 12% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
Cost of living index: 89 vs. 100
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax rates are similar in Iowa and Rhode Island.
Avg sales tax: 6.94% vs. 7.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 36% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
State income tax: 4.4% vs. 5.99%
How is daily life different in Rhode Island compared to Iowa?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| Rhode Island | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,093,734 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 56-44 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 50″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 14.58 | 16.18 |
Will Rhode Island feel more crowded than Iowa?
Rhode Island is about 66% less populous than Iowa — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Rhode Island voted Democratic while Iowa voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (82°F vs. 84°F).
Winter: Rhode Island is milder on average (19°F vs. 10°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Rhode Island?
Rain: Rhode Island gets more rain (50″ vs. 35″).
Snow: Snowfall is similar (35 inches vs. 30 inches).
Is Rhode Island safer than Iowa?
Rhode Island has a lower crime index than Iowa (14.58 vs. 16.18), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Rhode Island?
Museums in Rhode Island
- The Breakers
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art
- Providence Children’s Museum
- John Brown House Museum
- Old Slater Mill
Parks in Rhode Island
- Water Place Park
- Roger Williams Park
- Goddard State Park
- India Point Park
- Fort Adams State Park
Sports teams in Rhode Island
- Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Brown Bears (NCAA)
Universities in Rhode Island
- Brown University
- University of Rhode Island
- Rhode Island School of Design
- Rhode Island College
- Johnson and Wales University
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Rhode Island move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
- State licensing: In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Rhode Island moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Rhode Island does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance for free. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Rhode Island?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Rhode Island moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
Some movers in Iowa offer discounts: 1 military discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
Iowa Moving Services
Frequently Traveled Iowa Routes
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