When moving from New Jersey to Kentucky, expect to spend between
$2,099–$5,366 if using professional movers, about
$1,911 for a moving container, and around
$806
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in New Jersey
New Jersey offers 78 interstate moving companies ready to support your move to Kentucky. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best local movers in New Jersey, highlighting companies that are known for their clear pricing, excellent reviews, and extensive services.
- Flatrate Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Universal Relocations Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Zip to Zip Moving Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Reliable Van & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 1748105
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 488466
Flatrate Moving has been providing reliable local residential moving services in and around Newark, NJ since 1993. Compared to other nearby moving companies, Flatrate Moving stands out with its comprehensive suite of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, making it a versatile choice for various moving needs. With an average rating of 4.0 from 23 Yelp reviews and a 3.6 from 30 Google reviews, customers generally express satisfaction with their services, which is further reinforced by their A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Additionally, the company accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, providing convenience and flexibility for its clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2428388
Universal Relocations Inc. is a reputable local moving company serving Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ, since 2014. With over a decade of experience, they offer comprehensive residential moving services, including packing, unpacking, and specialty item handling such as pianos and antiques. Unlike many nearby movers, Universal Relocations boasts a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and strong consumer reviews, averaging 4.3 stars on Google and 3.8 stars on Yelp. They stand out by offering additional services like long-distance and international moves, making them a versatile choice for any local relocation needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 39PC00058806
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 939629
Alternate Names: A Action Family Moving Company, Inc.
Transtar Moving Systems, a reputable local moving company operating in and around Moorestown, NJ since 1963, offers comprehensive residential moving services. Compared to other nearby movers, Transtar stands out with its longevity and strong customer satisfaction, reflected in an impressive 4.8 average rating from 161 Google reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Their services include office moving, packing and unpacking, and specialized relocation for antiques, art, and safes. With no deposit required and full valuation insurance coverage provided, Transtar Moving Systems is a trusted and dependable choice for your local moving needs.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2969363
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2969363
Zip to Zip Moving Inc, a trusted name in local residential moving in and around Kearny, NJ, has been successfully operating since 2018. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 114 Yelp reviews and 1379 Google reviews, the company stands out for its exceptional customer satisfaction, surpassing many nearby competitors. Beyond standard moving services, they offer packing, unpacking, and specialized art and antique moving, ensuring a tailored relocation experience. Zip to Zip Moving Inc also provides full valuation insurance coverage, giving clients peace of mind throughout their move.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 151755
Years in Business: 102
DOT #: 151755
Reliable Van & Storage, a trusted name in local residential moving services around Elizabeth, NJ since 1924, stands out for its long-standing reputation. Unlike other nearby movers, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized care for fragile items, pianos, antiques, and safes. While their Yelp reviews average out to a modest 2.7 from 63 reviews, their Google My Business profile tells a more positive story with an average rating of 4.4 from 254 reviews. Coupled with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer customers peace of mind with full valuation insurance coverage and no deposit required, ensuring a seamless and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
The best New Jersey to Kentucky moving container companies
Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in New Jersey and drops it off at your new home in Kentucky.
We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:
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The best New Jersey to Kentucky moving truck rentals
Moving truck rentals are the most cost-effective way to move from New Jersey to Kentucky, although they’re also the most labor-intensive. You’ll save big by doing all the heavy lifting and driving.
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best New Jersey to Kentucky labor-only movers
If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They’ll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.
Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from New Jersey to Kentucky.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your NJ to KY move
After studying pricing from 87 New Jersey movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
- Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from New Jersey to Kentucky?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from New Jersey to Kentucky. You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,052 – $3,519 | $736 – $1,708 | $496 – $927 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,099 – $5,366 | $1,233 – $2,590 | $545 – $1,068 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,595 – $7,272 | $1,737 – $3,130 | $661 – $1,401 |
*Estimated costs for a 680-mile move from NJ to KY are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s dataset as of Nov 04, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling. For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from New Jersey to Kentucky
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from New Jersey to Kentucky will cost between $1,052 and $3,519. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from NJ to KY will range from $2,099 to $5,366, and a large move from New Jersey to Kentucky will cost from $3,595 to $7,272.
Cost of moving containers from New Jersey to Kentucky
If you’re moving from New Jersey to Kentucky, expect to pay between $736 and $1,708 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,233 up to $2,590. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,737 and $3,130. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from New Jersey.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New Jersey to Kentucky
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $496 and $927. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $545 and $1,068. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $661 up to $1,401 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NJ to KY
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from New Jersey to Kentucky. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
- Time of year: The peak moving season in New Jersey is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from NJ to KY
A relocation from New Jersey to Kentucky comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: New Jersey vs. Kentucky
Comparing expenses in New Jersey and Kentucky shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
| New Jersey | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,368 | $902 |
| Average home cost | $534,773 | $212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) | $97,126 | $60,183 |
| Cost of living index | 114 | 93 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 5.0% |
| Average sales tax | 6.6% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 10.7% | 4.0% |
- Expect to pay around 34% less in rent in Kentucky than in New Jersey, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
- Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 60% lower in Kentucky than in New Jersey.
- Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Kentucky are about 38% lower than in New Jersey.
- Living in Kentucky is about 18% cheaper than New Jersey. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
- Unemployment in Kentucky is about 6% higher than in New Jersey. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
- Sales tax in Kentucky is 9% lower than in New Jersey. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Kentucky can really help lower your monthly costs.
- Income taxes are 63% lower in Kentucky than in New Jersey. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Kentucky vs. New Jersey
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live. It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture, and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look at how life in Kentucky stacks up against New Jersey across important lifestyle factors:
| Kentucky | New Jersey | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,526,154 | 9,290,841 |
| Political leaning | Republican 64.6-33.9 | Democratic 52-46.1 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 24ºF | 22ºF |
| Annual rain | 48″ | 48″ |
| Annual snow | 11″ | 23″ |
| Crime index | 16.63 | 16.2 |
- With a population about 51% smaller than New Jersey, Kentucky offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle. Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
- In the most recent presidential election, Kentucky leaned Republican, while New Jersey went with Democratic.
- In Kentucky, summer highs hover around 87°F, while New Jersey sits at 85°F. Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
- During the coldest part of the year, Kentucky reaches about 24°F and New Jersey gets down to 22°F. When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
- In Kentucky, you’ll get about 48 inches of rain each year, while New Jersey sees around 48 inches annually. So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
- In Kentucky, you can expect about 11 inches of snow each year, much less than the 23 inches you’d deal with in New Jersey. So, if you’re moving to Kentucky, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
- Kentucky and New Jersey have similar crime rates (16.63 vs. 16.2). Even with similar state-level crime rates, the distribution of crime can vary widely, so it’s important to research at the city or neighborhood level, as well.
Comparing the pros of New Jersey vs. Kentucky
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Kentucky versus New Jersey:
| Pros of living in New Jersey | Pros of living in Kentucky |
|---|---|
| Bountiful recreational opportunities | Low cost of living |
| Diversity | Abundant outdoor adventures |
| World-class entertainment | Delicious food and drink |
| Leading education | Horse racing |
| Superb health care | Four season weather |
Comparing the cons of living in New Jersey vs. Kentucky
Moving from New Jersey to Kentucky comes with its own set of challenges. Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in New Jersey | Cons of living in Kentucky |
|---|---|
| Extreme weather | Extreme weather |
| Congested population | Low diversity |
| High cost of living | Poor air quality |
| High tax burden | Poor infrastructure |
| Terrible traffic | Poor education system |
Other things to consider for your New Jersey to Kentucky move
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers. Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each. The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a Kentucky moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Kentucky, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Kentucky without a hitch. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Kentucky
Get ready to discover all that Kentucky has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Kentucky
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Ark Encounter
- National Corvette Museum
- The National Quilt Museum
Parks in Kentucky
- Smothers Park
- Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Red River Gorge Geological Area
- Freeman Lake Park
Sports teams in Kentucky
- Bellarmine Knights (NCAA)
- Eastern Kentucky Colonels (NCAA)
- Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
- Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
- Morehead State Eagles (NCAA)
Universities in Kentucky
- University of Kentucky
- University of Louisville
- Western Kentucky University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Georgetown College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from New Jersey to Kentucky?
Opting for a full-service New Jersey moving company might mean a higher upfront cost, but it lets you relax while the pros tackle all the details. Want to be more budget-friendly? You can rent a moving truck or choose a moving container. Just keep in mind you’ll be taking on more of the work yourself. If you’re keen to cut costs even further, check out our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from New Jersey to Kentucky?
Plenty of full-service movers can handle your car transport for an added cost. Prefer to manage it yourself? You can quickly set up vehicle shipping from New Jersey to Kentucky using a top-rated auto transport company.
What are the benefits of moving from New Jersey to Kentucky?
The main reasons people are moving from New Jersey to Kentucky are the amazing upsides of living in Kentucky, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures.
Is it cheaper to live in New Jersey or Kentucky?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in New Jersey. Housing is more affordable in Kentucky, with average rent about 34% less and home prices 60% lower than in New Jersey. Taxes are also lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by New Jersey residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kentucky?
You should make approximately $59,905 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Kentucky. The cost of living in Kentucky is about $2,600 per month for an individual and $4,876 for a family of four. Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Louisville and Lexington tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in New Jersey?
Some movers in New Jersey provide budget-friendly deals. In New Jersey, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts. Special pricing for military members is available from 3 moving companies. Discounts for seniors are offered by 4 movers. Student savings are available through 1 moving providers. Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 1 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
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