Lexington, KY to Memphis, TN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Lexington to Memphis typically costs $2,200–$5,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 422 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Lexington to Memphis
Moving from Lexington, KY to Memphis, TN typically costs $2,200–$5,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 422-mile move from Lexington to Memphis, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 23, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $3,984 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $3,461 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,331 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 26, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 07, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 28, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 27, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 03, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 31, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 17, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 12, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Lexington to Memphis
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Lexington to Memphis might be as low as $1,300, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,200.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Lexington.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $400 to $1,100 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Memphis, TN to Lexington, KY guide.
Best Lexington to Memphis movers by type
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Best professional movers from Lexington to Memphis
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Lexington to Memphis, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best KY→TN movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 29 Kentucky movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Lexington to Memphis
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Memphis runs about -41% higher for singles and 6% higher for families than Lexington.
Singles spend around $1,842 in Memphis versus $3,100 in Lexington; families pay $4,402 compared with $4,170.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Lexington | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,175 | $1,187 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,110 | $1,571 |
| Average home value | $309,021 | $143,715 |
| Average income (per capita) | $61,526 | $48,090 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,100 | $1,842 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,170 | $4,402 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | 8.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 9.75% |
| State income tax | 4.0% | 0.0% |
- Switching from Lexington to Memphis won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- With home prices being nearly 53% cheaper in Memphis, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 22% lower in Memphis than in Lexington.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Memphis. The cost of living for a single person is 41% less compared to Lexington.
- As you plan your move to Memphis, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 6% more than it is in Lexington.
- The unemployment rate in Memphis exceeds that of Lexington by about 86%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Memphis exceed those in Lexington by 63%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Tennessee has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Lexington and Memphis, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Lexington | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $206.92 | $213.78 |
| Cell phone plan | $71.33 | $58.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.98 | $4.12 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.90 | $2.83 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $14.25 | $19.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $37.50 | $37.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Lexington than in Memphis, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Lexington than in Memphis.
- Eggs are less expensive in Lexington than in Memphis.
- Bread is more expensive in Lexington than in Memphis.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Lexington than in Memphis.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Lexington than in Memphis.
How life is different in Lexington vs. Memphis
| Lexington | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 320,347 | 633,104 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 90 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 85 | 41 |
| Crime index | 50.88 | 77.49 |
| Safety index | 49.12 | 22.51 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Memphis's population is about 98% greater than Lexington.
- Memphis's public transportation score is within about 5% of Lexington, making them very similar.
- Memphis is less walkable than Lexington with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Lexington's 90 out of 100.
- Memphis has a bike-friendliness score of 41 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Lexington, which has a score of 85.
- Memphis's crime rate is higher than Lexington with a score of 77.49 compared to Lexington's 50.88. This means that Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lexington neighborhoods are safer than 50.88%.
- Memphis is considered to be less safe than Lexington with a score of 22.51 vs Lexington's 49.12.
- Air quality in Memphis is Good, and in Lexington it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Lexington to Memphis move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Tennessee moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Tennessee, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- 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 Memphis without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Memphis
Ready to relocate to Bluff City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Memphis.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Binghampton
- Cooper-Young
- Crosstown
- Downtown
- Midtown
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bartlett
- Cordova
- East Memphis
- Germantown
- River Oaks-Kirby-Balmoral
Things to do in Memphis
Now that you've made the move to Tennessee, it's the perfect time to explore Memphis. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Memphis include museums and art centers like the Graceland, National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Shelby Farms Park, Mud Island River Park, Tom Lee Park, and Levitt Shell, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Memphis Grizzlies (NBA)Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Lexington to Memphis?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Lexington to Memphis. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Lexington.
When is the cheapest time to move from Lexington to Memphis?
With many people choosing to move from Lexington to Memphis in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Lexington to Memphis take?
Covering 422 miles, the move from Lexington, KY to Memphis, TN typically takes one to four days. Some Lexington movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Memphis can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Lexington can handle specialty items for my move to Memphis?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Lexington, 6 movers can handle pianos. 4 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of KY, there are 21 piano movers and 14 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
