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($735) Cost to Move From Columbus, OH to Lexington, KY

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 189 miles from Columbus to Lexington has an average cost ranging from $224 to $4,104. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–two days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Columbus to Lexington

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Columbus to Lexington

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Columbus to Lexington. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 23 interstate moving companies in Columbus. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Lexington.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Columbus to Lexington

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 189-mile move from Columbus to Lexington using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $835 – $3,350
  • Moving Container $786 – $1,295
  • Rental Truck $210 – $349
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,298 – $4,104
  • Moving Container $924 – $1,789
  • Rental Truck $224 – $395
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,734 – $5,297
  • Moving Container $1,284 – $2,201
  • Rental Truck $255 – $496
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.
North American Van Lines
Lockbourne, OH Jeffersonville, KY
2 Bedrooms
Oct 16, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Mount Sterling, OH Monterey, KY
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 11, 2025
Roadway Moving
Plain City, OH Gratz, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 08, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
South Vienna, OH Owenton, KY
3 Bedrooms
Sep 17, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Gahanna, OH Lexington, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 09, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Ashville, OH Harrodsburg, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Mayflower Transit
North Lewisburg, OH Stanford, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 24, 2025
BLVD Moving
Catawba, OH Richmond, KY
4 Bedrooms
Aug 23, 2025
American Van Lines
Darbyville, OH Georgetown, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 18, 2025
PODS
Grandview Heights, OH Wilmore, KY
2 Bedrooms
Aug 14, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Lexington, KY to Columbus, OH guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Columbus to Lexington moves

Organizing a move from Columbus to Lexington can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 29 local movers in Columbus known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Columbus to Lexington.

  1. MVM Moving & Storage: 4.92 out of 5 stars
  2. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
  3. Integrity Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Black Tie Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. E.E. Ward Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.9% of all reviews were positive
1.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made simple — that’s what customers consistently report after hiring MVM Moving & Storage. Out of 257 customer reviews, an impressive 96.9% express satisfaction. MVM’s team stands out for being efficient, professional, and attentive, with many mentioning careful treatment of their belongings and quick, well-organized moves. Communication is seamless at every step, from booking to delivery. Feedback sharply contrasts these strengths with a handful of dissatisfied customers. The most significant complaints center around damaged items, inaccurate estimates, and rare instances of unprofessional or rude staff. Despite isolated issues, MVM earns more praise for speed, staff demeanor, and the care taken with property than nearly any competitor in the industry. Their approach creates a noticeably smooth and stress-free moving experience that sets a high bar for local moving companies.
Get a Quote (614) 230-0667

Company Info

State license #: 156647

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 1444491

Alternate Names: MVM Columbus , MVM Columbus Incorporated.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.0% of all reviews were positive
14.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers who hustle for you—customer feedback on Leaders Moving & Storage Co. shows why many choose them over the competition. Out of 369 reviews, 84% are positive, highlighting outstanding efficiency, professional and polite crews, careful handling, quick move times, and strong communication. Customers repeatedly mention pleasant, energetic staff who deliver moves faster than expected and care for items and property. Pricing transparency, flexible options, and true-to-estimate billing set Leaders apart from many other movers. Negative input, making up 14%, focuses on damaged items, slow or unhelpful claims handling, and occasional late arrivals. Customers reporting issues describe damaged or mishandled items, and say resolution for complaints or claims can be frustratingly slow or inadequate compared to what industry leaders deliver. A small number of customers also mention unprofessional or unreliable crews, and a lack of follow-up from management. Still, positive feedback vastly outnumbers complaints, with most reviewers highly recommending Leaders for an easy, stress-free moving experience.
Get a Quote (614) 885-6683

Company Info

State license #: 00136562

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1237577

Alternate Names: Leaders Moving , Leaders Moving & Storage Co. , L.E.A.D.E.R.S Moving & Storage Co. , Leaders Moving And Storage Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
6.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers who set the bar high—252 customer reviews show Integrity Moving & Storage delivers consistently excellent service. Over 93% of feedback highlights fast, efficient moves, professional and courteous staff, careful handling, and strong communication. Customers frequently note that the team works together effectively and treats belongings with respect. Many describe the booking process as easy and costs as fair—even coming in below the original estimate for some. A few negative reports mention items damaged during the move, unsatisfactory claims resolution, and occasional scheduling delays, which are rare compared to typical moving experiences. Integrity stands out among local movers for careful handling and reliability, but those needing robust claims support should verify policies in advance. Most customers found their moves stress-free and, remarkably, even pleasant.
Get a Quote (614) 484-0049

Company Info

State license #: 00151315

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1343775

Alternate Names: Integrity Moving, LLC , Integrity Moving , Columbus Piano Moving , Integrity Moving & Mobile Storage LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.3% of all reviews were positive
11.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Black Tie Moving stands out for impressively courteous and efficient movers, winning high praise in 87% of feedback. Customers highlight professional staff, attention to detail, and careful, speedy handling of possessions—qualities rarely seen so consistently compared to most moving companies. Many mention helpful communication and stress-free experiences, both for local and long-distance moves. Negative input primarily points to damaged items, occasional major delays, and poor follow-up after complaints—issues that suggest inconsistency in quality control and customer service. While such complaints surface much less often than positive stories, unresolved claims and property damage present a risk. For those seeking professional movers known for care, efficiency, and reliability, Black Tie earns frequent high recommendations, but potential users should clarify expectations and document belongings to guard against rare but serious mishaps. Analysis based on 245 customer reviews, with 87% providing positive feedback.
Get a Quote (614) 363-2434

Company Info

State license #: 604141

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2407712

Alternate Names: Black Tie Moving Columbus LLC , Black Tie Moving

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.2% of all reviews were positive
6.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
E.E. Ward Moving & Storage stands out for its remarkable record with customers, earning 92% positive feedback from 256 reviews. Many praised the professional and polite staff, careful handling of belongings, efficient service, excellent communication, and the speed of the moving process. Customers also highlighted how team members accommodated last-minute changes and consistently treated property with respect. In contrast, some highlighted concerns mainly about damage to items, misplacement or loss during moves, and difficulties with after-move communication or claims resolution. Issues like denied insurance claims or delayed responses were the chief negatives, though these were comparatively rare. In terms of reliability, professionalism, and customer care, E.E. Ward ranks among the best in the industry, with significantly fewer negative experiences than typical moving companies.
Get a Quote (614) 401-6796

Company Info

State license #: 11470

Years in Business: 143

DOT #: 1222904

Alternate Names: E E Ward Moving & Storage Co LLC , E.E.Ward Moving & Storage Co., LLC

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
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Columbus to Lexington?

On average, moving companies in Ohio charge about $153 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $735 – $2,564 $502 – $1,224 $194 – $366
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,298 – $4,104 $924 – $1,789 $224 – $395
4+ bedrooms $1,734 – $5,297 $1,284 – $2,201 $255 – $496
*Estimated cost ranges for a 189-mile move from Columbus to Lexington are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Columbus to Lexington

When planning a move to Lexington from Columbus, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $735 and $2,564. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,298 and $4,104 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $1,734 to $5,297.

Cost of moving containers from Columbus to Lexington

When you’re heading from Columbus to Lexington, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $502 and $1,224. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $924 and $1,789. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,284 to $2,201. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Ohio easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbus to Lexington

A moving rental truck from Columbus to Lexington is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $194 to $366. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $224 to $395, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Columbus to Lexington costs around $255 to $496.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Columbus to Lexington

The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Columbus to Lexington may only cost $988, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $4,406.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Columbus.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($194–$430), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Columbus to Lexington

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Lexington runs about 11% higher for singles and -42% higher for families than Columbus.

Singles spend around $3,100 in Columbus versus $2,784 in Columbus; families pay $4,170 compared with $7,249.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Columbus Lexington
Average 1 BR rent $1,567 $1,175
Average 3 BR rent $2,957 $2,110
Average home value $238,832 $309,021
Average income (per capita) $65,075 $61,526
Cost of living (single) $2,784 $3,100
Cost of living (family of four) $7,249 $4,170
Unemployment rate 5.7% 4.3%
Sales tax 7.5% 6.0%
State income tax 3.5% 4.0%
  • Rent is about 7% less expensive in Lexington than in Columbus, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 29% steeper in Lexington compared to Columbus.
  • There’s good news: the average income differences between Lexington and Columbus are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Lexington, with the cost of living for a single person being 11% more than in Columbus. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • A move to Lexington can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 42% lower compared to Columbus.
  • Lexington has a lower unemployment rate than Columbus by about 25%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 20% cheaper in Lexington compared to Columbus. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 14% more in Kentucky than in Ohio. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Columbus versus Lexington:

Living Expense Columbus Lexington
Basic utilities $263.89 $206.92
Cell phone plan $60.77 $71.33
Dozen eggs $3.21 $2.98
Loaf of bread $2.98 $2.90
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $20.00 $14.25
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00 $75.00
Gym membership $46.25 $37.50
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Columbus than in Lexington.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbus than in Lexington.
  • Eggs cost more in Columbus than in Lexington.
  • Bread is more expensive in Columbus than in Lexington.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Columbus than in Lexington.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Columbus than in Lexington.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Columbus than in Lexington.

How life is different in Columbus vs. Lexington

Columbus Lexington
Population 905,748 320,347
Transportation score 5 4
Walkability score 41 90
Bike friendliness score 48 85
Crime index 49.65 50.88
Safety index 50.35 49.12
Air quality Good Good
  • Lexington’s population is about 65% less than Columbus.
  • Lexington’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Columbus’s score of 5.
  • Lexington is more walkable than Columbus with a score of 90 out of 100 vs Columbus’s 41 out of 100.
  • With a score of 85 out of 100, Lexington is more bike-friendly than Columbus, which has a score of 48 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Lexington and Columbus have a similar crime rate with scores of 50.88 and 49.65, respectively.
  • Lexington and Columbus have a similar safety level, with scores of 49.12 and 50.35.
  • Air quality in Lexington is Good, and in Columbus it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbus to Lexington move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Columbus and Lexington are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Kentucky, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Kentucky, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Lexington. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Lexington

With your sights set on Horse Capital of the World, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Lexington.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Chevy Chase-Ashland Park
  • Downtown Lexington
  • Fairway-Liberty Heights
  • Georgetown
  • Mount Vernon-Hollywood-Montclair

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Chevy Chase-Ashland Park
  • Fairway-Liberty Heights
  • Georgetown
  • Paris
  • Southland-Deerfield-Open Gates

Things to do in Lexington

With your move to Kentucky complete, you can dive right into experiencing Lexington. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Lexington is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Kentucky Horse Park, Mary Todd Lincoln House, Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate, and The Aviation Museum of Kentucky.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s The Arboretum, Thoroughbred Park, Jacobson Park, and Masterson Station Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Lexington Legends (ALPB)Lexington SC (USL League One) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Columbus to Lexington?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Columbus to Lexington. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Columbus.

When is the cheapest time to move from Columbus to Lexington?

Want to save on your move from Columbus to Lexington? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Columbus to Lexington take?

The 189-mile move from Columbus, OH, to Lexington, , takes one to two days. Some Columbus movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Lexington.

What kinds of discounts do Columbus movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. In Columbus, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts. 4 movers offer special pricing for military members. 6 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Columbus?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 16 movers in Columbus provide piano moving services. 11 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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