How we chose the best moving companies for your AR to FL move
Using rate data from 24 Arkansas movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Arkansas to Florida?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Arkansas
to Florida with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,203 – $4,775 |
$837 – $2,020 |
$639 – $1,152 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,384 – $6,035 |
$1,403 – $2,900 |
$670 – $1,454 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,167 – $7,879 |
$1,909 – $3,850 |
$823 – $1,734 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 992-mile move from AR to
FL, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Arkansas to Florida
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Arkansas to Florida,
you can expect to spend between $1,203
and $4,775.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,384 to
$6,035 on the same route
(AR to FL). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Arkansas to Florida typically runs between
$4,167 and
$7,879.
Cost of moving containers from Arkansas to Florida
Moving from Arkansas to Florida? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $837 and
$2,020. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,403 to
$2,900. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,909 up to
$3,850. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Arkansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arkansas to Florida
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$639 and
$1,152.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$670 and
$1,454.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $823 and
$1,734.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AR to FL
There are many factors that influence Arkansas moving costs. The cost to move from Arkansas to Florida will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Arkansas fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from AR to FL
Moving between Arkansas and Florida involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Arkansas vs. Florida
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Arkansas and Florida. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Arkansas |
Florida |
| Average rent |
$868 |
$1,444 |
| Average home cost |
$208,078 |
$392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$56,335 |
$67,917 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
102 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.3% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
9.51% |
7.08% |
| State income tax |
2.0% |
0.0% |
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Rent costs 66% more in Florida compared to Arkansas. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Florida to be about 88% more than what you’ll find in Arkansas.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 21% more in Florida compared to Arkansas. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
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Moving to Florida will cost you 13% more than living in Arkansas, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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Florida has a higher unemployment rate than Arkansas by about 26%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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Sales tax is 26% lower in Florida compared to Arkansas, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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Florida has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Arkansas. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Florida vs. Arkansas
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Florida differs from Arkansas in these areas.
|
Florida |
Arkansas |
| Population |
22,610,726 |
3,067,732 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-48 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
49ºF |
28ºF |
| Annual rain |
55″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
4″ |
| Crime index |
21.39 |
30.97 |
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If you’re relocating from Arkansas to Florida, you’ll notice that Florida has about 637% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both Arkansas and Florida voted Republican.
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Summer highs in Florida average 91°F, almost the same as 91°F in Arkansas.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in Florida average 49°F, compared to 28°F in Arkansas.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
In Florida, you’ll get about 55 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 50 inches you’ve been used to in Arkansas.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
Florida doesn’t get snow, while Arkansas sees around 4 inches annually.
Relocating to Florida means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
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Florida offers a safer environment than Arkansas, with a crime index of 21.39 versus 30.97.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Arkansas vs. Florida
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Florida stacks up against Arkansas:
| Pros of living in Arkansas |
Pros of living in Florida |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Fantastic weather |
| Low cost of living |
Abundant water recreational activities |
| Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Fantastic weather |
World-leading entertainment |
| Natural beauty |
Beautiful flora and fauna |
Comparing the cons of living in Arkansas vs. Florida
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Arkansas to Florida, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Arkansas |
Cons of living in Florida |
| High crime rate |
High cost of living |
| Dangerous wildlife |
Poor healthcare |
| Poor education |
Natural disasters |
| Pervasive poverty |
Heat and humidity |
| Strange laws |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your Arkansas to Florida 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.
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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.
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State licensing:
Individuals and companies engaging in for-profit local and intrastate moving within the Sunshine State must register each year with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Florida moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Florida does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Florida right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Released Value Protection stands out as a cost-effective choice, provided by movers at no extra expense, although it comes with limited coverage. In this option, the mover’s liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. To ensure comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, consult with your chosen moving company about alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers. Secure the best protection for your belongings during the move with these tailored coverage choices.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Florida
Get ready to discover Florida. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Florida
- Wynwood Halls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dali Museum
Parks in Florida
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest
Sports teams in Florida
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)
Universities in Florida
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Arkansas to Florida?
Do movers transport your car from Arkansas to Florida?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Arkansas to Florida
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Arkansas to Florida?
More and more folks are relocating from Arkansas to Florida to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as fantastic weather and abundant water recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Arkansas or Florida?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in Florida.
Housing
is much more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 40% less and home prices 47% lower than in Florida.
However, taxes are
lower in Florida, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Arkansas residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Florida?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Florida, aim for an income of around $61,933 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,010 if you’re flying solo, or $7,388 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Jacksonville and Miami usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Arkansas?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Arkansas.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 1 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Arkansas to Florida, professional movers typically run between
$2,384 and $6,035, a moving container averages about
$2,151, and a rental truck is around
$1,062.
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