Best Movers From Iowa to Kentucky (2025 Cost Data)
When relocating from Iowa to Kentucky, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,068 to
$5,155, roughly
$1,899 for a container move, and close to
$749
for a rental truck.
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$1,168 — $5,155 Top local mover
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$1,168 — $7,307 Top long-distance mover
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$689 — $3,235 Top container company
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$481 — $1,280 Top truck rental
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$61 — $80/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Iowa to Kentucky
After reviewing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team found that 2,641 (83%) offer interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the list down to the best companies equipped to handle your move from Iowa to Kentucky.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from Iowa to Kentucky
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
3 Bedrooms
Nov 12, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 11, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 09, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Oct 29, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Sep 19, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
Studio apartment
Sep 13, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Kentucky?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,168 – $3,674 | $689 – $1,682 | $481 – $909 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,068 – $5,155 | $1,278 – $2,520 | $504 – $995 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,634 – $7,307 | $1,659 – $3,235 | $654 – $1,280 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,168 – $3,674
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,068 – $5,155
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,634 – $7,307
How much do moving containers cost from Iowa to Kentucky?
- Small move: $689 – $1,682
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,278 – $2,520
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,659 – $3,235
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $481 – $909
- 2–3 bedrooms: $504 – $995
- 4+ bedrooms: $654 – $1,280
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option — but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself.
Why are these prices ranges (not exact quotes)?
These are approximate estimates for a 665-mile move from IA to KY using moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 17, 2025.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
Compare quotes from multiple movers to dial in a precise number.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from IA to KY?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Iowa | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $914 | $902 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $60,183 |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 93 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 5.0% |
| Average sales tax | 6.94% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 4.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in Kentucky?
Rent is about the same in Iowa and Kentucky.
Avg rent: $914 vs. $902
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are pretty similar in Iowa and Kentucky.
Avg home value: $220,277 vs. $212,088
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 15% lower in Kentucky than in Iowa.
Avg income (per capita): $70,571 vs. $60,183
Is the overall cost of living higher in Kentucky?
The cost of living is about the same in Iowa and Kentucky.
Cost of living index: 89 vs. 93
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 14% lower in Kentucky than in Iowa.
Avg sales tax: 6.94% vs. 6.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 9% lower in Kentucky than in Iowa.
State income tax: 4.4% vs. 4.0%
How is daily life different in Kentucky compared to Iowa?
A move brings shifts that go beyond housing and work — weather, safety, and community size all matter.
| Kentucky | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,526,154 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Republican 64.6-33.9 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 24ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 48″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 11″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 16.63 | 16.18 |
Will Kentucky feel more crowded than Iowa?
Kentucky is about 41% more populous than Iowa — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both Iowa and Kentucky voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (87°F vs. 84°F).
Winter: Kentucky is milder on average (24°F vs. 10°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Kentucky?
Rain: Kentucky gets more rain (48″ vs. 35″).
Snow: Kentucky gets less snow (11 inches vs. 30 inches).
Is Kentucky safer than Iowa?
Kentucky and Iowa have similar crime rates (16.63 vs. 16.18). It’s still smart to check the city/neighborhood level.
What are some things to do in Kentucky?
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Kentucky move
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- 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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Kentucky moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Kentucky, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage at no extra cost. 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: Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Kentucky?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Kentucky?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Kentucky moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Kentucky?
No moving permit is required in Kentucky.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
By law, interstate movers must include basic insurance at no extra cost. 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.
Some movers in Iowa offer discounts: 1 military discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep your move stress-free with our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
Popular moving resources
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