Best Movers From Iowa to Rhode Island (2025 Cost Data)
When planning a move from Iowa to Rhode Island, professional movers typically run between
$2,590 and $6,223, a moving container averages about
$2,451, and a rental truck is around
$1,283.
Fact Checked by:
Let’s get moving.
-
$1,192 — $6,223 Top local mover
-
$1,192 — $8,649 Top long-distance mover
-
$892 — $4,217 Top container company
-
$758 — $2,141 Top truck rental
-
$61 — $79/hour Top labor-only mover
Best movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Iowa to Rhode Island
After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,641 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from Iowa to Rhode Island.
Best overall value
Estimated cost to move from Iowa to Rhode Island
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 23, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 12, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 05, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
Studio apartment
Sep 24, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 18, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 13, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 07, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 06, 2025
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to Rhode Island?
Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,192 – $4,735 | $892 – $2,164 | $758 – $1,476 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,590 – $6,223 | $1,629 – $3,274 | $811 – $1,755 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,480 – $8,649 | $2,078 – $4,217 | $1,072 – $2,141 |
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,192 – $4,735
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,590 – $6,223
- 4+ bedrooms: $4,480 – $8,649
How much do moving containers cost from Iowa to Rhode Island?
- Small move: $892 – $2,164
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,629 – $3,274
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,078 – $4,217
Learn more about PODS cost.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $758 – $1,476
- 2–3 bedrooms: $811 – $1,755
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,072 – $2,141
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 1,254-mile move from IA to RI 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 RI?
Beyond the moving bill, your day-to-day budget can change — especially housing and taxes. Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| Iowa | Rhode Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $914 | $1,195 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $467,485 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $81,370 |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 4.6% |
| Average sales tax | 6.94% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 5.99% |
Will rent be more expensive in Rhode Island?
Rent is about 31% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
Avg rent: $914 vs. $1,195
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 112% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
Avg home value: $220,277 vs. $467,485
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 15% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
Avg income (per capita): $70,571 vs. $81,370
Is the overall cost of living higher in Rhode Island?
The cost of living is 12% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
Cost of living index: 89 vs. 100
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax rates are similar in Iowa and Rhode Island.
Avg sales tax: 6.94% vs. 7.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 36% higher in Rhode Island than in Iowa.
State income tax: 4.4% vs. 5.99%
How is daily life different in Rhode Island compared to Iowa?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| Rhode Island | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,093,734 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 56-44 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 50″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 14.58 | 16.18 |
Will Rhode Island feel more crowded than Iowa?
Rhode Island is about 66% less populous than Iowa — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Rhode Island voted Democratic while Iowa voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (82°F vs. 84°F).
Winter: Rhode Island is milder on average (19°F vs. 10°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Rhode Island?
Rain: Rhode Island gets more rain (50″ vs. 35″).
Snow: Snowfall is similar (35 inches vs. 30 inches).
Is Rhode Island safer than Iowa?
Rhode Island has a lower crime index than Iowa (14.58 vs. 16.18), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Rhode Island?
Museums in Rhode Island
- The Breakers
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art
- Providence Children’s Museum
- John Brown House Museum
- Old Slater Mill
Parks in Rhode Island
- Water Place Park
- Roger Williams Park
- Goddard State Park
- India Point Park
- Fort Adams State Park
Sports teams in Rhode Island
- Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Brown Bears (NCAA)
Universities in Rhode Island
- Brown University
- University of Rhode Island
- Rhode Island School of Design
- Rhode Island College
- Johnson and Wales University
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Iowa to Rhode Island 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.
- 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.
- State licensing: In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Rhode Island moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Rhode Island does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance for free. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Rhode Island?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Rhode Island moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
Some movers in Iowa offer discounts: 1 military discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Helpful moving resources
Iowa moving services
Popular Iowa routes
Popular moving resources
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
