How we chose the best moving companies for your ID to KY move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 22 Idaho moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Idaho to Kentucky?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Idaho to Kentucky.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,417 – $5,571 |
$1,065 – $2,664 |
$1,104 – $2,108 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,641 – $8,349 |
$1,916 – $4,104 |
$1,219 – $2,584 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$7,449 – $12,049 |
$2,571 – $5,480 |
$1,538 – $3,196 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,981-mile move from ID to
KY using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Idaho to Kentucky
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Idaho to Kentucky,
you can expect prices to land between $1,417
and $5,571.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,641 to
$8,349 for the trip from ID
to KY. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$7,449 and
$12,049.
Cost of moving containers from Idaho to Kentucky
Moving containers from Idaho to Kentucky
will cost you $1,065 to
$2,664 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,916
to $4,104. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,571 to
$5,480.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Idaho.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Idaho to Kentucky
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$1,104
and $2,108
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,219
to $2,584.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,538
to $3,196.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from ID to KY
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Idaho to Kentucky. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Idaho generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from ID to KY
Making the move from Idaho to Kentucky means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Idaho vs. Kentucky
A clear look at the cost differences between Idaho and Kentucky helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Idaho |
Kentucky |
| Average rent |
$1,061 |
$902 |
| Average home cost |
$451,520 |
$212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,214 |
$60,183 |
| Cost of living index |
106 |
93 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.7% |
5.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.03% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
5.8% |
4.0% |
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You’ll pay about 15% less in rent in Kentucky compared to Idaho, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Kentucky are around 53% lower than in Idaho. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 14% lower Kentucky than in Idaho.
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Living in Kentucky costs about 12% less than in Idaho. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
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Unemployment in Kentucky is roughly 35% higher than in Idaho. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
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No need to worry about sales tax since rates are similar in Idaho and Kentucky.
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Income taxes in Kentucky are 31% lower than in Idaho. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Kentucky vs. Idaho
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Kentucky and Idaho compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Kentucky |
Idaho |
| Population |
4,526,154 |
1,964,726 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
Republican 70-30 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
24ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
18″ |
| Annual snow |
11″ |
47″ |
| Crime index |
16.63 |
11.68 |
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Kentucky has a population that’s about 130% larger than Idaho.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
-
Idaho and Kentucky both voted Republican in the last election.
-
Summer highs average 87°F in Kentucky, compared to 85°F in Idaho.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Kentucky has winter lows around 24°F, compared to 17°F in Idaho.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect about 48 inches of annual rainfall in Kentucky versus only 18 inches of rainfall in Idaho.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
In Kentucky, you’ll get about 11 inches of snow each year, far less than Idaho.
That means moving to Kentucky will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
-
Kentucky has a higher crime rate than Idaho, with crime indexes at 16.63 and 11.68, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Idaho vs. Kentucky
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Kentucky compared to Idaho:
| Pros of living in Idaho |
Pros of living in Kentucky |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| Low cost of living |
Abundant outdoor adventures |
| High quality of life |
Delicious food and drink |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Horse racing |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Four season weather |
Comparing the cons of living in Idaho vs. Kentucky
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Idaho to Kentucky:
| Cons of living in Idaho |
Cons of living in Kentucky |
| Low diversity |
Extreme weather |
| Harsh winters |
Low diversity |
| Political dominance |
Poor air quality |
| Isolation |
Poor infrastructure |
| Competitive housing |
Poor education system |
Other things to consider for your Idaho to Kentucky move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Kentucky moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Kentucky, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Kentucky right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Kentucky
You’ll have plenty to explore in Kentucky! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Idaho to Kentucky?
Do movers transport your car from Idaho to Kentucky?
What are the benefits of moving from Idaho to Kentucky?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Idaho for Kentucky, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Idaho or Kentucky?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in Idaho.
Housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 15% less and home prices 53% lower than in Idaho.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Idaho residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kentucky?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Kentucky, you should aim to make around $59,905.
On average, expect to spend about $2,600 per month, or $4,876 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Louisville and Lexington generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Idaho?
Many movers in Idaho publish special-rate programs:
2 honor AAA member discounts;
2 offer military-specific savings;
1 extend deals for seniors;
1 advertise rates for law enforcement personnel.
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Idaho to Kentucky, budget between $3,641–$8,349 for full-service movers, around
$3,010 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,901
for a rental truck.
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