How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to RI move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 100 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to Rhode Island?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Illinois
to Rhode Island, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,142 – $4,584 |
$804 – $2,063 |
$688 – $1,230 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,519 – $5,647 |
$1,515 – $2,847 |
$736 – $1,463 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,146 – $7,946 |
$1,986 – $3,872 |
$870 – $1,892 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,076-mile relocation from IL to
RI, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to Rhode Island
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Illinois to Rhode Island, you’ll likely pay between
$1,142
and $4,584.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,519 and $5,647
for the same journey (IL to RI).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,146
to $7,946.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to Rhode Island
When you’re heading from Illinois to Rhode Island, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $804 and
$2,063. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,515 and
$2,847. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,986
to $3,872. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Illinois easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to Rhode Island
A moving rental truck 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
$688
to $1,230.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $736
to $1,463, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Illinois to Rhode Island costs around
$870 to
$1,892.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to RI
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Illinois to Rhode Island. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Illinois when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from IL to RI
If you’re moving to Rhode Island from Illinois, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. Rhode Island
Understanding how costs compare between Illinois and Rhode Island can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Illinois |
Rhode Island |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$1,195 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$467,485 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$81,370 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
4.6% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
5.99% |
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No need to stress about your budget—rental rates are about the same when you’re moving from Illinois to Rhode Island.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Rhode Island are typically about 88% higher than in Illinois.
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The average income is about the same in both Illinois and Rhode Island, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
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The cost of living is 11% higher in Rhode Island than in Illinois. If you’re making the move to Rhode Island with a higher cost of living, it’s important to plan carefully to ensure your finances can support the transition.
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Rhode Island boasts an unemployment rate about 13% lower than Illinois. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
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Sales tax in Rhode Island is 21% lower than in Illinois. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Rhode Island can really help cut down your living expenses.
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Income taxes in Rhode Island are 21% higher than in Illinois, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in Rhode Island vs. Illinois
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Rhode Island and Illinois line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Rhode Island |
Illinois |
| Population |
1,093,734 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 56-44 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
35″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
14.58 |
19.7 |
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The population of Rhode Island is approximately 91% lower than the population of Illinois.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential race, both Illinois and Rhode Island leaned Democratic.
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In Rhode Island, summer highs are around 82°F, close to 86°F in Illinois.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
-
Winter temperatures usually fall to 19°F in Rhode Island and 17°F in Illinois.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
-
Get ready for about 50 inches of rain each year in Rhode Island, which is quite a change from the 40 inches you’re used to in Illinois.
The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
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Each year, Rhode Island sees about 35 inches of snowfall, while Illinois averages just 22 inches.
With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
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Rhode Island is a safer choice than Illinois, boasting a lower crime index of 14.58 compared to 19.7.
You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. Rhode Island
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Rhode Island and Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in Rhode Island |
| Home of chicago |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Delicious seafood |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Rich history |
| Delicious food |
Amazing beaches |
| World-class sports culture |
Short drives |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. Rhode Island
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Illinois for Rhode Island:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in Rhode Island |
| Harsh winter weather |
High cost of living |
| Bad traffic |
Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
| High crime rate |
Smallest state |
| Dull landscape |
Cold winters |
| Strict laws |
Dense population |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to Rhode Island move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
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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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Rhode Island moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Rhode Island, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Rhode Island right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Rhode Island
While you’re in Rhode Island, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Illinois to Rhode Island?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to Rhode Island?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to Rhode Island?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Illinois to Rhode Island to enjoy all the great benefits Rhode Island provides, such as beautiful landscapes and delicious seafood.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or Rhode Island?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
Housing
is much more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 1% less and home prices 47% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in Illinois, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Rhode Island residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Rhode Island?
Thinking of moving to Rhode Island on your own? You’ll want to earn around $81,736 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,527 per month, or around $6,040 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Providence and Warwick tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
In Illinois, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 2 movers.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Illinois to Rhode Island, you’ll likely pay between $2,519–$5,647 with professional movers, roughly
$2,181 for a moving container, and about
$1,099
for a rental truck.
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