How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to FL move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 29 Kentucky 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 Kentucky to Florida?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Kentucky to Florida.
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 |
$1,136 – $4,436 |
$766 – $1,934 |
$567 – $1,081 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,268 – $5,666 |
$1,308 – $2,664 |
$606 – $1,259 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,022 – $7,705 |
$1,905 – $3,485 |
$798 – $1,467 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 861-mile move from KY to
FL 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 Kentucky to Florida
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Kentucky to Florida,
you can expect prices to land between $1,136
and $4,436.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,268 to
$5,666 for the trip from KY
to FL. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,022 and
$7,705.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to Florida
Moving containers from Kentucky to Florida
will cost you $766 to
$1,934 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,308
to $2,664. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,905 to
$3,485.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Kentucky.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kentucky to Florida
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
$567
and $1,081
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $606
to $1,259.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$798
to $1,467.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to FL
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Kentucky to Florida. 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 Kentucky 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 KY to FL
Making the move from Kentucky to Florida means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. Florida
A clear look at the cost differences between Kentucky and Florida helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Kentucky |
Florida |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$1,444 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$67,917 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
102 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
7.08% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
0.0% |
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Rent in Florida is about 60% higher than in Kentucky. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Florida are usually around 85% higher than what you’ll find in Kentucky.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 13% higher in Florida than in Kentucky, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in Florida costs 10% more than in Kentucky. If you’re relocating to Florida, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 42% lower than Kentucky, Florida offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales taxes are 18% higher in Florida than in Kentucky, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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Florida has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Kentucky. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Florida vs. Kentucky
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 Florida and Kentucky compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Florida |
Kentucky |
| Population |
22,610,726 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-48 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
49ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
55″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
21.39 |
16.63 |
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Florida has a population that’s about 400% larger than Kentucky.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
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Kentucky and Florida both voted Republican in the last election.
-
Summer highs average 91°F in Florida, compared to 87°F in Kentucky.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Florida has winter lows around 49°F, compared to 24°F in Kentucky.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect about 55 inches of annual rainfall in Florida versus only 48 inches of rainfall in Kentucky.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
Florida doesn’t get snow, while Kentucky sees around 11 inches annually.
Relocating to Florida means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
-
Florida has a higher crime rate than Kentucky, with crime indexes at 21.39 and 16.63, 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 Kentucky vs. Florida
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Florida compared to Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in Florida |
| Low cost of living |
Fantastic weather |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Abundant water recreational activities |
| Delicious food and drink |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Horse racing |
World-leading entertainment |
| Four season weather |
Beautiful flora and fauna |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. Florida
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Kentucky to Florida:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in Florida |
| Extreme weather |
High cost of living |
| Low diversity |
Poor healthcare |
| Poor air quality |
Natural disasters |
| Poor infrastructure |
Heat and humidity |
| Poor education system |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to Florida 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:
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. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Florida moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Florida, 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 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,” free of charge. 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:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Florida
You’ll have plenty to explore in Florida! Check out these top spots to visit 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 Kentucky to Florida?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky to Florida?
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to Florida?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Kentucky for Florida, drawn by advantages like fantastic weather and abundant water recreational activities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky or Florida?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in Florida.
Housing
is much more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 38% less and home prices 46% lower than in Florida.
However, taxes are
lower in Florida, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Kentucky residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Florida?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Florida, you should aim to make around $61,933.
On average, expect to spend about $3,010 per month, or $7,388 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Jacksonville and Miami generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Kentucky?
Many movers in Kentucky publish special-rate programs:
1 offer military-specific savings;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Kentucky to Florida, budget between $2,268–$5,666 for full-service movers, around
$1,986 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$932
for a rental truck.
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