How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to MI move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 29 Kentucky 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 Kentucky to Michigan?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Kentucky
to Michigan, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,102 – $3,269 |
$691 – $1,665 |
$428 – $787 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,058 – $5,427 |
$1,151 – $2,394 |
$457 – $981 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,736 – $7,595 |
$1,518 – $2,937 |
$564 – $1,094 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 556-mile relocation from KY to
MI, 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 Kentucky to Michigan
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Kentucky to Michigan, you’ll likely pay between
$1,102
and $3,269.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,058 and $5,427
for the same journey (KY to MI).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,736
to $7,595.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to Michigan
When you’re heading from Kentucky to Michigan, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $691 and
$1,665. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,151 and
$2,394. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,518
to $2,937. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Kentucky easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kentucky to Michigan
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
$428
to $787.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $457
to $981, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Kentucky to Michigan costs around
$564 to
$1,094.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to MI
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Kentucky to Michigan. 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 Kentucky 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 KY to MI
If you’re moving to Michigan from Kentucky, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. Michigan
Understanding how costs compare between Kentucky and Michigan can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Kentucky |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
4.25% |
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Rent is about 15% higher in Michigan than in Kentucky. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in Michigan are typically about 16% higher than in Kentucky.
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You’re likely to earn about 14% more in Michigan than in Kentucky. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
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With the cost of living being about the same in Michigan and Kentucky, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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Michigan boasts an unemployment rate about 6% lower than Kentucky. 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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No need to stress about sales tax. Rates are similar in Kentucky and Michigan, making your move a bit less expensive.
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Income taxes in Michigan are 6% higher than in Kentucky, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in Michigan vs. Kentucky
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 Michigan and Kentucky line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Michigan |
Kentucky |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
16.63 |
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The population of Michigan is approximately 122% greater than the population of Kentucky.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential race, both Kentucky and Michigan leaned Republican.
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Michigan sees average summer highs of 81°F, compared to 87°F in Kentucky.
Cooler summers mean less extreme heat, lower energy bills, and easier outdoor living.
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In the coldest months, Michigan sees lows of 14°F compared to 24°F in Kentucky.
That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
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In Michigan, you’ll get about 34 inches of rain each year — less than the 48 inches you’re used to in Kentucky.
That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
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Each year, Michigan sees about 64 inches of snowfall, while Kentucky averages just 11 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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Michigan has a higher crime rate than Kentucky, with a crime index of 19.98 compared to 16.63.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Kentucky vs. Michigan
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Michigan and Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Low cost of living |
Scenic beauty |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Good higher education |
| Delicious food and drink |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Horse racing |
Low cost of living |
| Four season weather |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. Michigan
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 Kentucky for Michigan:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| Extreme weather |
Cold snowy winters |
| Low diversity |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| Poor air quality |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Poor infrastructure |
Expensive education |
| Poor education system |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to Michigan 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.
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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:
The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan 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 Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
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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 Michigan
While you’re in Michigan, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Kentucky to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky to Michigan?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or,
if you prefer, you can arrange
vehicle transport from Kentucky to Michigan on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to Michigan?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Kentucky to Michigan to enjoy all the great benefits Michigan provides, such as scenic beauty and good higher education.
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky or Michigan?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in Michigan.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 13% less and home prices 14% lower than in Michigan.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 6% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Michigan?
Thinking of moving to Michigan on your own? You’ll want to earn around $54,934 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,608 per month, or around $6,859 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Kentucky?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
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 Kentucky to Michigan, you’ll likely pay between $2,058–$5,427 with professional movers, roughly
$1,772 for a moving container, and about
$719
for a rental truck.
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