How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to MT 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 Montana?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Kentucky to Montana.
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 |
$1,218 – $4,953 |
$1,044 – $2,525 |
$924 – $1,908 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,145 – $7,288 |
$1,844 – $3,915 |
$1,011 – $2,114 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,884 – $9,725 |
$2,517 – $5,001 |
$1,340 – $2,803 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,717-mile move from KY to
MT 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 Montana
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Kentucky to Montana,
you can expect prices to land between $1,218
and $4,953.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,145 to
$7,288 for the trip from KY
to MT. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$5,884 and
$9,725.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to Montana
Moving containers from Kentucky to Montana
will cost you $1,044 to
$2,525 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,844
to $3,915. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,517 to
$5,001.
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 Montana
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
$924
and $1,908
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,011
to $2,114.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,340
to $2,803.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to MT
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Kentucky to Montana. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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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 MT
Making the move from Kentucky to Montana means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. Montana
A clear look at the cost differences between Kentucky and Montana 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 |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
6.75% |
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Rent in Montana is about 8% 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 Montana are usually around 118% higher than what you’ll find in Kentucky.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 10% higher in Montana than in Kentucky, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in Montana costs 8% more than in Kentucky. If you’re relocating to Montana, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 34% lower than Kentucky, Montana offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Kentucky.
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State income taxes in Montana are 69% higher than in Kentucky, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Montana 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 Montana and Kentucky compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Montana |
Kentucky |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
16.63 |
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The population of Montana is about 75% smaller than that of Kentucky.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
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Kentucky and Montana both voted Republican in the last election.
-
Summer highs average 84°F in Montana, compared to 87°F in Kentucky.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, Montana reaches lows near 12°F, colder than 24°F in Kentucky.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
-
You can expect only about 15 inches of annual rainfall in Montana versus 48 inches of rainfall in Kentucky.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
Each year, Montana gets about 49 inches of snow, while Kentucky sees only 11 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
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Montana has a higher crime rate than Kentucky, with crime indexes at 23.37 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. Montana
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Montana compared to Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Low cost of living |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Delicious food and drink |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Horse racing |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| Four season weather |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. Montana
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 Montana:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in Montana |
| Extreme weather |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Low diversity |
Remote lifestyle |
| Poor air quality |
Touristy |
| Poor infrastructure |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| Poor education system |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to Montana 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.
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State licensing:
In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Montana 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 Montana, 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 Montana 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company 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 Montana
You’ll have plenty to explore in Montana! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Kentucky to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky to Montana?
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to Montana?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Kentucky for Montana, drawn by advantages like unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky or Montana?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in Montana.
Housing
is much more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 7% less and home prices 54% lower than in Montana.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Montana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Montana, you should aim to make around $62,210.
On average, expect to spend about $2,225 per month, or $5,468 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Billings and Missoula 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 Montana, budget between $3,145–$7,288 for full-service movers, around
$2,879 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,562
for a rental truck.
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