How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to NC 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 North Carolina?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Kentucky
to North Carolina, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,069 – $3,127 |
$659 – $1,581 |
$383 – $721 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,006 – $4,972 |
$1,110 – $2,290 |
$404 – $790 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,333 – $7,787 |
$1,536 – $2,879 |
$519 – $1,029 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 467-mile relocation from KY to
NC, 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 North Carolina
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Kentucky to North Carolina, you’ll likely pay between
$1,069
and $3,127.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,006 and $4,972
for the same journey (KY to NC).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,333
to $7,787.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to North Carolina
When you’re heading from Kentucky to North Carolina, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $659 and
$1,581. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,110 and
$2,290. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,536
to $2,879. 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 North Carolina
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
$383
to $721.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $404
to $790, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Kentucky to North Carolina costs around
$519 to
$1,029.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to NC
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Kentucky to North Carolina. 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 NC
If you’re moving to North Carolina from Kentucky, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. North Carolina
Understanding how costs compare between Kentucky and North Carolina can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Kentucky |
North Carolina |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$1,093 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$328,715 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$66,186 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.98% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
4.5% |
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Rent is about 21% higher in North Carolina 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 North Carolina are typically about 55% higher than in Kentucky.
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You’re likely to earn about 10% more in North Carolina 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 North Carolina and Kentucky, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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North Carolina boasts an unemployment rate about 26% 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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Sales taxes are 16% higher in North Carolina than in Kentucky. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes in North Carolina are 13% 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina and Kentucky line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
North Carolina |
Kentucky |
| Population |
10,835,491 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
29ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
24.69 |
16.63 |
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The population of North Carolina is approximately 139% 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 North Carolina leaned Republican.
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In North Carolina, summer highs are around 88°F, close to 87°F in Kentucky.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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Winter temperatures usually fall to 29°F in North Carolina and 24°F in Kentucky.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
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In North Carolina, you’ll see about 48 inches of rain each year — nearly identical to the 48 inches you’re used to in Kentucky.
While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
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In North Carolina, you’ll only get about 4 inches of snow each year, much less than Kentucky.
That means moving to North Carolina brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
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North Carolina has a higher crime rate than Kentucky, with a crime index of 24.69 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. North Carolina
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in North Carolina and Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in North Carolina |
| Low cost of living |
Great communities |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Low cost of living |
| Delicious food and drink |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Horse racing |
High quality of life |
| Four season weather |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. North Carolina
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 North Carolina:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in North Carolina |
| Extreme weather |
Hurricanes |
| Low diversity |
Bland weather |
| Poor air quality |
High crime rate |
| Poor infrastructure |
High tax burden |
| Poor education system |
Poor education |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to North Carolina 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.
-
State licensing:
For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division.
All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a North Carolina 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 North Carolina, 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 North Carolina 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. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 North Carolina
While you’re in North Carolina, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in North Carolina
- Biltmore
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
- International Civil Rights Center & Museum
- Greensboro Science Center
- Museum of the Cherokee Indian
Parks in North Carolina
- Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
- Mingo Falls
- The North Carolina Arboretum
- Sarah P. Duke Gardens
- Fontana Lake
Sports teams in North Carolina
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
- North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
- Charlotte FC (MLS)
Universities in North Carolina
- North Carolina State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- East Carolina University
- Appalachian State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Kentucky to North Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky to North Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to North Carolina?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Kentucky to North Carolina to enjoy all the great benefits North Carolina provides, such as great communities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky or North Carolina?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in North Carolina.
Housing
is much more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 17% less and home prices 35% lower than in North Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by North Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Carolina?
Thinking of moving to North Carolina on your own? You’ll want to earn around $43,333 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,876 per month, or around $6,644 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh 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 North Carolina, you’ll likely pay between $2,006–$4,972 with professional movers, roughly
$1,700 for a moving container, and about
$597
for a rental truck.
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