How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to ND 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 North Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Kentucky to North Dakota.
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 |
$1,167 – $4,875 |
$874 – $2,250 |
$796 – $1,389 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,777 – $6,280 |
$1,581 – $3,210 |
$778 – $1,686 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,893 – $9,077 |
$2,228 – $4,048 |
$1,061 – $2,162 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,270-mile move from KY to
ND 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 North Dakota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Kentucky to North Dakota,
you can expect prices to land between $1,167
and $4,875.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,777 to
$6,280 for the trip from KY
to ND. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,893 and
$9,077.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to North Dakota
Moving containers from Kentucky to North Dakota
will cost you $874 to
$2,250 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,581
to $3,210. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,228 to
$4,048.
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 North Dakota
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
$796
and $1,389
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $778
to $1,686.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,061
to $2,162.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to ND
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Kentucky to North Dakota. 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 ND
Making the move from Kentucky to North Dakota means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. North Dakota
A clear look at the cost differences between Kentucky and North Dakota 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 |
North Dakota |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$912 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$263,410 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$73,959 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
2.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.96% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
2.9% |
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No need to worry about your budget, rental rates stay pretty consistent whether you’re moving from Kentucky to North Dakota.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in North Dakota are usually around 24% higher than what you’ll find in Kentucky.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 23% higher in North Dakota than in Kentucky, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Since living costs in North Dakota and Kentucky are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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With an unemployment rate around 52% lower than Kentucky, North Dakota 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 16% higher in North Dakota than in Kentucky, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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Income taxes in North Dakota are 28% lower than in Kentucky. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in North Dakota 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 North Dakota and Kentucky compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
North Dakota |
Kentucky |
| Population |
783,926 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 68-32 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
0ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
19″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
22.74 |
16.63 |
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The population of North Dakota is about 83% 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.
-
Kentucky and North Dakota both voted Republican in the last election.
-
Summer highs average 82°F in North Dakota, 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, North Dakota reaches lows near 0°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.
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You can expect only about 19 inches of annual rainfall in North Dakota 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, North Dakota gets about 39 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.
-
North Dakota has a higher crime rate than Kentucky, with crime indexes at 22.74 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. North Dakota
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in North Dakota compared to Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in North Dakota |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Peaceful rural life |
| Delicious food and drink |
Affordable living costs |
| Horse racing |
High-quality education opportunities |
| Four season weather |
Open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. North Dakota
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 North Dakota:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in North Dakota |
| Extreme weather |
Long and cold winters |
| Low diversity |
Lack of diversity |
| Poor air quality |
Housing shortages |
| Poor infrastructure |
Small populations |
| Poor education system |
Relaxed lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to North Dakota 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:
All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a North Dakota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota 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. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected 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 North Dakota
You’ll have plenty to explore in North Dakota! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in North Dakota
- Red River Zoo
- Fargo Air Museum
- North Dakota Museum of Art
- Roger Maris Museum
- Dickinson Museum Center
Parks in North Dakota
- The Dakota Zoo
- Red River Zoo
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Scandinavian Heritage Park
- Roosevelt Park Zoo
Sports teams in North Dakota
- Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL)
- Fargo Force (USHL)
- Minot Minotauros (NAHL)
Universities in North Dakota
- University of North Dakota
- North Dakota State University
- University of Mary
- Minot State University
- Valley City State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Kentucky to North Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky to North Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to North Dakota?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Kentucky for North Dakota, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and peaceful rural life that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky or North Dakota?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in North Dakota.
Housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 1% less and home prices 19% lower than in North Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Kentucky residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Dakota?
To live comfortably as a single adult in North Dakota, you should aim to make around $66,980.
On average, expect to spend about $2,516 per month, or $5,264 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Fargo and Bismarck 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 North Dakota, budget between $2,777–$6,280 for full-service movers, around
$2,395 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,232
for a rental truck.
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