How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to NM 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 New Mexico?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Kentucky
to New Mexico, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,184 – $4,926 |
$926 – $2,269 |
$766 – $1,479 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,876 – $6,731 |
$1,656 – $3,078 |
$811 – $1,812 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,770 – $8,622 |
$2,138 – $4,390 |
$1,116 – $2,145 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 1,306-mile relocation from KY to
NM, 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 New Mexico
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Kentucky to New Mexico, you’ll likely pay between
$1,184
and $4,926.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,876 and $6,731
for the same journey (KY to NM).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,770
to $8,622.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to New Mexico
When you’re heading from Kentucky to New Mexico, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $926 and
$2,269. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,656 and
$3,078. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,138
to $4,390. 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 New Mexico
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
$766
to $1,479.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $811
to $1,812, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Kentucky to New Mexico costs around
$1,116 to
$2,145.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to NM
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Kentucky to New Mexico. 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 NM
If you’re moving to New Mexico from Kentucky, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. New Mexico
Understanding how costs compare between Kentucky and New Mexico can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Kentucky |
New Mexico |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$966 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$303,910 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$58,722 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
7.61% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
5.9% |
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Rent is about 7% higher in New Mexico 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 New Mexico are typically about 43% higher than in Kentucky.
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The average income is about the same in both Kentucky and New Mexico, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
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With the cost of living being about the same in New Mexico and Kentucky, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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New Mexico boasts an unemployment rate about 42% 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 27% higher in New Mexico 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 New Mexico are 48% 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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico and Kentucky line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
New Mexico |
Kentucky |
| Population |
2,113,344 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.9-45.9 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
20ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
24″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
38.81 |
16.63 |
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The population of New Mexico is approximately 53% lower than the population of Kentucky.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential election, New Mexico voted Democratic, while Kentucky went Republican.
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In New Mexico, summer highs are around 88°F, close to 87°F in Kentucky.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
-
Winter temperatures usually fall to 20°F in New Mexico and 24°F in Kentucky.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
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In New Mexico, you’ll get about 15 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, New Mexico sees about 24 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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New Mexico has a higher crime rate than Kentucky, with a crime index of 38.81 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. New Mexico
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in New Mexico and Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in New Mexico |
| Low cost of living |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Rich culture |
| Delicious food and drink |
Delicious food and wine |
| Horse racing |
Low cost of living |
| Four season weather |
Abundant outdoor activities |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. New Mexico
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 New Mexico:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in New Mexico |
| Extreme weather |
Bad roads |
| Low diversity |
Lackluster economy |
| Poor air quality |
Scarce job opportunity |
| Poor infrastructure |
Slow life |
| Poor education system |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to New Mexico 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.
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State licensing:
Movers that operate within the Land of Enchantment are licensed and regulated by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a New Mexico 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 New Mexico, 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 New Mexico right on schedule. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Opt for Released Value Protection, the cost-free, minimal coverage option from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your 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 New Mexico
While you’re in New Mexico, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in New Mexico
- Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Roswell Museum
- Museum of International Folk Art
- El Rancho de las Golondrinas
- International UFO Museum and Research Center
Parks in New Mexico
- Dripping Springs Natural Area
- Spring River Park and Zoo
- Old Fort Marcy Park
- Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area
- City of Rocks State Park
Sports teams in New Mexico
- Albuquerque Isotopes (Triple-A West)
- New Mexico Ice Wolves (NAHL)
- New Mexico United (USL Championship)
Universities in New Mexico
- University of New Mexico
- New Mexico State University
- New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Western New Mexico University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Kentucky to New Mexico?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky to New Mexico?
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to New Mexico?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Kentucky to New Mexico to enjoy all the great benefits New Mexico provides, such as beautiful landscapes and rich culture.
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky or New Mexico?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in New Mexico.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 7% less and home prices 30% lower than in New Mexico.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by New Mexico residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Mexico?
Thinking of moving to New Mexico on your own? You’ll want to earn around $67,478 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,664 per month, or around $5,879 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Albuquerque and Las Cruces 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 New Mexico, you’ll likely pay between $2,876–$6,731 with professional movers, roughly
$2,367 for a moving container, and about
$1,311
for a rental truck.
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