How we chose the best moving companies for your MA to RI move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 106 Massachusetts moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Massachusetts to Rhode Island?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Massachusetts to Rhode Island.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$414 – $1,966 |
$337 – $865 |
$64 – $112 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$917 – $2,820 |
$697 – $1,324 |
$83 – $130 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$1,271 – $3,564 |
$890 – $1,549 |
$93 – $133 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 76-mile move from MA to
RI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Massachusetts to Rhode Island
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Massachusetts to Rhode Island typically costs between
$414 and
$1,966.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$917
and $2,820
when moving from MA to RI.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Massachusetts to Rhode Island,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $1,271
up to $3,564.
Cost of moving containers from Massachusetts to Rhode Island
If you’re relocating from Massachusetts to Rhode Island,
you’ll typically spend between $337
and $865 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$697 up to
$1,324.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$890 and
$1,549. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Massachusetts.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Massachusetts to Rhode Island
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$64 and
$112.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$83 to
$130.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $93 and
$133.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to RI
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Massachusetts to Rhode Island. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Massachusetts, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from MA to RI
Transitioning from Massachusetts to Rhode Island gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. Rhode Island
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Massachusetts and Rhode Island are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Massachusetts |
Rhode Island |
| Average rent |
$1,588 |
$1,195 |
| Average home cost |
$623,131 |
$467,485 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$96,505 |
$81,370 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.9% |
4.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.25% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
9.0% |
5.99% |
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Rent is about 25% less expensive in Rhode Island than in Massachusetts, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Rhode Island are about 25% lower than in Massachusetts, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Rhode Island are roughly 16% lower than in Massachusetts.
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With a similar cost of living in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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Unemployment in Rhode Island is about 18% higher than in Massachusetts. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax in Rhode Island runs 12% higher than in Massachusetts, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 33% lower in Rhode Island compared to Massachusetts. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in Rhode Island vs. Massachusetts
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Rhode Island and Massachusetts compare.
|
Rhode Island |
Massachusetts |
| Population |
1,093,734 |
7,001,399 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 56-44 |
Democratic 61.5-36.3 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
16ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
49″ |
| Annual snow |
35″ |
47″ |
| Crime index |
14.58 |
13.92 |
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With a population roughly 84% smaller than Massachusetts, Rhode Island gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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The last presidential election saw both Massachusetts and Rhode Island siding with the Democratic party.
-
The average summer high in Rhode Island is 82°F, while Massachusetts averages 82°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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During the coldest months, Rhode Island averages 19°F while Massachusetts sees lows of 16°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
-
In Rhode Island, you’ll experience about 50 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 49 inches you’re used to in Massachusetts.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
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In Rhode Island, it only snows about 35 inches annually while Massachusetts gets 47 inches.
Moving to Rhode Island, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
-
Rhode Island and Massachusetts share similar crime rates (13.92).
However, crime can vary greatly between different cities and neighborhoods within each state, so be sure to look into local crime data for a clearer picture.
Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. Rhode Island
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Rhode Island to Massachusetts:
| Pros of living in Massachusetts |
Pros of living in Rhode Island |
| Natural beauty |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Excellent education system |
Delicious seafood |
| Delicious seafood |
Rich history |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Amazing beaches |
| Home to boston |
Short drives |
Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. Rhode Island
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Massachusetts to Rhode Island:
| Cons of living in Massachusetts |
Cons of living in Rhode Island |
| Bad traffic |
High cost of living |
| Poor driving conditions |
Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
| Harsh winter weather |
Smallest state |
| High cost of living |
Cold winters |
| Peculiar liquor laws |
Dense population |
Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to Rhode Island move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
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State licensing:
In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry.
The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current.
To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Rhode Island moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Rhode Island, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Rhode Island. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Rhode Island
Get excited to explore Rhode Island. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Rhode Island
- The Breakers
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art
- Providence Children’s Museum
- John Brown House Museum
- Old Slater Mill
Parks in Rhode Island
- Water Place Park
- Roger Williams Park
- Goddard State Park
- India Point Park
- Fort Adams State Park
Sports teams in Rhode Island
- Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Brown Bears (NCAA)
Universities in Rhode Island
- Brown University
- University of Rhode Island
- Rhode Island School of Design
- Rhode Island College
- Johnson and Wales University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Massachusetts to Rhode Island?
Do movers transport your car from Massachusetts to Rhode Island?
What are the benefits of moving from Massachusetts to Rhode Island?
Many people are making the move from Massachusetts to Rhode Island to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Rhode Island has to offer, like beautiful landscapes and delicious seafood.
Is it cheaper to live in Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Living in Rhode Island usually costs less than in Massachusetts.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in Rhode Island,
with average rent about 25% less and home prices 25% lower than in Massachusetts.
Taxes are also
lower in Rhode Island, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Massachusetts residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Rhode Island?
Planning to move to Rhode Island? A single adult should aim for an income of around $81,736 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,527 for an individual, or $6,040 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Providence and Warwick usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Massachusetts?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Massachusetts:
1 provide military discounts;
3 have senior-discount programs;
6 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Massachusetts moving services
Popular Massachusetts routes
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When relocating from Massachusetts to Rhode Island, expect professional movers to cost around
$917 to
$2,820, roughly
$1,010 for a container move, and close to
$106
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
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