How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to KY move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 84 Michigan 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 Michigan to Kentucky?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Michigan
to Kentucky, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,159 – $3,333 |
$644 – $1,681 |
$424 – $772 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,014 – $5,103 |
$1,187 – $2,278 |
$457 – $925 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,772 – $7,746 |
$1,646 – $2,907 |
$541 – $1,139 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 553-mile relocation from MI to
KY, 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 Michigan to Kentucky
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Michigan to Kentucky, you’ll likely pay between
$1,159
and $3,333.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,014 and $5,103
for the same journey (MI to KY).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,772
to $7,746.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Kentucky
When you’re heading from Michigan to Kentucky, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $644 and
$1,681. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,187 and
$2,278. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,646
to $2,907. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Michigan easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Kentucky
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
$424
to $772.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $457
to $925, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Michigan to Kentucky costs around
$541 to
$1,139.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to KY
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Michigan to Kentucky. 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 Michigan 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 MI to KY
If you’re moving to Kentucky from Michigan, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Kentucky
Understanding how costs compare between Michigan and Kentucky can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Michigan |
Kentucky |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$902 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$60,183 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
93 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
5.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
4.0% |
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Rent in Kentucky is around 13% less than in Michigan, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Kentucky are about 14% lower than in Michigan. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Kentucky are about 12% lower than in Michigan.
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With the cost of living being about the same in Kentucky and Michigan, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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The unemployment rate in Kentucky is about 6% higher than in Michigan. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
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No need to stress about sales tax. Rates are similar in Michigan and Kentucky, making your move a bit less expensive.
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Income taxes in Kentucky are 6% lower than in Michigan. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Kentucky vs. Michigan
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 Kentucky and Michigan line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Kentucky |
Michigan |
| Population |
4,526,154 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
24ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
11″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
16.63 |
19.98 |
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The population of Kentucky is approximately 55% lower than the population of Michigan.
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 race, both Michigan and Kentucky leaned Republican.
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Kentucky averages 87°F in the summer, compared to 81°F in Michigan.
Hotter summers bring more sunshine and outdoor opportunities but also more reliance on air conditioning.
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Winter lows in Kentucky average 24°F, milder than 14°F in Michigan.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
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Get ready for about 48 inches of rain each year in Kentucky, which is quite a change from the 34 inches you’re used to in Michigan.
The rain can make for some lovely lush greens, but it also means more soggy days. Pack your rain gear and get ready to settle in comfortably, no matter the weather.
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In Kentucky, you’ll only get about 11 inches of snow each year, much less than Michigan.
That means moving to Kentucky brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
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Kentucky is a safer choice than Michigan, boasting a lower crime index of 16.63 compared to 19.98.
You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Kentucky
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Kentucky and Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Kentucky |
| Scenic beauty |
Low cost of living |
| Good higher education |
Abundant outdoor adventures |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Delicious food and drink |
| Low cost of living |
Horse racing |
| Beautiful lakes |
Four season weather |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Kentucky
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 Michigan for Kentucky:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Kentucky |
| Cold snowy winters |
Extreme weather |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Low diversity |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Poor air quality |
| Expensive education |
Poor infrastructure |
| Thick accents |
Poor education system |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Kentucky 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.
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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 in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers.
Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each.
The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Kentucky 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 Kentucky, 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 Kentucky 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 free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options 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 Kentucky
While you’re in Kentucky, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Kentucky
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Ark Encounter
- National Corvette Museum
- The National Quilt Museum
Parks in Kentucky
- Smothers Park
- Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Red River Gorge Geological Area
- Freeman Lake Park
Sports teams in Kentucky
- Bellarmine Knights (NCAA)
- Eastern Kentucky Colonels (NCAA)
- Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
- Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
- Morehead State Eagles (NCAA)
Universities in Kentucky
- University of Kentucky
- University of Louisville
- Western Kentucky University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Georgetown College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Kentucky?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Kentucky?
A lot of full-service movers will handle auto transport for you, usually for an added cost. Or,
if you prefer, you can arrange
vehicle transport from Michigan to Kentucky on your own through a top car shipping company.
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Kentucky?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Michigan to Kentucky to enjoy all the great benefits Kentucky provides, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Kentucky?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Kentucky.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 13% less and home prices 14% lower than in Michigan.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 6% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kentucky?
Thinking of moving to Kentucky on your own? You’ll want to earn around $59,905 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,600 per month, or around $4,876 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Louisville and Lexington tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
In Michigan, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Military members can find special pricing from 6 companies.
Seniors are eligible for savings with 7 movers.
Students can take advantage of discounts offered by 1 moving 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 Michigan to Kentucky, you’ll likely pay between $2,014–$5,103 with professional movers, roughly
$1,732 for a moving container, and about
$691
for a rental truck.
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