How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to RI move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 84 Michigan 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 Michigan to Rhode Island?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Rhode Island.
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 |
$1,160 – $4,522 |
$805 – $1,806 |
$579 – $1,115 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,457 – $6,052 |
$1,335 – $2,667 |
$656 – $1,351 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,202 – $7,701 |
$1,851 – $3,599 |
$775 – $1,579 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 890-mile move from MI to
RI 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 Michigan to Rhode Island
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Rhode Island,
you can expect prices to land between $1,160
and $4,522.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,457 to
$6,052 for the trip from MI
to RI. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,202 and
$7,701.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Rhode Island
Moving containers from Michigan to Rhode Island
will cost you $805 to
$1,806 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,335
to $2,667. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,851 to
$3,599.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Rhode Island
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
$579
and $1,115
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $656
to $1,351.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$775
to $1,579.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to RI
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to Rhode Island. 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 Michigan 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 MI to RI
Making the move from Michigan to Rhode Island means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Rhode Island
A clear look at the cost differences between Michigan and Rhode Island helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Michigan |
Rhode Island |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,195 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$467,485 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$81,370 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
4.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
5.99% |
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Rent in Rhode Island is about 15% higher than in Michigan. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Rhode Island are usually around 90% higher than what you’ll find in Michigan.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 19% higher in Rhode Island than in Michigan, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in Rhode Island costs 9% more than in Michigan. If you’re relocating to Rhode Island, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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Unemployment rates in Rhode Island and Michigan are about the same, so you’re unlikely to see a big shift in job opportunities or competition after your move.
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Sales taxes are 17% higher in Rhode Island than in Michigan, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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State income taxes in Rhode Island are 41% higher than in Michigan, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Rhode Island vs. Michigan
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 Rhode Island and Michigan compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Rhode Island |
Michigan |
| Population |
1,093,734 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 56-44 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
35″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
14.58 |
19.98 |
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The population of Rhode Island is about 89% smaller than that of Michigan.
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.
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In the latest presidential election, Rhode Island voted Democratic, while Michigan chose Republican.
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Summer highs average 82°F in Rhode Island, compared to 81°F in Michigan.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Winter lows in Rhode Island hover around 19°F, while Michigan averages 14°F.
When temperatures are this close, your move won’t bring big seasonal surprises.
-
You can expect about 50 inches of annual rainfall in Rhode Island versus only 34 inches of rainfall in Michigan.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
In Rhode Island, you’ll get about 35 inches of snow each year, far less than Michigan.
That means moving to Rhode Island will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
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Moving to Rhode Island means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 14.58 versus Michigan’s 19.98, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Rhode Island
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Rhode Island compared to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Rhode Island |
| Scenic beauty |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Good higher education |
Delicious seafood |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Rich history |
| Low cost of living |
Amazing beaches |
| Beautiful lakes |
Short drives |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Rhode Island
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Michigan to Rhode Island:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Rhode Island |
| Cold snowy winters |
High cost of living |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Smallest state |
| Expensive education |
Cold winters |
| Thick accents |
Dense population |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Rhode Island 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.
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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.
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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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Rhode Island moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Rhode Island, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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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 Rhode Island 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. 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:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Rhode Island
You’ll have plenty to explore in Rhode Island! Check out these top spots to visit 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 Michigan to Rhode Island?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Rhode Island?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Rhode Island?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Michigan for Rhode Island, drawn by advantages like beautiful landscapes and delicious seafood that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Rhode Island?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 13% less and home prices 47% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Rhode Island residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Rhode Island?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Rhode Island, you should aim to make around $81,736.
On average, expect to spend about $3,527 per month, or $6,040 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Providence and Warwick generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Many movers in Michigan publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
6 offer military-specific savings;
7 extend deals for seniors;
1 provide student pricing;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Michigan to Rhode Island, budget between $2,457–$6,052 for full-service movers, around
$2,001 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,003
for a rental truck.
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