How we chose the best moving companies for your NJ to KY move
After studying pricing from 87 New Jersey movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from New Jersey to Kentucky?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from New Jersey to Kentucky.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,079 – $3,333 |
$669 – $1,667 |
$493 – $905 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,068 – $5,236 |
$1,216 – $2,602 |
$548 – $1,021 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,612 – $7,380 |
$1,644 – $3,086 |
$664 – $1,328 |
*Estimated costs for a 680-mile move from NJ to
KY are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from New Jersey to Kentucky
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from New Jersey to Kentucky will cost between
$1,079 and
$3,333.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from NJ to KY will
range from $2,068 to
$5,236, and a large move from New Jersey
to Kentucky will cost from $3,612
to $7,380.
Cost of moving containers from New Jersey to Kentucky
If you’re moving from New Jersey to Kentucky,
expect to pay between $669
and $1,667 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,216 up to
$2,602.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,644 and
$3,086. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from New Jersey.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New Jersey to Kentucky
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$493 and
$905.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $548
and $1,021. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $664 up to
$1,328 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NJ to KY
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from New Jersey to Kentucky. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in New Jersey is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from NJ to KY
A relocation from New Jersey to Kentucky comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: New Jersey vs. Kentucky
Comparing expenses in New Jersey and Kentucky shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
New Jersey |
Kentucky |
| Average rent |
$1,368 |
$902 |
| Average home cost |
$534,773 |
$212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$97,126 |
$60,183 |
| Cost of living index |
114 |
93 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
5.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.6% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
10.7% |
4.0% |
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Expect to pay around 34% less in rent in Kentucky than in New Jersey, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 60% lower in Kentucky than in New Jersey.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Kentucky are about 38% lower than in New Jersey.
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Living in Kentucky is about 18% cheaper than New Jersey. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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Unemployment in Kentucky is about 6% higher than in New Jersey. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
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Sales tax in Kentucky is 9% lower than in New Jersey. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Kentucky can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 63% lower in Kentucky than in New Jersey. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Kentucky vs. New Jersey
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Kentucky stacks up against New Jersey across important lifestyle factors:
|
Kentucky |
New Jersey |
| Population |
4,526,154 |
9,290,841 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
Democratic 52-46.1 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
24ºF |
22ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
11″ |
23″ |
| Crime index |
16.63 |
16.2 |
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With a population about 51% smaller than New Jersey, Kentucky offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
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In the most recent presidential election, Kentucky leaned Republican, while New Jersey went with Democratic.
-
In Kentucky, summer highs hover around 87°F, while New Jersey sits at 85°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Kentucky reaches about 24°F and New Jersey gets down to 22°F.
When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
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In Kentucky, you’ll get about 48 inches of rain each year, while New Jersey sees around 48 inches annually.
So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
-
In Kentucky, you can expect about 11 inches of snow each year, much less than the 23 inches you’d deal with in New Jersey.
So, if you’re moving to Kentucky, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
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Kentucky and New Jersey have similar crime rates (16.63 vs. 16.2).
Even with similar state-level crime rates, the distribution of crime can vary widely, so it’s important to research at the city or neighborhood level, as well.
Comparing the pros of New Jersey vs. Kentucky
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Kentucky versus New Jersey:
| Pros of living in New Jersey |
Pros of living in Kentucky |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Diversity |
Abundant outdoor adventures |
| World-class entertainment |
Delicious food and drink |
| Leading education |
Horse racing |
| Superb health care |
Four season weather |
Comparing the cons of living in New Jersey vs. Kentucky
Moving from New Jersey to Kentucky comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in New Jersey |
Cons of living in Kentucky |
| Extreme weather |
Extreme weather |
| Congested population |
Low diversity |
| High cost of living |
Poor air quality |
| High tax burden |
Poor infrastructure |
| Terrible traffic |
Poor education system |
Other things to consider for your New Jersey to Kentucky move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify a Kentucky moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Kentucky, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Kentucky without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Kentucky
Get ready to discover all that Kentucky has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new 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 New Jersey to Kentucky?
Do movers transport your car from New Jersey to Kentucky?
What are the benefits of moving from New Jersey to Kentucky?
The main reasons people are moving from New Jersey to Kentucky are the amazing upsides of living in Kentucky, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures.
Is it cheaper to live in New Jersey or Kentucky?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in New Jersey.
Housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 34% less and home prices 60% lower than in New Jersey.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by New Jersey residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kentucky?
You should make approximately $59,905 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Kentucky.
The cost of living in Kentucky is about $2,600 per month for an individual and $4,876 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Louisville and Lexington tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in New Jersey?
Some movers in New Jersey provide budget-friendly deals.
In New Jersey, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 3 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 4 movers.
Student savings are available through 1 moving providers.
Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 1 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
New Jersey moving services
Popular New Jersey routes
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When moving from New Jersey to Kentucky, expect to spend between
$2,068–$5,236 if using professional movers, about
$1,909 for a moving container, and around
$784
for a rental truck.
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