How we chose the best moving companies for your OH to TN move
Using rate data from 100 Ohio movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Ohio to Tennessee?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Ohio
to Tennessee with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,145 – $3,251 |
$602 – $1,596 |
$391 – $659 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,006 – $5,225 |
$1,167 – $2,290 |
$388 – $831 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,232 – $7,491 |
$1,444 – $2,851 |
$529 – $1,039 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 472-mile move from OH to
TN, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Ohio to Tennessee
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Ohio to Tennessee,
you can expect to spend between $1,145
and $3,251.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,006 to
$5,225 on the same route
(OH to TN). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Ohio to Tennessee typically runs between
$3,232 and
$7,491.
Cost of moving containers from Ohio to Tennessee
Moving from Ohio to Tennessee? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $602 and
$1,596. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,167 to
$2,290. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,444 up to
$2,851. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Ohio to Tennessee
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$391 and
$659.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$388 and
$831.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $529 and
$1,039.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from OH to TN
There are many factors that influence Ohio moving costs. The cost to move from Ohio to Tennessee will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Ohio fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from OH to TN
Moving between Ohio and Tennessee involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Ohio vs. Tennessee
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Ohio and Tennessee. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Ohio |
Tennessee |
| Average rent |
$945 |
$1,047 |
| Average home cost |
$230,798 |
$319,208 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$66,990 |
$64,035 |
| Cost of living index |
94 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.6% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
7.23% |
9.55% |
| State income tax |
3.5% |
0.0% |
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Rent costs 11% more in Tennessee compared to Ohio. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Tennessee to be about 38% more than what you’ll find in Ohio.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both Ohio and Tennessee.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Ohio and Tennessee, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Tennessee has a lower unemployment rate than Ohio by about 8%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Shoppers in Tennessee pay about 32% more in sales tax than those in Ohio, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Tennessee has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Ohio. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Tennessee vs. Ohio
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Tennessee differs from Ohio in these areas.
|
Tennessee |
Ohio |
| Population |
7,126,489 |
11,785,935 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64-36 |
Republican 55-45 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
27ºF |
20ºF |
| Annual rain |
53″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
5″ |
28″ |
| Crime index |
29.24 |
20.76 |
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With a population about 40% smaller than Ohio, Tennessee offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
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In the last presidential election, both Ohio and Tennessee voted Republican.
-
Summer highs in Tennessee average 88°F, almost the same as 84°F in Ohio.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in Tennessee average 27°F, compared to 20°F in Ohio.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
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Expect about 53 inches of rain each year in Tennessee — a big shift from the 40 inches you’re used to in Ohio.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
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In Tennessee, you’ll see just 5 inches of snow each year, compared to Ohio, which gets 28 inches annually.
Moving to Tennessee means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
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Tennessee reports a higher crime rate than Ohio, with a crime index of 29.24 versus 20.76.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Ohio vs. Tennessee
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Tennessee stacks up against Ohio:
| Pros of living in Ohio |
Pros of living in Tennessee |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Abundant recreational opportunities |
| Low cost of living |
No income taxes |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Legendary music scene |
| Famously delicious beer |
Natural beauty and parks galore |
| Amazing food |
Delicious southern comfort food |
Comparing the cons of living in Ohio vs. Tennessee
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Ohio to Tennessee, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Ohio |
Cons of living in Tennessee |
| Low happiness |
Tendency for severe weather |
| Limited diversity |
Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
| Political division |
Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
| Harsh weather |
Traffic congestion |
| Weird laws |
High urban crime rates |
Other things to consider for your Ohio to Tennessee move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Tennessee moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Tennessee does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Tennessee 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,” for free. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Tennessee
Get ready to discover Tennessee. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Tennessee
- Titanic Museum Attraction
- Graceland
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
- Lotz House Museum
- National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel
Parks in Tennessee
- Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
- Bicentennial Greenbelt Park
- Chimneys Picnic Area
- Winged Deer Park
- Steele Creek Park
Sports teams in Tennessee
- Memphis Grizzlies Basketball (NBA)
- Nashville Predators Hockey (NHL)
- Nashville SC (MLS)
- Tennessee TItans (NFL)
Universities in Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University
- The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
- The University of Tennessee at Martin
- The University of Memphis
- Middle Tennessee State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Ohio to Tennessee?
Do movers transport your car from Ohio to Tennessee?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Ohio to Tennessee
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Ohio to Tennessee?
More and more folks are relocating from Ohio to Tennessee to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as abundant recreational opportunities and no income taxes.
Is it cheaper to live in Ohio or Tennessee?
Living in Ohio usually costs less than in Tennessee.
Housing
is much more affordable in Ohio,
with average rent about 10% less and home prices 28% lower than in Tennessee.
However, taxes are
lower in Tennessee, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Ohio residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Tennessee?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Tennessee, aim for an income of around $64,632 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,636 if you’re flying solo, or $6,342 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Nashville and Memphis usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Ohio?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Ohio.
There are 6 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 10 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 12 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 2 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Ohio to Tennessee, professional movers typically run between
$2,006 and $5,225, a moving container averages about
$1,728, and a rental truck is around
$609.
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