When planning a move from Rhode Island to Iowa, professional movers typically run between
$2,398 and $5,940, a moving container averages about
$2,511, and a rental truck is around
$1,362.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, you have a choice of eight interstate moving companies that can accomodate your move to Iowa. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in Rhode Island based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Economy Movers & Storage Inc: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Chris Corrigan Moving Inc.: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Correira Brothers’ Moving & Storage: 4.38 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 43
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage
Gentle Giant Moving Company, serving Providence, RI since 1981, specializes in local residential moving services. With an impressive track record, they hold a 4.8 average rating on Yelp and a 4.9 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting exceptional customer satisfaction. Unlike many nearby movers, Gentle Giant offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, storage solutions, and even crane vans for challenging moves. Clients appreciate that no deposit is required, and credit cards are accepted, making the process seamless and hassle-free.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 31627
Years in Business: 24
DOT #: 2178203
Alternate Names: All My Sons Moving & Storage of RI , All My Sons Moving and Storage
All My Sons Moving & Storage has been serving the Providence, RI area since 2000, providing reliable local residential moving services. Compared to other nearby movers, All My Sons stands out with their comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services as well as their ability to move delicate items like pianos and antiques. While they do accept credit cards, a deposit is unfortunately required. Customer feedback varies, reflected in an impressive 4.3 average rating from 791 Google reviews, contrasting with lower ratings on Yelp. Overall, they hold a solid A rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating their reputation as a trustworthy local moving company.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 48
DOT #: 1058463
Economy Movers & Storage Inc has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in Cranston, RI since 1977. With over four decades of experience, they offer unparalleled expertise in moving, packing, and unpacking services, and even have the capability to move specialty items like pianos and pool tables. They stand out in the area not just for their longevity but also for their excellent reputation, holding a 4.7 average rating on Yelp and a 4.6 on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike some competitors, they require no deposit and accept credit cards, making the moving process as smooth and convenient as possible.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 125
DOT #: 49955
Chris Corrigan Moving Inc. has been a cornerstone in the Central Falls, RI community since 1900, offering reliable local residential moving services. With a strong reputation reflected in their A+ Better Business Bureau rating and an impressive 4.6 average score from 75 Google reviews, they outshine many competitors. They also provide comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and piano moving, ensuring a seamless transition for your belongings. Unlike some nearby companies, Chris Corrigan Moving Inc. requires no deposit and accepts cash, adding to the convenience for their clients.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
Company Info
State license #: 3095364
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 3095364
Alternate Names: Correira Bros. LLC
Correira Brothers’ Moving & Storage has been providing local residential moving services in and around Providence, RI since 2010. This family-owned company distinguishes itself from other nearby movers by offering a comprehensive range of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized handling of fragile items, antiques, and pianos. While their Yelp reviews indicate a mixed customer experience with an average rating of 2.6 from 54 reviews, their Google My Business profile boasts a more favorable sentiment with an average rating of 4.3 from 261 reviews. The company holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, underscoring their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. They require a deposit, accept credit cards, and provide full valuation insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Rhode Island to Iowa moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in Rhode Island and delivering it to your new place in Iowa.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
|
|
|
|
rating
The best Rhode Island to Iowa moving truck rentals
If you’re looking to cut costs on your move from Rhode Island to Iowa, consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind that you’ll be handling all the lifting, loading, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for rental trucks:
|
|
|
|
The best Rhode Island to Iowa labor-only movers
If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.
When planning a move from Rhode Island to Iowa, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.
|
|
|
|
How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to IA move
Using rate data from 10 Rhode Island movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
- Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
- Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
- 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 Rhode Island to Iowa?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Rhode Island to Iowa with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,149 – $4,340 | $859 – $2,328 | $754 – $1,482 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,398 – $5,940 | $1,701 – $3,322 | $873 – $1,851 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,407 – $7,774 | $2,129 – $4,494 | $1,045 – $2,129 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,253-mile move from RI to IA, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 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 Rhode Island to Iowa
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Rhode Island to Iowa, you can expect to spend between $1,149 and $4,340. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,398 to $5,940 on the same route (RI to IA). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Rhode Island to Iowa typically runs between $4,407 and $7,774.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Iowa
Moving from Rhode Island to Iowa? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $859 and $2,328. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,701 to $3,322. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,129 up to $4,494. 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 Rhode Island.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Rhode Island to Iowa
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 $754 and $1,482. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $873 and $1,851. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,045 and $2,129.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to IA
There are many factors that influence Rhode Island moving costs. The cost to move from Rhode Island to Iowa will depend on these factors:
- How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
- When you move: Summer moves in Rhode Island fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
- 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 RI to IA
Moving between Rhode Island and Iowa involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Iowa
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between Rhode Island and Iowa. 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:
| Rhode Island | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,195 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $467,485 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $81,370 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.6% | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | 7.0% | 6.94% |
| State income tax | 5.99% | 4.4% |
- Rent in Iowa is about 24% cheaper than in Rhode Island, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices in Iowa are roughly 53% less than in Rhode Island, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
- Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in Iowa are about 13% lower than in Rhode Island.
- Moving to Iowa is about 11% cheaper than living in Rhode Island. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
- Iowa has a lower unemployment rate than Rhode Island by about 35%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
- Sales tax is similar in Iowa and Rhode Island, so you won’t see much change in what you pay at the register after your move.
- Income taxes in Iowa are 27% lower than in Rhode Island. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Iowa vs. Rhode Island
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 Iowa differs from Rhode Island in these areas.
| Iowa | Rhode Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,207,004 | 1,093,734 |
| Political leaning | Republican 53-45 | Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high | 84ºF | 82ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 19ºF |
| Annual rain | 35″ | 50″ |
| Annual snow | 30″ | 35″ |
| Crime index | 16.18 | 14.58 |
- If you’re relocating from Rhode Island to Iowa, you’ll notice that Iowa has about 193% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
- In the last presidential election, Iowa voted Republican and Rhode Island voted Democratic.
- Summer highs in Iowa average 84°F, almost the same as 82°F in Rhode Island. With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
- Winter in Iowa can dip to 10°F, colder than the 19°F lows in Rhode Island. Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
- In Iowa, you’ll see about 35 inches of rain each year, less than the 50 inches you’re used to in Rhode Island. Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
- In Iowa, you’ll get about 30 inches of snow each year. Meanwhile, Rhode Island usually sees around 35 inches annually. With snowfall levels being similar in both states, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
- Iowa reports a higher crime rate than Rhode Island, with a crime index of 16.18 versus 14.58. 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 Rhode Island vs. Iowa
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in Iowa stacks up against Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island | Pros of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| Beautiful landscapes | Low cost of living |
| Delicious seafood | Ample economic opportunity |
| Rich history | High quality of education |
| Amazing beaches | No traffic |
| Short drives | Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Iowa
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Rhode Island to Iowa, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island | Cons of living in Iowa |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | Severe weather conditions |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers | Limited recreational opportunities |
| Smallest state | High taxes |
| Cold winters | High emphasis on politics |
| Dense population | Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Iowa 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.
- 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.
- State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- 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 Iowa right on time. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- 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 Iowa
Get ready to discover Iowa. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to Iowa?
Hiring a full-service Rhode Island moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Iowa?
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 Rhode Island to Iowa separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Iowa?
More and more folks are relocating from Rhode Island to Iowa to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in Rhode Island. Housing is more affordable in Iowa, with average rent about 24% less and home prices 53% lower than in Rhode Island. Taxes are also lower in Iowa, 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 Iowa?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Iowa, aim for an income of around $63,616 to live comfortably. Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,436 if you’re flying solo, or $5,230 for a family of four. Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
Rhode Island moving services
Popular Rhode Island routes
Popular moving resources
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
