How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to ID move
After studying pricing from 10 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island to Idaho?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to Idaho.
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 |
$1,110 – $5,075 |
$1,287 – $3,399 |
$1,386 – $2,740 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,322 – $6,901 |
$2,260 – $5,051 |
$1,502 – $3,263 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,248 – $10,902 |
$3,308 – $6,679 |
$1,897 – $3,803 |
*Estimated costs for a 2,636-mile move from RI to
ID 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 Rhode Island to Idaho
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Rhode Island to Idaho will cost between
$1,110 and
$5,075.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from RI to ID will
range from $3,322 to
$6,901, and a large move from Rhode Island
to Idaho will cost from $6,248
to $10,902.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Idaho
If you’re moving from Rhode Island to Idaho,
expect to pay between $1,287
and $3,399 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$2,260 up to
$5,051.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,308 and
$6,679. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Rhode Island.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Rhode Island to Idaho
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
$1,386 and
$2,740.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,502
and $3,263. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,897 up to
$3,803 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to ID
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Rhode Island to Idaho. 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 Rhode Island 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 RI to ID
A relocation from Rhode Island to Idaho comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Idaho
Comparing expenses in Rhode Island and Idaho 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:
|
Rhode Island |
Idaho |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$1,061 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$451,520 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$70,214 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
106 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
6.03% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
5.8% |
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Expect to pay around 11% less in rent in Idaho than in Rhode Island, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Home prices are about the same in Idaho and Rhode Island, so there’s no need to change up your mortgage budget, unless you’re upgrading your living situation.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Idaho are about 14% lower than in Rhode Island.
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Moving to Idaho means you’ll be paying 6% more than you did in Rhode Island. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
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With an unemployment rate about 20% lower than Rhode Island, Idaho boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Sales tax in Idaho is 14% lower than in Rhode Island. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Idaho can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are similar in Idaho and Rhode Island, so your paycheck deductions should stay consistent, offering a level of financial predictability as you transition between states.
How life is different in Idaho vs. Rhode Island
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 Idaho stacks up against Rhode Island across important lifestyle factors:
|
Idaho |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
1,964,726 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 70-30 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
17ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
18″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
11.68 |
14.58 |
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Idaho is about 80% more populous than Rhode Island.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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In the most recent presidential election, Idaho leaned Republican, while Rhode Island went with Democratic.
-
In Idaho, summer highs hover around 85°F, while Rhode Island sits at 82°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, Idaho reaches about 17°F and Rhode Island gets down to 19°F.
When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
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You’ll enjoy about 18 inches of rain each year in Idaho, compared to 50 inches in Rhode Island.
With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
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Every year, Idaho gets around 47 inches of snow, much more than the 35 inches that Rhode Island typically sees.
With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
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Idaho has a lower crime rate than Rhode Island with a crime index of 11.68 vs. 14.58.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of Rhode Island vs. Idaho
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Idaho versus Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in Idaho |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious seafood |
Low cost of living |
| Rich history |
High quality of life |
| Amazing beaches |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Short drives |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Idaho
Moving from Rhode Island to Idaho comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in Idaho |
| High cost of living |
Low diversity |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Harsh winters |
| Smallest state |
Political dominance |
| Cold winters |
Isolation |
| Dense population |
Competitive housing |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Idaho 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.
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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:
In Idaho, in-state movers are regulated by and must register with the Idaho Transportation Department.
In cases of unresolvable disputes with local movers, they may help. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Idaho 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 Idaho, 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 Idaho 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 cost-free Released Value Protection for minimal coverage, provided by movers at no extra charge. With liability capped at 60 cents per pound per article, consider alternative coverage options from your selected moving company or explore third-party insurance for full value protection.
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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 Idaho
Get ready to discover all that Idaho has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Idaho
- Museum of Clean
- Warhawk Air Museum
- Museum of Idaho
- Legacy Flight Museum
- Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Education Center
Parks in Idaho
- Harriman State Park
- Sawtooth Wilderness Area
- Indian Creek Park
- McEuen Park
- Thousand Springs State Park
Sports teams in Idaho
- Idaho Steelheads (ECHL)
- Boise State Broncos (NCAA)
- Idaho State Bengals (NCAA)
- Idaho Vandals Big Sky (NCAA)
Universities in Idaho
- University of Idaho
- Boise State University
- Brigham Young University-Idaho
- Idaho State University
- Northwest Nazarene University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to Idaho?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Idaho?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Idaho?
The main reasons people are moving from Rhode Island to Idaho are the amazing upsides of living in Idaho, such as ample economic opportunity and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Idaho?
Living in Rhode Island usually costs less than in Idaho.
Housing
is much more affordable in Idaho,
with average rent about 11% less and home prices 3% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in Idaho, most notably income taxes, which are more than 3% less than those paid by Rhode Island residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Idaho?
You should make approximately $82,425 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Idaho.
The cost of living in Idaho is about $3,700 per month for an individual and $7,442 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Boise and Meridian tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
Rhode Island moving services
Popular Rhode Island routes
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When moving from Rhode Island to Idaho, expect to spend between
$3,322–$6,901 if using professional movers, about
$3,655 for a moving container, and around
$2,382
for a rental truck.
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