How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to KY move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 10 Rhode Island movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Rhode Island to Kentucky?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Rhode Island
to Kentucky, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,081 – $3,936 |
$788 – $1,787 |
$544 – $1,017 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,031 – $5,388 |
$1,294 – $2,745 |
$618 – $1,234 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,747 – $6,971 |
$1,923 – $3,591 |
$782 – $1,482 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 872-mile relocation from RI to
KY, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Rhode Island to Kentucky
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Rhode Island to Kentucky, you’ll likely pay between
$1,081
and $3,936.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$2,031 and $5,388
for the same journey (RI to KY).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,747
to $6,971.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Kentucky
When you’re heading from Rhode Island to Kentucky, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $788 and
$1,787. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,294 and
$2,745. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,923
to $3,591. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Rhode Island easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Rhode Island to Kentucky
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$544
to $1,017.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $618
to $1,234, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Rhode Island to Kentucky costs around
$782 to
$1,482.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to KY
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Rhode Island to Kentucky. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Rhode Island when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from RI to KY
If you’re moving to Kentucky from Rhode Island, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Kentucky
Understanding how costs compare between Rhode Island and Kentucky can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Rhode Island |
Kentucky |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$902 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$60,183 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
93 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
5.0% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
4.0% |
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Rent in Kentucky is around 25% less than in Rhode Island, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Kentucky are about 55% lower than in Rhode Island. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in Kentucky are about 26% lower than in Rhode Island.
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The cost of living in Kentucky is about 7% lower than in Rhode Island. With a lower cost of living, it can be a great financial opportunity, but it’s still important to plan thoughtfully.
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The unemployment rate in Kentucky is about 9% higher than in Rhode Island. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
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Sales tax in Kentucky is 14% lower than in Rhode Island. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Kentucky can really help cut down your living expenses.
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Income taxes in Kentucky are 33% lower than in Rhode Island. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Kentucky vs. Rhode Island
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Kentucky and Rhode Island line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Kentucky |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
4,526,154 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
24ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
11″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
16.63 |
14.58 |
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The population of Kentucky is approximately 314% greater than the population of Rhode Island.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential election, Kentucky voted Republican, while Rhode Island went Democratic.
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In Kentucky, summer highs are around 87°F, close to 82°F in Rhode Island.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
-
Winter temperatures usually fall to 24°F in Kentucky and 19°F in Rhode Island.
With such similar lows, you won’t face much adjustment beyond local weather quirks.
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In Kentucky, you’ll see about 48 inches of rain each year — nearly identical to the 50 inches you’re used to in Rhode Island.
While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
-
In Kentucky, you’ll only get about 11 inches of snow each year, much less than Rhode Island.
That means moving to Kentucky brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
-
Kentucky has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island, with a crime index of 16.63 compared to 14.58.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Rhode Island vs. Kentucky
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Kentucky and Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in Kentucky |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Low cost of living |
| Delicious seafood |
Abundant outdoor adventures |
| Rich history |
Delicious food and drink |
| Amazing beaches |
Horse racing |
| Short drives |
Four season weather |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Kentucky
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Rhode Island for Kentucky:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in Kentucky |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Low diversity |
| Smallest state |
Poor air quality |
| Cold winters |
Poor infrastructure |
| Dense population |
Poor education system |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Kentucky move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
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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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Kentucky moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Kentucky, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Kentucky right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. 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:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Kentucky
While you’re in Kentucky, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home 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 Rhode Island to Kentucky?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Kentucky?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Kentucky?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Rhode Island to Kentucky to enjoy all the great benefits Kentucky provides, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Kentucky?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
Housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 25% less and home prices 55% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Rhode Island residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kentucky?
Thinking of moving to Kentucky on your own? You’ll want to earn around $59,905 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,600 per month, or around $4,876 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Louisville and Lexington tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
Rhode Island moving services
Popular Rhode Island routes
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When moving from Rhode Island to Kentucky, you’ll likely pay between $2,031–$5,388 with professional movers, roughly
$2,019 for a moving container, and about
$926
for a rental truck.
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