How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to MD move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 10 Rhode Island moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Rhode Island to Maryland?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to Maryland.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$876 – $2,720 |
$616 – $1,533 |
$322 – $604 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,606 – $4,317 |
$1,158 – $2,026 |
$376 – $761 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$2,547 – $6,466 |
$1,404 – $2,800 |
$473 – $850 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 375-mile move from RI to
MD using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Rhode Island to Maryland
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Rhode Island to Maryland,
you can expect prices to land between $876
and $2,720.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$1,606 to
$4,317 for the trip from RI
to MD. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$2,547 and
$6,466.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Maryland
Moving containers from Rhode Island to Maryland
will cost you $616 to
$1,533 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,158
to $2,026. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,404 to
$2,800.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Rhode Island.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Rhode Island to Maryland
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$322
and $604
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $376
to $761.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$473
to $850.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to MD
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Rhode Island to Maryland. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Rhode Island generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from RI to MD
Making the move from Rhode Island to Maryland means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Maryland
A clear look at the cost differences between Rhode Island and Maryland helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Rhode Island |
Maryland |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$1,598 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$418,438 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$98,461 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
5.75% |
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Rent in Maryland is about 34% higher than in Rhode Island. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Home prices in Maryland are around 10% lower than in Rhode Island. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 21% higher in Maryland than in Rhode Island, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Since living costs in Maryland and Rhode Island are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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With an unemployment rate around 35% lower than Rhode Island, Maryland offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in Maryland is 14% lower than in Rhode Island. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Maryland could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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Your income tax rates will be similar in Rhode Island and Maryland, so your paycheck deductions won’t change when you move.
How life is different in Maryland vs. Rhode Island
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Maryland and Rhode Island compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Maryland |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
6,180,253 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 63-34.4 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
19″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
20.34 |
14.58 |
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Maryland has a population that’s about 465% larger than Rhode Island.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
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Rhode Island and Maryland both voted Democratic in the last election.
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Summer highs average 87°F in Maryland, compared to 82°F in Rhode Island.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Maryland has winter lows around 25°F, compared to 19°F in Rhode Island.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
-
You can expect only about 44 inches of annual rainfall in Maryland versus 50 inches of rainfall in Rhode Island.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
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In Maryland, you’ll get about 19 inches of snow each year, far less than Rhode Island.
That means moving to Maryland will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
-
Maryland has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island, with crime indexes at 20.34 and 14.58, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Rhode Island vs. Maryland
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Maryland compared to Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in Maryland |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Delicious food |
| Delicious seafood |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Rich history |
Diverse outdoor activities |
| Amazing beaches |
Beautiful coastline |
| Short drives |
Rich history |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Maryland
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Rhode Island to Maryland:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in Maryland |
| High cost of living |
High cost of living |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Bad traffic |
| Smallest state |
High crime |
| Cold winters |
High homelessness |
| Dense population |
Peculiar alcohol laws |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Maryland move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in Maryland, 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. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Maryland moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Maryland, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Maryland 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,” free of charge. In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Maryland
You’ll have plenty to explore in Maryland! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Maryland
- U.S. Naval Academy
- The Walters Art Museum
- American Visionary Art Museum
- Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
- Baltimore Museum of Art
Parks in Maryland
- Northside Park
- Rock Creek Regional Park
- Wheaton Regional Park
- Centennial Park
- Hagerstown City Park
Sports teams in Maryland
- Baltimore Orioles (MLB)
- Baltimore Ravens (NFL)
- Washington Commanders (NFL)
- Maryland Terrapins (NCAA)
- Potomac River Exiles Men’s Rugby Club (MAC)
Universities in Maryland
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Maryland
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Towson University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to Maryland?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Maryland?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Maryland?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Rhode Island for Maryland, drawn by advantages like delicious food and ample economic opportunity that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Maryland?
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Maryland,
with average rent about 34% less and home prices 10% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in Maryland, most notably income taxes, which are more than 4% less than those paid by Rhode Island residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Maryland?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Maryland, you should aim to make around $96,415.
On average, expect to spend about $3,469 per month, or $8,331 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Washington DC and Baltimore generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
Rhode Island moving services
Popular Rhode Island routes
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For a move from Rhode Island to Maryland, budget between $1,606–$4,317 for full-service movers, around
$1,592 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$568
for a rental truck.
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