How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to MI 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 Michigan?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to Michigan.
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 |
$1,104 – $3,774 |
$805 – $1,899 |
$585 – $1,072 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,116 – $5,476 |
$1,321 – $2,722 |
$643 – $1,299 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,621 – $7,329 |
$1,888 – $3,492 |
$775 – $1,579 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 892-mile move from RI to
MI 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 Michigan
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Rhode Island to Michigan,
you can expect prices to land between $1,104
and $3,774.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,116 to
$5,476 for the trip from RI
to MI. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,621 and
$7,329.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Michigan
Moving containers from Rhode Island to Michigan
will cost you $805 to
$1,899 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,321
to $2,722. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,888 to
$3,492.
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 Michigan
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
$585
and $1,072
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $643
to $1,299.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$775
to $1,579.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to MI
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Rhode Island to Michigan. 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 MI
Making the move from Rhode Island to Michigan means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Michigan
A clear look at the cost differences between Rhode Island and Michigan 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 |
Michigan |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$1,037 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$245,716 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$68,505 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
4.25% |
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You’ll pay about 13% less in rent in Michigan compared to Rhode Island, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in Michigan are around 47% lower than in Rhode Island. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 16% lower Michigan than in Rhode Island.
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Living in Michigan costs about 8% less than in Rhode Island. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
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Unemployment rates in Michigan and Rhode Island are about the same, so you’re unlikely to see a big shift in job opportunities or competition after your move.
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Sales tax in Michigan is 14% lower than in Rhode Island. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Michigan could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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Income taxes in Michigan are 29% lower than in Rhode Island. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Michigan 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 Michigan and Rhode Island compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Michigan |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
10,037,261 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
14ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
64″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
19.98 |
14.58 |
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Michigan has a population that’s about 818% 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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In the latest presidential election, Michigan voted Republican, while Rhode Island chose Democratic.
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Summer highs average 81°F in Michigan, 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.
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Winter lows in Michigan hover around 14°F, while Rhode Island averages 19°F.
When temperatures are this close, your move won’t bring big seasonal surprises.
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You can expect only about 34 inches of annual rainfall in Michigan 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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Each year, Michigan gets about 64 inches of snow, while Rhode Island sees only 35 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
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Michigan has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island, with crime indexes at 19.98 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. Michigan
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Michigan compared to Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in Michigan |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Scenic beauty |
| Delicious seafood |
Good higher education |
| Rich history |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Amazing beaches |
Low cost of living |
| Short drives |
Beautiful lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Michigan
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 Michigan:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in Michigan |
| High cost of living |
Cold snowy winters |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Spotty economic opportunity |
| Smallest state |
Poor transportation infrastructure |
| Cold winters |
Expensive education |
| Dense population |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Michigan 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.
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Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
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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:
The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan 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, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives 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 Michigan
You’ll have plenty to explore in Michigan! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Michigan
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Motown Museum
- The Henry Ford
- Kalamazoo Valley Museum
- Gerald R. Ford Museum
Parks in Michigan
- 1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- 2. Pere Marquette Park
- 3. Silver Beach County Park
- 4. Presque Isle Park
- 5. Galien River County Park
Sports teams in Michigan
- Detroit Lions (NFL)
- Detroit Pistons (NBA)
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
- Detroit Tigers (MLB)
- Grand Rapids Gold (NBA G League)
Universities in Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Michigan Technological University
- Wayne State University
- Western Michigan University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to Michigan?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Michigan?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Michigan?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Rhode Island for Michigan, drawn by advantages like scenic beauty and good higher education that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Michigan?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 13% less and home prices 47% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, 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 Michigan?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Michigan, you should aim to make around $54,934.
On average, expect to spend about $3,608 per month, or $6,859 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids 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 Michigan, budget between $2,116–$5,476 for full-service movers, around
$2,021 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$971
for a rental truck.
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