How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to MN move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 10 Rhode Island moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
-
Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
-
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 Minnesota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to Minnesota.
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 |
$1,088 – $4,471 |
$998 – $2,361 |
$863 – $1,790 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,706 – $6,070 |
$1,678 – $3,339 |
$991 – $2,009 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,625 – $8,499 |
$2,333 – $4,649 |
$1,163 – $2,554 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,526-mile move from RI to
MN 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 Minnesota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Rhode Island to Minnesota,
you can expect prices to land between $1,088
and $4,471.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,706 to
$6,070 for the trip from RI
to MN. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,625 and
$8,499.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Minnesota
Moving containers from Rhode Island to Minnesota
will cost you $998 to
$2,361 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,678
to $3,339. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,333 to
$4,649.
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 Minnesota
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
$863
and $1,790
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $991
to $2,009.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,163
to $2,554.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to MN
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Rhode Island to Minnesota. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
-
Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Rhode Island generally comes with a higher price tag.
-
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 MN
Making the move from Rhode Island to Minnesota means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Minnesota
A clear look at the cost differences between Rhode Island and Minnesota 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 |
Minnesota |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$1,178 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$334,119 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$84,313 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
8.03% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
9.85% |
-
No need to worry about your budget, rental rates stay pretty consistent whether you’re moving from Rhode Island to Minnesota.
-
Home prices in Minnesota are around 29% lower than in Rhode Island. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
-
Luckily, the average income is about the same in Minnesota and Rhode Island, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
-
Living in Minnesota costs about 6% less than in Rhode Island. This lower cost of living can mean great savings, but you’ll still want to plan your move carefully.
-
With an unemployment rate around 26% lower than Rhode Island, Minnesota offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
-
Sales taxes are 15% higher in Minnesota than in Rhode Island, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
-
State income taxes in Minnesota are 64% higher than in Rhode Island, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Minnesota 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 Minnesota and Rhode Island compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Minnesota |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
5,737,915 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.1-46.9 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
2ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
29″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
22.47 |
14.58 |
-
Minnesota has a population that’s about 425% larger than Rhode Island.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
-
Rhode Island and Minnesota both voted Democratic in the last election.
-
Summer highs average 81°F in Minnesota, 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.
-
In winter, Minnesota reaches lows near 2°F, colder than 19°F in Rhode Island.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
-
You can expect only about 29 inches of annual rainfall in Minnesota 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.
-
Each year, Minnesota gets about 47 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.
-
Minnesota has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island, with crime indexes at 22.47 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. Minnesota
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Minnesota compared to Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in Minnesota |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious seafood |
Bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities |
| Rich history |
Multitudinous lakes |
| Amazing beaches |
Diverse festivals |
| Short drives |
Friendly people |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Minnesota
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 Minnesota:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in Minnesota |
| High cost of living |
Bland food |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Cold snowy winters |
| Smallest state |
Terrible traffic |
| Cold winters |
High tax burden |
| Dense population |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Minnesota 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.
-
State licensing:
To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Minnesota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Minnesota, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
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 Minnesota 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,” free of charge. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Minnesota
You’ll have plenty to explore in Minnesota! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Minnesota
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Science Museum of Minnesota
- Mill City Museum
- Minnesota History Center
- Paisley Park
Parks in Minnesota
- Minnehaha Park
- Teddy Bear Park
- Enger Park and Tower
- Canal Park
- Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
Sports teams in Minnesota
- Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
- Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
- Minnesota Twins (MLB)
- Minnesota United FC (MLS)
- Minnesota Vikings (NFL)
Universities in Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Carleton College
- Rasmussen College
- University of St. Thomas
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to Minnesota?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Minnesota?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Minnesota?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Rhode Island for Minnesota, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Minnesota?
Living in Minnesota usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
Housing
is more affordable in Minnesota,
with average rent about 1% less and home prices 29% lower than in Rhode Island.
However, taxes are
lower in Rhode Island, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Minnesota residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Minnesota?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Minnesota, you should aim to make around $73,783.
On average, expect to spend about $3,552 per month, or $5,174 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
Rhode Island moving services
Popular Rhode Island routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
For a move from Rhode Island to Minnesota, budget between $2,706–$6,070 for full-service movers, around
$2,508 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,500
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
