How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to MT 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 Montana?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to Montana.
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 |
$1,184 – $4,520 |
$1,180 – $2,957 |
$1,273 – $2,387 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,222 – $6,829 |
$2,203 – $4,430 |
$1,418 – $2,784 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,872 – $10,976 |
$2,910 – $5,943 |
$1,722 – $3,624 |
*Estimated costs for a 2,282-mile move from RI to
MT 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 Montana
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Rhode Island to Montana will cost between
$1,184 and
$4,520.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from RI to MT will
range from $3,222 to
$6,829, and a large move from Rhode Island
to Montana will cost from $5,872
to $10,976.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Montana
If you’re moving from Rhode Island to Montana,
expect to pay between $1,180
and $2,957 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$2,203 up to
$4,430.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,910 and
$5,943. 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 Montana
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
$1,273 and
$2,387.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,418
and $2,784. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,722 up to
$3,624 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to MT
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Rhode Island to Montana. 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 MT
A relocation from Rhode Island to Montana comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Montana
Comparing expenses in Rhode Island and Montana 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 |
Montana |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$974 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$462,631 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$66,341 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
6.75% |
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Expect to pay around 18% less in rent in Montana than in Rhode Island, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Home prices are about the same in Montana 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 Montana are about 18% lower than in Rhode Island.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Montana and Rhode Island, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
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With an unemployment rate about 28% lower than Rhode Island, Montana boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Montana doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to Rhode Island.
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Income taxes are 13% higher in Montana than in Rhode Island. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in Montana 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 Montana stacks up against Rhode Island across important lifestyle factors:
|
Montana |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
1,132,812 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58.4-38.5 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
12ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
49″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
23.37 |
14.58 |
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Both Montana and Rhode Island have similar population sizes, so you’ll likely find comparable resources and opportunities in each.
However, your day-to-day experience will really depend on the distinct vibe, economy, and culture that each state offers.
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In the most recent presidential election, Montana leaned Republican, while Rhode Island went with Democratic.
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In Montana, summer highs hover around 84°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.
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During the coldest part of the year, Montana drops to about 12°F while Rhode Island only reaches 19°F.
Moving to Montana with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
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You’ll enjoy about 15 inches of rain each year in Montana, 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, Montana gets around 49 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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Montana has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island with a crime index of 23.37 vs. 14.58.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Rhode Island vs. Montana
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Montana versus Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in Montana |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Unmatched natural beauty |
| Delicious seafood |
Bountiful outdoor opportunities |
| Rich history |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Amazing beaches |
Delicious unique cuisine |
| Short drives |
No traffic |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Montana
Moving from Rhode Island to Montana 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 Montana |
| High cost of living |
Dangerous wildlife |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Remote lifestyle |
| Smallest state |
Touristy |
| Cold winters |
Lacking in urban amenities |
| Dense population |
Challenging weather |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Montana 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.
-
State licensing:
In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Montana 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 Montana, 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 Montana 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Montana
Get ready to discover all that Montana has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Montana
- National Museum of Wildlife Art
- Museum of the Rockies
- Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center
- Moss Mansion
- Conrad Mansion
Parks in Montana
- Lone Pine State Park
- Caras Park
- Sacajawea Park
- Herron Park
- Phil Baux Park
Sports teams in Montana
- Montana Grizzlies (NCAA)
- Montana State Bobcats (NCAA)
Universities in Montana
- Montana State University
- The University of Montana
- Montana Tech
- Montana State University Billings
- Carroll College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to Montana?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Montana?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Montana?
The main reasons people are moving from Rhode Island to Montana are the amazing upsides of living in Montana, such as unmatched natural beauty and bountiful outdoor opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Montana?
Living in Montana usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Montana,
with average rent about 18% less and home prices 1% lower than in Rhode Island.
However, taxes are
lower in Rhode Island, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Montana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Montana?
You should make approximately $62,210 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Montana.
The cost of living in Montana is about $2,225 per month for an individual and $5,468 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Billings and Missoula 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 Montana, expect to spend between
$3,222–$6,829 if using professional movers, about
$3,316 for a moving container, and around
$2,101
for a rental truck.
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