How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to NM 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 New Mexico?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to New Mexico.
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 |
$1,136 – $4,324 |
$1,077 – $2,834 |
$1,128 – $2,199 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,139 – $6,727 |
$1,936 – $4,071 |
$1,197 – $2,618 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,057 – $9,709 |
$2,792 – $5,722 |
$1,604 – $3,143 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 2,072-mile move from RI to
NM 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 New Mexico
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Rhode Island to New Mexico,
you can expect prices to land between $1,136
and $4,324.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$3,139 to
$6,727 for the trip from RI
to NM. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$6,057 and
$9,709.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to New Mexico
Moving containers from Rhode Island to New Mexico
will cost you $1,077 to
$2,834 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,936
to $4,071. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,792 to
$5,722.
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 New Mexico
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
$1,128
and $2,199
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $1,197
to $2,618.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,604
to $3,143.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to NM
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Rhode Island to New Mexico. 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 NM
Making the move from Rhode Island to New Mexico means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. New Mexico
A clear look at the cost differences between Rhode Island and New Mexico 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 |
New Mexico |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$966 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$303,910 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$58,722 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
7.61% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
5.9% |
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You’ll pay about 19% less in rent in New Mexico compared to Rhode Island, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in New Mexico are around 35% 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 28% lower New Mexico than in Rhode Island.
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Living in New Mexico 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.
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With an unemployment rate around 37% lower than Rhode Island, New Mexico offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales taxes are 9% higher in New Mexico than in Rhode Island, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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Your income tax rates will be similar in Rhode Island and New Mexico, so your paycheck deductions won’t change when you move.
How life is different in New Mexico 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 New Mexico and Rhode Island compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
New Mexico |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
2,113,344 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.9-45.9 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
20ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
15″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
24″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
38.81 |
14.58 |
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New Mexico has a population that’s about 93% 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 New Mexico both voted Democratic in the last election.
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Summers in New Mexico top out at 88°F, higher than 82°F in Rhode Island.
Expect more heat, more sunshine, and possibly higher cooling costs.
-
Winter lows in New Mexico hover around 20°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 15 inches of annual rainfall in New Mexico 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 New Mexico, you’ll get about 24 inches of snow each year, far less than Rhode Island.
That means moving to New Mexico will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
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New Mexico has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island, with crime indexes at 38.81 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. New Mexico
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in New Mexico compared to Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in New Mexico |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Delicious seafood |
Rich culture |
| Rich history |
Delicious food and wine |
| Amazing beaches |
Low cost of living |
| Short drives |
Abundant outdoor activities |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. New Mexico
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 New Mexico:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in New Mexico |
| High cost of living |
Bad roads |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Lackluster economy |
| Smallest state |
Scarce job opportunity |
| Cold winters |
Slow life |
| Dense population |
High crime rate |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to New Mexico 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.
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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:
Movers that operate within the Land of Enchantment are licensed and regulated by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a New Mexico 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 New Mexico, 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 New Mexico 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, the cost-free, minimal coverage option from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 New Mexico
You’ll have plenty to explore in New Mexico! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in New Mexico
- Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Roswell Museum
- Museum of International Folk Art
- El Rancho de las Golondrinas
- International UFO Museum and Research Center
Parks in New Mexico
- Dripping Springs Natural Area
- Spring River Park and Zoo
- Old Fort Marcy Park
- Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area
- City of Rocks State Park
Sports teams in New Mexico
- Albuquerque Isotopes (Triple-A West)
- New Mexico Ice Wolves (NAHL)
- New Mexico United (USL Championship)
Universities in New Mexico
- University of New Mexico
- New Mexico State University
- New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Western New Mexico University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to New Mexico?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to New Mexico?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to New Mexico?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Rhode Island for New Mexico, drawn by advantages like beautiful landscapes and rich culture that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or New Mexico?
Living in New Mexico usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
Housing
is more affordable in New Mexico,
with average rent about 19% less and home prices 35% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in New Mexico, most notably income taxes, which are more than 2% less than those paid by Rhode Island residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Mexico?
To live comfortably as a single adult in New Mexico, you should aim to make around $67,478.
On average, expect to spend about $2,664 per month, or $5,879 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Albuquerque and Las Cruces 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 New Mexico, budget between $3,139–$6,727 for full-service movers, around
$3,003 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,907
for a rental truck.
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