How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to NY move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 10 Rhode Island moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Rhode Island to New York?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to New York.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$609 – $2,296 |
$500 – $1,227 |
$173 – $306 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,081 – $3,235 |
$940 – $1,617 |
$182 – $360 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$1,466 – $4,188 |
$1,202 – $2,145 |
$226 – $412 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 166-mile move from RI to
NY using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Rhode Island to New York
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Rhode Island to New York typically costs between
$609 and
$2,296.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$1,081
and $3,235
when moving from RI to NY.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Rhode Island to New York,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $1,466
up to $4,188.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to New York
If you’re relocating from Rhode Island to New York,
you’ll typically spend between $500
and $1,227 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$940 up to
$1,617.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,202 and
$2,145. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Rhode Island.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Rhode Island to New York
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$173 and
$306.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$182 to
$360.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $226 and
$412.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to NY
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Rhode Island to New York. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Rhode Island, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from RI to NY
Transitioning from Rhode Island to New York gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. New York
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Rhode Island and New York are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Rhode Island |
New York |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$1,507 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$482,742 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$81,386 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
4.4% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
8.52% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
10.9% |
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Rent is about 26% more expensive in New York than in Rhode Island. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Home prices in New York and Rhode Island are pretty similar, so you won’t need to adjust your mortgage budget unless you’re planning to move into a bigger or better place.
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There’s no need to worry about your budget, since average incomes are about the same in both Rhode Island and New York.
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With a similar cost of living in both Rhode Island and New York, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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Unemployment rates are about the same in Rhode Island and New York, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
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Sales tax in New York runs 22% higher than in Rhode Island, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Income taxes are 82% higher in New York compared to Rhode Island. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in New York vs. Rhode Island
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how New York and Rhode Island compare.
|
New York |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
19,571,216 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 60-40 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
16ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
62″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
21.51 |
14.58 |
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If you’re moving from Rhode Island to New York, you’ll find New York has about 1689% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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The last presidential election saw both Rhode Island and New York siding with the Democratic party.
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The average summer high in New York is 81°F, while Rhode Island averages 82°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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During the coldest months, New York averages 16°F while Rhode Island sees lows of 19°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
-
In New York, you’ll get about 44 inches of rain each year, less than the 50 inches you’re used to in Rhode Island.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
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Each year, New York gets about 62 inches of snow, far more than the 35 inches you might be accustomed to in Rhode Island.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
New York has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island, with a crime index of 21.51 compared to 14.58.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Rhode Island vs. New York
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in New York to Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in New York |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Natural beauty |
| Delicious seafood |
Arts |
| Rich history |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Amazing beaches |
Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities |
| Short drives |
Distinct seasons |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. New York
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Rhode Island to New York:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in New York |
| High cost of living |
High tax burden |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Rough winter weather |
| Smallest state |
High cost of living |
| Cold winters |
Poor quality healthcare |
| Dense population |
Populous |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to New York move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
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State licensing:
New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a New York moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in New York, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to New York. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage 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:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in New York
Get excited to explore New York. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in New York
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- The Strong National Museum of Play
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- New York State Museum
- Erie Canal Museum
Parks in New York
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Central Park
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Robert Moses State Park
Sports teams in New York
- Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA)
- Buffalo Bills (NFL)
- Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
- New York City FC (MLS)
- New York Islanders (NHL)
Universities in New York
- Cornell University
- Columbia University in the City of New York
- New York University
- University of Rochester
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to New York?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to New York?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Rhode Island to
New York
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to New York?
Many people are making the move from Rhode Island to New York to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in New York has to offer, like natural beauty and arts.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or New York?
Living in Rhode Island usually costs less than in New York.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in Rhode Island,
with average rent about 21% less and home prices 3% lower than in New York.
Taxes are also
lower in Rhode Island, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by New York residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New York?
Planning to move to New York? A single adult should aim for an income of around $78,058 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $5,550 for an individual, or $12,661 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like New York City and Brooklyn usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
Rhode Island moving services
Popular Rhode Island routes
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When relocating from Rhode Island to New York, expect professional movers to cost around
$1,081 to
$3,235, roughly
$1,278 for a container move, and close to
$271
for a rental truck.
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