How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to OH 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 Ohio?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to Ohio.
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 |
$1,100 – $3,501 |
$669 – $1,633 |
$508 – $860 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,909 – $5,137 |
$1,242 – $2,602 |
$501 – $1,043 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,439 – $6,742 |
$1,729 – $3,376 |
$658 – $1,276 |
*Estimated costs for a 698-mile move from RI to
OH 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 Ohio
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Rhode Island to Ohio will cost between
$1,100 and
$3,501.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from RI to OH will
range from $1,909 to
$5,137, and a large move from Rhode Island
to Ohio will cost from $3,439
to $6,742.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Ohio
If you’re moving from Rhode Island to Ohio,
expect to pay between $669
and $1,633 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,242 up to
$2,602.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,729 and
$3,376. 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 Ohio
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
$508 and
$860.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $501
and $1,043. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $658 up to
$1,276 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to OH
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Rhode Island to Ohio. 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 OH
A relocation from Rhode Island to Ohio comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. Ohio
Comparing expenses in Rhode Island and Ohio 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 |
Ohio |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$945 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$230,798 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$66,990 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
7.23% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
3.5% |
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Expect to pay around 21% less in rent in Ohio than in Rhode Island, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 51% lower in Ohio than in Rhode Island.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Ohio are about 18% lower than in Rhode Island.
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Living in Ohio is about 6% cheaper than Rhode Island. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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With an unemployment rate about 22% lower than Rhode Island, Ohio boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. Rhode Island and Ohio have similar rates, making your move easier.
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Income taxes are 42% lower in Ohio than in Rhode Island. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Ohio 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 Ohio stacks up against Rhode Island across important lifestyle factors:
|
Ohio |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
11,785,935 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 55-45 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
20ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
40″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
28″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
20.76 |
14.58 |
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Ohio is about 978% more populous than Rhode Island.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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In the most recent presidential election, Ohio leaned Republican, while Rhode Island went with Democratic.
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In Ohio, 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.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Ohio reaches about 20°F and Rhode Island gets down to 19°F.
When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
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You’ll enjoy about 40 inches of rain each year in Ohio, 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.
-
In Ohio, you can expect about 28 inches of snow each year, much less than the 35 inches you’d deal with in Rhode Island.
So, if you’re moving to Ohio, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
-
Ohio has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island with a crime index of 20.76 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. Ohio
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Ohio versus Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in Ohio |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious seafood |
Low cost of living |
| Rich history |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Amazing beaches |
Famously delicious beer |
| Short drives |
Amazing food |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Ohio
Moving from Rhode Island to Ohio 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 Ohio |
| High cost of living |
Low happiness |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Limited diversity |
| Smallest state |
Political division |
| Cold winters |
Harsh weather |
| Dense population |
Weird laws |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Ohio 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.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Ohio moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Ohio, 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 Ohio 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 cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives 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 Ohio
Get ready to discover all that Ohio has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Ohio
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Cleveland Museum of Art
- A Christmas Story House
- National Museum of the US Air Force
Parks in Ohio
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
- Wayne National Forest
- Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave
- Maumee Bay State Park
Sports teams in Ohio
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
- Cleveland Guardians (MLB)
- Cincinnati Bengals (NFL)
- Cleveland Browns (NFL)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)
Universities in Ohio
- The Ohio State University
- University of Cincinnati
- Case Western Reserve University
- Kent State University
- Bowling Green State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to Ohio?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Ohio?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Ohio?
The main reasons people are moving from Rhode Island to Ohio are the amazing upsides of living in Ohio, such as ample economic opportunity and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Ohio?
Living in Ohio usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
Housing
is more affordable in Ohio,
with average rent about 21% less and home prices 51% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in Ohio, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Rhode Island residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Ohio?
You should make approximately $65,241 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Ohio.
The cost of living in Ohio is about $2,580 per month for an individual and $6,799 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Columbus and Cleveland 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 Ohio, expect to spend between
$1,909–$5,137 if using professional movers, about
$1,922 for a moving container, and around
$772
for a rental truck.
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