How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to TN 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 Tennessee?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island to Tennessee.
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 |
$1,086 – $4,530 |
$845 – $1,982 |
$675 – $1,269 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,418 – $5,585 |
$1,441 – $2,876 |
$729 – $1,463 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,019 – $7,190 |
$1,986 – $4,107 |
$915 – $1,799 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,092-mile move from RI to
TN 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 Tennessee
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Rhode Island to Tennessee typically costs between
$1,086 and
$4,530.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,418
and $5,585
when moving from RI to TN.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Rhode Island to Tennessee,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,019
up to $7,190.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to Tennessee
If you’re relocating from Rhode Island to Tennessee,
you’ll typically spend between $845
and $1,982 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,441 up to
$2,876.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,986 and
$4,107. 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 Tennessee
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
$675 and
$1,269.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$729 to
$1,463.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $915 and
$1,799.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to TN
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Rhode Island to Tennessee. 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 TN
Transitioning from Rhode Island to Tennessee 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. Tennessee
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Rhode Island and Tennessee are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Rhode Island |
Tennessee |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$1,047 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$319,208 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$64,035 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
90 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
3.3% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
9.55% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
0.0% |
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Rent is about 12% less expensive in Tennessee than in Rhode Island, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in Tennessee are about 32% lower than in Rhode Island, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Tennessee are roughly 21% lower than in Rhode Island.
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Moving to Tennessee costs about 10% less than living in Rhode Island. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 28% lower than Rhode Island, Tennessee offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in Tennessee runs 36% higher than in Rhode Island, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Tennessee has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Rhode Island. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in Tennessee 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 Tennessee and Rhode Island compare.
|
Tennessee |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
7,126,489 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64-36 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
27ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
53″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
5″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
29.24 |
14.58 |
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If you’re moving from Rhode Island to Tennessee, you’ll find Tennessee has about 552% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, Tennessee leaned Republican, while Rhode Island supported Democratic.
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The average summer high in Tennessee is 88°F compared to 82°F in Rhode Island.
A hotter climate brings more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but be prepared for higher cooling bills and a warmer adjustment period.
-
In winter, Tennessee drops only to 27°F, milder than 19°F in Rhode Island.
That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
-
In Tennessee, you’ll experience about 53 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 50 inches you’re used to in Rhode Island.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
-
In Tennessee, it only snows about 5 inches annually while Rhode Island gets 35 inches.
Moving to Tennessee, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
-
Tennessee has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island, with a crime index of 29.24 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. Tennessee
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Tennessee to Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in Tennessee |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Abundant recreational opportunities |
| Delicious seafood |
No income taxes |
| Rich history |
Legendary music scene |
| Amazing beaches |
Natural beauty and parks galore |
| Short drives |
Delicious southern comfort food |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. Tennessee
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Rhode Island to Tennessee:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in Tennessee |
| High cost of living |
Tendency for severe weather |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
| Smallest state |
Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
| Cold winters |
Traffic congestion |
| Dense population |
High urban crime rates |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island to Tennessee 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.
-
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:
Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, 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. 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 Tennessee moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee. 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. When it comes to movers’ insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
-
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 Tennessee
Get excited to explore Tennessee. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Tennessee
- Titanic Museum Attraction
- Graceland
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
- Lotz House Museum
- National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel
Parks in Tennessee
- Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
- Bicentennial Greenbelt Park
- Chimneys Picnic Area
- Winged Deer Park
- Steele Creek Park
Sports teams in Tennessee
- Memphis Grizzlies Basketball (NBA)
- Nashville Predators Hockey (NHL)
- Nashville SC (MLS)
- Tennessee TItans (NFL)
Universities in Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University
- The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
- The University of Tennessee at Martin
- The University of Memphis
- Middle Tennessee State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Rhode Island to Tennessee?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to Tennessee?
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
Tennessee
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to Tennessee?
Many people are making the move from Rhode Island to Tennessee to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Tennessee has to offer, like abundant recreational opportunities and no income taxes.
Is it cheaper to live in Rhode Island or Tennessee?
Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
Housing
is more affordable in Tennessee,
with average rent about 12% less and home prices 32% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in Tennessee, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Rhode Island residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Tennessee?
Planning to move to Tennessee? A single adult should aim for an income of around $64,632 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,636 for an individual, or $6,342 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Nashville and Memphis 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 Tennessee, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,418 to
$5,585, roughly
$2,158 for a container move, and close to
$1,096
for a rental truck.
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