Memphis, TN to Lexington, KY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Memphis to Lexington typically costs $2,200–$5,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 422 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Memphis to Lexington
Moving from Memphis, TN to Lexington, KY typically costs $2,200–$5,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 422-mile move from Memphis to Lexington, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 23, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- PODS recently quoted $1,757 for a 2 bedroom using a moving container.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $1,925 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $2,383 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 26, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 02, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 21, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 16, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 03, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 24, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 19, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 17, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Memphis to Lexington
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Memphis to Lexington might be as low as $1,300, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Memphis.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $400 to $1,100 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Lexington, KY to Memphis, TN guide.
Best Memphis to Lexington movers by type
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Local
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Container
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Memphis to Lexington
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Memphis to Lexington, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best TN→KY movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 71 Tennessee movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Memphis to Lexington
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Lexington runs about 68% higher for singles and -5% higher for families than Memphis.
Singles spend around $3,100 in Lexington versus $1,842 in Memphis; families pay $4,170 compared with $4,402.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Memphis | Lexington | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,187 | $1,175 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,571 | $2,110 |
| Average home value | $143,715 | $309,021 |
| Average income (per capita) | $48,090 | $61,526 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,842 | $3,100 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,402 | $4,170 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 4.3% |
| Sales tax | 9.75% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.0% |
- Switching from Memphis to Lexington won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 115% higher in Lexington than in Memphis.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 28% higher in Lexington than in Memphis, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Lexington, as the cost of living for a single person in Lexington is 68% greater than in Memphis. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- The cost of living for a family remains roughly the same between Lexington and Memphis, varying by only about 5%, so you likely won't notice a significant change in expenses.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 46% lower than Memphis, Lexington boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 38% lower in Lexington than Memphis, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Kentucky has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Memphis and Lexington, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Memphis | Lexington |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $213.78 | $206.92 |
| Cell phone plan | $58.88 | $71.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.12 | $2.98 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.83 | $2.90 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $19.50 | $14.25 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $37.67 | $37.50 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Memphis than in Lexington.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Memphis than in Lexington.
- Eggs cost more in Memphis than in Lexington.
- Bread costs less in Memphis than in Lexington.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Memphis than in Lexington.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships cost more in Memphis than in Lexington.
How life is different in Memphis vs. Lexington
| Memphis | Lexington | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 633,104 | 320,347 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 90 |
| Bike friendliness score | 41 | 85 |
| Crime index | 77.49 | 50.88 |
| Safety index | 22.51 | 49.12 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Lexington's population is about 49% less than Memphis.
- Lexington's public transportation score is within about 5% of Memphis, making them very similar.
- Lexington is more walkable than Memphis with a score of 90 out of 100 vs Memphis's 35 out of 100.
- With a score of 85 out of 100, Lexington is more bike-friendly than Memphis, which has a score of 41 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Lexington's crime rate is lower than Memphis with a score of 50.88 compared to Memphis's 77.49. This means that Lexington neighborhoods are safer than 50.88% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49%.
- Lexington is considered to be safer than Memphis with a safety index of 49.12 vs Memphis's 22.51.
- Air quality in Lexington is Good, and in Memphis it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Memphis to Lexington move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers. Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each. The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Kentucky moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Kentucky, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Lexington without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items' full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Lexington
Ready to relocate to Horse Capital of the World? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Lexington.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Chevy Chase-Ashland Park
- Downtown Lexington
- Fairway-Liberty Heights
- Georgetown
- Mount Vernon-Hollywood-Montclair
Best neighborhoods for families
- Chevy Chase-Ashland Park
- Fairway-Liberty Heights
- Georgetown
- Paris
- Southland-Deerfield-Open Gates
Things to do in Lexington
Now that you've made the move to Kentucky, it's the perfect time to explore Lexington. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Lexington include museums and art centers like the Kentucky Horse Park, Mary Todd Lincoln House, Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate, and The Aviation Museum of Kentucky.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate The Arboretum, Thoroughbred Park, Jacobson Park, and Masterson Station Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Lexington Legends (ALPB)Lexington SC (USL League One) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Memphis to Lexington?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Memphis to Lexington. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Memphis.
When is the cheapest time to move from Memphis to Lexington?
With many people choosing to move from Memphis to Lexington in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Memphis to Lexington take?
Covering 422 miles, the move from Memphis, TN to Lexington, KY typically takes one to four days. Some Memphis movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Lexington can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Memphis can handle specialty items for my move to Lexington?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Memphis, 7 movers can handle pianos. 5 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of TN, there are 46 piano movers and 21 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
