How Much Does It Cost to Move in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is the smallest state but moving costs are above average due to New England labor rates. Local moves average $1,100. Providence metro covers most of the state. Narrow colonial-era streets add access challenges and potential surcharges in older neighborhoods.
Average Moving Costs in Rhode Island — 2026
| Move Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Local move — professional movers | $1,100 |
| Long-distance move — professional movers | $4,400 |
| Mover hourly rate (per mover) | $52/hr |
| Moving truck rental (per day) | $120/day |
Averages based on a 2-bedroom local move. Long-distance averages assume 500+ miles.
What Affects Moving Costs in Rhode Island
Distance: Local moves are priced hourly ($52/mover/hr). Long-distance moves switch to a weight-plus-mileage model, which is why the jump from local to long-distance is so large.
Timing: Peak season (May–September) adds 15–30% to any quote. The last 3 days of a month are the most expensive — most leases expire on the 1st, so demand spikes.
Home size: Every additional bedroom adds roughly $100–200 to a local move (more movers or more hours). Long-distance moves price by weight — a 3-bedroom house weighs 3× a studio.
Access: Stairs, long carry distances, and tight elevator access trigger surcharges. Expect $50–100 per flight of stairs. Parking permits in dense Rhode Island cities can add $50–150.
Rhode Island Moving Cost by City
Metro areas with high demand and traffic typically run 15–25% above the state averages listed above.
- Providence
- Cranston
- Warwick
- Pawtucket
- East Providence
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How much does it cost to move locally in Rhode Island?
Local moves in Rhode Island average $1,100 for a 2-bedroom home. Mover hourly rates run $52/hr per mover. Most local moves take 4–8 hours with a 2–3 mover crew.
How much does a long-distance move to or from Rhode Island cost?
Long-distance moves to or from Rhode Island average $4,400 with professional movers. DIY truck rentals typically run $1,200–2,500 depending on distance and truck size.
What is the cheapest way to move in Rhode Island?
Renting a moving truck yourself is the cheapest option — expect $120/day plus fuel. Booking movers for a weekday in the off-season (October–April) can save 20–30% vs. weekend peak rates.
When is the cheapest time to move in Rhode Island?
October through April is the cheapest time to move in Rhode Island. Avoid May–September (peak season), the last three days of any month, and weekends — all carry 15–30% premiums.
Which cities in Rhode Island are most expensive for moving?
Providence and Cranston typically run 15–25% above the state average due to higher demand, traffic congestion, and longer drive times between pickup and delivery.
Is Rhode Island gaining or losing residents?
Rhode Island is currently roughly flat on net migration.