Where Are rbenv Ruby Versions Installed?
rbenv keeps each Ruby version in its own folder under the versions directory. The active version is chosen from shell, local, or global settings and resolved through shims.
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rbenv uses a small root directory to manage Rubies. Versions installed through ruby-build land under versions.
The default root is ~/.rbenv on macOS and Linux. RBENV_ROOT moves the root, and the rbenv root command prints the location in use.
Where rbenv stores this, by platform
~/.rbenv/versions/<version>
Replace <version> with the Ruby version string, for example 3.3.4. Shims live under ~/.rbenv/shims. Plugins live under ~/.rbenv/plugins. A .ruby-version file in a project selects the version for that folder.
~/.rbenv/versions/<version>
Replace <version> with the Ruby version string, for example 3.3.4. RBENV_ROOT defaults to ~/.rbenv. Ensure the shims folder is on PATH. ruby-build installs new versions directly into the versions folder.
Frequently asked questions
How do I list installed Ruby versions?
Run rbenv versions to list folders under versions. Run rbenv version to show the active version and its source. Run rbenv prefix with a version to print that install path.
Can I move only the versions folder?
RBENV_ROOT moves the whole root, not a single subfolder. To relocate only versions, move the folder and symlink it back under the root. Removing the root deletes all installed Rubies.
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