Best Movers From California to South Dakota (2025 Cost Data)

1. Republic Moving & Storage: 4.78 out of 5 stars
2. Meathead Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
3. Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
4. Grace Moving Company: 4.7 out of 5 stars
5. Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from California to South Dakota

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to South Dakota, you can expect to spend between $1,196 and $4,734. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,056 to $6,638 on the same route (CA to SD). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from California to South Dakota typically runs between $5,301 and $9,925.

Cost of moving containers from California to South Dakota

Moving from California to South Dakota? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,064 and $2,444. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,788 to $3,757. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,514 up to $5,236. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to South Dakota

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,021 and $1,924. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,084 and $2,266. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,272 and $2,826.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to SD

There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to South Dakota will depend on these factors:

• How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
• When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
• Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.

• Rent in South Dakota is about 53% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
• Home prices in South Dakota are roughly 60% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
• Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Dakota are about 24% lower than in California.
• Moving to South Dakota is about 25% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
• South Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 65%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
• Sales tax is 26% lower in South Dakota compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
• South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to California. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.

• With a population about 98% smaller than California, South Dakota offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living. Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
• In the last presidential election, South Dakota voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
• Summer highs in South Dakota average 85°F, almost the same as 87°F in California. With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
• Winter in South Dakota can dip to 7°F, colder than the 59°F lows in California. Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
• In South Dakota, you’ll get about 23 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 22 inches you’ve been used to in California. Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
• In South Dakota, it snows about 39 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches. With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
• South Dakota offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 21.14 versus 28.43. You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.

Other things to consider for your California to South Dakota move

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
• Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
• State licensing: Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, 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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
• State regulator: Easily verify the status of a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
• Moving permits: South Dakota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
• Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to South Dakota right on time. Get started here.
• Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
• Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Museums in South Dakota

• Adams House
• The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
• Adams Museum
• Tatanka: Story of the Bison
• South Dakota Air and Space Museum

Parks in South Dakota

• Falls Park
• Canyon Lake Park
• Founders Park
• Memorial Park
• Upper Chautauqua Park

Sports teams in South Dakota

• Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
• Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
• Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
• Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)

Universities in South Dakota

• University of South Dakota
• South Dakota State University
• South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
• Dakota State University
• Augustana University