|
|
|
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
Illinois to South Dakota Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
- Moving from Illinois to South Dakota with professional movers for a two-bedroom home generally falls between $2,000 and $4,600.*Figures assume a 2–3 bedroom household and one–six days for delivery. Your price and schedule will vary by home size, mileage, and time of year.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from Illinois to South Dakota is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Who are the best movers to move from Illinois to South Dakota?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from Illinois to South Dakota is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from Illinois to South Dakota below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
|
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Illinois to South Dakota
We typically suggest booking a professional, long-distance mover for your Illinois to South Dakota move, because pros are prepared to handle the planning and paperwork that can pop up over 715 miles. From our evaluation of 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team identified 2,642 (83%) that handle interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts selected the top companies prepared to handle your move from Illinois to South Dakota.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to South Dakota?
It costs between $2,000–$6,900 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from Illinois to South Dakota. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to South Dakota?
Moving from Illinois to South Dakota can cost anywhere from $1,112–$5,830, but most people pay around $2,006–$4,568 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,112 – $3,507 | $730 – $1,616 | $489 – $908 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,006 – $5,117 | $1,240 – $2,552 | $501 – $1,144 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,558 – $6,942 | $1,626 – $3,218 | $667 – $1,294 |
These are approximate estimates for a 715-mile move from IL to SD using moveBuddha pricing data as of Jan 30, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $2,006 – $5,117 to hire a moving company to move you from Illinois to South Dakota. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,112 – $3,507
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,006 – $5,117
- 4+ bedrooms: $3,558 – $6,942
How much do moving containers cost from Illinois to South Dakota?
Using a moving container from Illinois to South Dakota costs, on average, $1,240 – $2,552. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $730 – $1,616
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,240 – $2,552
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,626 – $3,218
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from Illinois to South Dakota will costs you between $501 – $1,144, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $489 – $908
- 2–3 bedrooms: $501 – $1,144
- 4+ bedrooms: $667 – $1,294
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from Illinois to South Dakota, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from IL to SD?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in South Dakota — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,179 in Illinois to $878 in South Dakota, and average home values go from $249,224 to $306,944.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (90 vs. 100), unemployment (5.3% vs. 1.9%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.82% vs. 6.4%) and state income tax (4.95% vs. 0.0%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| Illinois | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,179 | $878 |
| Average home cost | $249,224 | $306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,433 | $69,457 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | 1.9% |
| Average sales tax | 8.82% | 6.4% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 0.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in South Dakota?
Rent is about 26% lower in South Dakota than in Illinois.
Avg rent: $1,179 vs. $878
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 23% higher in South Dakota than in Illinois.
Avg home value: $249,224 vs. $306,944
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 11% lower in South Dakota than in Illinois.
Avg income (per capita): $78,433 vs. $69,457
Is the overall cost of living higher in South Dakota?
The cost of living is 11% higher in South Dakota than in Illinois.
Cost of living index: 90 vs. 100
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 27% lower in South Dakota than in Illinois.
Avg sales tax: 8.82% vs. 6.4%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
South Dakota has no state income tax, so you may keep more of your paycheck compared to Illinois.
State income tax: 4.95% vs. 0.0%
How is daily life different in South Dakota compared to Illinois?
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing — it’s about how daily life will feel.
| South Dakota | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 919,318 | 12,549,689 |
| Political leaning | Republican 63-37 | Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high | 85ºF | 86ºF |
| Winter low | 7ºF | 17ºF |
| Annual rain | 23″ | 40″ |
| Annual snow | 39″ | 22″ |
| Crime index | 21.14 | 19.7 |
Will South Dakota feel more crowded than Illinois?
South Dakota is about 93% less populous than Illinois — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, South Dakota voted Republican while Illinois voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (85°F vs. 86°F).
Winter: South Dakota is colder on average (7°F vs. 17°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in South Dakota?
Rain: South Dakota gets less rain (23″ vs. 40″).
Snow: South Dakota gets more snow (39 inches vs. 22 inches).
Is South Dakota safer than Illinois?
South Dakota has a higher crime index than Illinois (21.14 vs. 19.7). Research neighborhoods to find the best fit.
What are some things to do in South Dakota?
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Illinois to South Dakota move
- HOA rules: Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
- Parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a South Dakota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in South Dakota, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance free of charge. 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Book your building’s elevator early.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in South Dakota?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in South Dakota?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a South Dakota moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in South Dakota?
You don’t need a moving permit in South Dakota.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance free of charge. 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.
Some movers in Illinois offer discounts: 1 AAA discounts; 1 military discounts; 2 senior discounts;
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Handy Moving Resources
Illinois Moving Services
Frequently Traveled Illinois Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!