When relocating from Louisiana to South Dakota, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,698 to
$6,317, roughly
$2,475 for a container move, and close to
$1,301
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Louisiana
In Louisiana, you can choose from 23 interstate movers capable of assisting with your move to South Dakota. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in Louisiana. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- Meathead Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Atmosphere Movers: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Lee Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- Acadiana Movers: 4.44 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Packers
Meathead Movers has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Oxnard and LA since 1998. Known for its reliability, the company also offers packing and unpacking services, making it a one-stop solution for your moving needs. With 328 Yelp reviews averaging 4.2 stars and 180 Google reviews with a similar rating, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Meathead Movers stands out compared to other nearby movers. No deposit is required, and they accept both cash and credit cards, providing convenience and peace of mind to their customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 1043891
Alternate Names: Atmosphere Enterprises, LLC
Atmosphere Movers, based in Mandeville, LA, has been a trusted name in local residential moving since 1998. With an impressive Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an average Google rating of 4.8 from 98 reviews, they stand out among nearby competitors. Customers appreciate their comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and piano moving, without requiring a deposit. Their stellar reputation on platforms like Yelp, where they hold an average rating of 4.0, further confirms their reliability and quality of service.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 5382-D
Years in Business: 70
DOT #: 3372702
Lee Moving & Storage, Inc., a trusted local moving company in New Orleans, LA, has been providing reliable residential moving services since 1955. In comparison to other nearby movers, their extensive experience sets them apart. They boast an impressive Google rating of 4.8 based on 138 reviews and maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, though their Yelp reviews show room for improvement. Lee Moving & Storage offers a range of services including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized moves for pianos, hot tubs, and antiques, making them a comprehensive choice for local residents.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 7915
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck, serving Lafayette, LA and surrounding areas since 2012, has built a solid reputation for local residential moving services. Unlike many nearby moving companies, they boast a high Google My Business rating of 4.8 from 393 reviews and an A+ BBB rating, indicating high customer satisfaction. Specialized in both packing and unpacking services, they also provide labor-only assistance, ensuring a flexible moving experience. With no deposit required and easy credit card acceptance, Two Men and a Truck stands out as a reliable and customer-friendly choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 1996186
Acadiana Movers, established in 2011, offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around Lafayette, LA, setting them apart from many nearby moving companies. Their comprehensive offerings include office moving, packing and unpacking services, and specialized handling of pianos, art, and antiques. With a stellar Google rating averaging 4.5 from 116 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out as a reliable and reputable choice for local moves. Despite a lower rating on Yelp, their overall positive feedback and extensive service options make them a strong contender in the local moving industry.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
The best Louisiana to South Dakota moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to save money without having to go the full DIY route. While you’ll have to handle loading and unloading, the container company has you covered on transportation. They’ll pick up your pod in Louisiana and drop it off at your new home in South Dakota.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best Louisiana to South Dakota moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from Louisiana to South Dakota, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat equity, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
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The best Louisiana to South Dakota labor-only movers
If you need some extra muscle to load your belongings into a rental truck or container, labor-only movers are a smart choice. You get a crew that’s the right size for your move, and you only have to pay for the time it takes them to load.
For a smooth move from Louisiana to South Dakota, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your LA to SD move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 32 Louisiana moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
- Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
- Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Louisiana to South Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Louisiana to South Dakota. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,154 – $4,999 | $894 – $2,325 | $769 – $1,607 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,698 – $6,317 | $1,598 – $3,353 | $874 – $1,729 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,559 – $8,670 | $2,302 – $4,322 | $1,111 – $2,287 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,301-mile move from LA to SD using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Louisiana to South Dakota
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Louisiana to South Dakota typically costs between $1,154 and $4,999. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,698 and $6,317 when moving from LA to SD. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Louisiana to South Dakota, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,559 up to $8,670.
Cost of moving containers from Louisiana to South Dakota
If you’re relocating from Louisiana to South Dakota, you’ll typically spend between $894 and $2,325 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,598 up to $3,353. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,302 and $4,322. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Louisiana.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Louisiana to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $769 and $1,607. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $874 to $1,729. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,111 and $2,287.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from LA to SD
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Louisiana to South Dakota. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
- Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
- Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Louisiana, which usually means higher prices.
- Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from LA to SD
Transitioning from Louisiana to South Dakota gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Louisiana vs. South Dakota
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Louisiana and South Dakota are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
| Louisiana | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $996 | $878 |
| Average home cost | $201,519 | $306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) | $57,852 | $69,457 |
| Cost of living index | 92 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 1.9% |
| Average sales tax | 7.0% | 6.4% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 0.0% |
- Rent is about 12% less expensive in South Dakota than in Louisiana, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in South Dakota are roughly 52% higher than in Louisiana.
- Good news — you can expect to earn about 20% more in South Dakota than in Louisiana. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
- Moving to South Dakota means you’ll be spending 9% more than you did in Louisiana. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
- With an unemployment rate roughly 54% lower than Louisiana, South Dakota offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
- Sales tax in South Dakota is 9% lower than in Louisiana, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
- South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Louisiana. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Louisiana
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how South Dakota and Louisiana compare.
| South Dakota | Louisiana | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 919,318 | 4,573,749 |
| Political leaning | Republican 63-37 | Republican 60.2-38.2 |
| Summer high | 85ºF | 92ºF |
| Winter low | 7ºF | 39ºF |
| Annual rain | 23″ | 60″ |
| Annual snow | 39″ | 0″ |
| Crime index | 21.14 | 33.77 |
- With a population roughly 80% smaller than Louisiana, South Dakota gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses. Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
- The last presidential election saw both Louisiana and South Dakota siding with the Republican party.
- The average summer high in South Dakota is 85°F compared to 92°F in Louisiana. A cooler summer climate means less extreme heat, lower energy costs, and more comfortable outdoor time — great for anyone who values comfort.
- In the coldest months, South Dakota dips to about 7°F, colder than 39°F in Louisiana. Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
- In South Dakota, you’ll get about 23 inches of rain each year, less than the 60 inches you’re used to in Louisiana. That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
- South Dakota gets about 39 inches of snow each year, while Louisiana sees none. Moving to South Dakota means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- South Dakota boasts a lower crime rate than Louisiana, with a crime index of 21.14 compared to 33.77. This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Louisiana vs. South Dakota
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in South Dakota to Louisiana:
| Pros of living in Louisiana | Pros of living in South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Outstanding tax benefits |
| Delicious regional food | Robust job market |
| Diverse culture | Low cost of living |
| Fun outdoor activities | Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Cajun culture | Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Louisiana vs. South Dakota
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Louisiana to South Dakota:
| Cons of living in Louisiana | Cons of living in South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Extreme weather | Extreme weather |
| Pesky wildlife and insects | Small-town mindset |
| Limited economic opportunities | Sparsely populated |
| High crime rate | Strange and offensive laws |
| Hot humidity | Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Louisiana to South Dakota move
- HOA rules: Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
- 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 your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in South Dakota, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to South Dakota. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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 your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get excited to explore South Dakota. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
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
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Louisiana to South Dakota?
If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service Louisiana moving company is the way to go, even if it costs a bit more. Looking to save money? Try renting a moving truck or going with a moving container, but be prepared to do more of the heavy lifting yourself. Want to spend even less? Check out our tips for the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Louisiana to South Dakota?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from Louisiana to South Dakota separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Louisiana to South Dakota?
Many people are making the move from Louisiana to South Dakota to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in South Dakota has to offer, like outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in Louisiana or South Dakota?
Living in Louisiana usually costs less than in South Dakota. Housing is much more affordable in Louisiana, with average rent about 13% less and home prices 34% lower than in South Dakota. However, taxes are lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Louisiana residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
Planning to move to South Dakota? A single adult should aim for an income of around $62,655 to live comfortably. Monthly costs average $2,529 for an individual, or $5,562 for a family of four. Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Louisiana?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Louisiana: 1 movers offer AAA member savings; 1 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
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