When relocating from South Dakota to Alabama, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,309 to
$7,543, roughly
$2,436 for a container move, and close to
$1,348
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in South Dakota
In South Dakota, you can choose from 10 interstate movers capable of assisting with your move to Alabama. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in South Dakota. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Brouwer Relocation Inc: 4.38 out of 5 stars
- Movin’ On Out Inc: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- Green’s Moving & Storage: 4.34 out of 5 stars
- North Western Movers: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2575221
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2527384
Two Men and a Truck offers highly reputable local residential moving services in and around Sioux Falls, SD, having served the community since 2016. This company stands out among other local movers for its comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for pianos and safes, all without requiring a deposit. With an impressive Google rating of 4.8 from 331 reviews, a solid 4.0 rating on Yelp, and an A+ BBB rating, customers frequently commend their professionalism and reliability. Two Men and a Truck is an excellent choice for those seeking trustworthy and efficient local movers in Sioux Falls.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 125550
Years in Business: 55
DOT #: 125550
Brouwer Relocation Inc has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Sioux Falls, SD since 1970. Unlike many nearby movers, Brouwer Relocation boasts a stellar reputation with an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 715 reviews on Google and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, although they have a lower average on Yelp. The company also provides comprehensive packing and unpacking services, along with specialized moving for hot tubs, pool tables, and antiques, ensuring every aspect of your move is handled with care. With no deposit required and shipment tracking available, Brouwer Relocation stands out as a reliable and convenient choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 1201875
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 1201875
Movin’ On Out Inc, operating since 2004, specializes in local residential moving services in and around Sioux Falls, SD. Their reputation is bolstered by strong consumer feedback, including an average rating of 4.4 on Google from 44 reviews and a stellar A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Unlike some nearby movers, they also offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services, and can handle delicate items like pianos and antiques. For customers seeking reliability and a range of specialized moving solutions, Movin’ On Out Inc stands out as a reputable choice within the local market.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
Years in Business: 72
DOT #: 207599
Green’s Moving & Storage, serving Rapid City, SD since 1953, excels in local residential moving services with a steadfast reputation. Unlike many nearby movers, they offer comprehensive packing and unpacking services and can handle specialized moves such as pianos and pool tables. Their credibility is bolstered by an impressive 4.7 average rating from 18 Google reviews and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, even though a lone Yelp review suggests otherwise. For clients seeking a dependable and established moving company, Green’s Moving & Storage stands out as a solid choice, accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 93
Alternate Names: Allied Van Lines, Inc
North Western Movers, a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Rapid City, SD, has been reliably serving the community since 1932. In comparison to other nearby moving companies, North Western Movers stands out with their extensive experience and top-notch customer satisfaction, boasting a Yelp rating of 4.8 and a Google My Business rating of 4.3. Their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau further underscores their commitment to quality service. Specializing in not just residential moves, they also offer office moving, packing, unpacking, and crating services, along with the ability to move pianos and hot tubs. Accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit, North Western Movers ensures a convenient and stress-free moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
The best South Dakota to Alabama 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 South Dakota and drop it off at your new home in Alabama.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best South Dakota to Alabama moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from South Dakota to Alabama, 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 South Dakota to Alabama 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 South Dakota to Alabama, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to AL move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 12 South Dakota 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 South Dakota to Alabama?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from South Dakota to Alabama. 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 | $1,398 – $5,597 | $904 – $2,350 | $781 – $1,476 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,309 – $7,543 | $1,716 – $3,157 | $887 – $1,810 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,467 – $10,112 | $2,127 – $4,278 | $1,115 – $2,207 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,299-mile move from SD to AL 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 South Dakota to Alabama
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Alabama typically costs between $1,398 and $5,597. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,309 and $7,543 when moving from SD to AL. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from South Dakota to Alabama, you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,467 up to $10,112.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Alabama
If you’re relocating from South Dakota to Alabama, you’ll typically spend between $904 and $2,350 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,716 up to $3,157. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $2,127 and $4,278. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from South Dakota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Dakota to Alabama
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 $781 and $1,476. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $887 to $1,810. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,115 and $2,207.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to AL
Several factors can influence your moving costs from South Dakota to Alabama. 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 South Dakota, 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 SD to AL
Transitioning from South Dakota to Alabama gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. Alabama
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between South Dakota and Alabama are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
| South Dakota | Alabama | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $878 | $925 |
| Average home cost | $306,944 | $227,508 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,457 | $59,609 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 88 |
| Unemployment rate | 1.9% | 2.9% |
| Average sales tax | 6.4% | 9.22% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 5.0% |
- Your budget won’t be hit too hard when you move to Alabama from South Dakota with rent being about the same in each state.
- Home prices in Alabama are about 26% lower than in South Dakota, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
- Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in Alabama are roughly 14% lower than in South Dakota.
- Moving to Alabama costs about 12% less than living in South Dakota. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
- Unemployment in Alabama is about 53% higher than in South Dakota. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
- Sales tax in Alabama runs 44% higher than in South Dakota, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
- Alabama has a state income tax, while South Dakota does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in Alabama vs. South Dakota
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 Alabama and South Dakota compare.
| Alabama | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,108,468 | 919,318 |
| Political leaning | Republican 65-35 | Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 33ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 56″ | 23″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 39″ |
| Crime index | 21.48 | 21.14 |
- If you’re moving from South Dakota to Alabama, you’ll find Alabama has about 456% more people. That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
- The last presidential election saw both South Dakota and Alabama siding with the Republican party.
- The average summer high in Alabama is 91°F compared to 85°F in South Dakota. A hotter climate brings more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but be prepared for higher cooling bills and a warmer adjustment period.
- In winter, Alabama drops only to 33°F, milder than 7°F in South Dakota. That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
- Get ready for about 56 inches of rain each year in Alabama. That’s quite a change from the 23 inches you’re used to back in South Dakota. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
- In Alabama, it only snows about 1 inch annually while South Dakota gets 39 inches. Moving to Alabama, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
- Alabama and South Dakota share similar crime rates (21.14). However, crime can vary greatly between different cities and neighborhoods within each state, so be sure to look into local crime data for a clearer picture.
Comparing the pros of South Dakota vs. Alabama
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Alabama to South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota | Pros of living in Alabama |
|---|---|
| Outstanding tax benefits | Low cost of living |
| Robust job market | Tasty southern comfort food |
| Low cost of living | Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful rural landscapes | Top-notch college football |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities | Rich history |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. Alabama
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from South Dakota to Alabama:
| Cons of living in South Dakota | Cons of living in Alabama |
|---|---|
| Extreme weather | Poor quality of life |
| Small-town mindset | Severe weather |
| Sparsely populated | Restrictive alcohol laws |
| Strange and offensive laws | Poor healthcare |
| Unpredictable weather | Cockroaches |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Alabama 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: To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a Alabama moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in Alabama, 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 Alabama. 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. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
- 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 Alabama
Get excited to explore Alabama. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Alabama
- Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
- U.S. Space and Rocket Center
- Battleship USS ALABAMA
- Legacy Museum
- Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Parks in Alabama
- Gulf State Park
- Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
- Sipsey Wilderness
- The Wharf
- Orange Beach Waterfront Park
Sports teams in Alabama
- Auburn Tigers (NCAA)
- Alabama Crimson Tide (NCAA)
- AFC Mobile (NPSL)
- Dixie Derby Girls (WFTDA)
- Birmingham Squadron (NBA G League)
Universities in Alabama
- The University of Alabama
- Auburn University
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham
- The University of Alabama in Huntsville
- Samford University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to Alabama?
If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service South Dakota 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 South Dakota to Alabama?
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 South Dakota to Alabama separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to Alabama?
Many people are making the move from South Dakota to Alabama to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Alabama has to offer, like low cost of living and tasty southern comfort food.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or Alabama?
Living in Alabama usually costs less than in South Dakota. Housing is more affordable in Alabama, with average rent about 5% less and home prices 26% lower than in South Dakota. The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and Alabama.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Alabama?
Planning to move to Alabama? A single adult should aim for an income of around $50,117 to live comfortably. Monthly costs average $2,494 for an individual, or $4,812 for a family of four. Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Huntsville and Montgomery usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
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