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South Dakota to Kentucky Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- Moving from South Dakota to Kentucky with professional movers for a two-bedroom home generally falls between $2,800 and $6,600.*Figures assume a 2–3 bedroom household and two–eight 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 South Dakota to Kentucky 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.
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Who are the best movers to move from South Dakota to Kentucky?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from South Dakota to Kentucky 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 South Dakota to Kentucky 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.
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Best professional movers from South Dakota to Kentucky
We typically suggest booking a professional, long-distance mover for your South Dakota to Kentucky move, because pros are prepared to handle the planning and paperwork that can pop up over 1,118 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 South Dakota to Kentucky.
- 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
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from South Dakota to Kentucky?
It costs between $2,800–$9,300 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from South Dakota to Kentucky. 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.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,118-mile move from SD to
KY using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Feb 03, 2026.
moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified prices from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset monthly to account for seasonality and market shifts. Your actual cost can change based on home size, add-on services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several movers for the most accurate estimate.
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Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Colonial Van Lines
Salem, SD
›
Eminence, KY
Studio apartment
Jan 12, 2026
$2,431
1-800-Pack-Rat
Lake Preston, SD
›
Waverly, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 09, 2026
$1,558
Allied Van Lines
Rosholt, SD
›
West Point, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 08, 2026
$4,407
Budget Truck Rental
Humboldt, SD
›
Beaver Dam, KY
Studio apartment
Jan 03, 2026
$806
PODS
Bruce, SD
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Crestview, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 22, 2025
$3,184
North American Van Lines
Fairview, SD
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St. Charles, KY
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 06, 2025
$4,876
Safeway Moving
Trent, SD
›
Woodlawn, KY
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 12, 2025
$7,097
American Van Lines
Farmer, SD
›
South Carrollton, KY
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 04, 2025
$3,959
Mayflower Transit
Bridgewater, SD
›
Erlanger, KY
4 Bedrooms
Nov 02, 2025
$7,122
Joyce Van Lines
Canton, SD
›
Williamsburg, KY
4 Bedrooms
Oct 29, 2025
$6,593
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from South Dakota to Kentucky?
Moving from South Dakota to Kentucky can cost anywhere from $1,330–$8,154, but most people pay around $2,779–$6,619 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,330 – $5,328 | $835 – $1,997 | $664 – $1,341 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,779 – $6,589 | $1,510 – $2,870 | $740 – $1,533 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,031 – $9,330 | $1,961 – $3,985 | $875 – $1,848 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,118-mile move from SD to KY using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 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 $2,779 – $6,589 to hire a moving company to move you from South Dakota to Kentucky. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,330 – $5,328
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,779 – $6,589
- 4+ bedrooms: $5,031 – $9,330
How much do moving containers cost from South Dakota to Kentucky?
Using a moving container from South Dakota to Kentucky costs, on average, $1,510 – $2,870. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $835 – $1,997
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,510 – $2,870
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,961 – $3,985
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from South Dakota to Kentucky will costs you between $740 – $1,533, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $664 – $1,341
- 2–3 bedrooms: $740 – $1,533
- 4+ bedrooms: $875 – $1,848
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 South Dakota to Kentucky, 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 SD to KY?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Kentucky — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $878 in South Dakota to $902 in Kentucky, and average home values go from $306,944 to $212,088.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (100 vs. 93), unemployment (1.9% vs. 5.0%), and taxes — including average sales tax (6.4% vs. 6.0%) and state income tax (0.0% vs. 4.0%). 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.
| South Dakota | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $878 | $902 |
| Average home cost | $306,944 | $212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,457 | $60,183 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 93 |
| Unemployment rate | 1.9% | 5.0% |
| Average sales tax | 6.4% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 4.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in Kentucky?
Rent is about the same in South Dakota and Kentucky.
Avg rent: $878 vs. $902
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 31% lower in Kentucky than in South Dakota.
Avg home value: $306,944 vs. $212,088
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 13% lower in Kentucky than in South Dakota.
Avg income (per capita): $69,457 vs. $60,183
Is the overall cost of living higher in Kentucky?
The cost of living is 7% lower in Kentucky than in South Dakota.
Cost of living index: 100 vs. 93
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 6% lower in Kentucky than in South Dakota.
Avg sales tax: 6.4% vs. 6.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Kentucky has a state income tax, while South Dakota does not — plan for higher paycheck deductions.
State income tax: 0.0% vs. 4.0%
How is daily life different in Kentucky compared to South Dakota?
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing — it’s about how daily life will feel.
| Kentucky | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,526,154 | 919,318 |
| Political leaning | Republican 64.6-33.9 | Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 24ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 48″ | 23″ |
| Annual snow | 11″ | 39″ |
| Crime index | 16.63 | 21.14 |
Will Kentucky feel more crowded than South Dakota?
Kentucky is about 392% more populous than South Dakota — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both South Dakota and Kentucky voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (87°F vs. 85°F).
Winter: Kentucky is milder on average (24°F vs. 7°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Kentucky?
Rain: Kentucky gets more rain (48″ vs. 23″).
Snow: Kentucky gets less snow (11 inches vs. 39 inches).
Is Kentucky safer than South Dakota?
Kentucky has a lower crime index than South Dakota (16.63 vs. 21.14), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Kentucky?
Museums in Kentucky
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Ark Encounter
- National Corvette Museum
- The National Quilt Museum
Parks in Kentucky
- Smothers Park
- Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Red River Gorge Geological Area
- Freeman Lake Park
Sports teams in Kentucky
- Bellarmine Knights (NCAA)
- Eastern Kentucky Colonels (NCAA)
- Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
- Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
- Morehead State Eagles (NCAA)
Universities in Kentucky
- University of Kentucky
- University of Louisville
- Western Kentucky University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Georgetown College
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Kentucky 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: Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers. Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each. The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a Kentucky moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in Kentucky, 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. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- 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 Kentucky?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Kentucky?
Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers. Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each. The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Kentucky moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Kentucky?
You don’t need a moving permit in Kentucky.
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. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
Discount availability varies by mover.
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Handy Moving Resources
South Dakota Moving Services
Frequently Traveled South Dakota Routes
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