Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,041) Cost to Move From St. Louis, MO to Columbus, OH

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 416 mile move from St. Louis to Columbus, costs typically range from $377 to $4,834. Plan for the travel time to be around one–four days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from St. Louis to Columbus

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from St. Louis to Columbus

If you want to simplify your interstate move from St. Louis to Columbus, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 11 interstate moving companies located in St. Louis, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Columbus seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from St. Louis to Columbus

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 416-mile move from St. Louis to Columbus using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,086 – $3,467
  • Moving Container $876 – $1,529
  • Rental Truck $347 – $630
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,800 – $4,834
  • Moving Container $1,134 – $2,238
  • Rental Truck $377 – $747
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,963 – $6,909
  • Moving Container $1,488 – $2,803
  • Rental Truck $482 – $971
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.
Budget Truck Rental
Byrnes Mill, MO Harrisburg, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 17, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Weldon Spring Heights, MO Westerville, OH
3 Bedrooms
Oct 15, 2025
Safeway Moving
Lakeshire, MO Jeffersonville, OH
4 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
United Van Lines
Old Jamestown, MO Frankfort, OH
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 13, 2025
BLVD Moving
Sunset Hills, MO Sparta, OH
Studio apartment
Sep 12, 2025
PODS
Pasadena Park, MO Chesterville, OH
2 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Bridgeton, MO Magnetic Springs, OH
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 24, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Herculaneum, MO Hilliard, OH
3 Bedrooms
Aug 23, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Webster Groves, MO Powell, OH
3 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
American Van Lines
Pevely, MO Worthington, OH
4 Bedrooms
Aug 06, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbus, OH to St. Louis, MO guide.

The best local movers for St. Louis to Columbus moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in St. Louis that also handles long-distance moves to Columbus. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 13 local movers in St. Louis who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from St. Louis to Columbus.

  1. Arch Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.7 out of 5 stars
  3. Simple Moves: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. McGuire Moving and Storage: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  5. ABC Quality Moving & Storage: 4.56 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
57.9% of all reviews were positive
32.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input reveals Arch Moving stands out for efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling—traits that rank it higher than many competitors. Out of 76 reviews analyzed, 58% were positive. Customers highlight quick moving, helpful movers, and care for belongings as main strengths. On the other hand, 33% of input cited problems, mainly damage to items, inexperienced movers, and lack of communication. Multiple customers experienced property or item damage, with some reports of lost items and unsatisfactory claims processes. Others found crews lacking experience or communication lacking, particularly from office staff. While many noted friendly, hardworking movers and fast, well-organized moves, negative feedback points to greater risk of damage or mishandling than top-rated moving companies. Those seeking value and efficiency often found the service met or exceeded expectations, yet those who value reliability and item safety should proceed with caution and discuss coverage and experience with the company before booking.
Get a Quote (314) 964-5557

Company Info

State license #: 2969512

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 2969512

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.9% of all reviews were positive
21.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made simple: feedback from 361 reviewers shows two out of three customers raved about Two Men and a Truck’s speed, careful handling, and positive, professional attitude. Three out of four reviews praised efficient service, noting teams that work quickly while respecting belongings and property. Customers repeatedly mention helpful staff making moves less stressful. On the downside, about 22% flagged issues, with damaged items as the top concern. Some reported belongings arrived scratched or broken, while others found their final bills exceeded estimates by hundreds of dollars. Delays or late arrivals also frustrated a portion of customers. Compared to many movers, Two Men and a Truck earns higher marks for courtesy and efficiency, but shoppers sensitive to cost or worried about valuables should stay vigilant and clarify terms before moving day.
Get a Quote (314) 270-5758

Company Info

State license #: 714664

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.4% of all reviews were positive
16.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Simple Moves racks up an impressive 82% positive feedback across 450 customer reviews, with just under 17% reporting negative experiences. Clients praise the company’s efficient service, careful handling of belongings, professional and polite staff, quick moving times, and affordable rates. Many remark on how the team completes moves swiftly while maintaining great care and friendliness, often outperforming bigger-name competitors on both price and customer service. On the downside, the majority of criticisms mention damage to furniture or property, delayed arrivals or missed time windows, and a lack of follow-up or response from management when issues arose. While most find the moving crews helpful and reliable, those with more complex moves or high-value items should note the feedback on inconsistent packing quality and rare breakdowns in communication. Compared to other movers, Simple Moves stands out for affordability and efficiency but, like most budget-friendly services, careful attention to special handling details may require clear advance coordination.
Get a Quote (314) 963-3416

Company Info

State license #: 1653733

Pricing: $145/hr

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 1653733

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.3% of all reviews were positive
16.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input paints McGuire Moving and Storage as a leader for professionalism and skilled handling. Of 130 reviews, 82% were favorable, with clients praising the courteous staff, careful approach, efficiency, and effective communication. The company’s teams consistently earn recommendations, with multiple customers reporting stress-free and damage-free moves. Negative feedback, making up about 17%, centers on item damage, lost belongings, and select instances of unprofessionalism or poor service recovery. Despite a few cases of unresolved issues, customers more often highlight reliability and a hands-on approach not easily found with competitors. McGuire sets itself apart by maintaining a highly praised team and strong follow-up, though, on rare occasions, resolution on damage or loss lags behind client expectations.
Get a Quote (314) 241-0600

Company Info

State license #: 2256609

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 2256609

Alternate Names: McGuire Moving Co.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
83.7% of all reviews were positive
16.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call ABC Quality Moving & Storage a top pick for efficient moves, friendly crews, and professional handling, with 263 reviews showing 83.7% positive feedback. People highlight how quickly movers work, their politeness, and care with belongings. Many say teams go above and beyond—packing thoroughly and sharing a helpful attitude. Customers also praise how approachable the staff is and report competitive, transparent pricing compared to other movers. On the other hand, negative input makes it clear damage to items happens more often than expected, and reports of unprofessional behavior and missed deadlines appear in several reviews. Some say response to complaints or claims lags, or that movers lacked care when handling furniture and property. Service reliability and professionalism seem above average for the local market, but unresolved damage and communication problems place ABC behind standout companies. Clients looking for fast, careful service will likely enjoy a smooth experience; those who value guarantee against mishaps or perfect support post-move should review terms closely before booking.
Get a Quote (314) 772-1887

Company Info

State license #: 987335

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 987335

Alternate Names: ABC Quality Moving

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from St. Louis to Columbus?

The average hourly rate for movers in Missouri is $128. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,041 – $3,073 $664 – $1,547 $343 – $650
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,800 – $4,834 $1,134 – $2,238 $377 – $747
4+ bedrooms $2,963 – $6,909 $1,488 – $2,803 $482 – $971
*Approximate cost ranges for a 416-mile move from St. Louis to Columbus are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from St. Louis to Columbus

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from St. Louis to Columbus will cost between $1,041 and $3,073. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from St. Louis to St. Louis will range from $1,800 to $4,834, and a large move from St. Louis to Columbus will cost from $2,963 to $6,909.

Cost of moving containers from St. Louis to Columbus

If you’re moving from St. Louis to Columbus, expect to pay between $664 and $1,547 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,134 up to $2,238. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,488 and $2,803. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Missouri.

Cost of moving truck rentals from St. Louis to Columbus

Renting a moving truck from St. Louis to Columbus is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $343 and $650. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $377 and $747. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $482 up to $971 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from St. Louis to Columbus

The cost of St. Louis movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,360, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $5,514.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in St. Louis, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($343–$868) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from St. Louis to Columbus

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Columbus runs about 8% higher for singles and 10% higher for families than St. Louis.

Singles spend around $2,784 in St. Louis versus $2,589 in St. Louis; families pay $7,249 compared with $6,573.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

St. Louis Columbus
Average 1 BR rent $1,567
Average 3 BR rent $2,957
Average home value $171,463 $238,832
Average income (per capita) $66,090 $65,075
Cost of living (single) $2,589 $2,784
Cost of living (family of four) $6,573 $7,249
Unemployment rate 6.3% 5.7%
Sales tax 9.68% 7.5%
State income tax 4.8% 3.5%
  • Rent is estimated to be 15% higher in Columbus compared to St. Louis; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 39% greater in Columbus than in St. Louis.
  • Fortunately, the average income in Columbus and St. Louis is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Columbus, since the cost of living for a single person in Columbus is 8% higher than in St. Louis. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • When relocating to Columbus, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Columbus is 10% greater than in St. Louis.
  • Columbus enjoys an unemployment rate that’s roughly 10% lower compared to St. Louis, suggesting better job prospects and a dynamic economy—an appealing prospect for new residents.
  • Sales taxes drop 23% in Columbus compared to St. Louis, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
  • Income taxes are 27% less in Ohio than in Missouri. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between St. Louis and Columbus:

Living Expense St. Louis Columbus
Basic utilities $263.89
Cell phone plan $60.77
Dozen eggs $3.21
Loaf of bread $2.98
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $80.00
Gym membership $46.25

How life is different in St. Louis vs. Columbus

St. Louis Columbus
Population 293,310 905,748
Transportation score 8 5
Walkability score 66 41
Bike friendliness score 58 48
Crime index 69.65 49.65
Safety index 30.35 50.35
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Columbus’s population is about 209% greater than St. Louis.
  • Columbus’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than St. Louis’s score of 8.
  • Columbus is less walkable than St. Louis with a score of 41 out of 100 vs St. Louis’s 66 out of 100.
  • Columbus has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as St. Louis, which has a score of 58.
  • Columbus’s crime rate is lower than St. Louis with a score of 49.65 compared to St. Louis’s 69.65. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 49.65% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and St. Louis neighborhoods are safer than 69.65%.
  • Columbus is considered to be safer than St. Louis with a safety index of 50.35 vs St. Louis’s 30.35.
  • Air quality in Columbus is Good, and in St. Louis it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your St. Louis to Columbus move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Ohio moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Ohio doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Columbus. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Columbus

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to The Arch City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Columbus.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Short North
  • Victorian Village
  • Clintonville
  • Grandview Heights
  • Ashville
  • Dublin

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bexley
  • Clintonville
  • Gahanna
  • Hilliard
  • Upper Arlington

Things to do in Columbus

Once you’re settled into your new home in Ohio, it’s time to get out and discover what Columbus has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Columbus, such as the Beeler Gallery, Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, Central Ohio Fire Museum, and Columbus Historical Society.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Scioto Mile, Topiary Garden, and Schiller Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Columbus Crew (MLS)Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA)Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)Columbus Clippers (AAAE) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from St. Louis to Columbus?

The best time to move from St. Louis to Columbus is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in St. Louis.

When is the cheapest time to move from St. Louis to Columbus?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from St. Louis to Columbus, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from St. Louis to Columbus take?

Moving from St. Louis, MO to Columbus, covers 416 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some St. Louis movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Columbus.

Which movers in St. Louis give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in St. Louis?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 9 movers in St. Louis advertise piano moving expertise. 5 movers in St. Louis provide antique moving services. State totals show 38 piano movers and 22 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle