Des Moines, IA to Columbia, SC Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Des Moines to Columbia typically costs $3,000–$6,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,091 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Des Moines to Columbia
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Columbia, SC typically costs $3,000–$6,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,091-mile move from Des Moines to Columbia, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $5,001 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $6,546 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $3,074 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 03, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 27, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 15, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 21, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 04, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 29, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Des Moines to Columbia move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,500 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,900 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Des Moines.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $800 to $2,200, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbia, SC to Des Moines, IA guide.
Best Des Moines to Columbia movers by type
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Best professional movers from Des Moines to Columbia
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Des Moines to Columbia much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IA→SC movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 37 Iowa movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- 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%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Des Moines to Columbia
Overall, Des Moines and Columbia land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.
Singles average $1,956 in Columbia and $1,891 in Des Moines, while families in Columbia see $4,274 versus $4,380 in Des Moines.
Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:
| Des Moines | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,229 | $1,300 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,763 | $2,220 |
| Average home value | $192,347 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,492 | $64,683 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,891 | $1,956 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,380 | $4,274 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.4% | 7.0% |
- Planning a move to Columbia? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 26% higher than in Des Moines, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Columbia are about 15% higher than those in Des Moines.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 11% higher in Columbia compared to Des Moines, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Since the cost of living for a single person in both Columbia and Des Moines is within a 5% difference, your expenses will be quite similar.
- The cost of living for a family is within about 5% of the same in Columbia and Des Moines, so you probably won’t see a major difference in expenses.
- The unemployment rate in Columbia is about 12% lower than in Des Moines. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in Columbia are 14% more than in Des Moines, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 59% above those in Iowa. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Des Moines and Columbia:
| Living Expense | Des Moines | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $144.82 | $148.09 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.25 | $54.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.61 | $3.46 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.50 | $2.65 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $66.67 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Des Moines than in Columbia, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Des Moines than in Columbia.
- Eggs cost more in Des Moines than in Columbia.
- Bread costs less in Des Moines than in Columbia.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Des Moines than in Columbia.
- Gym memberships cost more in Des Moines than in Columbia.
How life is different in Des Moines vs. Columbia
| Des Moines | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 699,292 | 136,632 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 39 | 35 |
| Crime index | 5.0 | 3.0 |
| Safety index | 57.8 | 48.39 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Columbia's population is about 80% less than Des Moines.
- Columbia's public transportation score is within about 5% of Des Moines, making them very similar.
- Columbia is less walkable than Des Moines with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Des Moines's 45 out of 100.
- Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Des Moines, which has a score of 39.
- Columbia's crime rate is lower than Des Moines with a score of 3.0 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
- Columbia is considered to be less safe than Des Moines with a score of 48.39 vs Des Moines's 57.8.
- Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Des Moines it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Des Moines to Columbia move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Columbia. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers' insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Columbia
Planning your move to Soda City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Columbia.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cayce
- Seven Oaks
- Forest Acres
- Irmo
- Lexington
- West Columbia
- St. Andrews
- Woodfield
Best neighborhoods for families
- Irmo
- Forest Acres
- Lexington
- Blythewood
- Seven Oaks
- Chapin
- Cayce
- Oak Grove
Things to do in Columbia
After settling into your new South Carolina home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Columbia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children's Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Des Moines to Columbia?
Planning your move from Des Moines to Columbia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Des Moines.
When is the cheapest time to move from Des Moines to Columbia?
Because most people are moving from Des Moines to Columbia in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Des Moines to Columbia take?
The 1,091-mile journey from Des Moines, IA to Columbia, SC, typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Des Moines offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Columbia.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Des Moines?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Des Moines, 10 movers can manage piano relocations. 6 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Iowa has 24 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
