When relocating from California to South Carolina, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,530 to
$7,283, roughly
$3,519 for a container move, and close to
$2,330
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in California
In California, you can choose from 309 interstate movers capable of assisting with your move to South Carolina. To help, we’ve rounded up the best local movers in California. Each company on our list is known for transparent pricing, solid customer reviews, and outstanding service.
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Meathead Movers: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Sterling Van Lines: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Grace Moving Company: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- Seka Moving: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
Republic Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around San Diego, CA, since 1995. With a strong reputation bolstered by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and specialized moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and art. Their consumer reviews reflect a solid reputation, with an average rating of 3.8 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google My Business. Unlike many nearby competitors, they also provide storage solutions and full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and secure moving experience.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meathead Movers, Inc. , Princess Packers
Meathead Movers, a reputable moving company serving Fresno, CA since 1998, specializes in local residential moving services with a proven track record reflected by their stellar consumer reviews. With 243 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars and 204 Google My Business reviews averaging 4.4 stars, they have earned an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many local competitors, Meathead Movers also offers packing and unpacking services, accepting both cash and credit cards without requiring a deposit. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and comprehensive service offerings make them a top choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0189566
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 568254
Alternate Names: Sterling Van Lines, Inc.
Sterling Van Lines, established in 1992, offers reliable local residential moving services in and around Bell Gardens, CA. Renowned for their exceptional service, they boast an average Yelp rating of 4.0 from 145 reviews and a Google rating of 4.6 from 231 reviews, along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, they provide comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, fragile-only packing, and the specialized handling of items like pianos, safes, and antiques. Sterling Van Lines accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash, with no deposit required, making them a convenient choice for local moves.
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
Company Info
State license #: 0189642
Years in Business: 26
DOT #: 2806730
Grace Moving Company, based in Modesto, CA, has been reliably serving local residents since 1999, earning a stellar reputation for their top-notch residential moving services. Unlike many competitors, Grace Moving Company also offers specialized services like piano and art moving, packing, unpacking, and crating, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.7 on Google, plus an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, their customer satisfaction speaks volumes. Notably, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and trusted choice for local relocations.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0192497
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3014539
Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation
Seka Moving, serving Los Angeles, CA, since 2019, has quickly built a stellar reputation for local residential moving services. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 from 137 Google reviews and 4.5 from 17 Yelp reviews, this A+ BBB rated company stands out among local competitors. Seka Moving offers a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, crating, and specialized handling for fragile items, pianos, art, and antiques. Clients can also opt for labor-only services, with the convenience of paying via cash, credit cards, or money orders. For those looking for a reliable and highly rated moving partner in Los Angeles, Seka Moving is a top choice.
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
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best California to South Carolina 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 California and drop it off at your new home in South Carolina.
Check out these highly rated moving container companies:
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The best California to South Carolina moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from California to South Carolina, 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 California to South Carolina 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 California to South Carolina, take a look at these top-rated moving labor companies.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to SC move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 362 California 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 California to South Carolina?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from California to South Carolina. 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 | $1,214 – $5,335 | $1,253 – $3,214 | $1,347 – $2,822 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,530 – $7,283 | $2,411 – $4,628 | $1,429 – $3,232 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,773 – $12,094 | $3,287 – $6,291 | $1,918 – $4,121 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,502-mile move from CA to SC 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 California to South Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to South Carolina typically costs between $1,214 and $5,335. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,530 and $7,283 when moving from CA to SC. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from California to South Carolina, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,773 up to $12,094.
Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina
If you’re relocating from California to South Carolina, you’ll typically spend between $1,253 and $3,214 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,411 up to $4,628. If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between $3,287 and $6,291. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to South Carolina
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 $1,347 and $2,822. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,429 to $3,232. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,918 and $4,121.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to SC
Several factors can influence your moving costs from California to South Carolina. 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 California, 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 CA to SC
Transitioning from California to South Carolina gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: California vs. South Carolina
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between California and South Carolina are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
| California | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,856 | $1,065 |
| Average home cost | $771,057 | $295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $63,623 |
| Cost of living index | 134 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | 4.7% |
| Average sales tax | 8.68% | 7.46% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 7.0% |
- Rent is about 43% less expensive in South Carolina than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Home prices in South Carolina are about 62% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
- Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in South Carolina are roughly 31% lower than in California.
- Moving to South Carolina costs about 28% less than living in California. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
- With an unemployment rate roughly 13% lower than California, South Carolina offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
- Sales tax in South Carolina is 14% lower than in California, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
- Income taxes are 47% lower in South Carolina compared to California. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. California
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 Carolina and California compare.
| South Carolina | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,373,555 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Republican 58-42 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 33ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 48″ | 22″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 7″ |
| Crime index | 28.0 | 28.43 |
- With a population roughly 86% smaller than California, South Carolina 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.
- In the last presidential election, South Carolina leaned Republican, while California supported Democratic.
- The average summer high in South Carolina is 91°F, while California averages 87°F. With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
- In the coldest months, South Carolina dips to about 33°F, colder than 59°F in California. Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
- Get ready for about 48 inches of rain each year in South Carolina. That’s quite a change from the 22 inches you’re used to back in California. 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 South Carolina, it only snows about 1 inch annually while California gets 7 inches. Moving to South Carolina, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
- South Carolina and California share similar crime rates (28.43). 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 California vs. South Carolina
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling. Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in South Carolina to California:
| Pros of living in California | Pros of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Ample economic opportunity | Warm southern hospitality |
| Pleasant weather | Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Abundant recreational options | Beautiful landscapes |
| High quality of life | Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Fresh and healthy foods | Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. South Carolina
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from California to South Carolina:
| Cons of living in California | Cons of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | High cost of living |
| Heavy tax burdens | Hurricane frequency |
| Natural disasters | Low quality of healthcare |
| Terrible traffic | High taxes |
| Strange laws | Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your California to South Carolina 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 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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
- State regulator: Quickly check the status of a South Carolina moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: No moving permit is required in South Carolina, 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 Carolina. 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. 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: 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 Carolina
Get excited to explore South Carolina. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in South Carolina
- Fort Sumter National Monument
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- Coastal Discovery Museum
- Brookgreen Gardens
- BMW Zentrum
Parks in South Carolina
- Joe Riley Waterfront Park
- Falls Park on the Reedy
- Kiawah Beachwalker Park
- Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
- Riverfront Park
Sports teams in South Carolina
- Clemson Tigers (NCAA)
- Augusta GreenJackets (Low-A East)
- Charleston Battery (USL Championship)
- Charleston RiverDogs (Low-A East)
- Columbia Fireflies (Low-A East)
Universities in South Carolina
- Clemson University
- University of South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina
- College of Charleston
- Furman University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from California to South Carolina?
If you want a stress-free move, hiring a full-service California 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 California to South Carolina?
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 California to South Carolina separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from California to South Carolina?
Many people are making the move from California to South Carolina to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in South Carolina has to offer, like warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in California or South Carolina?
Living in South Carolina usually costs less than in California. Housing is more affordable in South Carolina, with average rent about 43% less and home prices 62% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in South Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Carolina?
Planning to move to South Carolina? A single adult should aim for an income of around $63,255 to live comfortably. Monthly costs average $3,659 for an individual, or $6,645 for a family of four. Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Charleston and Columbia usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in California: 7 movers offer AAA member savings; 7 provide military discounts; 7 have senior-discount programs; 2 list student deals; 2 advertise educator discounts; 4 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
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