Montgomery, AL to Columbia, SC Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Montgomery to Columbia typically costs $2,100–$5,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 369 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Montgomery to Columbia
Moving from Montgomery, AL to Columbia, SC typically costs $2,100–$5,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 369-mile move from Montgomery to Columbia, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 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
- United Van Lines recently quoted $2,601 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $2,017 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $3,341 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Mar 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 26, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 21, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 18, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 04, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 02, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 26, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 18, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Montgomery to Columbia move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,300 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,400 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Montgomery.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $400 to $900, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbia, SC to Montgomery, AL guide.
Best Montgomery to Columbia movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Montgomery to Columbia
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Montgomery 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 AL→SC movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 46 Alabama 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 Montgomery to Columbia
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Columbia runs about 18% higher for singles and 20% higher for families than Montgomery.
Singles spend around $1,956 in Columbia versus $1,651 in Montgomery; families pay $4,274 compared with $3,569.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Montgomery | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,232 | $1,300 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $1,567 | $2,220 |
| Average home value | $140,563 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $49,989 | $64,683 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,651 | $1,956 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,569 | $4,274 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.8% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 10.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 5.0% | 7.0% |
- Planning a move to Columbia? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 21% higher than in Montgomery, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Columbia are about 57% higher than those in Montgomery.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 29% higher in Columbia compared to Montgomery, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Columbia, as living costs for a single person are 18% higher than in Montgomery. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you're moving your family to Columbia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 20% higher than in Montgomery.
- The unemployment rate in Columbia is about 10% lower than in Montgomery. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 20% less in Columbia relative to Montgomery. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in South Carolina are 40% above those in Alabama. 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 Montgomery and Columbia:
| Living Expense | Montgomery | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $180.00 | $148.09 |
| Cell phone plan | $50.33 | $54.77 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.99 | $3.46 |
| Loaf of bread | $1.57 | $2.65 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.50 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $51.49 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $37.50 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Montgomery than in Columbia.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Montgomery than in Columbia.
- Eggs cost more in Montgomery than in Columbia.
- Bread costs less in Montgomery than in Columbia.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Montgomery than in Columbia.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Montgomery than in Columbia.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Montgomery than in Columbia.
How life is different in Montgomery vs. Columbia
| Montgomery | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 200,603 | 136,632 |
| Transportation score | 2 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 26 | 35 |
| Bike friendliness score | 33 | 35 |
| Crime index | 65.25 | 3.0 |
| Safety index | 34.75 | 48.39 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Columbia's population is about 32% less than Montgomery.
- Columbia's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Montgomery's score of 2.
- Columbia is more walkable than Montgomery with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Montgomery's 26 out of 100.
- With a score of 35 out of 100, Columbia is more bike-friendly than Montgomery, which has a score of 33 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Columbia's crime rate is lower than Montgomery with a score of 3.0 compared to Montgomery's 65.25. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Montgomery neighborhoods are safer than 65.25%.
- Columbia is considered to be safer than Montgomery with a safety index of 48.39 vs Montgomery's 34.75.
- Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Montgomery it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Montgomery 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 Montgomery to Columbia?
Planning your move from Montgomery to Columbia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Montgomery.
When is the cheapest time to move from Montgomery to Columbia?
Because most people are moving from Montgomery 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 Montgomery to Columbia take?
The 369-mile journey from Montgomery, AL to Columbia, SC, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Montgomery 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 there special savings available from movers in Montgomery?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Montgomery?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Montgomery, 4 movers can manage piano relocations. 3 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Alabama has 34 piano movers and 15 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
