How we chose the best moving companies for your AR to SC move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 24 Arkansas moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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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 Arkansas to South Carolina?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Arkansas 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 |
$1,181 – $3,501 |
$676 – $1,786 |
$498 – $932 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,177 – $5,569 |
$1,318 – $2,577 |
$543 – $1,043 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,993 – $7,458 |
$1,780 – $3,311 |
$632 – $1,367 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 699-mile move from AR to
SC using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 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 Arkansas to South Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Arkansas to South Carolina typically costs between
$1,181 and
$3,501.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,177
and $5,569
when moving from AR to SC.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Arkansas to South Carolina,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,993
up to $7,458.
Cost of moving containers from Arkansas to South Carolina
If you’re relocating from Arkansas to South Carolina,
you’ll typically spend between $676
and $1,786 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,318 up to
$2,577.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,780 and
$3,311. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Arkansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arkansas 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
$498 and
$932.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$543 to
$1,043.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $632 and
$1,367.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AR to SC
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Arkansas to South Carolina. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Arkansas, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from AR to SC
Transitioning from Arkansas 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: Arkansas vs. South Carolina
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Arkansas and South Carolina are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Arkansas |
South Carolina |
| Average rent |
$868 |
$1,065 |
| Average home cost |
$208,078 |
$295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$56,335 |
$63,623 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.3% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
9.51% |
7.46% |
| State income tax |
2.0% |
7.0% |
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Rent is about 23% more expensive in South Carolina than in Arkansas. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in South Carolina are roughly 42% higher than in Arkansas.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 13% more in South Carolina than in Arkansas. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to South Carolina means you’ll be spending 7% more than you did in Arkansas. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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Unemployment in South Carolina is about 104% higher than in Arkansas. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax in South Carolina is 22% lower than in Arkansas, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Income taxes are 250% higher in South Carolina compared to Arkansas. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. Arkansas
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 Arkansas compare.
|
South Carolina |
Arkansas |
| Population |
5,373,555 |
3,067,732 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58-42 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
28ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
4″ |
| Crime index |
28.0 |
30.97 |
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If you’re moving from Arkansas to South Carolina, you’ll find South Carolina has about 75% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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The last presidential election saw both Arkansas and South Carolina siding with the Republican party.
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The average summer high in South Carolina is 91°F, while Arkansas averages 91°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.
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During the coldest months, South Carolina averages 33°F while Arkansas sees lows of 28°F.
With temperatures so close, you can expect a smooth transition between climates.
-
In South Carolina, you’ll experience about 48 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 50 inches you’re used to in Arkansas.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
-
In South Carolina, you can expect about 1 inch of snow each year.
By comparison, Arkansas typically gets around 4 inches annually.
Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
-
South Carolina boasts a lower crime rate than Arkansas, with a crime index of 28.0 compared to 30.97.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Arkansas vs. South Carolina
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in South Carolina to Arkansas:
| Pros of living in Arkansas |
Pros of living in South Carolina |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Warm southern hospitality |
| Low cost of living |
Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Fantastic weather |
Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Natural beauty |
Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in Arkansas vs. South Carolina
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Arkansas to South Carolina:
| Cons of living in Arkansas |
Cons of living in South Carolina |
| High crime rate |
High cost of living |
| Dangerous wildlife |
Hurricane frequency |
| Poor education |
Low quality of healthcare |
| Pervasive poverty |
High taxes |
| Strange laws |
Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your Arkansas 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.
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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.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a South Carolina moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in South Carolina, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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.
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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.
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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 Arkansas to South Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Arkansas 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
Arkansas to
South Carolina
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Arkansas to South Carolina?
Many people are making the move from Arkansas 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 Arkansas or South Carolina?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in South Carolina.
Housing
is much more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 18% less and home prices 30% lower than in South Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 70% less than those paid by South Carolina 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 Arkansas?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Arkansas:
1 provide military discounts;
1 have senior-discount programs;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Arkansas to South Carolina, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,177 to
$5,569, roughly
$1,947 for a container move, and close to
$793
for a rental truck.
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