How we chose the best moving companies for your AZ to SD move
After studying pricing from 98 Arizona movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Arizona to South Dakota?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Arizona to South Dakota.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,202 – $4,500 |
$840 – $2,122 |
$715 – $1,437 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,676 – $6,314 |
$1,645 – $3,274 |
$766 – $1,692 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,293 – $8,324 |
$2,187 – $4,215 |
$1,065 – $1,961 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,246-mile move from AZ to
SD are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Arizona to South Dakota
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Arizona to South Dakota will cost between
$1,202 and
$4,500.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from AZ to SD will
range from $2,676 to
$6,314, and a large move from Arizona
to South Dakota will cost from $4,293
to $8,324.
Cost of moving containers from Arizona to South Dakota
If you’re moving from Arizona to South Dakota,
expect to pay between $840
and $2,122 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,645 up to
$3,274.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,187 and
$4,215. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Arizona.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arizona to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck 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
$715 and
$1,437.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $766
and $1,692. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,065 up to
$1,961 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AZ to SD
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Arizona to South Dakota. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Arizona is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from AZ to SD
A relocation from Arizona to South Dakota comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Arizona vs. South Dakota
Comparing expenses in Arizona and South Dakota shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Arizona |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,308 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$428,711 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$72,581 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
107 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.6% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.4% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
2.5% |
0.0% |
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Expect to pay around 33% less in rent in South Dakota than in Arizona, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 28% lower in South Dakota than in Arizona.
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Good news — you won’t need to stress about your finances since average incomes are similar in both South Dakota and Arizona.
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Living in South Dakota is about 7% cheaper than Arizona. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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With an unemployment rate about 47% lower than Arizona, South Dakota boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Sales tax in South Dakota is 24% lower than in Arizona. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in South Dakota can really help lower your monthly costs.
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South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Arizona. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Arizona
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in South Dakota stacks up against Arizona across important lifestyle factors:
|
South Dakota |
Arizona |
| Population |
919,318 |
7,431,344 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Democrat 56-44 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
99ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
34ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
12″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
6″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
24.89 |
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With a population about 88% smaller than Arizona, South Dakota offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
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In the most recent presidential election, South Dakota leaned Republican, while Arizona went with Democrat.
-
South Dakota averages 85°F in summer, a cooler contrast to 99°F in Arizona.
Expect milder summers, lower utility costs, and more time to enjoy being outdoors.
-
During the coldest part of the year, South Dakota drops to about 7°F while Arizona only reaches 34°F.
Moving to South Dakota with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
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Expect about 23 inches of rain each year in South Dakota, a noticeable difference from the 12 inches you’re used to in Arizona.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
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Every year, South Dakota gets around 39 inches of snow, much more than the 6 inches that Arizona typically sees.
With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
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South Dakota has a lower crime rate than Arizona with a crime index of 21.14 vs. 24.89.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of Arizona vs. South Dakota
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in South Dakota versus Arizona:
| Pros of living in Arizona |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Pleasant weather |
Robust job market |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Cultural diversity |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| No traffic |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Arizona vs. South Dakota
Moving from Arizona to South Dakota comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Arizona |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| Extreme weather |
Extreme weather |
| Barren desert land |
Small-town mindset |
| Health hazards |
Sparsely populated |
| Limited public transportation |
Strange and offensive laws |
| No winter |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Arizona to South Dakota move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, 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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a South Dakota moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in South Dakota, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to South Dakota without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get ready to discover all that South Dakota has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in South Dakota
- Adams House
- The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
- Adams Museum
- Tatanka: Story of the Bison
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Parks in South Dakota
- Falls Park
- Canyon Lake Park
- Founders Park
- Memorial Park
- Upper Chautauqua Park
Sports teams in South Dakota
- Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
- Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
- Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
- Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Universities in South Dakota
- University of South Dakota
- South Dakota State University
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- Dakota State University
- Augustana University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Arizona to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Arizona to South Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Arizona to South Dakota?
The main reasons people are moving from Arizona to South Dakota are the amazing upsides of living in South Dakota, such as outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in Arizona or South Dakota?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Arizona.
Housing
is more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 33% less and home prices 28% lower than in Arizona.
Taxes are also
lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Arizona residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
You should make approximately $62,655 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in South Dakota.
The cost of living in South Dakota is about $2,529 per month for an individual and $5,562 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Arizona?
Some movers in Arizona provide budget-friendly deals.
In Arizona, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 2 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 5 movers.
Student savings are available through 1 moving providers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Arizona to South Dakota, expect to spend between
$2,676–$6,314 if using professional movers, about
$2,459 for a moving container, and around
$1,229
for a rental truck.
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