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California to South Carolina Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- For California to South Carolina, the typical two-bedroom professional moving cost is about $3,700–$6,000.*Based on a 2–3 bedroom home and a seven–21 day delivery estimate. Final cost and timing depend on home size, distance, and season.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from California to South Carolina is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
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Who are the best movers to move from California to South Carolina?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from California to South Carolina is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from California to South Carolina below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from California to South Carolina
We generally recommend going with a professional interstate mover for your California to South Carolina move, since they can handle the end-to-end logistics of a 2,502 mile route. After reviewing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team found that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate moves. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the list down to the best companies equipped to handle your move from California to South Carolina.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from California to South Carolina?
It costs between $3,700–$11,900 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from California to South Carolina. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
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 Feb 03, 2026. moveBuddha maintains a nationwide database of thousands of verified moving prices, updated monthly to mirror seasonal patterns and market changes. Your final bill can vary with move size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel costs, and timing. To get a reliable figure, collect quotes from more than one mover.
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Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
Lake Sherwood, CA
›
Saluda, SC
2 Bedrooms
Jan 03, 2026
$5,140
Colonial Van Lines
Lemon Cove, CA
›
Clover, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
$10,524
United Van Lines
Livingston, CA
›
Port Royal, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 22, 2025
$14,939
Mayzlin Relocation
Los Altos Hills, CA
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Brunson, SC
2 Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
$5,675
Budget Truck Rental
Maywood, CA
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Snelling, SC
2 Bedrooms
Dec 19, 2025
$2,082
Roadway Moving
Santa Maria, CA
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Williamston, SC
3 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
$6,031
BLVD Moving
Whitewater, CA
›
Govan, SC
Studio apartment
Dec 05, 2025
$3,708
Safeway Moving
Truckee, CA
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Pickens, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 03, 2025
$4,490
Mayflower Transit
North Highlands, CA
›
Westminster, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 10, 2025
$5,822
Allied Van Lines
Soquel, CA
›
Gray Court, SC
4 Bedrooms
Oct 23, 2025
$10,218
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from California to South Carolina?
Moving from California to South Carolina can cost anywhere from $1,269–$10,623, but most people pay around $3,686–$5,969 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,269 – $5,346 | $1,309 – $3,191 | $1,312 – $2,642 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,686 – $7,458 | $2,123 – $4,507 | $1,479 – $3,022 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,395 – $11,883 | $2,922 – $6,000 | $1,757 – $3,821 |
These are approximate estimates for a 2,502-mile move from CA to SC using moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 03, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $3,686 – $7,458 to hire a moving company to move you from California to South Carolina. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,269 – $5,346
- 2–3 bedrooms: $3,686 – $7,458
- 4+ bedrooms: $6,395 – $11,883
How much do moving containers cost from California to South Carolina?
Using a moving container from California to South Carolina costs, on average, $2,123 – $4,507. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $1,309 – $3,191
- 2–3 bedrooms: $2,123 – $4,507
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,922 – $6,000
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from California to South Carolina will costs you between $1,479 – $3,022, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,312 – $2,642
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,479 – $3,022
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,757 – $3,821
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from California to South Carolina, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from CA to SC?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in South Carolina — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,856 in California to $1,065 in South Carolina, and average home values go from $771,057 to $295,769.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (134 vs. 96), unemployment (5.4% vs. 4.7%), and taxes — including average sales tax (8.68% vs. 7.46%) and state income tax (13.3% vs. 7.0%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| 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% |
Will rent be more expensive in South Carolina?
Rent is about 43% lower in South Carolina than in California.
Avg rent: $1,856 vs. $1,065
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 62% lower in South Carolina than in California.
Avg home value: $771,057 vs. $295,769
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 31% lower in South Carolina than in California.
Avg income (per capita): $91,905 vs. $63,623
Is the overall cost of living higher in South Carolina?
The cost of living is 28% lower in South Carolina than in California.
Cost of living index: 134 vs. 96
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 14% lower in South Carolina than in California.
Avg sales tax: 8.68% vs. 7.46%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Income taxes are 47% lower in South Carolina than in California.
State income tax: 13.3% vs. 7.0%
How is daily life different in South Carolina compared to California?
A move brings shifts that go beyond housing and work — weather, safety, and community size all matter.
| 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 |
Will South Carolina feel more crowded than California?
South Carolina is about 86% less populous than California — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, South Carolina voted Republican while California voted Democratic.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (91°F vs. 87°F).
Winter: South Carolina is colder on average (33°F vs. 59°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in South Carolina?
Rain: South Carolina gets more rain (48″ vs. 22″).
Snow: South Carolina gets less snow (1 inch vs. 7 inches).
Is South Carolina safer than California?
South Carolina and California have similar crime rates (28.0 vs. 28.43). It’s still smart to check the city/neighborhood level.
What are some things to do in South Carolina?
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
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage 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.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in South Carolina?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in South Carolina?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a South Carolina moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in South Carolina?
No moving permit is required in South Carolina.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
By law, interstate movers must include basic insurance 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.
Some movers in California offer discounts: 7 AAA discounts; 7 military discounts; 7 senior discounts; 2 student discounts; 2 educator discounts; 4 law enforcement discounts.
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep your move stress-free with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
California Moving Services
Frequently Traveled California Routes
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