How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to SC move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 370 California 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 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 |
$1,223 – $5,309 |
$1,210 – $3,326 |
$1,396 – $2,518 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,768 – $7,626 |
$2,262 – $4,799 |
$1,512 – $3,060 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,677 – $12,031 |
$2,959 – $6,523 |
$1,798 – $3,984 |
*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 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 California to South Carolina
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to South Carolina typically costs between
$1,223 and
$5,309.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,768
and $7,626
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 $6,677
up to $12,031.
Cost of moving containers from California to South Carolina
If you’re relocating from California to South Carolina,
you’ll typically spend between $1,210
and $3,326 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$2,262 up to
$4,799.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,959 and
$6,523. 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
$1,396 and
$2,518.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,512 to
$3,060.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,798 and
$3,984.
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:
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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 California, 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 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% |
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Rent is about 43% less expensive in South Carolina than in California, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in South Carolina are about 62% lower than in California, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in South Carolina are roughly 31% lower than in California.
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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.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 13% lower than California, South Carolina offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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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.
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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 |
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
-
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 California to South Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from California to South Carolina?
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.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When relocating from California to South Carolina, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,768 to
$7,626, roughly
$3,530 for a container move, and close to
$2,286
for a rental truck.
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