($1,350) Cost to Move From San Jose, CA to Columbia, SC

1. Lunardi Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
2. Vector Moving and Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3. Southwest Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. All Reasons Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
5. Pure Moving Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from San Jose to Columbia

When planning a move to Columbia from San Jose, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,350 and $5,476. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,580 and $7,593 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,299 to $11,757.

Cost of moving containers from San Jose to Columbia

When you’re heading from San Jose to Columbia, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,386 and $3,349. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,483 and $5,226. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,357 to $6,437. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Jose to Columbia

A moving rental truck from San Jose to Columbia is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,406 to $2,864. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,492 to $3,410, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from San Jose to Columbia costs around $2,023 to $4,266.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

• Rent is about 53% less expensive in Columbia than in San Jose, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
• Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 85% cheaper in Columbia than in San Jose.
• You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 22% less in Columbia than in San Jose.
• Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Columbia. The cost of living for a single person there is 47% below that of San Jose.
• A move to Columbia can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 49% lower compared to San Jose.
• Columbia has a lower unemployment rate than San Jose by about 21%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
• Sales taxes are 15% cheaper in Columbia compared to San Jose. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
• Income taxes are 47% less in South Carolina compared to California, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

• Columbia’s population is about 86% less than San Jose.
• Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than San Jose’s score of 7.
• Columbia is less walkable than San Jose with a score of 35 out of 100 vs San Jose’s 51 out of 100.
• Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as San Jose, which has a score of 62.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than San Jose with a score of 3.0 compared to San Jose’s 47.73. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Jose neighborhoods are safer than 47.73%.
• Columbia is considered to be less safe than San Jose with a score of 48.39 vs San Jose’s 52.27.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in San Jose it’s Moderate.

• HOA rules: Costs across San Jose and Columbia are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in South Carolina, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in South Carolina, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
• Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Columbia. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

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

With your move to South Carolina complete, you can dive right into experiencing Columbia. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

• Arts and culture: Columbia is home to museums and cultural arts centers like 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 — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
• Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.