How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to SD move
Using rate data from 370 California movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from California to South Dakota?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California
to South Dakota with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,203 – $4,620 |
$968 – $2,534 |
$902 – $1,914 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,983 – $7,012 |
$1,799 – $3,630 |
$996 – $2,212 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,281 – $9,686 |
$2,527 – $4,913 |
$1,268 – $2,652 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,659-mile move from CA to
SD, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from California to South Dakota
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from California to South Dakota,
you can expect to spend between $1,203
and $4,620.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,983 to
$7,012 on the same route
(CA to SD). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from California to South Dakota typically runs between
$5,281 and
$9,686.
Cost of moving containers from California to South Dakota
Moving from California to South Dakota? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $968 and
$2,534. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,799 to
$3,630. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,527 up to
$4,913. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from California to South Dakota
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$902 and
$1,914.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$996 and
$2,212.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,268 and
$2,652.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from CA to SD
There are many factors that influence California moving costs. The cost to move from California to South Dakota will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in California fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from CA to SD
Moving between California and South Dakota involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: California vs. South Dakota
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
California and South Dakota. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
California |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,856 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$771,057 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$91,905 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
134 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.4% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.68% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
13.3% |
0.0% |
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Rent in South Dakota is about 53% cheaper than in California, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in South Dakota are roughly 60% less than in California, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Dakota are about 24% lower than in California.
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Moving to South Dakota is about 25% cheaper than living in California. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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South Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 65%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is 26% lower in South Dakota compared to California, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
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South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to California. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. California
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how South Dakota differs from California in these areas.
|
South Dakota |
California |
| Population |
919,318 |
39,029,342 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
59ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
22″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
7″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
28.43 |
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With a population about 98% smaller than California, South Dakota offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
-
In the last presidential election, South Dakota voted Republican and California voted Democratic.
-
Summer highs in South Dakota average 85°F, almost the same as 87°F in California.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winter in South Dakota can dip to 7°F, colder than the 59°F lows in California.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In South Dakota, you’ll get about 23 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 22 inches you’ve been used to in California.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In South Dakota, it snows about 39 inches annually while California gets only about 7 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
South Dakota offers a safer environment than California, with a crime index of 21.14 versus 28.43.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of California vs. South Dakota
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in South Dakota stacks up against California:
| Pros of living in California |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Pleasant weather |
Robust job market |
| Abundant recreational options |
Low cost of living |
| High quality of life |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Fresh and healthy foods |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in California vs. South Dakota
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from California to South Dakota, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in California |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy tax burdens |
Small-town mindset |
| Natural disasters |
Sparsely populated |
| Terrible traffic |
Strange and offensive laws |
| Strange laws |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your California to South Dakota move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
-
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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
South Dakota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to South Dakota right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. 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.
-
Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get ready to discover South Dakota. Check out these must-visit places in your new home 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 California to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from California to South Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from California to South Dakota?
More and more folks are relocating from California to South Dakota to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in California or South Dakota?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 53% less and home prices 60% lower than in California.
Taxes are also
lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by California residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
If you’re planning to live on your own in South Dakota, aim for an income of around $62,655 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,529 if you’re flying solo, or $5,562 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in California?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in California.
There are 7 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 7 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 7 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 2 moving companies.
Teachers and educators receive discounted rates with 2 movers.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 4 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
California moving services
Popular California routes
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When planning a move from California to South Dakota, professional movers typically run between
$2,983 and $7,012, a moving container averages about
$2,714, and a rental truck is around
$1,604.
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