How we chose the best moving companies for your FL to SC move
After studying pricing from 228 Florida 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 Florida to South Carolina?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Florida to South Carolina.
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 |
$920 – $2,697 |
$642 – $1,541 |
$407 – $753 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,714 – $4,510 |
$1,181 – $2,345 |
$401 – $859 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,148 – $6,858 |
$1,478 – $2,752 |
$525 – $1,025 |
*Estimated costs for a 496-mile move from FL to
SC 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 Florida to South Carolina
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Florida to South Carolina will cost between
$920 and
$2,697.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from FL to SC will
range from $1,714 to
$4,510, and a large move from Florida
to South Carolina will cost from $3,148
to $6,858.
Cost of moving containers from Florida to South Carolina
If you’re moving from Florida to South Carolina,
expect to pay between $642
and $1,541 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,181 up to
$2,345.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,478 and
$2,752. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Florida.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Florida to South Carolina
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
$407 and
$753.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $401
and $859. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $525 up to
$1,025 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from FL to SC
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Florida to South Carolina. 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 Florida 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 FL to SC
A relocation from Florida to South Carolina comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Florida vs. South Carolina
Comparing expenses in Florida and South Carolina 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:
|
Florida |
South Carolina |
| Average rent |
$1,444 |
$1,065 |
| Average home cost |
$392,176 |
$295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$67,917 |
$63,623 |
| Cost of living index |
102 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
7.08% |
7.46% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
7.0% |
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Expect to pay around 26% less in rent in South Carolina than in Florida, 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 25% lower in South Carolina than in Florida.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Carolina are about 6% lower than in Florida.
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Living in South Carolina is about 6% cheaper than Florida. That means big savings for you, but it’s still important to plan your move carefully.
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Unemployment in South Carolina is about 62% higher than in Florida. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. Florida and South Carolina have similar rates, making your move easier.
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South Carolina has a state income tax, while Florida does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. Florida
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 Carolina stacks up against Florida across important lifestyle factors:
|
South Carolina |
Florida |
| Population |
5,373,555 |
22,610,726 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58-42 |
Republican 51-48 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
49ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
55″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
0″ |
| Crime index |
28.0 |
21.39 |
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With a population about 76% smaller than Florida, South Carolina 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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During the last presidential election, both Florida and South Carolina supported the Republican candidate.
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In South Carolina, summer highs hover around 91°F, while Florida sits at 91°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, South Carolina drops to about 33°F while Florida only reaches 49°F.
Moving to South Carolina 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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You’ll enjoy about 48 inches of rain each year in South Carolina, compared to 55 inches in Florida.
With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
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South Carolina gets about 1 inch of snow each year, while Florida sees none.
Moving to South Carolina means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
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South Carolina has a higher crime rate than Florida with a crime index of 28.0 vs. 21.39.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Florida vs. South Carolina
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in South Carolina versus Florida:
| Pros of living in Florida |
Pros of living in South Carolina |
| Fantastic weather |
Warm southern hospitality |
| Abundant water recreational activities |
Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Beautiful landscapes |
| World-leading entertainment |
Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Beautiful flora and fauna |
Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in Florida vs. South Carolina
Moving from Florida to South Carolina comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Florida |
Cons of living in South Carolina |
| High cost of living |
High cost of living |
| Poor healthcare |
Hurricane frequency |
| Natural disasters |
Low quality of healthcare |
| Heat and humidity |
High taxes |
| High crime rate |
Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your Florida to South Carolina 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.
-
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:
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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a South Carolina 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 Carolina, 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 Carolina 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. 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:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in South Carolina
Get ready to discover all that South Carolina has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new 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 Florida to South Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Florida to South Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Florida to South Carolina?
The main reasons people are moving from Florida to South Carolina are the amazing upsides of living in South Carolina, such as warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Florida or South Carolina?
Living in South Carolina usually costs less than in Florida.
Housing
is more affordable in South Carolina,
with average rent about 26% less and home prices 25% lower than in Florida.
The tax rate is about the same between Florida and South Carolina.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Carolina?
You should make approximately $63,255 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in South Carolina.
The cost of living in South Carolina is about $3,659 per month for an individual and $6,645 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Charleston and Columbia tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Florida?
Some movers in Florida provide budget-friendly deals.
In Florida, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 11 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 13 movers.
Student savings are available through 3 moving providers.
Teacher and educator discounts can be found with 2 movers.
Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 2 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Florida to South Carolina, expect to spend between
$1,714–$4,510 if using professional movers, about
$1,763 for a moving container, and around
$630
for a rental truck.
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