($903) Cost to Move From Gainesville, FL to Columbia, SC

Quick answer: Expect to pay $391 – $4,276 when moving from Gainesville to Columbia, with most moves taking one to four days. Prices depend on load size, timing, and whether you move yourself or hire help for the 359 miles.

1. 2 College Brothers Moving and Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
3. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
4. Hughes Relocation Services: 4.66 out of 5 stars
5. Stewart Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Gainesville to Columbia

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbia from Gainesville, you can expect prices to land between $903 and $2,726. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,621 to $4,276 for the trip from Gainesville to Columbia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,597 and $6,148.

Cost of moving containers from Gainesville to Columbia

Moving containers from Gainesville to Columbia will cost you $673 to $1,486 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,149 to $2,329. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,536 to $2,791. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Florida.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Gainesville to Columbia

Renting a moving truck from Gainesville to Columbia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $339 and $671 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $391 to $780. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $451 to $942.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• When relocating from Gainesville to Columbia, expect to find rent about 10% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
• You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 23% more affordable in Columbia compared to Gainesville.
• Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 10% higher in Columbia compared to Gainesville, which might allow for more savings or investments.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Columbia, as living costs for a single person are 13% higher than in Gainesville. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
• If you’re moving your family to Columbia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 22% higher than in Gainesville.
• Columbia shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Gainesville by around 18%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
• Sales taxes in Columbia are 14% more than in Gainesville, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
• 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.

• Columbia’s population is within about 5% of Gainesville, so they’re very similar in size.
• Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Gainesville’s score of 6.
• Columbia and Gainesville are similarly walkable.
• Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Gainesville, which has a score of 69.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Gainesville with a score of 3.0 compared to Gainesville’s 8.0. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Gainesville neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
• Columbia is considered to be less safe than Gainesville with a score of 48.39 vs Gainesville’s 52.61.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Gainesville it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Columbia. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

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

After settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: Columbia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.