How we chose the best moving companies for your FL to SD move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 228 Florida 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 Florida to South Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Florida to South Dakota.
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 |
$1,106 – $4,211 |
$1,063 – $2,520 |
$1,022 – $2,087 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,900 – $5,787 |
$1,838 – $4,036 |
$1,140 – $2,271 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,341 – $8,744 |
$2,538 – $5,375 |
$1,380 – $2,952 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,830-mile move from FL to
SD 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 Florida to South Dakota
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Florida to South Dakota typically costs between
$1,106 and
$4,211.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,900
and $5,787
when moving from FL to SD.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Florida to South Dakota,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,341
up to $8,744.
Cost of moving containers from Florida to South Dakota
If you’re relocating from Florida to South Dakota,
you’ll typically spend between $1,063
and $2,520 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,838 up to
$4,036.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,538 and
$5,375. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Florida.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Florida to South Dakota
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
$1,022 and
$2,087.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,140 to
$2,271.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,380 and
$2,952.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from FL to SD
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Florida to South Dakota. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
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 Florida, 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 FL to SD
Transitioning from Florida to South Dakota gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Florida vs. South Dakota
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Florida and South Dakota are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Florida |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,444 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$392,176 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$67,917 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
102 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
7.08% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
0.0% |
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Rent is about 39% less expensive in South Dakota than in Florida, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in South Dakota are about 22% lower than in Florida, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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There’s no need to worry about your budget, since average incomes are about the same in both Florida and South Dakota.
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With a similar cost of living in both Florida and South Dakota, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 34% lower than Florida, South Dakota offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in South Dakota is 10% lower than in Florida, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Neither Florida nor South Dakota has a state income tax, so you’ll keep more of your gross income no matter where you live.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Florida
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 Dakota and Florida compare.
|
South Dakota |
Florida |
| Population |
919,318 |
22,610,726 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Republican 51-48 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
49ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
55″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
0″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
21.39 |
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With a population roughly 96% smaller than Florida, South Dakota 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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The last presidential election saw both Florida and South Dakota siding with the Republican party.
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The average summer high in South Dakota is 85°F compared to 91°F in Florida.
A cooler summer climate means less extreme heat, lower energy costs, and more comfortable outdoor time — great for anyone who values comfort.
-
In the coldest months, South Dakota dips to about 7°F, colder than 49°F in Florida.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
-
In South Dakota, you’ll get about 23 inches of rain each year, less than the 55 inches you’re used to in Florida.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
South Dakota gets about 39 inches of snow each year, while Florida sees none.
Moving to South Dakota means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
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South Dakota and Florida share similar crime rates (21.39).
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 Florida vs. South Dakota
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in South Dakota to Florida:
| Pros of living in Florida |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Fantastic weather |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Abundant water recreational activities |
Robust job market |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Low cost of living |
| World-leading entertainment |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Beautiful flora and fauna |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Florida vs. South Dakota
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Florida to South Dakota:
| Cons of living in Florida |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Poor healthcare |
Small-town mindset |
| Natural disasters |
Sparsely populated |
| Heat and humidity |
Strange and offensive laws |
| High crime rate |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Florida to South Dakota 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.
-
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. 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 Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in South Dakota, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
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 Dakota. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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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 Dakota
Get excited to explore South Dakota. Don’t miss these top spots 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 Florida to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Florida to South Dakota?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Florida to
South Dakota
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Florida to South Dakota?
Many people are making the move from Florida to South Dakota to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in South Dakota has to offer, like outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in Florida or South Dakota?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Florida.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 39% less and home prices 22% lower than in Florida.
The tax rate is about the same between Florida and South Dakota.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
Planning to move to South Dakota? A single adult should aim for an income of around $62,655 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,529 for an individual, or $5,562 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Florida?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Florida:
2 movers offer AAA member savings;
11 provide military discounts;
13 have senior-discount programs;
3 list student deals;
2 advertise educator discounts;
2 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Florida to South Dakota, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,900 to
$5,787, roughly
$2,937 for a container move, and close to
$1,705
for a rental truck.
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