How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to SC move
Using rate data from 37 Iowa 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 Iowa to South Carolina?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Iowa
to South Carolina with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,189 – $4,770 |
$845 – $2,063 |
$661 – $1,320 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,496 – $5,935 |
$1,411 – $2,817 |
$765 – $1,463 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,022 – $8,113 |
$2,046 – $3,872 |
$870 – $1,836 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,084-mile move from IA to
SC, 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 Iowa to South Carolina
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Iowa to South Carolina,
you can expect to spend between $1,189
and $4,770.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,496 to
$5,935 on the same route
(IA to SC). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Iowa to South Carolina typically runs between
$4,022 and
$8,113.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to South Carolina
Moving from Iowa to South Carolina? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $845 and
$2,063. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,411 to
$2,817. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,046 up to
$3,872. 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 Iowa.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to South Carolina
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
$661 and
$1,320.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$765 and
$1,463.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $870 and
$1,836.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to SC
There are many factors that influence Iowa moving costs. The cost to move from Iowa to South Carolina 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 Iowa 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 IA to SC
Moving between Iowa and South Carolina involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. South Carolina
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Iowa and South Carolina. 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:
|
Iowa |
South Carolina |
| Average rent |
$914 |
$1,065 |
| Average home cost |
$220,277 |
$295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$70,571 |
$63,623 |
| Cost of living index |
89 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.0% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.94% |
7.46% |
| State income tax |
4.4% |
7.0% |
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Rent costs 17% more in South Carolina compared to Iowa. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in South Carolina to be about 34% more than what you’ll find in Iowa.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Carolina are about 10% lower than in Iowa.
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Moving to South Carolina will cost you 8% more than living in Iowa, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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South Carolina has a higher unemployment rate than Iowa by about 57%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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Shoppers in South Carolina pay about 7% more in sales tax than those in Iowa, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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Income taxes in South Carolina are 59% higher than in Iowa. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. Iowa
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 Carolina differs from Iowa in these areas.
|
South Carolina |
Iowa |
| Population |
5,373,555 |
3,207,004 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58-42 |
Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
84ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
10ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
35″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
30″ |
| Crime index |
28.0 |
16.18 |
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If you’re relocating from Iowa to South Carolina, you’ll notice that South Carolina has about 68% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both Iowa and South Carolina voted Republican.
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Summers in South Carolina reach 91°F, warmer than 84°F in Iowa.
Expect brighter days and more outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
-
Winters in South Carolina average 33°F, compared to 10°F in Iowa.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
Expect about 48 inches of rain each year in South Carolina — a big shift from the 35 inches you’re used to in Iowa.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
-
In South Carolina, you’ll see just 1 inch of snow each year, compared to Iowa, which gets 30 inches annually.
Moving to South Carolina means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
South Carolina reports a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 28.0 versus 16.18.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. South Carolina
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in South Carolina stacks up against Iowa:
| Pros of living in Iowa |
Pros of living in South Carolina |
| Low cost of living |
Warm southern hospitality |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Plentiful outdoor activities |
| High quality of education |
Beautiful landscapes |
| No traffic |
Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Beautiful outdoors |
Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. South Carolina
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Iowa to South Carolina, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Iowa |
Cons of living in South Carolina |
| Severe weather conditions |
High cost of living |
| Limited recreational opportunities |
Hurricane frequency |
| High taxes |
Low quality of healthcare |
| High emphasis on politics |
High taxes |
| Rustic food |
Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to South Carolina 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.
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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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a South Carolina moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
South Carolina 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 Carolina 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. 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:
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 Carolina
Get ready to discover South Carolina. Check out these must-visit places in your new home 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 Iowa to South Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Iowa to South Carolina?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Iowa to South Carolina
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Iowa to South Carolina?
More and more folks are relocating from Iowa to South Carolina to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or South Carolina?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in South Carolina.
Housing
is much more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 14% less and home prices 26% lower than in South Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by South Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Carolina?
If you’re planning to live on your own in South Carolina, aim for an income of around $63,255 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,659 if you’re flying solo, or $6,645 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Charleston and Columbia usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Iowa?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Iowa.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Iowa to South Carolina, professional movers typically run between
$2,496 and $5,935, a moving container averages about
$2,114, and a rental truck is around
$1,114.
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