($1,401) Cost of Moving From Iowa to South Dakota
Quick answer: Moving from Iowa to South Dakota usually costs between $509 and $6,518, with most moves taking about one–four days. Your actual price will depend on the size of your home, the time of your move, and whether you hire pros or go the DIY route.
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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from South Dakota to Iowa guide.
Our track record
The best Iowa to South Dakota full-service movers
Moving from Iowa to South Dakota? With thousands of moving companies in the U.S., hiring the right interstate moving company can be a challenge. To simplify your search, we've narrowed down the most reliable movers based on our detailed analysis of customer reviews, pricing, and service offerings.
Start with these top long-distance moving companies serving Iowa for your relocation to South Dakota:
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
- Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
- Hands-on customer service
- 24/7 support
- Price-matching policy
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
The best local moving companies in Iowa
With so many choices out there, picking a reliable local moving company can be a challenge. To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best local movers in Iowa, all known for their solid reputations, clear pricing, and impressive customer satisfaction.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Key City Moving & Storage: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Black Belt Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
rating
4.72 / 5
DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 27
2601 104th St #400, Urbandale, IA 50322Two Men and a Truck, a reputable moving company in Urbandale, IA, has been providing local residential moving services since 1998. Renowned for their packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they stand out by requiring no deposit and accepting credit cards, adding convenience for their clients. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 on Google from over 500 reviews and a BBB rating of A+, they excel in customer satisfaction compared to other nearby movers. Their proven track record makes them a trusted choice for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 2378173
Years in Business: 7
10500 Hickman Rd Suite H, Clive, IA 50325College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, serving Clive, IA since 2018, specializes in local residential moves and stands out from other nearby movers with their comprehensive packing, unpacking, and labor-only services. They also cater to office moving needs, making them a versatile choice. While their Yelp reviews average 3.2 from 14 ratings, their astounding 4.8 out of 1452 Google reviews suggest a generally positive customer experience. Additionally, they accept credit cards and do not require a deposit, offering convenience and flexibility. Despite their F rating from the BBB, their extensive positive feedback on Google indicates a largely satisfactory service.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2378173
Key City Moving & Storage
rating
4.62 / 5
DOT #: 125563
Years in Business: 114
9710 Royal Wood Dr, Peosta, IA 52068Key City Moving & Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Peosta, IA since 1910. With glowing customer feedback, including an average rating of 4.6 on Yelp and 4.9 on Google, as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among local competitors. They offer comprehensive services including packing, unpacking, and specialized fragile-only packing, ensuring a stress-free move. Unlike other movers, they don't require a deposit and accept both cash and credit cards, making them a customer-friendly choice for your next move.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 125563
Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc
rating
4.58 / 5
DOT #: 70719
Years in Business: 69
5600 Harbor Dr, Sioux City, IA 51111Claeys Brothers Moving & Storage Inc, a staple in Sioux City, IA since 1955, offers comprehensive local residential moving services. With a strong reputation reflected in their 4.2 average rating on Google and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they are a trusted choice among local movers. Unlike many nearby moving companies, Claeys Brothers also offer packing and unpacking services, as well as the capability to move pianos, art, and antiques. The firm accepts both cash and credit cards, and no deposit is required, making them a flexible and customer-friendly option for local moves.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 70719
Black Belt Movers
rating
4.58 / 5
DOT #: 3527158
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 17
1209 SW ORDNANCE RD STE B, ANKENY, IA 50023Black Belt Movers, serving the Ankeny, IA area since 2009, offers a comprehensive range of local residential moving services. With an A rating from the Better Business Bureau and an average Yelp rating of 4.0 based on 15 reviews, their reputation stands strong among nearby moving companies. They also provide office moving, packing, unpacking, and specialized services like moving pianos and antiques. Unlike many competitors, they accept credit cards, require no deposit, and provide full valuation insurance coverage.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3527158
The best Iowa to South Dakota moving container companies
Moving containers allow you to cut costs without having to do everything yourself. You handle the loading and unloading, but the company takes care of the driving, picking up your container in Iowa and delivering it to your new place in South Dakota.
Take a look at these top-rated moving container companies:
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The best Iowa to South Dakota moving truck rentals
If you want to save money moving from Iowa to South Dakota, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:
We like these rental moving trucks:
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The best Iowa to South Dakota labor-only movers
If you need help moving some or all of your items into a container or rental truck, you can hire labor-only movers. They’ll send over a professional crew the right size for your move and you’ll pay only for the amount of time they work.
Consider one of these top-notch moving labor companies for your move from Iowa to South Dakota:
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How we chose the best moving companies for your IA to SD move
How much does it cost to move from Iowa to South Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Iowa to South Dakota. Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,401 - $3,782 | $773 - $1,933 | $483 - $864 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $2,381 - $6,518 | $1,411 - $2,941 | $509 - $1,014 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,198 - $8,874 | $1,913 - $3,733 | $660 - $1,245 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 469 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.
Cost to hire movers from Iowa to South Dakota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Iowa to South Dakota, you can expect prices to land between $1,401 and $3,782. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,381 to $6,518 for the trip from IA to SD. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,198 and $8,874.
Cost of moving containers from Iowa to South Dakota
When you’re heading from Iowa to South Dakota, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $773 and $1,933. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,411 and $2,941. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,913 to $3,733. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Iowa easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Iowa to South Dakota
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 $483 and $864. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $509 and $1,014. Planning a move from Iowa to South Dakota or relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $660 up to $1,245 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IA to SD
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Iowa to South Dakota. Here’s what might influence your total price:
- Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
- Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in Iowa.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.
What to know before moving from IA to SD
If you’re moving from Iowa to South Dakota, it’s a good idea to see how your new state compares to your old one.
Cost of living: Iowa vs. South Dakota
Before you move, it’s smart to see how cost of living compares between Iowa and South Dakota. This quick, side-by-side breakdown covers essentials like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a better idea of how your budget might be affected. Check out how these two states stack up when it comes to cost of living:
| Iowa | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $914 | $878 |
| Average home cost | $220,277 | $306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,571 | $69,457 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 1.9% |
| Average Sales Tax | 6.94% | 6.4% |
| State Income Tax | 4.4% | 0.0% |
- Expect to pay around 4% less in rent in South Dakota than in Iowa, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
- Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in South Dakota are usually around 39% higher than what you’ll find in Iowa.
- Make sure to review your budget before you move. The average incomes in South Dakota are about 2% lower than in Iowa.
- Moving to South Dakota will cost you 12% more than living in Iowa, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
- With an unemployment rate roughly 37% lower than Iowa, South Dakota offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
- Sales tax in South Dakota is 8% lower than in Iowa. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in South Dakota can really help lower your monthly costs.
- A major benefit of moving to South Dakota is the lack of state income tax. You get to hang on to more of your money, whether you’re working, freelancing, or enjoying retirement.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Iowa
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel. From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience. Here’s how life in South Dakota and Iowa compares across key lifestyle indicators:
| South Dakota | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 919,318 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Republican 63-37 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 85ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 7ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 23" | 35" |
| Annual snow | 39" | 30" |
| Crime index | 21.14 | 16.18 |
- The population of South Dakota is about 71% smaller than that of Iowa. Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
- In the most recent presidential election, South Dakota voted Republican, while Iowa went Republican.
- Summer highs average 85ºF in South Dakota and 84ºF in Iowa. That means your move shouldn’t require you to adjust too much to the summer weather. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, unique weather quirks, and energy costs to really know what summer will feel like in your new home.
- In the coldest months, temperatures in South Dakota dip to around 7ºF, while Iowa only falls to about 10ºF. Relocating to South Dakota means you’ll likely face colder winters, which can bring higher heating bills, change up your routine, and bring on more extreme weather, but you’ll also get to enjoy the unique beauty and experiences that come with the season.
- You’ll enjoy about 23 inches of rain each year in South Dakota, compared to 35 inches in Iowa. With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
- Each year, South Dakota sees about 39 inches of snowfall, while Iowa averages just 30 inches. With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation, maintenance, and warm gear.
- South Dakota has a higher crime rate than Iowa, with a crime index of 21.14 compared to 16.18. While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Iowa vs. South Dakota
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting. Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in South Dakota versus Iowa.
| Pros of living in Iowa | Pros of living in South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Low cost of living | Outstanding tax benefits |
| Ample economic opportunity | Robust job market |
| High quality of education | Low cost of living |
| No traffic | Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Beautiful outdoors | Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Iowa vs. South Dakota
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Iowa for South Dakota.
| Cons of living in Iowa | Cons of living in South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Severe weather conditions | Extreme weather |
| Limited recreational opportunities | Small-town mindset |
| High taxes | Sparsely populated |
| High emphasis on politics | Strange and offensive laws |
| Rustic food | Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Iowa to South Dakota move
- Weather: In South Dakota, drivers are required to have liability insurance coverage with at least the following minimum limits: $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person in an accident, $50,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
- 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: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
- Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
- 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: Quickly check the status of a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in South Dakota, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to South Dakota right on time. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance 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.
- 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 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
