How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to SD move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 100 Illinois moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Illinois to South Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Illinois 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 |
$1,104 – $3,586 |
$683 – $1,670 |
$480 – $883 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,073 – $5,285 |
$1,242 – $2,483 |
$534 – $1,081 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,530 – $7,688 |
$1,783 – $3,128 |
$668 – $1,296 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 715-mile move from IL to
SD using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Illinois to South Dakota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Illinois to South Dakota,
you can expect prices to land between $1,104
and $3,586.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,073 to
$5,285 for the trip from IL
to SD. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,530 and
$7,688.
Cost of moving containers from Illinois to South Dakota
Moving containers from Illinois to South Dakota
will cost you $683 to
$1,670 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,242
to $2,483. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,783 to
$3,128.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$480
and $883
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $534
to $1,081.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$668
to $1,296.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from IL to SD
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Illinois to South Dakota. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Illinois generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from IL to SD
Making the move from Illinois to South Dakota means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Illinois vs. South Dakota
A clear look at the cost differences between Illinois and South Dakota helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Illinois |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,179 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$249,224 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$78,433 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.3% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
8.82% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
4.95% |
0.0% |
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You’ll pay about 26% less in rent in South Dakota compared to Illinois, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in South Dakota are usually around 23% higher than what you’ll find in Illinois.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 11% lower South Dakota than in Illinois.
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Living in South Dakota costs 11% more than in Illinois. If you’re relocating to South Dakota, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 64% lower than Illinois, South Dakota offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in South Dakota is 27% lower than in Illinois. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in South Dakota could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Illinois. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Illinois
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 Illinois compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
South Dakota |
Illinois |
| Population |
919,318 |
12,549,689 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Democratic 55-45 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
86ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
17ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
40″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
22″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
19.7 |
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The population of South Dakota is about 93% smaller than that of Illinois.
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 latest presidential election, South Dakota voted Republican, while Illinois chose Democratic.
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Summer highs average 85°F in South Dakota, compared to 86°F in Illinois.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, South Dakota reaches lows near 7°F, colder than 17°F in Illinois.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
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You can expect only about 23 inches of annual rainfall in South Dakota versus 40 inches of rainfall in Illinois.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
Each year, South Dakota gets about 39 inches of snow, while Illinois sees only 22 inches.
More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep and upkeep.
-
South Dakota has a higher crime rate than Illinois, with crime indexes at 21.14 and 19.7, respectively.
While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Illinois vs. South Dakota
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in South Dakota compared to Illinois:
| Pros of living in Illinois |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Home of chicago |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Ample economic opportunity |
Robust job market |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Delicious food |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| World-class sports culture |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Illinois vs. South Dakota
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Illinois to South Dakota:
| Cons of living in Illinois |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| Harsh winter weather |
Extreme weather |
| Bad traffic |
Small-town mindset |
| High crime rate |
Sparsely populated |
| Dull landscape |
Strange and offensive laws |
| Strict laws |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Illinois to South Dakota move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a South Dakota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in South Dakota, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
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:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. 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:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in South Dakota
You’ll have plenty to explore in South Dakota! Check out these top spots to visit 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 Illinois to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Illinois to South Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Illinois to South Dakota?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Illinois for South Dakota, drawn by advantages like outstanding tax benefits and robust job market that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or South Dakota?
Living in Illinois usually costs less than in South Dakota.
Housing
is more affordable in Illinois,
with average rent about 34% less and home prices 19% lower than in South Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Illinois residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
To live comfortably as a single adult in South Dakota, you should aim to make around $62,655.
On average, expect to spend about $2,529 per month, or $5,562 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Illinois?
Many movers in Illinois publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
1 offer military-specific savings;
2 extend deals for seniors;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Illinois to South Dakota, budget between $2,073–$5,285 for full-service movers, around
$1,862 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$807
for a rental truck.
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