How we chose the best moving companies for your KY to SC move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 29 Kentucky movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Kentucky to South Carolina?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from Kentucky
to South Carolina, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,116 – $3,169 |
$657 – $1,471 |
$360 – $703 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,840 – $4,889 |
$1,119 – $2,238 |
$376 – $787 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,137 – $7,142 |
$1,516 – $2,862 |
$463 – $907 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 426-mile relocation from KY to
SC, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from Kentucky to South Carolina
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Kentucky to South Carolina, you’ll likely pay between
$1,116
and $3,169.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$1,840 and $4,889
for the same journey (KY to SC).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,137
to $7,142.
Cost of moving containers from Kentucky to South Carolina
When you’re heading from Kentucky to South Carolina, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $657 and
$1,471. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,119 and
$2,238. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,516
to $2,862. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from Kentucky easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Kentucky to South Carolina
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around
$360
to $703.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $376
to $787, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from Kentucky to South Carolina costs around
$463 to
$907.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from KY to SC
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from Kentucky to South Carolina. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in Kentucky when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from KY to SC
If you’re moving to South Carolina from Kentucky, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: Kentucky vs. South Carolina
Understanding how costs compare between Kentucky and South Carolina can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
Kentucky |
South Carolina |
| Average rent |
$902 |
$1,065 |
| Average home cost |
$212,088 |
$295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$60,183 |
$63,623 |
| Cost of living index |
93 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
5.0% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
7.46% |
| State income tax |
4.0% |
7.0% |
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Rent is about 18% higher in South Carolina than in Kentucky. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
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Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in South Carolina are typically about 39% higher than in Kentucky.
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You’re likely to earn about 6% more in South Carolina than in Kentucky. That extra income could mean more savings or new investment opportunities once you move.
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With the cost of living being about the same in South Carolina and Kentucky, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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South Carolina boasts an unemployment rate about 6% lower than Kentucky. That means you’ll find a stronger job market and a more robust local economy, a great sign if you’re planning a move.
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Sales taxes are 24% higher in South Carolina than in Kentucky. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes in South Carolina are 75% higher than in Kentucky, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. Kentucky
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how South Carolina and Kentucky line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
South Carolina |
Kentucky |
| Population |
5,373,555 |
4,526,154 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58-42 |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
24ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
11″ |
| Crime index |
28.0 |
16.63 |
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The population of South Carolina is approximately 19% greater than the population of Kentucky.
With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
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In the most recent presidential race, both Kentucky and South Carolina leaned Republican.
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In South Carolina, summer highs are around 91°F, close to 87°F in Kentucky.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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Winter lows in South Carolina average 33°F, milder than 24°F in Kentucky.
Easier winters bring lower bills, fewer hassles, and more freedom to enjoy life outdoors.
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In South Carolina, you’ll see about 48 inches of rain each year — nearly identical to the 48 inches you’re used to in Kentucky.
While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
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In South Carolina, you’ll only get about 1 inch of snow each year, much less than Kentucky.
That means moving to South Carolina brings milder winters, less time shoveling, and lower maintenance.
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South Carolina has a higher crime rate than Kentucky, with a crime index of 28.0 compared to 16.63.
While a statewide crime rate isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s smart to research neighborhoods.
Comparing the pros of Kentucky vs. South Carolina
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in South Carolina and Kentucky:
| Pros of living in Kentucky |
Pros of living in South Carolina |
| Low cost of living |
Warm southern hospitality |
| Abundant outdoor adventures |
Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Delicious food and drink |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Horse racing |
Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Four season weather |
Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in Kentucky vs. South Carolina
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 Kentucky for South Carolina:
| Cons of living in Kentucky |
Cons of living in South Carolina |
| Extreme weather |
High cost of living |
| Low diversity |
Hurricane frequency |
| Poor air quality |
Low quality of healthcare |
| Poor infrastructure |
High taxes |
| Poor education system |
Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your Kentucky to South Carolina move
-
HOA rules:
Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
-
Elevator reservation:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
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.
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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. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to South Carolina right on schedule. 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. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in South Carolina
While you’re in South Carolina, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit 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 Kentucky to South Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Kentucky to South Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Kentucky to South Carolina?
An increasing number of people are relocating from Kentucky to South Carolina to enjoy all the great benefits South Carolina provides, such as warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky or South Carolina?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in South Carolina.
Housing
is much more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 15% less and home prices 28% lower than in South Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by South Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Carolina?
Thinking of moving to South Carolina on your own? You’ll want to earn around $63,255 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $3,659 per month, or around $6,645 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Charleston and Columbia tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Kentucky?
Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals.
Military members can find special pricing from 1 companies.
Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Kentucky to South Carolina, you’ll likely pay between $1,840–$4,889 with professional movers, roughly
$1,678 for a moving container, and about
$581
for a rental truck.
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