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($1,080) Cost to Move From Lexington, KY to Columbia, SC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 433 miles from Lexington to Columbia, expect to pay between $398 and $5,433. The journey should take about one–four days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Lexington to Columbia

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Lexington to Columbia

For a stress-free interstate move from Lexington to Columbia, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 7 interstate moving companies in Lexington, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Columbia.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Lexington to Columbia

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,181 – $4,012
  • Moving Container $871 – $1,634
  • Rental Truck $392 – $729
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,869 – $5,433
  • Moving Container $1,208 – $2,275
  • Rental Truck $398 – $865
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,453 – $7,556
  • Moving Container $1,603 – $2,882
  • Rental Truck $526 – $980
Recent Moving Price Estimates
BLVD Moving
Stanton, KY Red Bank, SC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Sharpsburg, KY Irmo, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 08, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Paris, KY Little Mountain, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 22, 2025
Safeway Moving
Danville, KY Woodford, SC
3 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Cynthiana, KY Ridge Spring, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 10, 2025
American Van Lines
Gratz, KY Lexington, SC
Studio apartment
Jul 26, 2025
United Van Lines
Winchester, KY Salley, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Jul 25, 2025
North American Van Lines
Willisburg, KY Cordova, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Jul 19, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Mackville, KY Gilbert, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Jul 08, 2025
PODS
Lancaster, KY Chapin, SC
Studio apartment
Jul 03, 2025

Top-rated local movers that handle Lexington to Columbia moves

When planning a move from Lexington to Columbia, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing eight local movers in Lexington who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Lexington to Columbia.

  1. Wildcat Moving LLC: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Vincent Fister Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  5. Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
85.0% of all reviews were positive
13.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Wildcat Moving LLC packs a punch in performance, with an impressive 85% of customer input rating them highly out of 321 reviews analyzed. Customers regularly point out reliable efficiency, professional and polite teams, careful handling, a speedy moving process, and clear communication. Movers often go the extra mile with heavy or delicate items while maintaining friendly attitudes, setting Wildcat apart from many competitors.
Rates are seen as fair and booking is easy, bolstering the company’s positive reputation. On the flip side, a number of customers report damage to belongings, costs higher than initial quotes, and challenges when filing complaints or seeking compensation. Several reviews detail dissatisfaction about the resolution of claims and hidden fees for insurance or minimums. Compared to other moving companies, Wildcat provides faster and more courteous service but should further improve the consistency of handling claims and communication about final costs.
Show more
Get a Quote (859) 948-3553

Company Info

State license #: 3952

Pricing: $140/hr

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2207083

Alternate Names: Wildcat Furniture Repair , Wildcat Pressure Washing , The Wildcat Group

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.0% of all reviews were positive
13.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe moves with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK as effortless and stress-free, noting efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite movers as stand-out features. Most input, 86% of 236 reviews, was positive, highlighting quick moving and helpful staff who ensured items remained undamaged. Some feedback pointed out issues like damaged belongings, jobs feeling rushed, and unexpected charges, especially in larger or complex moves.
The company receives much higher marks for punctuality and efficiency than many moving services, but a small group mentioned still feeling frustrated by damage or inconsistent communication. Clients looking for reliable, careful movers and prompt service strongly favor this company, but people needing meticulous item protection or straightforward billing should verify specifics before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (859) 554-4616

Company Info

State license #: 3885

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Beautiful World, LLC. , Two Men And A Truck – Lexington

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.5% of all reviews were positive
12.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—that’s the message from most customer feedback for Vincent Fister Inc. Out of 232 reviews analyzed, roughly 85% were positive, with people repeatedly noting efficient, professional staff who communicate well and treat belongings with care. Quick moving processes and organized crews stand out.
Pricing transparency and knowledgeable movers also set them apart from competitors. On the downside, about 13% of reviews reported substantial item damage, with some users struggling to resolve claims or encountering unresponsive or rude staff. Compared to similar companies, Vincent Fister Inc. delivers better reliability and professionalism, but improvements are needed for handling damage claims and complaint resolution.
Show more
Get a Quote (859) 266-2153

Company Info

State license #: 0065

Years in Business: 71

Alternate Names: Fister, Inc. , Vincent Fister Company, Inc. , United Van Lines

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.9% of all reviews were positive
28.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers describe College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving as fast, courteous, and consistently professional, with the majority praising efficient moves, polite teams, and careful handling of possessions. Of the 45 total feedback submissions, nearly 69% were positive, reflecting satisfaction with helpful staff and rapid service. Most clients point to seamless booking and affordable rates as standouts, setting the company apart from many competitors.
Still, issues occur: late arrivals, item damage, and unexpectedly high bills surface in nearly 29% of feedback, sometimes paired with unresolved complaints. Compared to similar services, College Hunks earns high marks for friendliness and speed, but ongoing concerns about reliability and cost accuracy remain a drawback.
Show more
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 4393

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: College Hunks Moving , MJ, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.9% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day magic and standout professionalism define the feedback for Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc. Out of 72 reviews analyzed, 88.9% were positive, highlighting polite, efficient staff, careful handling, and quick, seamless moves. Customers frequently note strong communication and prompt service.
Negative experiences, making up 9.7% of feedback, focus on property damage, unprofessional conduct, and difficulty resolving complaints—especially regarding claims for damaged items. Only 1 review was neutral. Compared to similar companies, Saunier stands out for consistency, friendly teams, and reliable execution, yet occasional lapses in handling and customer care can frustrate those needing service resolution.
Show more
Get a Quote (859) 233-2383

Company Info

State license #: 1280

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 070851

Alternate Names: Saunier North American , Saunier Moving & Storage, Inc., A North American Van Lines Agent

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Lexington to Columbia?

Movers in Kentucky charge $105 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,080 – $3,031 $636 – $1,603 $366 – $722
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,869 – $5,433 $1,208 – $2,275 $398 – $865
4+ bedrooms $3,453 – $7,556 $1,603 – $2,882 $526 – $980
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 433-mile relocation from Lexington to Columbia, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Oct 22, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Lexington to Columbia

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Lexington to Columbia, you can expect to spend between $1,080 and $3,031. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $1,869 to $5,433 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Lexington to Columbia typically runs between $3,453 and $7,556.

Cost of moving containers from Lexington to Columbia

When moving from Lexington to Columbia, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $636 and $1,603. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,208 to $2,275. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,603 up to $2,882. 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 Kentucky.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Lexington to Columbia

Renting a moving truck in Lexington is usually your cheapest option to get to Columbia. 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 $366 and $722. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $398 and $865. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $526 and $980.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Lexington to Columbia toggle

The cost of Lexington movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $1,454, but larger homes can run up to $6,215.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Lexington.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($366–$865) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Lexington to Columbia

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Columbia runs about -37% higher for singles and 2% higher for families than Lexington.

Singles spend around $1,956 in Lexington versus $3,100 in Lexington; families pay $4,274 compared with $4,170.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Lexington Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,175 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $2,110 $2,220
Average home value $309,021 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $61,526 $64,683
Cost of living (single) $3,100 $1,956
Cost of living (family of four) $4,170 $4,274
Unemployment rate 4.3% 5.2%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.0%
State income tax 4.0% 7.0%
  • As you consider relocating to Columbia, note that rent can be roughly 8% more expensive than it is in Lexington; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 29% lower in Columbia than in Lexington.
  • The average income in Columbia and Lexington is quite similar, within about 5%, so your finances should remain fairly stable.
  • Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Columbia, where the cost of living for a single person is 37% less than in Lexington.
  • You’ll find the cost of living for a family to be nearly equivalent in Columbia and Lexington, with only a minor variance of about 5%, so you’ll likely see minimal difference in daily expenses.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbia is 21% higher compared to Lexington, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
  • Sales taxes are 33% higher in Columbia than in Lexington. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 75% higher in South Carolina compared to Kentucky. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Lexington with Columbia:

Living Expense Lexington Columbia
Basic utilities $206.92 $148.09
Cell phone plan $71.33 $54.77
Dozen eggs $2.98 $3.46
Loaf of bread $2.90 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $14.25 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $60.00
Gym membership $37.50 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Lexington than in Columbia.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Lexington than in Columbia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Lexington than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Lexington than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Lexington than in Columbia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Lexington than in Columbia.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Lexington than in Columbia.

How life is different in Lexington vs. Columbia

Lexington Columbia
Population 320,347 136,632
Transportation score 4 5
Walkability score 90 35
Bike friendliness score 85 35
Crime index 50.88 3.0
Safety index 49.12 48.39
Air quality Good Good
  • Columbia’s population is about 57% less than Lexington.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Lexington’s score of 4.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Lexington with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Lexington’s 90 out of 100.
  • Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Lexington, which has a score of 85.
  • Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Lexington with a score of 3.0 compared to Lexington’s 50.88. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lexington neighborhoods are safer than 50.88%.
  • Columbia and Lexington have a similar safety level, with scores of 48.39 and 49.12.
  • Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Lexington it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Lexington to Columbia move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While South Carolina doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Columbia smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Columbia

Now that you’ve chosen Soda City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Columbia to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Cayce
  • Seven Oaks
  • Forest Acres
  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • West Columbia
  • St. Andrews
  • Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Irmo
  • Forest Acres
  • Lexington
  • Blythewood
  • Seven Oaks
  • Chapin
  • Cayce
  • Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

After getting comfortable in your new South Carolina home, it’s time to see what Columbia is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Columbia offers cultural landmarks like the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Lexington to Columbia?toggle

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Lexington to Columbia are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Lexington are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Lexington to Columbia?toggle

Because spring and fall moves from Lexington to Columbia are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Lexington to Columbia take?toggle

A move of 433 miles from Lexington, KY to Columbia, generally takes one to four days. Movers in Lexington sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Columbia is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Lexington offer piano or antique moving?toggle

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 6 movers in Lexington have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 4 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across KY, there are 20 piano movers and 13 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,173 and 1,401.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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