For a move from Maryland to South Carolina, budget between $1,790–$4,958 for full-service movers, around
$1,783 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$648
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
The best local moving companies in Maryland
You’ll find 44 interstate movers in Maryland who can handle your relocation to South Carolina. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in Maryland, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.
- Artisan Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- Helix Transfer and Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.7 out of 5 stars
- 495 Movers, Inc: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Zip Moving And Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2957382
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 2957382
Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.
Artisan Movers, established in 2018, offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around Rockville, MD. With stellar reviews on Yelp (4.3 average from 32 reviews) and Google My Business (4.9 average from 309 reviews), along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they clearly outshine many nearby competitors. Artisan Movers also provides office moving, packing and unpacking services, and specializes in moving pianos, art, and antiques. Unlike some of their competitors, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a convenient and reliable choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2358272
Years in Business: 12
DOT #: 2358272
Alternate Names: Helix Transfer and Storage Northern Virginia
Helix Transfer and Storage has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Gaithersburg, MD since 2013. With glowing consumer reviews—averaging 4.4 stars on Yelp and 4.9 stars on Google—this company stands out for its reliability and professionalism. Helix offers comprehensive services, including local and long-distance moves, packing and unpacking services, and even specialized moving for items like pianos and antiques. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+, Helix Transfer and Storage surpasses many nearby moving companies in customer satisfaction and service breadth.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 70719
Years in Business: 32
DOT #: 70719
Olympia Moving & Storage has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Hyattsville, MD, since 1994. With a solid reputation backed by 149 Yelp reviews averaging 4.1 stars, 326 Google reviews averaging 4.6 stars, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, they stand out among nearby competitors. In addition to local moves, they offer packing and unpacking services, storage options, and the capability to move delicate items like pianos and antiques. Olympia Moving & Storage accepts credit cards and offers full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind throughout the moving process.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 1893270
Years in Business: 15
DOT #: 1893270
495 Movers, Inc, based in Rockville, MD, has been offering reliable local residential moving services since 2010. Renowned for their professionalism and efficiency, they outrank many nearby competitors with outstanding consumer feedback, boasting a 4.1-star average on Yelp and an impressive 4.7 on Google, alongside an A+ BBB rating. Apart from local moves, they also provide office moving, packing and unpacking services, and are capable of handling specialty items like pianos and antiques. Accepting various payment methods and requiring no deposit, they further ensure peace of mind with full valuation insurance coverage and shipment tracking.
Services Offered
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 2586700
Pricing: $125/hr
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 3306591
Zip Moving And Storage, Inc. has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in Gaithersburg, MD, since 2016. Renowned for their exceptional customer service, they boast an average 4.5-star rating on Yelp and 4.8 stars on Google, alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer comprehensive services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, and can handle delicate items like pianos, art, and antiques. With a competitive rate of $125 per hour for local moves, Zip Moving And Storage stands out among nearby competitors for their reliability and wide-ranging expertise.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
The best Maryland to South Carolina moving container companies
Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in Maryland and delivering it to your new place in South Carolina.
Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:
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The best Maryland to South Carolina moving truck rentals
Looking to cut costs on your move from Maryland to South Carolina? Consider renting a moving truck. Just keep in mind, you’ll handle all the packing, lifting, and driving on your own.
Take a look at our top choices for moving truck rentals:
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The best Maryland to South Carolina 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 Maryland to South Carolina:
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How we chose the best moving companies for your MD to SC move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 51 Maryland moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
- Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
- Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
- 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 Maryland to South Carolina?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Maryland to South Carolina. 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 | $1,008 – $2,965 | $657 – $1,583 | $397 – $729 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,790 – $4,958 | $1,201 – $2,366 | $441 – $856 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,564 – $7,036 | $1,518 – $2,893 | $544 – $1,139 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 523-mile move from MD to SC using moveBuddha data as of Nov 04, 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 Maryland to South Carolina
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Maryland to South Carolina, you can expect prices to land between $1,008 and $2,965. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,790 to $4,958 for the trip from MD to SC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,564 and $7,036.
Cost of moving containers from Maryland to South Carolina
Moving containers from Maryland to South Carolina will cost you $657 to $1,583 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,201 to $2,366. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,518 to $2,893. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Maryland.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Maryland to South Carolina
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 $397 and $729 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $441 to $856. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $544 to $1,139.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MD to SC
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Maryland to South Carolina. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
- Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
- Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Maryland generally comes with a higher price tag.
- 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 MD to SC
Making the move from Maryland to South Carolina means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Maryland vs. South Carolina
A clear look at the cost differences between Maryland and South Carolina helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
| Maryland | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,598 | $1,065 |
| Average home cost | $418,438 | $295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) | $98,461 | $63,623 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 96 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | 4.7% |
| Average sales tax | 6.0% | 7.46% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 7.0% |
- You’ll pay about 33% less in rent in South Carolina compared to Maryland, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices in South Carolina are around 29% lower than in Maryland. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 35% lower South Carolina than in Maryland.
- Since living costs in South Carolina and Maryland are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
- Unemployment in South Carolina is roughly 57% higher than in Maryland. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
- Sales taxes are 24% higher in South Carolina than in Maryland, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
- State income taxes in South Carolina are 22% higher than in Maryland, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. Maryland
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 Carolina and Maryland compares across key lifestyle indicators:
| South Carolina | Maryland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,373,555 | 6,180,253 |
| Political leaning | Republican 58-42 | Democratic 63-34.4 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 33ºF | 25ºF |
| Annual rain | 48″ | 44″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 19″ |
| Crime index | 28.0 | 20.34 |
- The population of South Carolina is about 13% smaller than that of Maryland. 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 Carolina voted Republican, while Maryland chose Democratic.
- Summer highs average 91°F in South Carolina, compared to 87°F in Maryland. The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
- South Carolina has winter lows around 33°F, compared to 25°F in Maryland. That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
- You can expect about 48 inches of annual rainfall in South Carolina and 44 inches in Maryland. Your overall experience with precipitation is unlikely to change much, but how that rain shows up throughout the year can still impact your daily life.
- In South Carolina, you’ll get about 1 inch of snow each year, far less than Maryland. That means moving to South Carolina will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
- South Carolina has a higher crime rate than Maryland, with crime indexes at 28.0 and 20.34, 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 Maryland vs. South Carolina
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in South Carolina compared to Maryland:
| Pros of living in Maryland | Pros of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Delicious food | Warm southern hospitality |
| Ample economic opportunity | Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Diverse outdoor activities | Beautiful landscapes |
| Beautiful coastline | Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Rich history | Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in Maryland vs. South Carolina
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Maryland to South Carolina:
| Cons of living in Maryland | Cons of living in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| High cost of living | High cost of living |
| Bad traffic | Hurricane frequency |
| High crime | Low quality of healthcare |
| High homelessness | High taxes |
| Peculiar alcohol laws | Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your Maryland to South Carolina 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: 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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can quickly check a South Carolina moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
- Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, 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 Carolina 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. 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in South Carolina
You’ll have plenty to explore in South Carolina! Check out these top spots 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 Maryland to South Carolina?
Choosing a full-service Maryland moving company may cost more upfront, but it takes a huge load off your shoulders by handling all the details. If you’d rather save some cash, you can rent a moving truck or go with a moving container. Just be ready to handle more of the work yourself. Looking for even more ways to stretch your moving budget? Don’t miss our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.
Do movers transport your car from Maryland to South Carolina?
Many full-service movers offer auto transport for an extra fee. If you’d rather take care of it yourself, you can easily arrange vehicle shipping from Maryland to South Carolina with a leading car transport company.
What are the benefits of moving from Maryland to South Carolina?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Maryland for South Carolina, drawn by advantages like warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Maryland or South Carolina?
Living in South Carolina usually costs less than in Maryland. Housing is more affordable in South Carolina, with average rent about 33% less and home prices 29% lower than in Maryland. However, taxes are lower in Maryland, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by South Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Carolina?
To live comfortably as a single adult in South Carolina, you should aim to make around $63,255. On average, expect to spend about $3,659 per month, or $6,645 monthly for a family of four. Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Charleston and Columbia generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Maryland?
Many movers in Maryland publish special-rate programs: 4 offer military-specific savings; 9 extend deals for seniors; 1 provide student pricing;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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Popular Maryland routes
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