($1,392) Cost to Move From Portland, ME to Columbia, SC

1. Liberty Bell Moving & Storage of Maine: 4.5 out of 5 stars
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. Bisson Moving & Storage: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Allen & Coles Moving Systems: 4.36 out of 5 stars
5. Tiny Tim’s Moving: 4.14 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Portland to Columbia

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbia from Portland, you can expect prices to land between $1,392 and $5,506. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,755 to $6,815 for the trip from Portland to Columbia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,606 and $9,018.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to Columbia

Moving containers from Portland to Columbia will cost you $842 to $2,071 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,480 to $2,798. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,036 to $3,797. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Maine.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to Columbia

Renting a moving truck from Portland to Columbia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $680 and $1,204 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $692 to $1,401. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $861 to $1,759.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• When relocating from Portland to Columbia, expect to find rent about 27% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
• You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 59% more affordable in Columbia compared to Portland.
• In terms of average income, Columbia and Portland are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
• You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Columbia, as the cost of living for a single person is 21% lower compared to Portland.
• A move to Columbia can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 29% less than what it costs in Portland.
• With Columbia and Portland having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
• Sales taxes in Columbia are 45% more than in Portland, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
• Income taxes in South Carolina are 21% above those in Maine. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• Columbia’s population is about 100% greater than Portland.
• Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Portland’s score of 6.
• Columbia is less walkable than Portland with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Portland’s 62 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 Portland, which has a score of 68.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Portland with a score of 3.0 compared to Portland’s 32.16. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
• Columbia is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 48.39 vs Portland’s 67.84.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Portland it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Columbia. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

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 settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: Columbia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.