How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to SC move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 84 Michigan 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 Michigan to South Carolina?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan 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 |
$1,150 – $4,427 |
$736 – $1,938 |
$573 – $1,150 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,481 – $6,091 |
$1,362 – $2,697 |
$657 – $1,328 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,264 – $8,021 |
$1,852 – $3,751 |
$840 – $1,532 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 923-mile move from MI to
SC 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 Michigan to South Carolina
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to South Carolina,
you can expect prices to land between $1,150
and $4,427.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,481 to
$6,091 for the trip from MI
to SC. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,264 and
$8,021.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to South Carolina
Moving containers from Michigan to South Carolina
will cost you $736 to
$1,938 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,362
to $2,697. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,852 to
$3,751.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan 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
$573
and $1,150
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $657
to $1,328.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$840
to $1,532.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to SC
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to South Carolina. 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 Michigan 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 MI to SC
Making the move from Michigan to South Carolina means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. South Carolina
A clear look at the cost differences between Michigan 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:
|
Michigan |
South Carolina |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,065 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$63,623 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
7.46% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
7.0% |
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No need to worry about your budget, rental rates stay pretty consistent whether you’re moving from Michigan to South Carolina.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in South Carolina are usually around 20% higher than what you’ll find in Michigan.
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Be sure to look over your budget before making the move, the average income is about 7% lower South Carolina than in Michigan.
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Since living costs in South Carolina and Michigan are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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Unemployment rates in South Carolina and Michigan are about the same, so you’re unlikely to see a big shift in job opportunities or competition after your move.
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Sales taxes are 24% higher in South Carolina than in Michigan, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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State income taxes in South Carolina are 65% higher than in Michigan, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. Michigan
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 Michigan compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
South Carolina |
Michigan |
| Population |
5,373,555 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58-42 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
28.0 |
19.98 |
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The population of South Carolina is about 46% smaller than that of Michigan.
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.
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Michigan and South Carolina both voted Republican in the last election.
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Summers in South Carolina top out at 91°F, higher than 81°F in Michigan.
Expect more heat, more sunshine, and possibly higher cooling costs.
-
South Carolina has winter lows around 33°F, compared to 14°F in Michigan.
That milder weather makes winters easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to live through.
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You can expect about 48 inches of annual rainfall in South Carolina versus only 34 inches of rainfall in Michigan.
More annual rainfall means wetter days, greener scenery, and some lifestyle adjustments. With the right mindset, and waterproof gear, you can settle in comfortably.
-
In South Carolina, you’ll get about 1 inch of snow each year, far less than Michigan.
That means moving to South Carolina will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
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South Carolina has a higher crime rate than Michigan, with crime indexes at 28.0 and 19.98, 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 Michigan 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 Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in South Carolina |
| Scenic beauty |
Warm southern hospitality |
| Good higher education |
Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Low cost of living |
Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Beautiful lakes |
Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan 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 Michigan to South Carolina:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in South Carolina |
| Cold snowy winters |
High cost of living |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Hurricane frequency |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Low quality of healthcare |
| Expensive education |
High taxes |
| Thick accents |
Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your Michigan 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.
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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.
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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 the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a South Carolina 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 Carolina, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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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.
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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.
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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 Michigan to South Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to South Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to South Carolina?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Michigan 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 Michigan or South Carolina?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in South Carolina.
Housing
is more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 3% less and home prices 17% lower than in South Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% 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 Michigan?
Many movers in Michigan publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
6 offer military-specific savings;
7 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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For a move from Michigan to South Carolina, budget between $2,481–$6,091 for full-service movers, around
$2,029 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$992
for a rental truck.
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