($1,260) Cost to Move From Ann Arbor, MI to Columbia, SC

Quick answer: The cost to move from Ann Arbor to Columbia ranges from $586 – $5,784, with a timeframe of one to six days. Factors affecting the estimate include volume, timing, and whether you handle the 709-mile move yourself or use professionals.

1. Handle With Care Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
2. Campus Concepts: Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
3. Corrigan Moving Systems: 4.62 out of 5 stars
4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.48 out of 5 stars
5. Men on the Move: 4.38 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Ann Arbor to Columbia

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Ann Arbor to Columbia typically costs between $1,260 and $4,172. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,484 and $5,784 when moving from Ann Arbor to Columbia. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Ann Arbor to Columbia, you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,402 up to $8,862.

Cost of moving containers from Ann Arbor to Columbia

If you’re relocating from Ann Arbor to Columbia, you’ll typically spend between $765 and $1,890 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,447 up to $2,780. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,863 and $3,576. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Ann Arbor to Columbia

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Ann Arbor to Columbia move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $532 and $1,040. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $586 to $1,211. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $719 and $1,379.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Good news! When moving to Columbia from Ann Arbor, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 36% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
• With home prices being nearly 54% cheaper in Columbia, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
• Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Columbia and Ann Arbor, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
• Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Columbia. The cost of living for a single person is 10% less compared to Ann Arbor.
• Relocating to Columbia could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 20% lower than in Ann Arbor.
• The unemployment rate in Columbia exceeds that of Ann Arbor by about 49%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
• Sales taxes in Columbia exceed those in Ann Arbor by 33%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
• Income taxes are 65% higher in South Carolina than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

• Columbia’s population is about 10% greater than Ann Arbor.
• Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Ann Arbor’s score of 7.
• Columbia is less walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor’s 52 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 Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Ann Arbor with a score of 3.0 compared to Ann Arbor’s 31.0. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
• Columbia is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 48.39 vs Ann Arbor’s 79.18.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Ann Arbor it’s Moderate.

• HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
• Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
• 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 a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a South Carolina moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in South Carolina, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Columbia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

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

Now that you’ve made the move to South Carolina, it’s the perfect time to explore Columbia. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

• Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Columbia include museums and art centers 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: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
• Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.