How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to SD move
After studying pricing from 84 Michigan movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to South Dakota?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to South Dakota.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,123 – $4,522 |
$735 – $1,750 |
$561 – $1,017 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,337 – $6,129 |
$1,322 – $2,798 |
$618 – $1,208 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,020 – $8,175 |
$1,813 – $3,696 |
$759 – $1,575 |
*Estimated costs for a 858-mile move from MI to
SD are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to South Dakota
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Michigan to South Dakota will cost between
$1,123 and
$4,522.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from MI to SD will
range from $2,337 to
$6,129, and a large move from Michigan
to South Dakota will cost from $4,020
to $8,175.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to South Dakota
If you’re moving from Michigan to South Dakota,
expect to pay between $735
and $1,750 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,322 up to
$2,798.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,813 and
$3,696. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$561 and
$1,017.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $618
and $1,208. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $759 up to
$1,575 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to SD
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Michigan to South Dakota. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Michigan is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from MI to SD
A relocation from Michigan to South Dakota comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. South Dakota
Comparing expenses in Michigan and South Dakota shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Michigan |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
0.0% |
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Expect to pay around 15% less in rent in South Dakota than in Michigan, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 25% higher in South Dakota than in Michigan.
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Good news — you won’t need to stress about your finances since average incomes are similar in both South Dakota and Michigan.
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Moving to South Dakota means you’ll be paying 9% more than you did in Michigan. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
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With an unemployment rate about 60% lower than Michigan, South Dakota boasts a stronger job market and a vibrant economy, which is encouraging if you’re thinking about making a move.
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Sales taxes are 7% higher in South Dakota than in Michigan, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Michigan. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Michigan
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in South Dakota stacks up against Michigan across important lifestyle factors:
|
South Dakota |
Michigan |
| Population |
919,318 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
19.98 |
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With a population about 91% smaller than Michigan, South Dakota offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
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During the last presidential election, both Michigan and South Dakota supported the Republican candidate.
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In South Dakota, summer highs hover around 85°F, while Michigan sits at 81°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
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During the coldest part of the year, South Dakota drops to about 7°F while Michigan only reaches 14°F.
Moving to South Dakota with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
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You’ll enjoy about 23 inches of rain each year in South Dakota, compared to 34 inches in Michigan.
With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
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In South Dakota, you can expect about 39 inches of snow each year, much less than the 64 inches you’d deal with in Michigan.
So, if you’re moving to South Dakota, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
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South Dakota has a higher crime rate than Michigan with a crime index of 21.14 vs. 19.98.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. South Dakota
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in South Dakota versus Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Scenic beauty |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Good higher education |
Robust job market |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Low cost of living |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Beautiful lakes |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. South Dakota
Moving from Michigan to South Dakota comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| Cold snowy winters |
Extreme weather |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Small-town mindset |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Sparsely populated |
| Expensive education |
Strange and offensive laws |
| Thick accents |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to South Dakota move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify a South Dakota moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in South Dakota, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to South Dakota without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get ready to discover all that South Dakota has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in South Dakota
- Adams House
- The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
- Adams Museum
- Tatanka: Story of the Bison
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Parks in South Dakota
- Falls Park
- Canyon Lake Park
- Founders Park
- Memorial Park
- Upper Chautauqua Park
Sports teams in South Dakota
- Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
- Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
- Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
- Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Universities in South Dakota
- University of South Dakota
- South Dakota State University
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- Dakota State University
- Augustana University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to South Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to South Dakota?
The main reasons people are moving from Michigan to South Dakota are the amazing upsides of living in South Dakota, such as outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or South Dakota?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in South Dakota.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 18% less and home prices 20% lower than in South Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Michigan residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
You should make approximately $62,655 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in South Dakota.
The cost of living in South Dakota is about $2,529 per month for an individual and $5,562 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Some movers in Michigan provide budget-friendly deals.
In Michigan, 1 movers provide AAA member discounts.
Special pricing for military members is available from 6 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 7 movers.
Student savings are available through 1 moving providers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Michigan to South Dakota, expect to spend between
$2,337–$6,129 if using professional movers, about
$2,060 for a moving container, and around
$913
for a rental truck.
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