How we chose the best moving companies for your NJ to SD move
Using rate data from 87 New Jersey movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from New Jersey to South Dakota?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from New Jersey
to South Dakota with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,123 – $4,560 |
$1,006 – $2,284 |
$928 – $1,798 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,726 – $6,100 |
$1,727 – $3,687 |
$1,004 – $1,954 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,770 – $8,481 |
$2,495 – $4,881 |
$1,191 – $2,539 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,557-mile move from NJ to
SD, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from New Jersey to South Dakota
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from New Jersey to South Dakota,
you can expect to spend between $1,123
and $4,560.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,726 to
$6,100 on the same route
(NJ to SD). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from New Jersey to South Dakota typically runs between
$4,770 and
$8,481.
Cost of moving containers from New Jersey to South Dakota
Moving from New Jersey to South Dakota? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $1,006 and
$2,284. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,727 to
$3,687. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,495 up to
$4,881. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from New Jersey.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New Jersey to South Dakota
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$928 and
$1,798.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$1,004 and
$1,954.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,191 and
$2,539.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NJ to SD
There are many factors that influence New Jersey moving costs. The cost to move from New Jersey to South Dakota will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in New Jersey fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from NJ to SD
Moving between New Jersey and South Dakota involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: New Jersey vs. South Dakota
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
New Jersey and South Dakota. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
New Jersey |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,368 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$534,773 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$97,126 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
114 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.6% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
10.7% |
0.0% |
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Rent in South Dakota is about 36% cheaper than in New Jersey, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
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Home prices in South Dakota are roughly 43% less than in New Jersey, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
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Be sure to adjust your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Dakota are about 28% lower than in New Jersey.
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Moving to South Dakota is about 12% cheaper than living in New Jersey. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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South Dakota has a lower unemployment rate than New Jersey by about 60%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
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Sales tax is similar in South Dakota and New Jersey, so you won’t see much change in what you pay at the register after your move.
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South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to New Jersey. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. New Jersey
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how South Dakota differs from New Jersey in these areas.
|
South Dakota |
New Jersey |
| Population |
919,318 |
9,290,841 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Democratic 52-46.1 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
22ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
23″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
16.2 |
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With a population about 90% smaller than New Jersey, South Dakota offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
-
In the last presidential election, South Dakota voted Republican and New Jersey voted Democratic.
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Summer highs in South Dakota average 85°F, almost the same as 85°F in New Jersey.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winter in South Dakota can dip to 7°F, colder than the 22°F lows in New Jersey.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In South Dakota, you’ll see about 23 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in New Jersey.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In South Dakota, it snows about 39 inches annually while New Jersey gets only about 23 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
South Dakota reports a higher crime rate than New Jersey, with a crime index of 21.14 versus 16.2.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of New Jersey vs. South Dakota
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in South Dakota stacks up against New Jersey:
| Pros of living in New Jersey |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Diversity |
Robust job market |
| World-class entertainment |
Low cost of living |
| Leading education |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Superb health care |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in New Jersey vs. South Dakota
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from New Jersey to South Dakota, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in New Jersey |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| Extreme weather |
Extreme weather |
| Congested population |
Small-town mindset |
| High cost of living |
Sparsely populated |
| High tax burden |
Strange and offensive laws |
| Terrible traffic |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your New Jersey to South Dakota move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
South Dakota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to South Dakota 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,” for free. 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.
-
Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get ready to discover South Dakota. Check out these must-visit places in your new home 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 New Jersey to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from New Jersey to South Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from New Jersey to South Dakota?
More and more folks are relocating from New Jersey to South Dakota to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in New Jersey or South Dakota?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in New Jersey.
Housing
is more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 36% less and home prices 43% lower than in New Jersey.
Taxes are also
lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by New Jersey residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
If you’re planning to live on your own in South Dakota, aim for an income of around $62,655 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,529 if you’re flying solo, or $5,562 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in New Jersey?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in New Jersey.
There are 2 movers that recognize AAA membership with discounts.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 3 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 4 movers.
Students benefit from discounts provided by 1 moving companies.
Law enforcement professionals can access special rates from 1 moving providers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
New Jersey moving services
Popular New Jersey routes
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When planning a move from New Jersey to South Dakota, professional movers typically run between
$2,726 and $6,100, a moving container averages about
$2,707, and a rental truck is around
$1,479.
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