How we chose the best moving companies for your NM to SD move
After studying pricing from 16 New Mexico 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 New Mexico to South Dakota?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from New Mexico 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 |
$1,237 – $4,203 |
$788 – $1,840 |
$533 – $1,067 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,548 – $5,776 |
$1,335 – $2,687 |
$569 – $1,231 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,233 – $7,904 |
$1,721 – $3,546 |
$735 – $1,539 |
*Estimated costs for a 834-mile move from NM 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 New Mexico to South Dakota
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from New Mexico to South Dakota will cost between
$1,237 and
$4,203.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from NM to SD will
range from $2,548 to
$5,776, and a large move from New Mexico
to South Dakota will cost from $4,233
to $7,904.
Cost of moving containers from New Mexico to South Dakota
If you’re moving from New Mexico to South Dakota,
expect to pay between $788
and $1,840 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,335 up to
$2,687.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,721 and
$3,546. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from New Mexico.
Cost of moving truck rentals from New Mexico 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
$533 and
$1,067.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $569
and $1,231. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $735 up to
$1,539 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from NM to SD
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from New Mexico 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 New Mexico 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 NM to SD
A relocation from New Mexico to South Dakota comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: New Mexico vs. South Dakota
Comparing expenses in New Mexico 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:
|
New Mexico |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$966 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$303,910 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$58,722 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
94 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
7.61% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
5.9% |
0.0% |
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Expect to pay around 9% less in rent in South Dakota than in New Mexico, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Home prices are about the same in South Dakota and New Mexico, so there’s no need to change up your mortgage budget, unless you’re upgrading your living situation.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 18% higher in South Dakota compared to New Mexico. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Moving to South Dakota means you’ll be paying 6% more than you did in New Mexico. 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 34% lower than New Mexico, 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 tax in South Dakota is 16% lower than in New Mexico. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in South Dakota can really help lower your monthly costs.
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South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to New Mexico. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. New Mexico
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 New Mexico across important lifestyle factors:
|
South Dakota |
New Mexico |
| Population |
919,318 |
2,113,344 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Democratic 51.9-45.9 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
20ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
15″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
24″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
38.81 |
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With a population about 56% smaller than New Mexico, 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.
-
In the most recent presidential election, South Dakota leaned Republican, while New Mexico went with Democratic.
-
In South Dakota, summer highs hover around 85°F, while New Mexico sits at 88°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, South Dakota drops to about 7°F while New Mexico only reaches 20°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.
-
Expect about 23 inches of rain each year in South Dakota, a noticeable difference from the 15 inches you’re used to in New Mexico.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
Every year, South Dakota gets around 39 inches of snow, much more than the 24 inches that New Mexico typically sees.
With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
-
South Dakota has a lower crime rate than New Mexico with a crime index of 21.14 vs. 38.81.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of New Mexico vs. South Dakota
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in South Dakota versus New Mexico:
| Pros of living in New Mexico |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Rich culture |
Robust job market |
| Delicious food and wine |
Low cost of living |
| Low cost of living |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Abundant outdoor activities |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in New Mexico vs. South Dakota
Moving from New Mexico to South Dakota comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in New Mexico |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| Bad roads |
Extreme weather |
| Lackluster economy |
Small-town mindset |
| Scarce job opportunity |
Sparsely populated |
| Slow life |
Strange and offensive laws |
| High crime rate |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your New Mexico 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.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 New Mexico to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from New Mexico to South Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from New Mexico to South Dakota?
The main reasons people are moving from New Mexico 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 New Mexico or South Dakota?
Living in New Mexico usually costs less than in South Dakota.
Housing
is more affordable in New Mexico,
with average rent about 10% less and home prices 1% 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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico?
Some movers in New Mexico provide budget-friendly deals.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 1 movers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
New Mexico moving services
Popular New Mexico routes
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When moving from New Mexico to South Dakota, expect to spend between
$2,548–$5,776 if using professional movers, about
$2,011 for a moving container, and around
$900
for a rental truck.
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