Best overall value
Local moving companies in New York City
- Roadway Moving : 4.96 out of 5 stars
- Dumbo Moving and Storage: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Flatrate Moving: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- Piece of Cake Moving & Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- White Glove Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Lack of communication
- Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Top-rated moves aren’t a myth—Roadway Moving receives glowing feedback for being fast, careful, and professional. Out of 790 reviews, 92% are positive. Most customers highlight efficient and friendly crews, meticulous furniture handling, speedy packing and delivery, and excellent communication throughout the move. Crews wrap and organize everything to prevent damage, and many note stress-free experiences even during complicated or long-distance moves. Many find the booking process easy and the pricing transparent. A few reports mention delays or lost items, and some cite poor communication or surprise charges when things go wrong. Damage to items, lost communication, and unexpected fees lead the small number of negative reviews. Overall, customer input suggests Roadway stands out for reliability, detailed care, and customer focus—making them a stronger choice than many moving competitors, particularly for those seeking peace of mind on move day.
Company Info
State license #: 38589
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 1854436
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Affordable rates
- Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
- Unexpected charges
- Damage to items
- Unfriendly or rude staff
Review Analysis
Customers call Dumbo Moving a go-to for affordable, fast, and careful moves. Over 2,100 feedback entries show more than half of the input is positive and under 43% negative. Clients praise the team's efficient service, attention to detail, courteous crew, fair quotes, and how quickly they finish both local and long-distance jobs. Many appreciate their careful handling of everything from fragile furniture to electronics. Several people highlight reliable performance compared to pricier competitors, with many repeat customers saying they always get what they expect. On the downside, hundreds report cost problems—unexpected charges, extra fees for minor add-ons, and surprise upcharges once belongings are in the truck. A significant portion warn of property damage left unresolved or poorly compensated, and complaints about staff that come off as unhelpful or pushy are common. While speedy moves and competitive rates stand out, the risk of extra charges and inconsistent customer care means Dumbo moves faster than some firms but often delivers a less predictable experience. Fewer companies inspire such loyalty—or frustration—in a crowded industry.
Company Info
State license #: 36990
Years in Business: 18
DOT #: 1543241
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Good communication
- Quick moving process
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Poor complaint handling
- Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
FlatRate Moving receives glowing feedback from most customers, with 94% of input highlighting efficiency, skilled handling, professional and courteous staff, clear communication, and speedy moves. Clients mention organized packing and care for belongings, with many moves completed ahead of schedule. Transparent pricing and a streamlined process set the company apart from many competitors in the industry, reducing stress typically linked to moving. Negative experiences are far less common but mainly report damaged or lost items, unresolved claims, and challenges with customer support for complaints. A small segment also notes issues with repeated follow-up needed for claim resolutions or communication lapses after damage occurred. Out of 271 reviews analyzed, an overwhelming majority found the company reliable and highly recommended FlatRate Moving, reflecting a track record that outperforms many moving services in both satisfaction and consistency.
Company Info
State license #: 32557
Years in Business: 33
DOT #: 488466
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Customer Praise
- Efficient service
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Unexpected charges
- Misplaced or lost items
Review Analysis
Piece of Cake Moving & Storage makes relocating feel like a breeze for most customers, with 94.5% of nearly 9,000 reviews giving positive feedback. Their crews often win praise for being efficient, friendly, and showing care with belongings, making moves run quickly and protecting furniture well. Many also mention good communication and stress-free experiences, even for moves under tough conditions. Some reviewers highlight organized packing and transparent pricing as standout qualities that set Piece of Cake above their competition in major cities. Still, a small but notable group (5%) describe frustrating experiences such as item damage, surprise charges not made clear upfront, or missing boxes—and a handful share stories of items lost or mishandled during long-distance moves. A few neutral reviews point out that while customer support is responsive, the packing service can fall short of expectations. Compared to similar companies, Piece of Cake is recognized for consistent service, but it’s important for customers to ensure item lists are accurate and to monitor the moving process. For those seeking a smooth, hands-off move with careful, reliable movers, Piece of Cake comes highly recommended, but vigilance is wise to prevent issues common in the industry.
Company Info
State license #: 40244
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3066988
Alternate Names: Piece of Cake Moving & Storage LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Customer Praise
- Careful handling
- Professional and polite staff
- Efficient service
- Quick moving process
- Good communication
Customer Complaints
- Damage to items
- Delayed arrival or delivery
- Unexpected charges
Review Analysis
Across 741 customer reviews, White Glove Moving & Storage shines for their meticulous handling, professionalism, and swift, efficient work—nearly 90% of feedback expresses satisfaction. Movers are repeatedly recognized for careful treatment of items, reliable communication, and prompt execution, often exceeding expectations. Customers cite friendly, organized teams and well-wrapped belongings as standout features. A minority report issues like damaged goods, delayed delivery, or unexpected fees, especially with long-distance jobs or storage. Compared to typical moving companies, White Glove receives notably fewer complaints about lost or mishandled property. While most customers strongly recommend them, a few warn to clarify terms up front to avoid delivery surprises or extra expenses. White Glove’s track record for dependable, courteous service sets them ahead in the industry, as reflected in consistently positive input from clients.
Company Info
State license #: 648262
Years in Business: 29
DOT #: 648262
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Factors that influence moving costs from New York City to Columbia
What to know before moving from New York City to Columbia
Moving from New York City to Columbia means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in New York City than in Columbia, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how New York City compares to Columbia so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| New York City | Columbia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $4,340 | $1,447 |
| Average home value | $752,778 | $220,612 |
| Average income (per capita) | $78,058 | $64,683 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $5,683 | $1,956 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $15,081 | $4,274 |
| Unemployment rate | 11.2% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 10.9% | 7.0% |
- Rent prices in Columbia are 67% lower than in New York City, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
-
In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Columbia.
Home prices in Columbia are 70.7% lower than in New York City. - Income in Columbia is 17.1% lower than in New York City, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbia — including Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina — may pay more.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Columbia. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 65.6% lower than in New York City.
- A move to Columbia can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 71.7% less than what it costs in New York City.
- The unemployment rate in Columbia is 53.57% lower than in New York City.
- Sales taxes are the same in Columbia and New York City.
- One perk of moving to Columbia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 35.78% lower than in New York City.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,032.55 in Columbia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New York City.
How life is different in New York City vs. Columbia
| Columbia | New York City | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 8,258,035 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 5 | 10 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 88 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 69 |
| Crime Index | 3.0 | 50.83 |
| Safety Index | 48.39 | 49.17 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Columbia might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 98% less than New York City.
- Getting around Columbia without a car might be more difficult than in New York City. Columbia has a public transportation score of 5 out of 10, whereas New York City is ranked 10. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
- Columbia neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as New York City. Based on its score of 35 out of 100, Columbia isn't as walkable as New York City, which has a score of 88 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
- You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Columbia, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than New York City. While New York City has a bike-friendliness score of 69 out of 100, Columbia earned a 35. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
- Columbia has a lower crime rate than New York City based on scores of 3.0 and New York City's 50.83, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
- Columbia is generally as safe as New York City, according to their similar safety index ratings. The ratings are based on how comfortable residents feel about walking alone during the daytime and nighttime and the number of small crimes like theft and muggings.
- The air quality in Columbia and New York City is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.
Other things to consider for your New York City vs. Columbia move
- Weather: If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
- 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: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving company's license by visiting 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: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Columbia Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Columbia
Now that you've chosen Soda City as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Columbia to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Seven Oaks
- Forest Acres
- Irmo
- Lexington
- Woodfield
Best neighborhoods for families
- Lexington
- Blythewood
- Chapin
- Cayce
- Oak Grove
Things to do in Columbia
After settling into your new South Carolina home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Columbia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, EdVenture Children's Museum, and South Carolina Military Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League), South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC), or Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.
source: AttractionsofAmerica
FAQ
When is the best time to move from New York City to Columbia?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from New York City to Columbia You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in New York City.
When is the cheapest time to move from New York City to Columbia?
Because spring and fall moves from New York City to Columbia are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.
How long does a move from New York City to Columbia take?
The 708-mile journey from New York City, NY to Columbia, SC, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in New York City offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Columbia.
