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($1,208) Cost to Move From Cincinnati, OH to Columbia, SC

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Estimated cost & time: For a 511 mile move from Cincinnati to Columbia, costs typically range from $450 to $5,641. Plan for the travel time to be around one–six days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Cincinnati to Columbia

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Cincinnati to Columbia

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Cincinnati to Columbia, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 9 interstate moving companies located in Cincinnati, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Columbia seamless and enjoyable.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Cincinnati to Columbia

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 511-mile move from Cincinnati to Columbia using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,272 – $4,025
  • Moving Container $909 – $1,680
  • Rental Truck $393 – $759
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,061 – $5,641
  • Moving Container $1,201 – $2,389
  • Rental Truck $450 – $919
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,901 – $7,616
  • Moving Container $1,566 – $2,982
  • Rental Truck $566 – $1,052
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
BLVD Moving
Lebanon, OH Oak Grove, SC
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 04, 2025
North American Van Lines
Trenton, OH Pelion, SC
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Reading, OH Cordova, SC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Elmwood Place, OH Dentsville, SC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Newtown, OH Salley, SC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Lincoln Heights, OH Swansea, SC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
American Van Lines
Morrow, OH Ridge Spring, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 30, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Addyston, OH Springdale, SC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025
Roadway Moving
Amberley, OH Woodford, SC
Studio apartment
Aug 11, 2025
PODS
Springboro, OH Wagener, SC
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 09, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Columbia, SC to Cincinnati, OH guide.

The best local movers for Cincinnati to Columbia moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Cincinnati that also handles long-distance moves to Columbia. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 12 local movers in Cincinnati who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Cincinnati to Columbia.

  1. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Clark and Sons Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  4. Smooth Move Relocation Services: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. Bellhop Moving: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
87.4% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast, friendly, and professional defines most feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Analysis of 247 reviews shows 87% are positive, highlighting professional and polite staff, efficient service, careful handling of items, quick moving, and helpful movers. Many customers rave about stress-free moves and crews who show genuine concern for belongings. Helpful office staff and transparent communication rank above experiences with most other moving companies. On the flip side, 12% cite problems, especially damage to items, big discrepancies between estimates and final costs, and unresolved complaints. Some mention poor packing or careless handling, while others are frustrated by unhelpful customer service when things go wrong. A small set of neutral comments focus on truck sizes not matching job needs, requiring extra moving trips. Compared to others, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stands out for strong praise in reliability and staff attitude, but repeat concerns about damage, cost overruns, and complaint handling indicate areas for improvement.
Get a Quote (513) 823-4125

Company Info

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.1% of all reviews were positive
10.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Leaders Moving & Storage Co. consistently earns strong praise, with 88% of feedback highlighting professional, polite teams who handle possessions responsibly and efficiently. Clients appreciate the company’s transparent rates and rapid, careful moving process, noting affordable prices compared to other movers. Customers frequently mention staff courtesy, attention to detail, and proactive communication before and during moves. Some input highlights careful treatment of belongings, even during complex or large jobs, and a straightforward booking process. By contrast, 10% of feedback details significant concerns—primarily damaged or lost items, inaccurate or increasing estimates, and slow or ineffective complaint resolution. A few point out that resolving damages or getting claims addressed proves complicated, occasionally leaving repairs incomplete or compensation lacking. In comparison to its competitors, Leaders stands out for speed, fair upfront pricing, and staff professionalism, though it could invest more in accountability and claims support to further enhance reliability.
Get a Quote (513) 268-4315

Company Info

State license #: 136562

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1237577

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.8% of all reviews were positive
5.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer feedback about Clark and Sons Moving tells a clear story: this company stands out in a crowded market for fast, professional, and courteous service. After analyzing 289 reviews, an impressive 93.8% are positive. Common highlights include efficient moves, professional and polite staff, diligent care for all belongings, speedy service, and strong communication throughout each job. Many praise Clark and Sons for flexible scheduling, transparent rates, and going above and beyond to ensure nothing is damaged or left behind. Customers routinely describe the team as hardworking, careful, and respectful, resulting in hassle-free experiences that rival or surpass national competitors. Less frequent negative feedback (just 5.5%) centers mostly on occasional damage to items, discrepancies between initial estimates and final costs, and in some cases, unprofessional conduct from management or staff. A handful of customers reported unresolved damage, overcharges, or issues with complaint handling. Neutral reviews mostly note clerical or organizational missteps rather than major service failures. Clark and Sons Moving is one of the highest-rated local movers in the area thanks to a consistent record of professionalism, care, and efficiency. Most customers would recommend them for future moves.
Get a Quote (513) 389-1291

Company Info

State license #: 604361

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 2962688

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
95.1% of all reviews were positive
4.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with confidence is what customers commonly report about Smooth Move Relocation Services. In a detailed analysis of 226 pieces of feedback, 95% were positive, showing that clients applaud their efficient service, professional and polite staff, fast moving times, careful handling, and clear communication. Many noted a hassle-free booking and affordable rates that compared favorably to larger moving firms. Customers often praised how movers treated their property with care, wrapped belongings, and worked tirelessly. Negative input, while limited to just under 5%, centered on rare item damage, some instances of unprofessional behavior, delayed arrivals, and issues with owner communication. Compared to the average in the moving industry, this company earns superior marks for reliability, politeness, and protecting items during a move, with only occasional lapses reported in organization or punctuality. Such consistent strengths make them stand out from many other local movers.
Get a Quote (513) 481-1316

Company Info

State license #: 00604903

Years in Business: 23

DOT #: 1878284

Alternate Names: Smooth Move Relocation Services LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
82.0% of all reviews were positive
17.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving delivers when it comes to speedy, professional service. After reviewing 206 customer inputs, 82% spoke favorably about their experiences. Movers earn frequent praise for being efficient, courteous, and handling items with care. Many customers highlight the team’s quick work, strong communication, and readiness to go above and beyond, even under tough conditions. Despite this, 17% of feedback emphasized frustrations. Delayed or no-show movers lead the list of complaints, closely followed by reports of damaged items and difficulties reaching customer service. A few cited unclear billing or unexpected charges. Bellhop stands out for efficient moves and friendly teams, but reliability issues in scheduling and communication put it behind some more consistent moving companies. For affordable, rapid moves with helpful, professional crews, Bellhop often earns top marks—but those needing guaranteed timing or responsive complaint handling may want to weigh all options.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2878240

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops Moving Help

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Cincinnati to Columbia?

The average hourly rate for movers in Ohio is $153. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,208 – $3,309 $684 – $1,631 $389 – $737
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,061 – $5,641 $1,201 – $2,389 $450 – $919
4+ bedrooms $3,901 – $7,616 $1,566 – $2,982 $566 – $1,052
*Approximate cost ranges for a 511-mile move from Cincinnati to Columbia are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Cincinnati to Columbia

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Cincinnati to Columbia will cost between $1,208 and $3,309. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Cincinnati to Cincinnati will range from $2,061 to $5,641, and a large move from Cincinnati to Columbia will cost from $3,901 to $7,616.

Cost of moving containers from Cincinnati to Columbia

If you’re moving from Cincinnati to Columbia, expect to pay between $684 and $1,631 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,201 up to $2,389. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,566 and $2,982. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Ohio.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Cincinnati to Columbia

Renting a moving truck from Cincinnati to Columbia 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 $389 and $737. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $450 and $919. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $566 up to $1,052 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Cincinnati to Columbia

The cost of Cincinnati movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,518, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,713.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Cincinnati, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($389–$1,027) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Cincinnati to Columbia

Many movers find Columbia easier on the wallet than Cincinnati – roughly 21% less for singles and 33% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,956 for one person in Columbia versus $2,467 in Cincinnati. For a family of four, it’s $4,274 compared with $6,418.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Cincinnati Columbia
Average 1 BR rent $1,488 $1,300
Average 3 BR rent $2,893 $2,220
Average home value $232,735 $220,612
Average income (per capita) $65,682 $64,683
Cost of living (single) $2,467 $1,956
Cost of living (family of four) $6,418 $4,274
Unemployment rate 4.9% 5.2%
Sales tax 6.5% 8.0%
State income tax 3.5% 7.0%
  • Budgeting for a move from Cincinnati to Columbia won’t necessitate major adjustments since rent remains relatively constant.
  • Given that home prices are within a 5% margin between Columbia and Cincinnati, sticking to your current mortgage strategy is sensible unless you’re planning for a bigger home.
  • Fortunately, the average income in Columbia and Cincinnati is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
  • 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 21% lower than in Cincinnati.
  • Choosing to move to Columbia can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 33% less than in Cincinnati.
  • In Columbia, the unemployment rate is approximately 6% higher than in Cincinnati, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 23% in Columbia over Cincinnati, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 100% higher in South Carolina than in Ohio, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Cincinnati and Columbia:

Living Expense Cincinnati Columbia
Basic utilities $128.95 $148.09
Cell phone plan $56.81 $54.77
Dozen eggs $3.26 $3.46
Loaf of bread $3.30 $2.65
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $16.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $60.00
Gym membership $30.82 $40.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Cincinnati than in Columbia, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Cincinnati than in Columbia.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Cincinnati than in Columbia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Cincinnati than in Columbia.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Cincinnati than in Columbia.
  • The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Cincinnati than in Columbia.

How life is different in Cincinnati vs. Columbia

Cincinnati Columbia
Population 309,317 136,632
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 49 35
Bike friendliness score 36 35
Crime index 48.47 3.0
Safety index 49.53 48.39
Air quality Good Good
  • Columbia’s population is about 56% less than Cincinnati.
  • Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Cincinnati’s score of 6.
  • Columbia is less walkable than Cincinnati with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Cincinnati’s 49 out of 100.
  • Both Columbia and Cincinnati have similar bike-friendliness scores (36 vs 35), meaning Columbia is about as safe for cyclists as Cincinnati. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Cincinnati with a score of 3.0 compared to Cincinnati’s 48.47. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Cincinnati neighborhoods are safer than 48.47%.
  • Columbia and Cincinnati have a similar safety level, with scores of 48.39 and 49.53.
  • Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Cincinnati it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Cincinnati to Columbia move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: South Carolina doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • 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: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Columbia

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Soda City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Columbia.

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

Once you’re settled into your new home in South Carolina, it’s time to get out and discover what Columbia has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Columbia, such as the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Cincinnati to Columbia?

The best time to move from Cincinnati to Columbia is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Cincinnati.

When is the cheapest time to move from Cincinnati to Columbia?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Cincinnati to Columbia, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Cincinnati to Columbia take?

Moving from Cincinnati, OH to Columbia, covers 511 miles and usually takes one to six days. Need to move faster? Some Cincinnati movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Columbia.

Which movers in Cincinnati give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 1 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Cincinnati?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 3 movers in Cincinnati advertise piano moving expertise. State totals show 59 piano movers and 37 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

Helpful moving resources

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