($1,135) Cost to Move From Philadelphia, PA to Columbia, SC

1. Bellhop Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
2. Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
3. Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
5. Transtar Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Philadelphia to Columbia

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbia from Philadelphia, you can expect prices to land between $1,135 and $3,152. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,952 to $5,058 for the trip from Philadelphia to Columbia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,469 and $7,643.

Cost of moving containers from Philadelphia to Columbia

Moving containers from Philadelphia to Columbia will cost you $696 to $1,698 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,294 to $2,371. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,745 to $3,223. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Pennsylvania.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Philadelphia to Columbia

Renting a moving truck from Philadelphia to Columbia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $440 and $847 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $480 to $1,036. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $599 to $1,214.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• When relocating from Philadelphia to Columbia, expect to find rent about 15% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
• Home pricing is relatively consistent, with less than a 5% difference between Columbia and Philadelphia, making significant budget changes unnecessary unless you opt for a larger space.
• Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 9% lower in Columbia compared to Philadelphia.
• You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Columbia, as the cost of living for a single person is 23% lower compared to Philadelphia.
• 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 31% less than what it costs in Philadelphia.
• The unemployment rate in Columbia is about 51% lower than in Philadelphia. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
• Sales taxes hold steady between Columbia and Philadelphia (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
• Income taxes in South Carolina are 128% above those in Pennsylvania. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• Columbia’s population is about 91% less than Philadelphia.
• Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Philadelphia’s score of 9.
• Columbia is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Philadelphia’s 75 out of 100.
• Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Philadelphia, which has a score of 67.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Philadelphia with a score of 3.0 compared to Philadelphia’s 66.09. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
• Columbia is considered to be safer than Philadelphia with a safety index of 48.39 vs Philadelphia’s 33.91.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Philadelphia it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

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

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, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.