How we chose the best moving companies for your RI to SD move
After studying pricing from 10 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island to South Dakota?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Rhode Island 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 |
$1,158 – $4,394 |
$1,014 – $2,500 |
$1,021 – $1,908 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,930 – $5,966 |
$1,789 – $3,542 |
$1,053 – $2,158 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,375 – $8,889 |
$2,542 – $4,851 |
$1,314 – $2,830 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,700-mile move from RI 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 Rhode Island to South Dakota
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Rhode Island to South Dakota will cost between
$1,158 and
$4,394.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from RI to SD will
range from $2,930 to
$5,966, and a large move from Rhode Island
to South Dakota will cost from $5,375
to $8,889.
Cost of moving containers from Rhode Island to South Dakota
If you’re moving from Rhode Island to South Dakota,
expect to pay between $1,014
and $2,500 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,789 up to
$3,542.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,542 and
$4,851. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Rhode Island.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Rhode Island 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
$1,021 and
$1,908.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,053
and $2,158. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,314 up to
$2,830 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from RI to SD
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 RI to SD
A relocation from Rhode Island to South Dakota comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Rhode Island vs. South Dakota
Comparing expenses in Rhode Island 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:
|
Rhode Island |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,195 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$467,485 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$81,370 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.6% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
7.0% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
5.99% |
0.0% |
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Expect to pay around 27% less in rent in South Dakota than in Rhode Island, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 34% lower in South Dakota than in Rhode Island.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Dakota are about 15% lower than in Rhode Island.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in South Dakota and Rhode Island, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
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With an unemployment rate about 59% lower than Rhode Island, 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 9% lower than in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Rhode Island
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 Rhode Island across important lifestyle factors:
|
South Dakota |
Rhode Island |
| Population |
919,318 |
1,093,734 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Democratic 56-44 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
82ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
19ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
35″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
14.58 |
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With a population about 16% smaller than Rhode Island, 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.
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In the most recent presidential election, South Dakota leaned Republican, while Rhode Island went with Democratic.
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In South Dakota, summer highs hover around 85°F, while Rhode Island sits at 82°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
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During the coldest part of the year, South Dakota drops to about 7°F while Rhode Island only reaches 19°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.
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You’ll enjoy about 23 inches of rain each year in South Dakota, compared to 50 inches in Rhode Island.
With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
-
In South Dakota, you’ll get about 39 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, Rhode Island averages around 35 inches annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
-
South Dakota has a higher crime rate than Rhode Island with a crime index of 21.14 vs. 14.58.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Rhode Island vs. South Dakota
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in South Dakota versus Rhode Island:
| Pros of living in Rhode Island |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Delicious seafood |
Robust job market |
| Rich history |
Low cost of living |
| Amazing beaches |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Short drives |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Rhode Island vs. South Dakota
Moving from Rhode Island to South Dakota comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Rhode Island |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
Small-town mindset |
| Smallest state |
Sparsely populated |
| Cold winters |
Strange and offensive laws |
| Dense population |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Rhode Island 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.
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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. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 Rhode Island to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Rhode Island to South Dakota?
What are the benefits of moving from Rhode Island to South Dakota?
The main reasons people are moving from Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island or South Dakota?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 27% less and home prices 34% lower than in Rhode Island.
Taxes are also
lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Rhode Island 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.
Helpful moving resources
Rhode Island moving services
Popular Rhode Island routes
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When moving from Rhode Island to South Dakota, expect to spend between
$2,930–$5,966 if using professional movers, about
$2,665 for a moving container, and around
$1,605
for a rental truck.
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