($1,447) Cost of Moving From South Carolina to California

Quick answer: When planning a move from South Carolina to California, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,941 to $9,215. Most relocations will take about seven–21 days. Your actual price can change depending on your home size, timing, and whether you go with a professional moving company or move yourself.

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  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to South Carolina guide.

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The best South Carolina to California full-service movers

Planning a move from South Carolina to California? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.

Start your move from South Carolina to California with these top-rated long-distance movers in South Carolina.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
866-835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
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866-835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
866-825-0554
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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866-825-0554
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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The best local moving companies in South Carolina

Finding a trustworthy local moving company can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you choose with confidence, we’ve curated a list of top-rated local movers in South Carolina based on reputation, pricing transparency, and customer satisfaction.

  1. HD Auston Moving Systems: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  3. Ballantyne & Beyond Moving: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Smooth Move Charleston: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Carey Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars

HD Auston Moving Systems

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 271654

Years in Business: 79

200 Pate Drive, Greenville, SC 29609 US

HD Auston Moving Systems, with its home base in Greenville, SC, is a seasoned moving firm that has been in business since 1945. They offer a comprehensive selection of services which sets them apart from other local competitors. Offering both local and long-distance residential moving, they also extend services into office relocations. Their professional team is even equipped to handle special items, such as pianos. They pride themselves on their customer service, offering both packing and unpacking services, as well as crating services for those hard-to-pack or valuable items. Unlike many of its competitors, HD Auston Moving Systems accepts credit cards and does not require a deposit, which adds to the convenience when planning a move. HD Auston Moving Systems has a varied online reputation with a modest 2.5 rating from 13 Yelp reviews, but a much stronger 4.7 average from an impressive 183 Google My Business reviews. This suggests that while there may be a few mixed opinions, the majority of customers are highly satisfied. Their Better Business Bureau rating of A+ further emphasizes their commitment to customer satisfaction and business ethics. Overall, HD Auston Moving Systems shows a long history of quality service and a robust client-friendly approach.

Get a Quote (864) 523-0559

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 27

854 Kingswood Drive, Conway, SC 29526 US

Two Men and a Truck in Conway, SC, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 1999. Unlike some nearby competitors, they also offer packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, catering to a wide range of moving needs. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 on Google from 456 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, the company is well-regarded for its professionalism and customer satisfaction. Accepting credit cards and requiring no deposit make them a convenient and trustworthy choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (843) 485-0343

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Reliable Service Group Inc
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Ballantyne & Beyond Moving

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.8 / 5

DOT #: 2557751

Years in Business: 16

1228 Transformation Ln, Fort Mill, SC 29707

Ballantyne & Beyond Moving, established in 2009, offers top-notch local residential moving services in and around Fort Mill, SC. Unlike many competitors, they extend their expertise to long-distance and international moves, as well as office relocations, and provide comprehensive packing and unpacking services. With a Better Business Bureau rating of A+ and an impressive 4.7-star average from 134 Google reviews, their reputation stands strong, although their Yelp average of 3.5 suggests some room for improvement. Flexible payment options, including credit cards and no required deposit, make them a convenient choice for a stress-free moving experience.

Get a Quote (803) 547-1800

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOT #: 2557751
  • State license #: 9784-A
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Smooth Move Charleston

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.76 / 5

DOT #: 2357653

Years in Business: 12

4767 Rivers Avenue, Charleston, SC 29405 US

Smooth Move Charleston has been a trusted provider of local residential moving services in and around Charleston, SC, since 2014. Known for their comprehensive offerings, which include packing, unpacking, and labor-only services, they stand out among other local movers. Consumer feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive average rating of 4.9 on Google from 569 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, Smooth Move Charleston accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a convenient and reliable choice for your next move.

Get a Quote (843) 860-9717

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Go Smooth Move, LLC
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Carey Moving & Storage

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.72 / 5

DOT #: 076235

Years in Business: 117

1 Shelter Drive, Greer, SC 29650 US

Carey Moving & Storage has been serving Greer, SC, and its surrounding areas since 1908, offering reliable local residential moving services. Unlike some nearby movers, Carey also provides packing, unpacking, and crating services. Despite mixed reviews—with a low average rating on Yelp and a solid 4.1 rating on Google—the company maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, signaling overall customer satisfaction. Additionally, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, making them a flexible and trusted choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (864) 877-6683

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

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The best South Carolina to California moving container companies

Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in South Carolina and drops it off at your new home in California.

We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:

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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best South Carolina to California moving truck rentals

If you want to save money moving from South Carolina to California, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best South Carolina to California labor-only movers

If you just need a hand loading your stuff into a container or rental truck, labor-only movers are a great option. They'll send a crew sized to fit your move, and you only pay for the time you use.

Check out these highly rated moving labor companies for an easy move from South Carolina to California.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
  • Years in Business: 27
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
  • Years in Business: 16
  • Yelp: 3.6 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.76 / 5
  • Years in Business: 12
  • Yelp: 3.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 32 South Carolina movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

How much does it cost to move from South Carolina to California?

Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from South Carolina to California. 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 $1,447 - $6,540 $1,620 - $4,108 $1,670 - $3,300
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,379 - $9,215 $2,818 - $5,980 $1,941 - $4,129
4+ bedrooms $8,068 - $14,262 $3,799 - $8,293 $2,356 - $4,918

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,504 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to California

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from South Carolina to California, you can expect prices to land between $1,447 and $6,540. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,379 to $9,215 for the trip from SC to CA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $8,068 and $14,262.

Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to California

Moving from South Carolina to California? For a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,620 and $4,108. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,818 to $5,980. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,799 up to $8,293. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to California

A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,670 to $3,300. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,941 to $4,129, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from South Carolina to California costs around $2,356 to $4,918.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to CA

There are many factors that influence South Carolina moving costs. The cost to move from South Carolina to California will depend on these factors:

  • Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
  • Time of year: The peak moving season in South Carolina is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.

What to know before moving from SC to CA

If you’re moving from South Carolina to California, take a moment to see how your new state compares to your current one.

Cost of living: South Carolina vs. California

Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between South Carolina and California. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates, this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle. Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:

South Carolina California
Average rent cost $1,065 $1,856
Average home cost $295,769 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $63,623 $91,905
Cost of Living Index 96 134
Unemployment rate 4.7% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 7.46% 8.68%
State Income Tax 7.0% 13.3%
  • Rent is about 74% higher in California than in South Carolina. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
  • Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 161% more than what you'll find in South Carolina.
  • Good news—you can expect to earn about 44% more in California than in South Carolina. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
  • Moving to California means you’ll be paying 40% more than you did in South Carolina. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
  • Unemployment in California is roughly 15% higher than in South Carolina. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
  • Sales taxes are 16% higher in California than in South Carolina. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes in California are 90% higher than in South Carolina. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.

How life is different in California vs. South Carolina

Moving to a new state isn’t just about landing a job or finding a place to live, it’s about how your everyday life will feel. Elements like the climate, safety, local culture, and even the size of the community you call home will all play a role in your overall experience. To help you get a sense of what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of life in California versus South Carolina across some essential lifestyle factors:

California South Carolina
Population 39,029,342 5,373,555
Political leaning Democratic 59-41 Republican 58-42
Summer high 87ºF 91ºF
Winter low 59ºF 33ºF
Annual rain 22" 48"
Annual snow 7" 1"
Crime index 28.43 28.0
  • California is about 626% more populous than South Carolina. With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure—better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
  • In the latest presidential election, California voted Democratic, while South Carolina chose Republican.
  • Summer highs typically reach 87ºF in California and 91ºF in South Carolina. Since those temps are similar, adjusting to your new home’s climate should be a breeze. Just remember to also consider humidity, local weather patterns, and energy costs for a true sense of what summer will be like.
  • During winter, temperatures in California drop to around 59ºF, while South Carolina can plunge as low as 33ºF. Moving to California means you’ll enjoy milder winters—think easier living, lower costs, and more opportunities to get outside. If you’re looking to trade snow shovels for sunshine, this move is right up your alley.
  • In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in South Carolina. That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
  • Each year, California gets about 7 inches of snow, while South Carolina sees only 1 inch. More snow means beautiful winter views and lots of outdoor activities, but it also calls for extra prep, upkeep, and plenty of cozy gear.
  • California and South Carolina both have a crime rate of 28.0. Keep in mind, though, that crime levels can differ significantly between cities and neighborhoods, so it's smart to check local crime statistics for a more accurate view.

Comparing the pros of South Carolina vs. California

New beginnings can be really exciting. Here’s a quick comparison between life in California and South Carolina.

Pros of living in South Carolina Pros of living in California
Warm southern hospitality Ample economic opportunity
Plentiful outdoor activities Pleasant weather
Beautiful landscapes Abundant recreational options
Consistently gorgeous weather High quality of life
Rich historical significance Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. California

No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from South Carolina to California.

Cons of living in South Carolina Cons of living in California
High cost of living High cost of living
Hurricane frequency Heavy tax burdens
Low quality of healthcare Natural disasters
High taxes Terrible traffic
Abundance of construction Strange laws

Other things to consider for your South Carolina to California move

  • Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
  • HOA rules: Before moving day, make sure to review any rules your neighborhood or community might have so your move goes off without a hitch.
  • Elevator reservation: A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
  • State regulator: You can quickly check a California moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
  • Moving permits: You don’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
  • Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as "released value protection," at no extra cost. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.

Things to do in California

Get ready to discover all that California has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:

Museums in California

  • The Getty Center
  • USS Midway Museum
  • Hess Persson Estates
  • California State Railroad Museum
  • The Getty Villa

Parks in California

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Heisler Park
  • Sonoma Plaza
  • Mount Rubidoux Park
  • Redwood Regional Park

Sports Teams in California

  • Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)

Universities in California

  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, San Diego

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from South Carolina to California? toggle

Hiring a full-service South Carolina moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from South Carolina to California? toggle

Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from South Carolina to California separately through one of the top car shipping companies.

What are the benefits of moving from South Carolina to California? toggle

The main reasons people are moving from South Carolina to California are the amazing upsides of living in California such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in South Carolina or California? toggle

It is generally cheaper to live in South Carolina than in California. Housing is much more affordable in South Carolina, with average rent about 43% less and home prices 62% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in South Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by California residents.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California? toggle

You should make approximately $ 74,410 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in California. The cost of living in California is approximately $ 3,208 per month for an individual and $ 8,077 for a family of four. The exact amount you’ll need to live comfortably may be more or less depending on where in California you live For example, larger cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield will have higher housing costs than those in smaller towns.

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