How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to IA move
Using rate data from 52 South Carolina movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
-
Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
-
Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from South Carolina to Iowa?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from South Carolina
to Iowa with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,097 – $4,578 |
$862 – $1,942 |
$695 – $1,281 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,350 – $5,364 |
$1,471 – $2,847 |
$744 – $1,585 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,061 – $7,414 |
$2,087 – $3,716 |
$934 – $1,948 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,086-mile move from SC to
IA, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to Iowa
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to Iowa,
you can expect to spend between $1,097
and $4,578.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,350 to
$5,364 on the same route
(SC to IA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from South Carolina to Iowa typically runs between
$4,061 and
$7,414.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Iowa
Moving from South Carolina to Iowa? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $862 and
$1,942. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,471 to
$2,847. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,087 up to
$3,716. 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 Iowa
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$695 and
$1,281.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$744 and
$1,585.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $934 and
$1,948.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to IA
There are many factors that influence South Carolina moving costs. The cost to move from South Carolina to Iowa will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
-
When you move: Summer moves in South Carolina fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
-
Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from SC to IA
Moving between South Carolina and Iowa involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. Iowa
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
South Carolina and Iowa. 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 |
Iowa |
| Average rent |
$1,065 |
$914 |
| Average home cost |
$295,769 |
$220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$63,623 |
$70,571 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
89 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
7.46% |
6.94% |
| State income tax |
7.0% |
4.4% |
-
Rent in Iowa is about 14% cheaper than in South Carolina, leaving you with more money in your pocket each month.
-
Home prices in Iowa are roughly 26% less than in South Carolina, so you’ll enjoy lower monthly mortgage payments.
-
Great news — you’re likely to make about 11% more in Iowa compared to South Carolina. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
-
Moving to Iowa is about 7% cheaper than living in South Carolina. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
-
Iowa has a lower unemployment rate than South Carolina by about 36%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
-
Sales tax is 7% lower in Iowa compared to South Carolina, helping reduce the price of regular purchases and easing the strain on your budget.
-
Income taxes in Iowa are 37% lower than in South Carolina. That means you get to hang onto more of your paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or use for everyday expenses.
How life is different in Iowa vs. South Carolina
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Iowa differs from South Carolina in these areas.
|
Iowa |
South Carolina |
| Population |
3,207,004 |
5,373,555 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 53-45 |
Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high |
84ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
10ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
35″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
30″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
16.18 |
28.0 |
-
With a population about 40% smaller than South Carolina, Iowa offers you more room to breathe, a laid-back atmosphere, and a lower overall cost of living.
Keep in mind, though, that you may also have fewer amenities and a slower job market.
-
In the last presidential election, both South Carolina and Iowa voted Republican.
-
Summers in Iowa average 84°F, a bit cooler than 91°F in South Carolina.
This means more comfortable summers, reduced cooling costs, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
-
Winter in Iowa can dip to 10°F, colder than the 33°F lows in South Carolina.
Expect higher heating costs and a chillier routine, but also the charm of a true winter climate.
-
In Iowa, you’ll see about 35 inches of rain each year, less than the 48 inches you’re used to in South Carolina.
Get ready for more sunshine, extra outdoor fun, and fewer weather-related worries.
-
In Iowa, it snows about 30 inches annually while South Carolina gets only about 1 inch.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
Iowa offers a safer environment than South Carolina, with a crime index of 16.18 versus 28.0.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of South Carolina vs. Iowa
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Iowa stacks up against South Carolina:
| Pros of living in South Carolina |
Pros of living in Iowa |
| Warm southern hospitality |
Low cost of living |
| Plentiful outdoor activities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Beautiful landscapes |
High quality of education |
| Consistently gorgeous weather |
No traffic |
| Rich historical significance |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. Iowa
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from South Carolina to Iowa, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in South Carolina |
Cons of living in Iowa |
| High cost of living |
Severe weather conditions |
| Hurricane frequency |
Limited recreational opportunities |
| Low quality of healthcare |
High taxes |
| High taxes |
High emphasis on politics |
| Abundance of construction |
Rustic food |
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to Iowa move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
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 a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
-
State licensing:
When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation.
Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
Iowa does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
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 Iowa right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
-
Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Iowa
Get ready to discover Iowa. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Carolina to Iowa?
Do movers transport your car from South Carolina to Iowa?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from South Carolina to Iowa
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from South Carolina to Iowa?
More and more folks are relocating from South Carolina to Iowa to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in South Carolina or Iowa?
Living in Iowa usually costs less than in South Carolina.
Housing
is more affordable in Iowa,
with average rent about 14% less and home prices 26% lower than in South Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Iowa, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by South Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Iowa?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Iowa, aim for an income of around $63,616 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,436 if you’re flying solo, or $5,230 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
South Carolina moving services
Popular South Carolina routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
See All
Hide All
When planning a move from South Carolina to Iowa, professional movers typically run between
$2,350 and $5,364, a moving container averages about
$2,159, and a rental truck is around
$1,164.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
