How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to KY move
moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 52 South Carolina movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Shows up on time, communicates clearly, and delivers within the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Takes responsibility and follows through with fair solutions when problems occur.
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Industry reputation (15%): Earns respect across the industry and participates in conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Up-to-date site content and prompt, professional engagement online.
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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 Kentucky?
Check out the table below for average moving cost estimates from South Carolina
to Kentucky, broken down by home size and type of moving service.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,011 – $2,756 |
$644 – $1,546 |
$382 – $663 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,733 – $4,425 |
$1,165 – $2,172 |
$396 – $834 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,044 – $6,925 |
$1,441 – $2,862 |
$492 – $945 |
*The figures shown are approximate for a 426-mile relocation from SC to
KY, derived from moveBuddha
pricing data current as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified
quotes from movers across the country and updates them monthly to capture seasonal and market
fluctuations. Final pricing will depend on move size, optional services, parking/access issues,
fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest requesting estimates from multiple movers for the best accuracy.
Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to Kentucky
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from South Carolina to Kentucky, you’ll likely pay between
$1,011
and $2,756.
If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between
$1,733 and $4,425
for the same journey (SC to KY).
Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,044
to $6,925.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Kentucky
When you’re heading from South Carolina to Kentucky, and you’re only moving a few items,
you can expect to spend between $644 and
$1,546. For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually fall between $1,165 and
$2,172. If you’re packing up a large home with four or
more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,441
to $2,862. Want more details? Check out our
complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies
to make your move from South Carolina easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to Kentucky
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
$382
to $663.
A two to three-bedroom move will cost $396
to $834, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms
from South Carolina to Kentucky costs around
$492 to
$945.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to KY
Lots of things can impact how much it costs to move from South Carolina to Kentucky. Here’s what ultimately affects your final price:
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How big your haul is: More rooms and belongings mean higher costs compared to moving light with only a few items.
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The season you move: Costs spike during the busy summer season in South Carolina when demand for movers is highest.
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DIY vs. calling in the experts: A DIY move is easier on the wallet, but professionals make the process far less stressful.
What to know before moving from SC to KY
If you’re moving to Kentucky from South Carolina, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. Kentucky
Understanding how costs compare between South Carolina and Kentucky can make planning easier. Taxes, housing, job markets, and income all shape your budget, and this breakdown highlights the biggest differences:
|
South Carolina |
Kentucky |
| Average rent |
$1,065 |
$902 |
| Average home cost |
$295,769 |
$212,088 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$63,623 |
$60,183 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
93 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
5.0% |
| Average sales tax |
7.46% |
6.0% |
| State income tax |
7.0% |
4.0% |
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Rent in Kentucky is around 15% less than in South Carolina, so you’ll have extra cash left over each month.
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Here’s some good news for your wallet — home prices in Kentucky are about 28% lower than in South Carolina. That means you can look forward to more affordable monthly mortgage payments.
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The average income is about the same in both South Carolina and Kentucky, so you won’t need to worry about a big change to your budget.
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With the cost of living being about the same in Kentucky and South Carolina, you can shift your focus from finances to quality of life and lifestyle fit.
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The unemployment rate in Kentucky is about 6% higher than in South Carolina. With more people out of work, you’ll find a bigger talent pool for employers and tougher competition when job hunting.
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Sales tax in Kentucky is 20% lower than in South Carolina. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this lower rate in Kentucky can really help cut down your living expenses.
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Income taxes in Kentucky are 43% lower than in South Carolina. That means you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you with extra cash to save, invest, or spend however you want.
How life is different in Kentucky vs. South Carolina
The impact of moving goes far beyond finding a job or home. Everyday life is shaped by factors like climate, safety, politics, and community size. Take a look at how Kentucky and South Carolina line up on these lifestyle indicators.
|
Kentucky |
South Carolina |
| Population |
4,526,154 |
5,373,555 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 64.6-33.9 |
Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
24ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
11″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
16.63 |
28.0 |
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The population of Kentucky is approximately 16% lower than the population of South Carolina.
Moving to a less populous state can offer affordability, space, and simplicity, but may also require adjusting to limited services or slower job growth.
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In the most recent presidential race, both South Carolina and Kentucky leaned Republican.
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In Kentucky, summer highs are around 87°F, close to 91°F in South Carolina.
With such little difference, your summer experience won’t change much.
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In the coldest months, Kentucky sees lows of 24°F compared to 33°F in South Carolina.
That colder climate means higher heating costs and tougher winters — but also snowy scenery and seasonal activities.
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In Kentucky, you’ll see about 48 inches of rain each year — nearly identical to the 48 inches you’re used to in South Carolina.
While the overall rainfall stays pretty consistent, the timing and pattern of those showers might shake up your daily routine.
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Each year, Kentucky sees about 11 inches of snowfall, while South Carolina averages just 1 inch.
With more snow comes stunning winter scenery and plenty of outdoor fun, but also the need for extra preparation and warm gear.
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Kentucky is a safer choice than South Carolina, boasting a lower crime index of 16.63 compared to 28.0.
You can look forward to safer neighborhoods, a stronger sense of community, and greater peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of South Carolina vs. Kentucky
New beginnings can be really exciting.
Here’s a quick comparison between life in Kentucky and South Carolina:
| Pros of living in South Carolina |
Pros of living in Kentucky |
| Warm southern hospitality |
Low cost of living |
| Plentiful outdoor activities |
Abundant outdoor adventures |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Delicious food and drink |
| Consistently gorgeous weather |
Horse racing |
| Rich historical significance |
Four season weather |
Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. Kentucky
Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live.
Here are some things to be aware of when leaving South Carolina for Kentucky:
| Cons of living in South Carolina |
Cons of living in Kentucky |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Hurricane frequency |
Low diversity |
| Low quality of healthcare |
Poor air quality |
| High taxes |
Poor infrastructure |
| Abundance of construction |
Poor education system |
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to Kentucky move
-
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:
Make sure to reserve your building’s elevator as soon as possible and review any moving day rules well in advance.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
-
State licensing:
Movers in Kentucky are licensed and regulated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) – Division of Motor Carriers.
Moving companies that operate within the state must carry adequate cargo insurance and file public tariffs detailing the services they offer and the cost for each.
The KYTC can assist consumers with resolving disputes with movers, but only after a customer makes a formal written complaint. Make sure your moving company is fully licensed before you book.
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State regulator:
You can verify a Kentucky moving license and its status on the state regulator’s official website.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Kentucky, but it’s a good idea to look into local parking rules before your move.
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Change of address:
Make sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before moving. Once you set your move date, your mail will start forwarding to Kentucky right on schedule. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Choose Released Value Protection for free, basic coverage from movers at 60 cents per pound. For comprehensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Make moving day a breeze with our straightforward moving checklist, which can help you stay on track and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Things to do in Kentucky
While you’re in Kentucky, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Kentucky
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Ark Encounter
- National Corvette Museum
- The National Quilt Museum
Parks in Kentucky
- Smothers Park
- Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park
- Red River Gorge Geological Area
- Freeman Lake Park
Sports teams in Kentucky
- Bellarmine Knights (NCAA)
- Eastern Kentucky Colonels (NCAA)
- Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
- Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
- Morehead State Eagles (NCAA)
Universities in Kentucky
- University of Kentucky
- University of Louisville
- Western Kentucky University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Georgetown College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Carolina to Kentucky?
Do movers transport your car from South Carolina to Kentucky?
What are the benefits of moving from South Carolina to Kentucky?
An increasing number of people are relocating from South Carolina to Kentucky to enjoy all the great benefits Kentucky provides, such as low cost of living and abundant outdoor adventures.
Is it cheaper to live in South Carolina or Kentucky?
Living in Kentucky usually costs less than in South Carolina.
Housing
is more affordable in Kentucky,
with average rent about 15% less and home prices 28% lower than in South Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Kentucky, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by South Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Kentucky?
Thinking of moving to Kentucky on your own? You’ll want to earn around $59,905 to cover your expenses comfortably.
If you’re living solo, expect to spend about $2,600 per month, or around $4,876 if you have a family of four.
Where you choose to live makes a big difference, too. Bigger cities like Louisville and Lexington tend to have higher housing costs compared to smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
South Carolina moving services
Popular South Carolina routes
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When moving from South Carolina to Kentucky, you’ll likely pay between $1,733–$4,425 with professional movers, roughly
$1,668 for a moving container, and about
$615
for a rental truck.
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