How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to LA move
After studying pricing from 52 South Carolina 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 South Carolina to Louisiana?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Carolina to Louisiana.
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 |
$1,020 – $3,591 |
$704 – $1,776 |
$527 – $991 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,093 – $5,366 |
$1,307 – $2,589 |
$520 – $1,097 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,512 – $7,534 |
$1,700 – $3,236 |
$691 – $1,343 |
*Estimated costs for a 749-mile move from SC to
LA 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 South Carolina to Louisiana
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to Louisiana will cost between
$1,020 and
$3,591.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from SC to LA will
range from $2,093 to
$5,366, and a large move from South Carolina
to Louisiana will cost from $3,512
to $7,534.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Louisiana
If you’re moving from South Carolina to Louisiana,
expect to pay between $704
and $1,776 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,307 up to
$2,589.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,700 and
$3,236. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to Louisiana
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
$527 and
$991.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $520
and $1,097. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $691 up to
$1,343 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to LA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from South Carolina to Louisiana. Here’s what might influence your total price:
-
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 South Carolina 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 SC to LA
A relocation from South Carolina to Louisiana comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. Louisiana
Comparing expenses in South Carolina and Louisiana 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:
|
South Carolina |
Louisiana |
| Average rent |
$1,065 |
$996 |
| Average home cost |
$295,769 |
$201,519 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$63,623 |
$57,852 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
92 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
4.1% |
| Average sales tax |
7.46% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
7.0% |
4.25% |
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Expect to pay around 6% less in rent in Louisiana than in South Carolina, 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 32% lower in Louisiana than in South Carolina.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in Louisiana are about 9% lower than in South Carolina.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Louisiana and South Carolina, 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 13% lower than South Carolina, Louisiana 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 Louisiana is 6% lower than in South Carolina. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Louisiana can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 39% lower in Louisiana than in South Carolina. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in Louisiana vs. South Carolina
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 Louisiana stacks up against South Carolina across important lifestyle factors:
|
Louisiana |
South Carolina |
| Population |
4,573,749 |
5,373,555 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 60.2-38.2 |
Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high |
92ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
39ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
60″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
0″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
33.77 |
28.0 |
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With a population about 15% smaller than South Carolina, Louisiana 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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During the last presidential election, both South Carolina and Louisiana supported the Republican candidate.
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In Louisiana, summer highs hover around 92°F, while South Carolina sits at 91°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Louisiana bottoms out around 39°F, compared to 33°F in South Carolina.
A move to Louisiana with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
-
Expect about 60 inches of rain each year in Louisiana, a noticeable difference from the 48 inches you’re used to in South Carolina.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
Louisiana doesn’t get snow, while South Carolina sees around 1 inch annually.
Relocating to Louisiana means saying goodbye to shoveling and icy conditions, making winters far easier and more manageable.
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Louisiana has a higher crime rate than South Carolina with a crime index of 33.77 vs. 28.0.
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 South Carolina vs. Louisiana
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Louisiana versus South Carolina:
| Pros of living in South Carolina |
Pros of living in Louisiana |
| Warm southern hospitality |
Low cost of living |
| Plentiful outdoor activities |
Delicious regional food |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Diverse culture |
| Consistently gorgeous weather |
Fun outdoor activities |
| Rich historical significance |
Cajun culture |
Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. Louisiana
Moving from South Carolina to Louisiana comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in South Carolina |
Cons of living in Louisiana |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Hurricane frequency |
Pesky wildlife and insects |
| Low quality of healthcare |
Limited economic opportunities |
| High taxes |
High crime rate |
| Abundance of construction |
Hot humidity |
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to Louisiana 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.
-
State licensing:
If you’re using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC).
During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC.
In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Louisiana 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 Louisiana, 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 Louisiana 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. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Louisiana
Get ready to discover all that Louisiana has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Louisiana
- The National WWII Museum
- USS Kidd
- Louisiana’s Old State Capitol
- R. W. Norton Art Gallery
- Shreveport Water Works Museum
Parks in Louisiana
- Millennium Park
- Prien Lake Park
- Sam Houston Jones State Park
- Camp Salmen Nature Park
- Lafreniere Park
Sports teams in Louisiana
- New Orleans Saints (NFL)
- New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)
- New Orleans Gold (MLR)
- Ragin’ Cajuns (NCAA)
- Tigers and Lady Tigers (NCAA)
Universities in Louisiana
- Louisiana State University
- Tulane University
- Loyola University New Orleans
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- University of New Orleans
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Carolina to Louisiana?
Do movers transport your car from South Carolina to Louisiana?
What are the benefits of moving from South Carolina to Louisiana?
The main reasons people are moving from South Carolina to Louisiana are the amazing upsides of living in Louisiana, such as low cost of living and delicious regional food.
Is it cheaper to live in South Carolina or Louisiana?
Living in Louisiana usually costs less than in South Carolina.
Housing
is more affordable in Louisiana,
with average rent about 6% less and home prices 32% lower than in South Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana?
You should make approximately $53,317 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Louisiana.
The cost of living in Louisiana is about $2,452 per month for an individual and $5,746 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
South Carolina moving services
Popular South Carolina routes
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When moving from South Carolina to Louisiana, expect to spend between
$2,093–$5,366 if using professional movers, about
$1,948 for a moving container, and around
$808
for a rental truck.
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