How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to MN move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 52 South Carolina moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from South Carolina to Minnesota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Carolina to Minnesota.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,099 – $4,199 |
$913 – $2,331 |
$825 – $1,502 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,615 – $6,190 |
$1,649 – $3,198 |
$875 – $1,861 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,604 – $7,842 |
$2,150 – $4,656 |
$1,135 – $2,226 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 1,381-mile move from SC to
MN using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to Minnesota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from South Carolina to Minnesota,
you can expect prices to land between $1,099
and $4,199.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,615 to
$6,190 for the trip from SC
to MN. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$4,604 and
$7,842.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Minnesota
Moving containers from South Carolina to Minnesota
will cost you $913 to
$2,331 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,649
to $3,198. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $2,150 to
$4,656.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to Minnesota
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$825
and $1,502
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $875
to $1,861.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$1,135
to $2,226.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to MN
Several factors influence the cost of moving from South Carolina to Minnesota. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
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Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in South Carolina generally comes with a higher price tag.
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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 MN
Making the move from South Carolina to Minnesota means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. Minnesota
A clear look at the cost differences between South Carolina and Minnesota helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
South Carolina |
Minnesota |
| Average rent |
$1,065 |
$1,178 |
| Average home cost |
$295,769 |
$334,119 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$63,623 |
$84,313 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
7.46% |
8.03% |
| State income tax |
7.0% |
9.85% |
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Rent in Minnesota is about 11% higher than in South Carolina. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Minnesota are usually around 13% higher than what you’ll find in South Carolina.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 33% higher in Minnesota than in South Carolina, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Since living costs in Minnesota and South Carolina are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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With an unemployment rate around 28% lower than South Carolina, Minnesota offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales taxes are 8% higher in Minnesota than in South Carolina, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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State income taxes in Minnesota are 41% higher than in South Carolina, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Minnesota vs. South Carolina
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Minnesota and South Carolina compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Minnesota |
South Carolina |
| Population |
5,737,915 |
5,373,555 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.1-46.9 |
Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
2ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
29″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
22.47 |
28.0 |
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Minnesota has a population that’s about 7% larger than South Carolina.
A bigger population usually means more advanced infrastructure. Think better healthcare, schools, public transit, and entertainment choices.
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In the latest presidential election, Minnesota voted Democratic, while South Carolina chose Republican.
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Summers in Minnesota average 81°F, compared to 91°F in South Carolina.
That cooler climate means less intense summers, easier days outdoors, and lower utility bills.
-
In winter, Minnesota reaches lows near 2°F, colder than 33°F in South Carolina.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
-
You can expect only about 29 inches of annual rainfall in Minnesota versus 48 inches of rainfall in South Carolina.
Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
-
Each year, Minnesota gets about 47 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 and upkeep.
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Moving to Minnesota means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 22.47 versus South Carolina’s 28.0, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of South Carolina vs. Minnesota
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Minnesota compared to South Carolina:
| Pros of living in South Carolina |
Pros of living in Minnesota |
| Warm southern hospitality |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Plentiful outdoor activities |
Bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Multitudinous lakes |
| Consistently gorgeous weather |
Diverse festivals |
| Rich historical significance |
Friendly people |
Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. Minnesota
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from South Carolina to Minnesota:
| Cons of living in South Carolina |
Cons of living in Minnesota |
| High cost of living |
Bland food |
| Hurricane frequency |
Cold snowy winters |
| Low quality of healthcare |
Terrible traffic |
| High taxes |
High tax burden |
| Abundance of construction |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to Minnesota move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
-
State licensing:
To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Minnesota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Minnesota, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Minnesota 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,” free of charge. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Minnesota
You’ll have plenty to explore in Minnesota! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Minnesota
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Science Museum of Minnesota
- Mill City Museum
- Minnesota History Center
- Paisley Park
Parks in Minnesota
- Minnehaha Park
- Teddy Bear Park
- Enger Park and Tower
- Canal Park
- Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
Sports teams in Minnesota
- Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
- Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
- Minnesota Twins (MLB)
- Minnesota United FC (MLS)
- Minnesota Vikings (NFL)
Universities in Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Carleton College
- Rasmussen College
- University of St. Thomas
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Carolina to Minnesota?
Do movers transport your car from South Carolina to Minnesota?
What are the benefits of moving from South Carolina to Minnesota?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave South Carolina for Minnesota, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in South Carolina or Minnesota?
Living in South Carolina usually costs less than in Minnesota.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in South Carolina,
with average rent about 10% less and home prices 11% lower than in Minnesota.
Taxes are also
lower in South Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Minnesota residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Minnesota?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Minnesota, you should aim to make around $73,783.
On average, expect to spend about $3,552 per month, or $5,174 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
South Carolina moving services
Popular South Carolina routes
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For a move from South Carolina to Minnesota, budget between $2,615–$6,190 for full-service movers, around
$2,423 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$1,368
for a rental truck.
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