Columbia, SC to Jackson, MS Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Columbia to Jackson typically costs $2,200–$5,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 595 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Columbia to Jackson
Moving from Columbia, SC to Jackson, MS typically costs $2,200–$5,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 595-mile move from Columbia to Jackson, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $2,398 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $4,679 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $3,691 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 14, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 04, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 13, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 20, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 06, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 04, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Columbia to Jackson
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Columbia to Jackson might be as low as $1,400, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,700.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Columbia.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $500 to $1,400 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Jackson, MS to Columbia, SC guide.
Best Columbia to Jackson movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Columbia to Jackson
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Columbia to Jackson, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best SC→MS movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 52 South Carolina movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Columbia to Jackson
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Jackson runs about 1% higher for singles and 17% higher for families than Columbia.
Singles spend around $1,969 in Jackson versus $1,956 in Columbia; families pay $4,990 compared with $4,274.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Columbia | Jackson | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,300 | $867 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,220 | $2,167 |
| Average home value | $220,612 | $68,872 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,683 | $57,848 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,956 | $1,969 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,274 | $4,990 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 7.7% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 4.7% |
- Good news! When moving to Jackson from Columbia, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 19% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 69% cheaper in Jackson, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 11% lower in Jackson than in Columbia.
- With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Jackson and Columbia, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
- As you plan your move to Jackson, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 17% more than it is in Columbia.
- The unemployment rate in Jackson exceeds that of Columbia by about 48%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are effectively the same in Jackson and Columbia (within a 5% range), allowing you to focus on other financial aspects when moving.
- Income taxes are 33% lower in Mississippi than in South Carolina. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Columbia and Jackson, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Columbia | Jackson |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $148.09 | $213.78 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.77 | $58.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.46 | $4.12 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.65 | $2.83 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $65.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Jackson, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Columbia than in Jackson.
- Eggs are less expensive in Columbia than in Jackson.
- Bread costs less in Columbia than in Jackson.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Columbia than in Jackson.
- The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Columbia than in Jackson.
How life is different in Columbia vs. Jackson
| Columbia | Jackson | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 136,632 | 153,701 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 2 |
| Walkability score | 35 | 26 |
| Bike friendliness score | 35 | 33 |
| Crime index | 3.0 | 82.38 |
| Safety index | 48.39 | 17.62 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Jackson's population is about 12% greater than Columbia.
- Jackson's public transportation score of 2 out of 10 is lower than Columbia's score of 5.
- Jackson is less walkable than Columbia with a score of 26 out of 100 vs Columbia's 35 out of 100.
- Jackson has a bike-friendliness score of 33 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Columbia, which has a score of 35.
- Jackson's crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 82.38 compared to Columbia's 3.0. This means that Jackson neighborhoods are safer than 82.38% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
- Jackson is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 17.62 vs Columbia's 48.39.
- Air quality in Jackson is Good, and in Columbia it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Columbia to Jackson move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Like in many other states, movers in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT). When considering hiring a local mover, you’ll want to check that they have an up-to-date MSPC Number. If they do, it means that they’re authorized to move household goods within the state. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Mississippi moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Mississippi, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Jackson without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Released Value Protection is the cost-free choice provided by movers, but it offers minimal coverage. Movers are only responsible for up to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items, consider exploring alternative options with your chosen moving company or a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Jackson
Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Jackson.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Ridgeland
- Flowood
- Madison
- Starkville
- Hattiesburg
- Brandon
Best neighborhoods for families
- Madison
- Clinton
- Flowood
- Brandon
- Ridgeland
- Pearl
- Florence
- Richland
- Cleary
Things to do in Jackson
Now that you've made the move to Mississippi, it's the perfect time to explore Jackson. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Jackson include museums and art centers like the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, Mississippi Children's Museum, and Old Capitol Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate LeFleur's Bluff State Park, Battlefield Park, and Smith Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Jackson State University Tigers (college sports)Mississippi Braves (Minor League Baseball)Jackson Bandits (defunct hockey team)Magnolia Roller Vixens (roller derby) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Columbia to Jackson?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Columbia to Jackson. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Columbia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Columbia to Jackson?
With many people choosing to move from Columbia to Jackson in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Columbia to Jackson take?
Covering 595 miles, the move from Columbia, SC to Jackson, MS typically takes one to six days. Some Columbia movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Jackson can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Columbia can handle specialty items for my move to Jackson?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Columbia, 5 movers can handle pianos. 2 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of SC, there are 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
