How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to NJ move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 52 South Carolina moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
-
Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
-
Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
-
Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
-
Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
-
Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from South Carolina to New Jersey?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Carolina to New Jersey.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,048 – $3,266 |
$711 – $1,667 |
$474 – $905 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,029 – $4,939 |
$1,203 – $2,379 |
$543 – $1,118 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,650 – $7,028 |
$1,678 – $3,151 |
$658 – $1,250 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 687-mile move from SC to
NJ using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from South Carolina to New Jersey
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Carolina to New Jersey typically costs between
$1,048 and
$3,266.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,029
and $4,939
when moving from SC to NJ.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from South Carolina to New Jersey,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,650
up to $7,028.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to New Jersey
If you’re relocating from South Carolina to New Jersey,
you’ll typically spend between $711
and $1,667 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,203 up to
$2,379.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,678 and
$3,151. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from South Carolina.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Carolina to New Jersey
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$474 and
$905.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$543 to
$1,118.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $658 and
$1,250.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to NJ
Several factors can influence your moving costs from South Carolina to New Jersey. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
-
Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in South Carolina, which usually means higher prices.
-
Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from SC to NJ
Transitioning from South Carolina to New Jersey gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. New Jersey
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between South Carolina and New Jersey are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
South Carolina |
New Jersey |
| Average rent |
$1,065 |
$1,368 |
| Average home cost |
$295,769 |
$534,773 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$63,623 |
$97,126 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
114 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
7.46% |
6.6% |
| State income tax |
7.0% |
10.7% |
-
Rent is about 28% more expensive in New Jersey than in South Carolina. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
-
Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in New Jersey are roughly 81% higher than in South Carolina.
-
Good news — you can expect to earn about 53% more in New Jersey than in South Carolina. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
-
Moving to New Jersey means you’ll be spending 19% more than you did in South Carolina. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
-
Unemployment rates are about the same in South Carolina and New Jersey, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
-
Sales tax in New Jersey is 12% lower than in South Carolina, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
-
Income taxes are 53% higher in New Jersey compared to South Carolina. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in New Jersey vs. South Carolina
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how New Jersey and South Carolina compare.
|
New Jersey |
South Carolina |
| Population |
9,290,841 |
5,373,555 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-46.1 |
Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
22ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
23″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
16.2 |
28.0 |
-
If you’re moving from South Carolina to New Jersey, you’ll find New Jersey has about 73% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
-
In the last presidential election, New Jersey leaned Democratic, while South Carolina supported Republican.
-
The average summer high in New Jersey is 85°F compared to 91°F in South Carolina.
A cooler summer climate means less extreme heat, lower energy costs, and more comfortable outdoor time — great for anyone who values comfort.
-
In the coldest months, New Jersey dips to about 22°F, colder than 33°F in South Carolina.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
-
In New Jersey, you’ll experience about 48 inches of rain each year, pretty similar to the 48 inches you’re used to in South Carolina.
While the overall rainfall won’t shift much after your move, don’t forget that the timing and patterns of rain throughout the year can still influence your day-to-day plans.
-
Each year, New Jersey gets about 23 inches of snow, far more than the 1 inch you might be accustomed to in South Carolina.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
New Jersey boasts a lower crime rate than South Carolina, with a crime index of 16.2 compared to 28.0.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of South Carolina vs. New Jersey
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in New Jersey to South Carolina:
| Pros of living in South Carolina |
Pros of living in New Jersey |
| Warm southern hospitality |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Plentiful outdoor activities |
Diversity |
| Beautiful landscapes |
World-class entertainment |
| Consistently gorgeous weather |
Leading education |
| Rich historical significance |
Superb health care |
Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. New Jersey
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from South Carolina to New Jersey:
| Cons of living in South Carolina |
Cons of living in New Jersey |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Hurricane frequency |
Congested population |
| Low quality of healthcare |
High cost of living |
| High taxes |
High tax burden |
| Abundance of construction |
Terrible traffic |
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to New Jersey move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
State licensing:
In New Jersey, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs handles the regulation of in-state moving companies.
The state’s Division of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that warehousemen (public storage companies) and public movers provide safe, reliable, and ethical services while adhering to all relevant state rules and regulations. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a New Jersey moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in New Jersey, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to New Jersey. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Released Value Protection is the most economical option as it incurs no cost. It is provided by movers at no additional charge, but the coverage is minimal. Under this option, no more than 60 cents per pound per article is the responsibility of the mover. For example, if a delicate china set weighing 20 pounds is lost or damaged by the mover, only $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds) would be received. If coverage for the full value of your items is needed, consultation with the moving company you’re hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider is recommended.
-
Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in New Jersey
Get excited to explore New Jersey. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in New Jersey
- Cape May Lighthouse
- Silverball Retro Arcade Asbury Park
- Battleship New Jersey
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Newark Museum
Parks in New Jersey
- Branch Brook Park
- Laurel Acres Park
- The Frelinghuysen Arboretum
- Roosevelt Park
- Bergen County Zoological Park
Sports teams in New Jersey
- New Jersey Devils (NHL)
- New York Giants (NFL)
- New York Jets (NFL)
- New York Red Bulls (MLS)
Universities in New Jersey
- Princeton University
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Seton Hall University
- Montclair State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Carolina to New Jersey?
Do movers transport your car from South Carolina to New Jersey?
What are the benefits of moving from South Carolina to New Jersey?
Many people are making the move from South Carolina to New Jersey to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in New Jersey has to offer, like bountiful recreational opportunities and diversity.
Is it cheaper to live in South Carolina or New Jersey?
Living in South Carolina usually costs less than in New Jersey.
Housing
is much more affordable in South Carolina,
with average rent about 22% less and home prices 45% lower than in New Jersey.
Taxes are also
lower in South Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by New Jersey residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Jersey?
Planning to move to New Jersey? A single adult should aim for an income of around $54,567 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $3,483 for an individual, or $7,579 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Trenton and Newark usually have steeper housing costs 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 relocating from South Carolina to New Jersey, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,029 to
$4,939, roughly
$1,791 for a container move, and close to
$830
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
Best overall value
