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($1,031) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Dayton, OH

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Estimated cost & time: Moving 547 miles from Columbia to Dayton has an average cost ranging from $455 to $5,196. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly one–six days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Columbia to Dayton

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Columbia to Dayton

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Columbia to Dayton. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 5 interstate moving companies in Columbia. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Dayton.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Columbia to Dayton

Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,159 – $3,551
  • Moving Container $976 – $1,650
  • Rental Truck $405 – $752
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,945 – $5,196
  • Moving Container $1,214 – $2,398
  • Rental Truck $455 – $919
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,308 – $7,186
  • Moving Container $1,585 – $2,936
  • Rental Truck $567 – $1,164
Recent Moving Price Estimates
Roadway Moving
Pomaria, SC Catawba, OH
4 Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
American Van Lines
Newberry, SC Fairfield, OH
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 21, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Prosperity, SC Reading, OH
3 Bedrooms
Oct 10, 2025
North American Van Lines
Cameron, SC Covington, OH
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 29, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Pelion, SC Versailles, OH
4 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Lexington, SC Xenia, OH
3 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025
Safeway Moving
Dentsville, SC Ansonia, OH
2 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Forest Acres, SC Forest Park, OH
4 Bedrooms
Aug 06, 2025
United Van Lines
Springfield, SC Clayton, OH
2 Bedrooms
Aug 05, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
West Columbia, SC West Alexandria, OH
4 Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Dayton, OH to Columbia, SC guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Columbia to Dayton moves

Organizing a move from Columbia to Dayton can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating seven local movers in Columbia known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Columbia to Dayton.

  1. Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  3. JEGA Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.22 out of 5 stars
  5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
72.0% of all reviews were positive
27.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Gentlemen Movers Inc. earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, standing out with 72% positive feedback from 161 reviews. Customers consistently praise the team’s effective service, politeness, careful handling of belongings, speed, and affordable prices. Many appreciate how the staff alleviates the usual stress of moving.
Still, nearly 28% of input highlights problems like damaged items, unexpected extra charges, and hard-to-reach management. Experiences with item protection and clear communication fall short for some, leading to frustration over unaddressed complaints. In comparison with other companies, Gentlemen Movers rates highly for staff professionalism and affordability but lags in reliability when damage claims or billing inaccuracies arise. Most people are happy with the company, but those considering more delicate moves or strict budgets should be attentive to potential risks.
Show more
Get a Quote (803) 782-0063

Company Info

State license #: 9756

Years in Business: 21

DOT #: 1442337

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.7% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Dependable service and professionalism stand out in feedback for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. After analyzing 256 reviews, a remarkable 86.7% of input praised efficient, careful movers who handle belongings thoughtfully and display a positive attitude. Fast service, courteous staff, and respect for customer property routinely put this company ahead of competitors.
Clients often highlighted seamless communication and the crews’ on-time arrival, underscoring their reliability. Negative remarks, making up 11.7% of feedback, centered on property damage, additional unexpected fees, and rare breakdowns in communication. Some reviewers cited items arriving damaged or incomplete responses to damage claims. A very small number (1.6%) posted neutral feedback, usually noting mixed communication or unclear pricing. This company receives more enthusiastic recommendations and repeat business than many moving providers, thanks to organized, efficient service and respectful teams. The rare complaints about broken belongings and disputed charges align with frustrations customers have encountered with other movers, but appear far less often here, helping TWO MEN AND A TRUCK earn trust with those seeking a reliable moving partner.
Show more
Get a Quote (803) 310-7445

Company Info

State license #: 9494-C

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
42.9% of all reviews were positive
57.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
JEGA Movers LLC receives enthusiastic praise from customers who appreciate professional staff, careful handling of belongings, transparent pricing, strong communication, and efficient service. Most positive feedback highlights respectful treatment of cherished items and hassle-free booking. Negative input focuses on unprofessional behavior, property damage, and the company not delivering all promised services, like furniture reassembly and reliability. 42.9% of reviews express satisfaction, but more than half of the feedback reveals significant issues, suggesting higher concerns than seen with typical local moving companies.
Those considering JEGA Movers should weigh reported customer service quality against consistent complaints about professionalism and property care.
Show more
Get a Quote (803) 888-0917

Company Info

State license #: 2021239

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3583359

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.4% of all reviews were positive
5.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about the fast, friendly, and careful teams at College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. Out of 242 pieces of input, about 93% was favorable, showing impressive consistency. Most customer feedback mentions efficiency, helpful movers, respectfulness, and quick job completion—qualities that set College Hunks apart from other moving services.
Professionalism and careful handling of items frequently impressed customers, even on large or complicated jobs. Some negative remarks point to damaged possessions, missing items, and bigger bills than expected—issues that matter when choosing a mover. Complaints about estimate accuracy or lost belongings remain far fewer than the positive notes about speed and politeness. Compared to many competitors, College Hunks earns trust for reliability and respectful teams, consistently outperforming others in both speed and care.
Show more
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

State license #: 9890

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
50.0% of all reviews were positive
46.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Fast moves and friendly crews shine through the feedback on All My Sons Moving & Storage. Out of 64 reviews, half commend the company’s professional attitude, careful handling of items, efficient process, and supportive movers—qualities that keep their reputation solid against competitors. Many customers highlight swift service and the politeness of staff, with teams regularly described as helpful and highly professional.
Yet a significant share (nearly 47%) report major frustrations about final pricing far exceeding initial estimates, damage to items, and unanticipated fees. Customers often mention unexpected charges and slow resolution for reported damages, which leads many to express regret or dissatisfaction. While the company frequently delivers the speed and care people expect from leading movers, the pattern of higher costs and inflexible billing contrasts sharply with the positive feedback. Those considering All My Sons can expect fast, polite service, but should clarify all pricing details up front and remain vigilant about item protection and final billing.
Show more
Get a Quote (803) 219-4957

Company Info

State license #: 9873

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 902281

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from Columbia to Dayton?

On average, moving companies in South Carolina charge about $137 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,031 – $2,864 $686 – $1,538 $439 – $784
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,945 – $5,196 $1,214 – $2,398 $455 – $919
4+ bedrooms $3,308 – $7,186 $1,585 – $2,936 $567 – $1,164
*Estimated cost ranges for a 547-mile move from Columbia to Dayton are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Dayton

When planning a move to Dayton from Columbia, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,031 and $2,864. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,945 and $5,196 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,308 to $7,186.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Dayton

When you’re heading from Columbia to Dayton, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $686 and $1,538. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,214 and $2,398. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,585 to $2,936. 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 Columbia to Dayton

A moving rental truck from Columbia to Dayton 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 $439 to $784. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $455 to $919, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Columbia to Dayton costs around $567 to $1,164.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Columbia to Dayton toggle

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Columbia to Dayton may only cost $1,421, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $5,956.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Columbia.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($439–$968), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Columbia to Dayton

Many movers find Dayton easier on the wallet than Columbia – roughly 19% less for singles and 11% less for families.

Monthly basics average $1,593 for one person in Dayton versus $1,956 in Columbia. For a family of four, it’s $3,788 compared with $4,274.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Columbia Dayton
Average 1 BR rent $1,300 $1,192
Average 3 BR rent $2,220 $1,683
Average home value $220,612 $135,815
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $62,673
Cost of living (single) $1,956 $1,593
Cost of living (family of four) $4,274 $3,788
Unemployment rate 5.2% 6.8%
Sales tax 8.0% 7.5%
State income tax 7.0% 3.5%
  • Rent is about 36% less expensive in Dayton than in Columbia, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 38% cheaper in Dayton than in Columbia.
  • There’s good news: the average income differences between Dayton and Columbia are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Dayton. The cost of living for a single person there is 19% below that of Columbia.
  • A move to Dayton can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 11% lower compared to Columbia.
  • Dayton has a higher unemployment rate than Columbia by about 31%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes are 6% cheaper in Dayton compared to Columbia. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 50% less in Ohio compared to South Carolina, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Columbia versus Dayton:

Living Expense Columbia Dayton
Basic utilities $148.09 $200.37
Cell phone plan $54.77 $44.17
Dozen eggs $3.46 $3.02
Loaf of bread $2.65 $2.61
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $60.00 $57.50
Gym membership $40.00 $33.34
  • Basic utilities cost less in Columbia than in Dayton, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Columbia than in Dayton.
  • Eggs cost more in Columbia than in Dayton.
  • Bread is more expensive in Columbia than in Dayton.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Columbia than in Dayton.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Columbia than in Dayton.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Columbia than in Dayton.

How life is different in Columbia vs. Dayton

Columbia Dayton
Population 136,632 137,644
Transportation score 5 6
Walkability score 35 45
Bike friendliness score 35 47
Crime index 3.0 4.0
Safety index 48.39 40.68
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Dayton’s population is within about 5% of Columbia, so they’re very similar in size.
  • Dayton’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
  • Dayton is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 47 out of 100, Dayton is more bike-friendly than Columbia, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Dayton’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 4.0 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Dayton neighborhoods are safer than 4.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
  • Dayton is considered to be less safe than Columbia with a score of 40.68 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
  • Air quality in Dayton is Moderate, and in Columbia it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Columbia to Dayton move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Columbia and Dayton are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Ohio, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Ohio, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Dayton. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Dayton

With your sights set on Gem City, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Dayton.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Oakwood
  • Centerville
  • Springboro
  • Five Points
  • Bellbrook

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Downtown
  • Webster Station
  • South Park
  • Oregon District
  • Shroyer Park
  • Five Oaks
  • Gratton Hill

Things to do in Dayton

With your move to Ohio complete, you can dive right into experiencing Dayton. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Dayton is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the National Museum of the US Air Force, America’s Packard Museum – The Citizens Motorcar Co., Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and Dayton International Peace Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, Carriage Hill MetroPark, RiverScape MetroPark, and Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Dayton Dragons (Baseball-Midwest League)Wright State Raiders (Horizon League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Columbia to Dayton?toggle

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Columbia to Dayton. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Columbia.

When is the cheapest time to move from Columbia to Dayton?toggle

Want to save on your move from Columbia to Dayton? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Columbia to Dayton take?toggle

The 547-mile move from Columbia, SC, to Dayton, , takes one to six days. Some Columbia movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Dayton.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Columbia?toggle

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 5 movers in Columbia provide piano moving services. 2 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

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