How we chose the best moving companies for your SC to PA 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 Pennsylvania?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Carolina to Pennsylvania.
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 |
$1,027 – $3,334 |
$704 – $1,769 |
$484 – $869 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,090 – $5,090 |
$1,330 – $2,403 |
$496 – $1,086 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,405 – $6,812 |
$1,780 – $3,376 |
$632 – $1,302 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 687-mile move from SC to
PA 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 Pennsylvania
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from South Carolina to Pennsylvania,
you can expect prices to land between $1,027
and $3,334.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$2,090 to
$5,090 for the trip from SC
to PA. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,405 and
$6,812.
Cost of moving containers from South Carolina to Pennsylvania
Moving containers from South Carolina to Pennsylvania
will cost you $704 to
$1,769 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,330
to $2,403. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,780 to
$3,376.
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 Pennsylvania
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
$484
and $869
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $496
to $1,086.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$632
to $1,302.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SC to PA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from South Carolina to Pennsylvania. 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 PA
Making the move from South Carolina to Pennsylvania means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: South Carolina vs. Pennsylvania
A clear look at the cost differences between South Carolina and Pennsylvania 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 |
Pennsylvania |
| Average rent |
$1,065 |
$1,110 |
| Average home cost |
$295,769 |
$268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$63,623 |
$73,170 |
| Cost of living index |
96 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
7.46% |
6.34% |
| State income tax |
7.0% |
3.07% |
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No need to worry about your budget, rental rates stay pretty consistent whether you’re moving from South Carolina to Pennsylvania.
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Home prices in Pennsylvania are around 9% lower than in South Carolina. That means you’ll enjoy more manageable monthly mortgage payments.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 15% higher in Pennsylvania than in South Carolina, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Since living costs in Pennsylvania 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, Pennsylvania offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in Pennsylvania is 15% lower than in South Carolina. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Pennsylvania could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 56% lower than in South Carolina. You’ll take home more from every paycheck, giving you more money to save, invest, or spend as you please.
How life is different in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania and South Carolina compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Pennsylvania |
South Carolina |
| Population |
12,961,683 |
5,373,555 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 58-42 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
48″ |
| Annual snow |
38″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
17.62 |
28.0 |
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Pennsylvania has a population that’s about 141% 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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South Carolina and Pennsylvania both voted Republican in the last election.
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Summers in Pennsylvania average 83°F, compared to 91°F in South Carolina.
That cooler climate means less intense summers, easier days outdoors, and lower utility bills.
-
In winter, Pennsylvania reaches lows near 19°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.
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You can expect about 44 inches of annual rainfall in Pennsylvania and 48 inches in South Carolina.
Your overall experience with precipitation is unlikely to change much, but how that rain shows up throughout the year can still impact your daily life.
-
Each year, Pennsylvania gets about 38 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 Pennsylvania means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 17.62 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. Pennsylvania
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Pennsylvania compared to South Carolina:
| Pros of living in South Carolina |
Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
| Warm southern hospitality |
Low cost of living |
| Plentiful outdoor activities |
Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| Beautiful landscapes |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Consistently gorgeous weather |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Rich historical significance |
Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in South Carolina vs. Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania:
| Cons of living in South Carolina |
Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
| High cost of living |
Harsh winter weather |
| Hurricane frequency |
Bad driving conditions |
| Low quality of healthcare |
Nuclear power plants |
| High taxes |
Unpredictable weather |
| Abundance of construction |
High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your South Carolina to Pennsylvania 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:
For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC).
Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services.
Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
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State regulator:
You can quickly check a Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
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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 Pennsylvania
You’ll have plenty to explore in Pennsylvania! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- The Hershey Story Museum
- National Civil War Museum
- SteelStacks
- Steamtown National Historic Site
Parks in Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Presque Isle State Park
- Core Creek Park
- Allentown Fish Hatchery
- Rocky Ridge County Park
Sports teams in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
- Philadelphia Eagles Football (NFL)
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)
- Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Universities in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania
- Penn State University
- Carnegie Mellon University.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Carolina to Pennsylvania?
Do movers transport your car from South Carolina to Pennsylvania?
What are the benefits of moving from South Carolina to Pennsylvania?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave South Carolina for Pennsylvania, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in South Carolina or Pennsylvania?
Living in South Carolina usually costs less than in Pennsylvania.
Housing
is much more affordable in Pennsylvania,
with average rent about 4% less and home prices 9% lower than in South Carolina.
Taxes are also
lower in Pennsylvania, most notably income taxes, which are more than 50% less than those paid by South Carolina residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Pennsylvania?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Pennsylvania, you should aim to make around $56,150.
On average, expect to spend about $2,452 per month, or $5,603 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh 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 Pennsylvania, budget between $2,090–$5,090 for full-service movers, around
$1,866 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$791
for a rental truck.
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