How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to CA move
Using rate data from 14 South Dakota movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from South Dakota to California?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from South Dakota
to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,444 – $5,380 |
$968 – $2,509 |
$940 – $1,895 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,369 – $7,464 |
$1,727 – $3,594 |
$996 – $2,168 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,403 – $11,733 |
$2,380 – $4,717 |
$1,332 – $2,599 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,660-mile move from SD to
CA, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from South Dakota to California
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to California,
you can expect to spend between $1,444
and $5,380.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $3,369 to
$7,464 on the same route
(SD to CA). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from South Dakota to California typically runs between
$6,403 and
$11,733.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to California
Moving from South Dakota to California? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $968 and
$2,509. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,727 to
$3,594. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,380 up to
$4,717. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from South Dakota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Dakota to California
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$940 and
$1,895.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$996 and
$2,168.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,332 and
$2,599.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to CA
There are many factors that influence South Dakota moving costs. The cost to move from South Dakota to California will depend on these factors:
-
How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in South Dakota fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from SD to CA
Moving between South Dakota and California involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. California
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
South Dakota and California. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
South Dakota |
California |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,856 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$91,905 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
134 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
5.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
8.68% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
13.3% |
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Rent costs 111% more in California compared to South Dakota. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 151% more than what you’ll find in South Dakota.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 32% more in California compared to South Dakota. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
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Moving to California will cost you 34% more than living in South Dakota, so make sure to plan for the higher cost of living.
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California has a higher unemployment rate than South Dakota by about 184%. 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.
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Shoppers in California pay about 36% more in sales tax than those in South Dakota, adding extra cost to everyday buys like clothes, electronics, and dining out.
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California has a state income tax, while South Dakota does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in California vs. South Dakota
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how California differs from South Dakota in these areas.
|
California |
South Dakota |
| Population |
39,029,342 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 59-41 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
59ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
22″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
7″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
28.43 |
21.14 |
-
If you’re relocating from South Dakota to California, you’ll notice that California has about 4145% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
-
In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and South Dakota voted Republican.
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Summer highs in California average 87°F, almost the same as 85°F in South Dakota.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
Winters in California average 59°F, compared to 7°F in South Dakota.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year, almost the same as the 23 inches you’ve been used to in South Dakota.
Although the total rainfall won’t change much with your move, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls might affect your daily routine.
-
In California, you’ll see just 7 inches of snow each year, compared to South Dakota, which gets 39 inches annually.
Moving to California means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
California reports a higher crime rate than South Dakota, with a crime index of 28.43 versus 21.14.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of South Dakota vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in California |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Robust job market |
Pleasant weather |
| Low cost of living |
Abundant recreational options |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
High quality of life |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Fresh and healthy foods |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. California
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from South Dakota to California, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in South Dakota |
Cons of living in California |
| Extreme weather |
High cost of living |
| Small-town mindset |
Heavy tax burdens |
| Sparsely populated |
Natural disasters |
| Strange and offensive laws |
Terrible traffic |
| Unpredictable weather |
Strange laws |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to California move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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State licensing:
When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC).
Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to California right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in California
Get ready to discover California. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in California
- The Getty Center
- USS Midway Museum
- Hess Persson Estates
- California State Railroad Museum
- The Getty Villa
Parks in California
- La Jolla Cove
- Heisler Park
- Sonoma Plaza
- Mount Rubidoux Park
- Redwood Regional Park
Sports teams in California
- Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
- San Jose Sharks (NHL)
- Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Universities in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- University of California, San Diego
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to California?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to California?
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to California?
More and more folks are relocating from South Dakota to California to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or California?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in California.
Housing
is much more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 53% less and home prices 60% lower than in California.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and California.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California?
If you’re planning to live on your own in California, aim for an income of around $73,978 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $5,276 if you’re flying solo, or $10,220 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Camp Pendleton North and Los Angeles usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
South Dakota moving services
Popular South Dakota routes
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When planning a move from South Dakota to California, professional movers typically run between
$3,369 and $7,464, a moving container averages about
$2,660, and a rental truck is around
$1,582.
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