How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to CT move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 14 South Dakota moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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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 Dakota to Connecticut?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Dakota to Connecticut.
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 |
$1,466 – $5,431 |
$1,013 – $2,420 |
$888 – $1,723 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,563 – $7,470 |
$1,842 – $3,678 |
$1,050 – $2,155 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,964 – $11,107 |
$2,488 – $4,633 |
$1,261 – $2,609 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,612-mile move from SD to
CT 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 Dakota to Connecticut
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Connecticut typically costs between
$1,466 and
$5,431.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,563
and $7,470
when moving from SD to CT.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from South Dakota to Connecticut,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,964
up to $11,107.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Connecticut
If you’re relocating from South Dakota to Connecticut,
you’ll typically spend between $1,013
and $2,420 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,842 up to
$3,678.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,488 and
$4,633. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from South Dakota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Dakota to Connecticut
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
$888 and
$1,723.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,050 to
$2,155.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,261 and
$2,609.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to CT
Several factors can influence your moving costs from South Dakota to Connecticut. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in South Dakota, 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 SD to CT
Transitioning from South Dakota to Connecticut gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. Connecticut
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between South Dakota and Connecticut are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
South Dakota |
Connecticut |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,374 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$405,595 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$90,213 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
6.35% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
3.0% |
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Rent is about 56% more expensive in Connecticut than in South Dakota. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in Connecticut are roughly 32% higher than in South Dakota.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 30% more in Connecticut than in South Dakota. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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With a similar cost of living in both South Dakota and Connecticut, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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Unemployment in Connecticut is about 58% higher than in South Dakota. Since more people are searching for jobs, you’ll face tougher competition in the job market.
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Sales tax rates are similar in Connecticut and South Dakota, so this won’t affect your cost of living when you relocate.
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Connecticut 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 Connecticut vs. South Dakota
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 Connecticut and South Dakota compare.
|
Connecticut |
South Dakota |
| Population |
3,617,176 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 56-44 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
18ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
37″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
16.44 |
21.14 |
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If you’re moving from South Dakota to Connecticut, you’ll find Connecticut has about 293% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, Connecticut leaned Democratic, while South Dakota supported Republican.
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The average summer high in Connecticut is 83°F, while South Dakota averages 85°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
-
In winter, Connecticut drops only to 18°F, milder than 7°F in South Dakota.
That means lower costs, easier winters, and more chances to enjoy the outdoors.
-
Get ready for about 50 inches of rain each year in Connecticut.
That’s quite a change from the 23 inches you’re used to back in South Dakota. More rain means greener scenery but also some soggy days, so pack your rain gear and make a few adjustments to settle in quickly and comfortably.
-
In Connecticut, you can expect about 37 inches of snow each year.
By comparison, South Dakota typically gets around 39 inches annually.
Since both states see similar snowfall, your move shouldn’t come with unexpected weather challenges.
-
Connecticut boasts a lower crime rate than South Dakota, with a crime index of 16.44 compared to 21.14.
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 Dakota vs. Connecticut
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Connecticut to South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in Connecticut |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Natural beauty |
| Robust job market |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Low cost of living |
Diverse lifestyle options |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Great outdoor environment |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Amiable small communities |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. Connecticut
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from South Dakota to Connecticut:
| Cons of living in South Dakota |
Cons of living in Connecticut |
| Extreme weather |
High cost of living |
| Small-town mindset |
Tough winter weather |
| Sparsely populated |
Bad traffic |
| Strange and offensive laws |
Heavy tax burdens |
| Unpredictable weather |
Low job opportunity |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Connecticut 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:
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CDOT) regulates in-state moving companies and taxi, trucking, and bus companies.
In addition, customers are also protected from scam movers by regulations set forth by the Connecticut State Department of Consumer Protection. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Connecticut moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Connecticut, 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 Connecticut. 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. Opting for Released Value Protection is a budget-friendly choice, as it comes at no extra cost from movers, although it provides minimal coverage. Under this option, the mover’s liability is limited to a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. If your belongings are valuable and you seek coverage beyond this limited protection, it’s recommended to discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or explore third-party insurance providers.
-
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 Connecticut
Get excited to explore Connecticut. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Connecticut
- Mystic Seaport Museum
- The Mark Twain House & Museum
- Yale University Art Gallery
- Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center
- Stamford Museum & Nature Center
Parks in Connecticut
- Cove Island Park
- Tarrywile Park & Mansion
- Seaside Park
- Elizabeth Park
- Ocean Beach Park
Sports teams in Connecticut
- Connecticut Sun (WNBA)
- Bridgeport Islanders (AHL)
- Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)
- Yale Bulldogs (NCAA Ivy League)
- UConn Huskies (NCAA Big East)
Universities in Connecticut
- Yale University
- University of Connecticut
- Quinnipiac University
- Wesleyan University
- Central Connecticut State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to Connecticut?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to Connecticut?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
South Dakota to
Connecticut
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to Connecticut?
Many people are making the move from South Dakota to Connecticut to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Connecticut has to offer, like natural beauty and bountiful recreational opportunities.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or Connecticut?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Connecticut.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 36% less and home prices 24% lower than in Connecticut.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and Connecticut.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Connecticut?
Planning to move to Connecticut? A single adult should aim for an income of around $126,176 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $4,195 for an individual, or $9,059 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like North Branford and Bethel usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
South Dakota moving services
Popular South Dakota routes
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When relocating from South Dakota to Connecticut, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,563 to
$7,470, roughly
$2,760 for a container move, and close to
$1,602
for a rental truck.
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