How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to DE 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 Delaware?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from South Dakota
to Delaware with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,400 – $5,756 |
$1,000 – $2,459 |
$860 – $1,749 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,326 – $7,477 |
$1,700 – $3,485 |
$902 – $1,921 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,721 – $10,541 |
$2,243 – $4,606 |
$1,219 – $2,347 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,519-mile move from SD to
DE, 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 Delaware
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Delaware,
you can expect to spend between $1,400
and $5,756.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $3,326 to
$7,477 on the same route
(SD to DE). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from South Dakota to Delaware typically runs between
$5,721 and
$10,541.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Delaware
Moving from South Dakota to Delaware? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $1,000 and
$2,459. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,700 to
$3,485. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,243 up to
$4,606. 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 Delaware
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
$860 and
$1,749.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$902 and
$1,921.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,219 and
$2,347.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to DE
There are many factors that influence South Dakota moving costs. The cost to move from South Dakota to Delaware 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 DE
Moving between South Dakota and Delaware involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. Delaware
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
South Dakota and Delaware. 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 |
Delaware |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,286 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$388,654 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$79,325 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
3.0% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
0.0% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
6.6% |
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Rent costs 46% more in Delaware 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 Delaware to be about 27% more than what you’ll find in South Dakota.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 14% more in Delaware compared to South Dakota. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in South Dakota and Delaware, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Delaware has a higher unemployment rate than South Dakota by about 58%. 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.
-
Delaware doesn’t charge a sales tax, so you’ll save money on regular purchases compared to South Dakota.
-
Delaware 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 Delaware 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 Delaware differs from South Dakota in these areas.
|
Delaware |
South Dakota |
| Population |
1,031,890 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 57-43 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
45″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
13″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
23.48 |
21.14 |
-
If you’re relocating from South Dakota to Delaware, you’ll notice that Delaware has about 12% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, Delaware voted Democratic and South Dakota voted Republican.
-
Summer highs in Delaware 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 Delaware average 25°F, compared to 7°F in South Dakota.
The milder lows mean less strain on heating, gentler weather, and more comfortable outdoor living.
-
Expect about 45 inches of rain each year in Delaware — a big shift from the 23 inches you’re used to in South Dakota.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
-
In Delaware, you’ll see just 13 inches of snow each year, compared to South Dakota, which gets 39 inches annually.
Moving to Delaware means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
Delaware reports a higher crime rate than South Dakota, with a crime index of 23.48 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. Delaware
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Delaware stacks up against South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in Delaware |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Robust job market |
High-quality healthcare |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Beautiful beaches |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Rich culture |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. Delaware
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from South Dakota to Delaware, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in South Dakota |
Cons of living in Delaware |
| Extreme weather |
Hurricanes |
| Small-town mindset |
High crime rate |
| Sparsely populated |
Overcrowding |
| Strange and offensive laws |
High cost of living |
| Unpredictable weather |
Limited public transportation |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Delaware 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.
-
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.
-
State licensing:
Movers headquartered in Delaware that offer local and intrastate moving services don’t need to be licensed. Still, they must comply with Delaware Department of Transportation (DDOT) regulations on insurance and commercial vehicle safety. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Delaware moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Delaware does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
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 Delaware 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. Selecting Released Value Protection is a cost-effective choice, provided at no extra charge by movers, even though it offers limited coverage. Within this option, the mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. If you’re concerned about the value of your possessions and require more extensive coverage, consider discussing alternative options with the moving company you’ve chosen or explore third-party insurance providers. Ensure comprehensive protection for your belongings during the move by exploring these additional coverage choices.
-
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 Delaware
Get ready to discover Delaware. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Delaware
- Nemours Estate
- Air Mobility Command Museum
- Hagley Museum And Library
- Johnson Victrola Museum
- Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum at Delaware Seashore State Park
Parks in Delaware
- Glasgow Park
- Battery Park
- First State Heritage Park
- Iron Hill Park
- Browns Branch County Park
Sports teams in Delaware
- Delaware Blue Coats (NBA G League)
- Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens (NCAA)
- Delaware Black Foxes (USARL)
- Southern Delaware Rollergirls (WFTDA)
Universities in Delaware
- University of Delaware
- Delaware State University
- Wilmington University
- Goldey-Beacom College
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to Delaware?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to Delaware?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from South Dakota to Delaware
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to Delaware?
More and more folks are relocating from South Dakota to Delaware to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as bountiful recreational opportunities and high-quality healthcare.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or Delaware?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Delaware.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 32% less and home prices 21% lower than in Delaware.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and Delaware.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Delaware?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Delaware, aim for an income of around $59,688 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,428 if you’re flying solo, or $6,148 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Wilmington and Dover 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 Delaware, professional movers typically run between
$3,326 and $7,477, a moving container averages about
$2,592, and a rental truck is around
$1,411.
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