How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to GA 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 Georgia?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Dakota to Georgia.
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 |
$1,439 – $5,256 |
$982 – $2,344 |
$823 – $1,609 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,168 – $7,364 |
$1,789 – $3,454 |
$954 – $2,013 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,954 – $10,670 |
$2,433 – $4,378 |
$1,131 – $2,458 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,487-mile move from SD to
GA 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 Georgia
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Georgia typically costs between
$1,439 and
$5,256.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,168
and $7,364
when moving from SD to GA.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from South Dakota to Georgia,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,954
up to $10,670.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Georgia
If you’re relocating from South Dakota to Georgia,
you’ll typically spend between $982
and $2,344 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,789 up to
$3,454.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,433 and
$4,378. 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 Georgia
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
$823 and
$1,609.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$954 to
$2,013.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,131 and
$2,458.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to GA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from South Dakota to Georgia. 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 GA
Transitioning from South Dakota to Georgia 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. Georgia
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between South Dakota and Georgia are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
South Dakota |
Georgia |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,221 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$326,617 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$71,355 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
91 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
3.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
7.32% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
5.49% |
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Rent is about 39% more expensive in Georgia 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 Georgia are roughly 6% higher than in South Dakota.
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There’s no need to worry about your budget, since average incomes are about the same in both South Dakota and Georgia.
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Moving to Georgia costs about 9% less than living in South Dakota. You’ll save a lot, but smart planning is still key for a smooth move.
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Unemployment in Georgia is about 89% 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 in Georgia runs 14% higher than in South Dakota, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia and South Dakota compare.
|
Georgia |
South Dakota |
| Population |
11,029,227 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Democrat 51-49 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
90ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
20.58 |
21.14 |
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If you’re moving from South Dakota to Georgia, you’ll find Georgia has about 1100% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
-
In the last presidential election, Georgia leaned Democrat, while South Dakota supported Republican.
-
The average summer high in Georgia is 90°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, Georgia drops only to 33°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 Georgia.
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 Georgia, it only snows about 1 inch annually while South Dakota gets 39 inches.
Moving to Georgia, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
-
Georgia and South Dakota share similar crime rates (21.14).
However, crime can vary greatly between different cities and neighborhoods within each state, so be sure to look into local crime data for a clearer picture.
Comparing the pros of South Dakota vs. Georgia
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Georgia to South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in Georgia |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Robust job market |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Low cost of living |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Pleasant weather |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Home of atlanta |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. Georgia
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from South Dakota to Georgia:
| Cons of living in South Dakota |
Cons of living in Georgia |
| Extreme weather |
Hot humid summers |
| Small-town mindset |
Pollen |
| Sparsely populated |
Insects |
| Strange and offensive laws |
High crime rate |
| Unpredictable weather |
Poor healthcare |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Georgia 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:
Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Georgia moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Georgia, 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 Georgia. 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. Opt for Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover’s responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Georgia
Get excited to explore Georgia. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Georgia
- Tybee Island Light Station And Museum
- Augusta Canal Discovery Center
- National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
- St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
- Hay House
Parks in Georgia
- Amicalola Falls State Park
- Chattahoochee Bend State Park
- Cloudland Canyon State Park
- F.D. Roosevelt State Park
- Fort Yargo State Park
Sports teams in Georgia
- Atlanta Blaze (MLL)
- Atlanta Braves (MLB)
- Atlanta Dream (WNBA)
- Atlanta Falcons (NFL)
- Atlanta Hawks (NBA)
Universities in Georgia
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Georgia
- Georgia State University
- Emory University
- Kennesaw State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to Georgia?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to Georgia?
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
Georgia
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to Georgia?
Many people are making the move from South Dakota to Georgia to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Georgia has to offer, like ample economic opportunity and beautiful landscapes.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or Georgia?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Georgia.
Housing
is more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 28% less and home prices 6% lower than in Georgia.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and Georgia.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Georgia?
Planning to move to Georgia? A single adult should aim for an income of around $92,416 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,350 for an individual, or $5,179 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Atlanta and Columbus 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 Georgia, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,168 to
$7,364, roughly
$2,621 for a container move, and close to
$1,483
for a rental truck.
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