How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to MO 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 Missouri?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Dakota to Missouri.
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 |
$1,316 – $4,630 |
$748 – $1,814 |
$509 – $947 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,540 – $6,753 |
$1,295 – $2,518 |
$549 – $1,124 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,235 – $9,421 |
$1,736 – $3,312 |
$708 – $1,349 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 750-mile move from SD to
MO 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 Missouri
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Missouri typically costs between
$1,316 and
$4,630.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,540
and $6,753
when moving from SD to MO.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from South Dakota to Missouri,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,235
up to $9,421.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Missouri
If you’re relocating from South Dakota to Missouri,
you’ll typically spend between $748
and $1,814 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,295 up to
$2,518.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,736 and
$3,312. 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 Missouri
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
$509 and
$947.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$549 to
$1,124.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $708 and
$1,349.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to MO
Several factors can influence your moving costs from South Dakota to Missouri. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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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.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from SD to MO
Transitioning from South Dakota to Missouri 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. Missouri
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between South Dakota and Missouri are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
South Dakota |
Missouri |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$957 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$248,327 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$65,920 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
88 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
3.8% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
4.03% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
4.8% |
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Rent is about 9% more expensive in Missouri than in South Dakota. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Home prices in Missouri are about 19% lower than in South Dakota, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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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 Missouri.
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Moving to Missouri costs about 12% 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 Missouri is about 100% 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 Missouri is 37% lower than in South Dakota, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Missouri and South Dakota compare.
|
Missouri |
South Dakota |
| Population |
6,196,156 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 59-41 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
20ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
43″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
13″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
28.28 |
21.14 |
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If you’re moving from South Dakota to Missouri, you’ll find Missouri has about 574% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
-
The last presidential election saw both South Dakota and Missouri siding with the Republican party.
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The average summer high in Missouri is 88°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, Missouri drops only to 20°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 43 inches of rain each year in Missouri.
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 Missouri, it only snows about 13 inches annually while South Dakota gets 39 inches.
Moving to Missouri, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles.
-
Missouri has a higher crime rate than South Dakota, with a crime index of 28.28 compared to 21.14.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of South Dakota vs. Missouri
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Missouri to South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in Missouri |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Low cost of living |
| Robust job market |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Low cost of living |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Delicious barbecue |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Beautiful outdoors |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. Missouri
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from South Dakota to Missouri:
| Cons of living in South Dakota |
Cons of living in Missouri |
| Extreme weather |
Severe weather |
| Small-town mindset |
High crime rate |
| Sparsely populated |
Low quality of life |
| Strange and offensive laws |
Low wages |
| Unpredictable weather |
Poor healthcare |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Missouri 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.
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State licensing:
Movers that provide local and intrastate relocation services in Missouri fall under the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT).
Every household goods mover operating in the state is required to have a MoDOT Number. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Missouri moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Missouri, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 Missouri. 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, the budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers. This minimal coverage ensures that movers are liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per item. For a comprehensive coverage of your valuables, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider. Ensure the full value of your items is covered by consulting with the moving company for suitable alternatives.
-
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 Missouri
Get excited to explore Missouri. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Missouri
- National WWI Museum and Memorial
- Titanic Museum
- City Museum
- Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium
- The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Parks in Missouri
- Elephant Rocks State Park
- Gateway Arch National Park
- Lake of the Ozarks State Park
- Bennett Spring State Park
- Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park
Sports teams in Missouri
- Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)
- Kansas City Royals (MLB)
- Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
- St. Louis Blues (NHL)
- St. Louis Cardinals (MLB)
Universities in Missouri
- Washington University in St. Louis
- University of Missouri
- University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Saint Louis University
- University of Missouri-St. Louis
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to Missouri?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to Missouri?
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
Missouri
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to Missouri?
Many people are making the move from South Dakota to Missouri to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Missouri has to offer, like low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or Missouri?
Living in Missouri usually costs less than in South Dakota.
Housing
is much more affordable in Missouri,
with average rent about 9% less and home prices 19% lower than in South Dakota.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and Missouri.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Missouri?
Planning to move to Missouri? A single adult should aim for an income of around $58,875 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,617 for an individual, or $6,252 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Kansas City and St. Louis 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 Missouri, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,540 to
$6,753, roughly
$1,906 for a container move, and close to
$836
for a rental truck.
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