How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to NY 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 New York?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from South Dakota
to New York with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,361 – $5,537 |
$959 – $2,456 |
$916 – $1,620 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,452 – $7,820 |
$1,765 – $3,409 |
$1,001 – $1,988 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,324 – $10,736 |
$2,333 – $4,555 |
$1,175 – $2,479 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 1,536-mile move from SD to
NY, 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 New York
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to New York,
you can expect to spend between $1,361
and $5,537.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $3,452 to
$7,820 on the same route
(SD to NY). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from South Dakota to New York typically runs between
$6,324 and
$10,736.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to New York
Moving from South Dakota to New York? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $959 and
$2,456. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,765 to
$3,409. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,333 up to
$4,555. 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 New York
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
$916 and
$1,620.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$1,001 and
$1,988.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $1,175 and
$2,479.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to NY
There are many factors that influence South Dakota moving costs. The cost to move from South Dakota to New York will depend on these factors:
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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 NY
Moving between South Dakota and New York involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. New York
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
South Dakota and New York. 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 |
New York |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,507 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$482,742 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$81,386 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
4.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
8.52% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
10.9% |
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Rent costs 72% more in New York 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 New York to be about 57% more than what you’ll find in South Dakota.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 17% more in New York 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 New York, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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New York has a higher unemployment rate than South Dakota by about 132%. 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 New York pay about 33% 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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New York 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 New York 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 New York differs from South Dakota in these areas.
|
New York |
South Dakota |
| Population |
19,571,216 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 60-40 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
16ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
62″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
21.51 |
21.14 |
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If you’re relocating from South Dakota to New York, you’ll notice that New York has about 2029% 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, New York voted Democratic and South Dakota voted Republican.
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Summer highs in New York average 81°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 New York average 16°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 44 inches of rain each year in New York — 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 New York, it snows about 62 inches annually while South Dakota gets only about 39 inches.
With the additional snow you’ll enjoy picturesque winters and fun seasonal activities, but you’ll also need to prepare for more maintenance, planning, and cold-weather gear.
-
New York and South Dakota both have similar crime rates (21.14).
Keep in mind, though, that crime levels can differ significantly between cities and neighborhoods, so it’s smart to check local crime statistics for a more accurate view.
Comparing the pros of South Dakota vs. New York
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in New York stacks up against South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in New York |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Natural beauty |
| Robust job market |
Arts |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Distinct seasons |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. New York
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from South Dakota to New York, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in South Dakota |
Cons of living in New York |
| Extreme weather |
High tax burden |
| Small-town mindset |
Rough winter weather |
| Sparsely populated |
High cost of living |
| Strange and offensive laws |
Poor quality healthcare |
| Unpredictable weather |
Populous |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to New York 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:
New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state’s safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a New York moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
New York 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 New York 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. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They’re responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
-
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 New York
Get ready to discover New York. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in New York
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- The Strong National Museum of Play
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- New York State Museum
- Erie Canal Museum
Parks in New York
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Central Park
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Robert Moses State Park
Sports teams in New York
- Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA)
- Buffalo Bills (NFL)
- Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
- New York City FC (MLS)
- New York Islanders (NHL)
Universities in New York
- Cornell University
- Columbia University in the City of New York
- New York University
- University of Rochester
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to New York?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to New York?
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 New York
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to New York?
More and more folks are relocating from South Dakota to New York to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as natural beauty and arts.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or New York?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in New York.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 42% less and home prices 36% lower than in New York.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and New York.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New York?
If you’re planning to live on your own in New York, aim for an income of around $78,058 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $5,550 if you’re flying solo, or $12,661 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like New York City and Brooklyn 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 New York, professional movers typically run between
$3,452 and $7,820, a moving container averages about
$2,587, and a rental truck is around
$1,494.
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