How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to PA move
After studying pricing from 14 South Dakota movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from South Dakota to Pennsylvania?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Dakota to Pennsylvania.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,343 – $5,689 |
$924 – $2,221 |
$774 – $1,602 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,211 – $7,180 |
$1,701 – $3,335 |
$871 – $1,869 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,468 – $10,026 |
$2,154 – $4,611 |
$1,107 – $2,192 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,356-mile move from SD to
PA are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from South Dakota to Pennsylvania
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Pennsylvania will cost between
$1,343 and
$5,689.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from SD to PA will
range from $3,211 to
$7,180, and a large move from South Dakota
to Pennsylvania will cost from $5,468
to $10,026.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Pennsylvania
If you’re moving from South Dakota to Pennsylvania,
expect to pay between $924
and $2,221 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,701 up to
$3,335.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,154 and
$4,611. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from South Dakota.
Cost of moving truck rentals from South Dakota to Pennsylvania
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$774 and
$1,602.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $871
and $1,869. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,107 up to
$2,192 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to PA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from South Dakota to Pennsylvania. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in South Dakota is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from SD to PA
A relocation from South Dakota to Pennsylvania comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. Pennsylvania
Comparing expenses in South Dakota and Pennsylvania shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
South Dakota |
Pennsylvania |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,110 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$73,170 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
6.34% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
3.07% |
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Rent in Pennsylvania is approximately 26% higher than in South Dakota, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 12% lower in Pennsylvania than in South Dakota.
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Good news — you won’t need to stress about your finances since average incomes are similar in both Pennsylvania and South Dakota.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Pennsylvania and South Dakota, you don’t have to stress about your budget. Just focus on choosing the lifestyle and environment that suit you best.
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Unemployment in Pennsylvania is about 79% higher than in South Dakota. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
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You don’t have to worry about higher sales taxes. South Dakota and Pennsylvania have similar rates, making your move easier.
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Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania vs. South Dakota
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in Pennsylvania stacks up against South Dakota across important lifestyle factors:
|
Pennsylvania |
South Dakota |
| Population |
12,961,683 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
38″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
17.62 |
21.14 |
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Pennsylvania is about 1310% more populous than South Dakota.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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During the last presidential election, both South Dakota and Pennsylvania supported the Republican candidate.
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In Pennsylvania, summer highs hover around 83°F, while South Dakota sits at 85°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Pennsylvania bottoms out around 19°F, compared to 7°F in South Dakota.
A move to Pennsylvania with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
-
Expect about 44 inches of rain each year in Pennsylvania, a noticeable difference from the 23 inches you’re used to in South Dakota.
With a little preparation and good waterproof gear, you can adjust and enjoy your new home in no time.
-
In Pennsylvania, you’ll get about 38 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, South Dakota averages around 39 inches annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
-
Pennsylvania has a lower crime rate than South Dakota with a crime index of 17.62 vs. 21.14.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of South Dakota vs. Pennsylvania
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Pennsylvania versus South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Low cost of living |
| Robust job market |
Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| Low cost of living |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. Pennsylvania
Moving from South Dakota to Pennsylvania comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in South Dakota |
Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
| Extreme weather |
Harsh winter weather |
| Small-town mindset |
Bad driving conditions |
| Sparsely populated |
Nuclear power plants |
| Strange and offensive laws |
Unpredictable weather |
| Unpredictable weather |
High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Pennsylvania move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
-
State licensing:
For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC).
Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services.
Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Pennsylvania moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Pennsylvania, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Pennsylvania without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Pennsylvania
Get ready to discover all that Pennsylvania has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- The Hershey Story Museum
- National Civil War Museum
- SteelStacks
- Steamtown National Historic Site
Parks in Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Presque Isle State Park
- Core Creek Park
- Allentown Fish Hatchery
- Rocky Ridge County Park
Sports teams in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
- Philadelphia Eagles Football (NFL)
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)
- Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Universities in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania
- Penn State University
- Carnegie Mellon University.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to Pennsylvania?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to Pennsylvania?
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to Pennsylvania?
The main reasons people are moving from South Dakota to Pennsylvania are the amazing upsides of living in Pennsylvania, such as low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or Pennsylvania?
Living in Pennsylvania usually costs less than in South Dakota.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in Pennsylvania,
with average rent about 26% less and home prices 12% lower than in South Dakota.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and Pennsylvania.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Pennsylvania?
You should make approximately $56,150 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Pennsylvania.
The cost of living in Pennsylvania is about $2,452 per month for an individual and $5,603 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Helpful moving resources
South Dakota moving services
Popular South Dakota routes
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When moving from South Dakota to Pennsylvania, expect to spend between
$3,211–$7,180 if using professional movers, about
$2,518 for a moving container, and around
$1,370
for a rental truck.
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