How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to RI 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 Rhode Island?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Dakota to Rhode Island.
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 |
$1,406 – $5,328 |
$1,034 – $2,525 |
$944 – $1,908 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,381 – $8,012 |
$1,881 – $3,878 |
$1,042 – $2,136 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$6,207 – $12,031 |
$2,567 – $5,101 |
$1,287 – $2,749 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,701-mile move from SD to
RI 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 Rhode Island
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Rhode Island will cost between
$1,406 and
$5,328.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from SD to RI will
range from $3,381 to
$8,012, and a large move from South Dakota
to Rhode Island will cost from $6,207
to $12,031.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Rhode Island
If you’re moving from South Dakota to Rhode Island,
expect to pay between $1,034
and $2,525 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,881 up to
$3,878.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,567 and
$5,101. 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 Rhode Island
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
$944 and
$1,908.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,042
and $2,136. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,287 up to
$2,749 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to RI
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from South Dakota to Rhode Island. 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 RI
A relocation from South Dakota to Rhode Island comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. Rhode Island
Comparing expenses in South Dakota and Rhode Island 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 |
Rhode Island |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,195 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$467,485 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$81,370 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
4.6% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
7.0% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
5.99% |
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Rent in Rhode Island is approximately 36% higher than in South Dakota, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 52% higher in Rhode Island than in South Dakota.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 17% higher in Rhode Island compared to South Dakota. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island is about 142% 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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Sales taxes are 9% higher in Rhode Island than in South Dakota, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island stacks up against South Dakota across important lifestyle factors:
|
Rhode Island |
South Dakota |
| Population |
1,093,734 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 56-44 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
50″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
35″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
14.58 |
21.14 |
-
Rhode Island is about 19% more populous than South Dakota.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
-
In the most recent presidential election, Rhode Island leaned Democratic, while South Dakota went with Republican.
-
In Rhode Island, summer highs hover around 82°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, Rhode Island bottoms out around 19°F, compared to 7°F in South Dakota.
A move to Rhode Island with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
-
Expect about 50 inches of rain each year in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island, you’ll get about 35 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.
-
Rhode Island has a lower crime rate than South Dakota with a crime index of 14.58 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. Rhode Island
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Rhode Island versus South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in Rhode Island |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Robust job market |
Delicious seafood |
| Low cost of living |
Rich history |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Amazing beaches |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Short drives |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. Rhode Island
Moving from South Dakota to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island |
| Extreme weather |
High cost of living |
| Small-town mindset |
Heavy traffic and lousy drivers |
| Sparsely populated |
Smallest state |
| Strange and offensive laws |
Cold winters |
| Unpredictable weather |
Dense population |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Rhode Island 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:
In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry.
The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current.
To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify a Rhode Island moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
-
Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in Rhode Island, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
-
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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
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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 Rhode Island
Get ready to discover all that Rhode Island has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Rhode Island
- The Breakers
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art
- Providence Children’s Museum
- John Brown House Museum
- Old Slater Mill
Parks in Rhode Island
- Water Place Park
- Roger Williams Park
- Goddard State Park
- India Point Park
- Fort Adams State Park
Sports teams in Rhode Island
- Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Brown Bears (NCAA)
Universities in Rhode Island
- Brown University
- University of Rhode Island
- Rhode Island School of Design
- Rhode Island College
- Johnson and Wales University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to Rhode Island?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to Rhode Island?
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to Rhode Island?
The main reasons people are moving from South Dakota to Rhode Island are the amazing upsides of living in Rhode Island, such as beautiful landscapes and delicious seafood.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or Rhode Island?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Rhode Island.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is much more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 27% less and home prices 34% lower than in Rhode Island.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and Rhode Island.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Rhode Island?
You should make approximately $81,736 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Rhode Island.
The cost of living in Rhode Island is about $3,527 per month for an individual and $6,040 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Providence and Warwick 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 Rhode Island, expect to spend between
$3,381–$8,012 if using professional movers, about
$2,879 for a moving container, and around
$1,589
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
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