How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to SC 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 South Carolina?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from South Dakota to South Carolina.
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 |
$1,332 – $5,370 |
$998 – $2,313 |
$916 – $1,688 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,418 – $7,667 |
$1,747 – $3,585 |
$933 – $2,029 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,782 – $10,736 |
$2,309 – $4,696 |
$1,224 – $2,529 |
*Estimated costs for a 1,536-mile move from SD to
SC 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 South Carolina
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to South Carolina will cost between
$1,332 and
$5,370.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from SD to SC will
range from $3,418 to
$7,667, and a large move from South Dakota
to South Carolina will cost from $5,782
to $10,736.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to South Carolina
If you’re moving from South Dakota to South Carolina,
expect to pay between $998
and $2,313 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,747 up to
$3,585.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,309 and
$4,696. 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 South Carolina
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
$916 and
$1,688.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $933
and $2,029. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,224 up to
$2,529 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to SC
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from South Dakota to South Carolina. 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 SC
A relocation from South Dakota to South Carolina comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. South Carolina
Comparing expenses in South Dakota and South Carolina 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 |
South Carolina |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,065 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$63,623 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
7.46% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
7.0% |
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Rent in South Carolina is approximately 21% higher than in South Dakota, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
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Home prices are about the same in South Carolina and South Dakota, so there’s no need to change up your mortgage budget, unless you’re upgrading your living situation.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Carolina are about 8% lower than in South Dakota.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in South Carolina 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 South Carolina is about 147% 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 17% higher in South Carolina than in South Dakota, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina stacks up against South Dakota across important lifestyle factors:
|
South Carolina |
South Dakota |
| Population |
5,373,555 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58-42 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
28.0 |
21.14 |
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South Carolina is about 485% 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 South Carolina supported the Republican candidate.
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South Carolina averages 91°F in summer compared to 85°F in South Dakota.
That extra heat means more sunshine and outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
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During the coldest part of the year, South Carolina bottoms out around 33°F, compared to 7°F in South Dakota.
A move to South Carolina with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
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Expect about 48 inches of rain each year in South Carolina, 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.
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In South Carolina, you can expect about 1 inch of snow each year, much less than the 39 inches you’d deal with in South Dakota.
So, if you’re moving to South Carolina, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
-
South Carolina has a higher crime rate than South Dakota with a crime index of 28.0 vs. 21.14.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of South Dakota vs. South Carolina
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in South Carolina versus South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in South Carolina |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Warm southern hospitality |
| Robust job market |
Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Low cost of living |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. South Carolina
Moving from South Dakota to South Carolina 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 South Carolina |
| Extreme weather |
High cost of living |
| Small-town mindset |
Hurricane frequency |
| Sparsely populated |
Low quality of healthcare |
| Strange and offensive laws |
High taxes |
| Unpredictable weather |
Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to South Carolina 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.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a South Carolina 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 South Carolina, 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 South Carolina 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. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina 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 South Carolina
Get ready to discover all that South Carolina has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in South Carolina
- Fort Sumter National Monument
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- Coastal Discovery Museum
- Brookgreen Gardens
- BMW Zentrum
Parks in South Carolina
- Joe Riley Waterfront Park
- Falls Park on the Reedy
- Kiawah Beachwalker Park
- Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
- Riverfront Park
Sports teams in South Carolina
- Clemson Tigers (NCAA)
- Augusta GreenJackets (Low-A East)
- Charleston Battery (USL Championship)
- Charleston RiverDogs (Low-A East)
- Columbia Fireflies (Low-A East)
Universities in South Carolina
- Clemson University
- University of South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina
- College of Charleston
- Furman University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to South Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to South Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to South Carolina?
The main reasons people are moving from South Dakota to South Carolina are the amazing upsides of living in South Carolina, such as warm southern hospitality and plentiful outdoor activities.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or South Carolina?
Living in South Carolina usually costs less than in South Dakota.
Housing
is much more affordable in South Carolina,
with average rent about 21% less and home prices 4% lower than in South Dakota.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and South Carolina.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Carolina?
You should make approximately $63,255 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in South Carolina.
The cost of living in South Carolina is about $3,659 per month for an individual and $6,645 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Charleston and Columbia 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 South Carolina, expect to spend between
$3,418–$7,667 if using professional movers, about
$2,666 for a moving container, and around
$1,481
for a rental truck.
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