How we chose the best moving companies for your SD to TX 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 Texas?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from South Dakota
to Texas with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,277 – $5,054 |
$743 – $1,959 |
$603 – $1,152 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,865 – $6,806 |
$1,348 – $2,699 |
$657 – $1,397 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,528 – $9,264 |
$1,814 – $3,504 |
$792 – $1,631 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 947-mile move from SD to
TX, 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 Texas
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from South Dakota to Texas,
you can expect to spend between $1,277
and $5,054.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $2,865 to
$6,806 on the same route
(SD to TX). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from South Dakota to Texas typically runs between
$4,528 and
$9,264.
Cost of moving containers from South Dakota to Texas
Moving from South Dakota to Texas? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $743 and
$1,959. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,348 to
$2,699. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,814 up to
$3,504. 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 Texas
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
$603 and
$1,152.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$657 and
$1,397.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $792 and
$1,631.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from SD to TX
There are many factors that influence South Dakota moving costs. The cost to move from South Dakota to Texas will depend on these factors:
-
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 TX
Moving between South Dakota and Texas involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: South Dakota vs. Texas
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
South Dakota and Texas. 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 |
Texas |
| Average rent |
$878 |
$1,251 |
| Average home cost |
$306,944 |
$300,267 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$69,457 |
$73,035 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
93 |
| Unemployment rate |
1.9% |
4.1% |
| Average sales tax |
6.4% |
8.19% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
0.0% |
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Rent costs 42% more in Texas compared to South Dakota. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Home prices in Texas and South Dakota are about the same, so your mortgage budget shouldn’t see any big changes, unless you’re aiming for a nicer home.
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You don’t have to stress about your budget, since average incomes are similar in both South Dakota and Texas.
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Moving to Texas is about 7% cheaper than living in South Dakota. You’ll save big, but planning ahead is still essential for an easy move.
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Texas has a higher unemployment rate than South Dakota by about 116%. 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 Texas pay about 28% 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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Neither South Dakota nor Texas has a state income tax, so you’ll keep more of your gross income no matter where you live.
How life is different in Texas 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 Texas differs from South Dakota in these areas.
|
Texas |
South Dakota |
| Population |
30,503,301 |
919,318 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 56-44 |
Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high |
94ºF |
85ºF |
| Winter low |
36ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
36″ |
23″ |
| Annual snow |
2″ |
39″ |
| Crime index |
27.32 |
21.14 |
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If you’re relocating from South Dakota to Texas, you’ll notice that Texas has about 3218% 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, both South Dakota and Texas voted Republican.
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Summers in Texas reach 94°F, warmer than 85°F in South Dakota.
Expect brighter days and more outdoor activity, but also higher cooling costs.
-
Winters in Texas average 36°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 36 inches of rain each year in Texas — 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 Texas, you’ll see just 2 inches of snow each year, compared to South Dakota, which gets 39 inches annually.
Moving to Texas means enjoying gentler winters, less shoveling, and fewer weather headaches.
-
Texas reports a higher crime rate than South Dakota, with a crime index of 27.32 versus 21.14.
A higher statewide rate shouldn’t automatically deter you from moving, but it’s wise to look into specific neighborhoods, stay informed about local safety, and consider how it could impact your daily routine.
Comparing the pros of South Dakota vs. Texas
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Texas stacks up against South Dakota:
| Pros of living in South Dakota |
Pros of living in Texas |
| Outstanding tax benefits |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Robust job market |
Favorable climate |
| Low cost of living |
Delicious barbecue |
| Beautiful rural landscapes |
Low taxes |
| Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Privacy and freedom |
Comparing the cons of living in South Dakota vs. Texas
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from South Dakota to Texas, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in South Dakota |
Cons of living in Texas |
| Extreme weather |
Severe weather |
| Small-town mindset |
Limited healthcare access |
| Sparsely populated |
High crime rate |
| Strange and offensive laws |
Traffic issues |
| Unpredictable weather |
Politics |
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Texas 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.
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State licensing:
In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
-
State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Texas moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Texas 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 Texas 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. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
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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 Texas
Get ready to discover Texas. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Texas
- The Houston Museum of Natural Science
- The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
- Waco Mammoth National Monument
- USS Lexington Museum on the Bay
- National Museum of the Pacific War
Parks in Texas
- Balmorhea State Park, Toyahvale
- Big Bend National Park, far West Texas
- Big Thicket National Preserve, near Beaumont
- Enchanted Rock State Park, near Fredericksburg
- Garner State Park, Concan
Sports teams in Texas
- Austin FC (MLS)
- Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
- Dallas Mavericks (NBA)
- Dallas Stars (NHL)
- Dallas Wings (WNBA)
Universities in Texas
- The University of Texas at Austin
- Texas A&M University
- Texas Tech University
- University of Houston
- The University of Texas at Arlington
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from South Dakota to Texas?
Do movers transport your car from South Dakota to Texas?
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 Texas
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from South Dakota to Texas?
More and more folks are relocating from South Dakota to Texas to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as ample economic opportunity and favorable climate.
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota or Texas?
Living in Texas usually costs less than in South Dakota.
Housing
is much more affordable in Texas,
with average rent about 42% less and home prices 2% lower than in South Dakota.
The tax rate is about the same between South Dakota and Texas.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Texas?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Texas, aim for an income of around $66,858 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,597 if you’re flying solo, or $6,627 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Houston and San Antonio 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 Texas, professional movers typically run between
$2,865 and $6,806, a moving container averages about
$2,023, and a rental truck is around
$1,027.
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