($1,466) Movers From Memphis, TN to Columbia, SC

What to know before moving from Memphis to Columbia

Moving from Memphis to Columbia comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Columbia is generally more expensive than Memphis, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Columbia are 11% higher than in Memphis, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Memphis.
  Home prices in Columbia are 53.5% higher than in Memphis.
• Income in Columbia is 34.5% higher than in Memphis, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbia include Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
• Be sure to budget for higher bills in Columbia, since the cost of living for a single person in Columbia is 6.2% higher than in Memphis. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 2.9% lower than in Memphis.
• The unemployment rate in Columbia is 35.00% lower than in Memphis.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the city’s sales taxes in Columbia are 17.95% lower than in Memphis.
• State income taxes in Columbia are 7.00% higher than in Memphis.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,185.67 in Columbia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Memphis.

How life is different in Memphis vs. Columbia

• Columbia's population is about 78% less than Memphis.
• Columbia's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Memphis's lower score of 4.
• Columbia and Memphis are similarily walkable.
• Columbia has a bike-friendliness score 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Memphis, which has a score of 41 out of 100.
• Columbia's crime rate is lower than Memphis with a score of 3.0 compared to Memphis's 77.49. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49%.
• Columbia is considered to be safer than Memphis with a safety index of 48.39 vs Memphis's 22.51.
• Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Memphis it's good.

Other things to consider for your Memphis vs. Columbia move

• Weather: If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in South Carolina, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While South Carolina doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Columbia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Columbia

With your sights set on "Soda City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Columbia.

Helpful moving resources