How we chose the best moving companies for your VA to SC move
After studying pricing from 101 Virginia 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 Virginia to South Carolina?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Virginia 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 |
$871 – $2,660 |
$623 – $1,491 |
$319 – $593 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,559 – $4,251 |
$1,044 – $2,153 |
$353 – $655 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$2,371 – $5,675 |
$1,494 – $2,502 |
$409 – $849 |
*Estimated costs for a 339-mile move from VA 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 Virginia to South Carolina
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Virginia to South Carolina will cost between
$871 and
$2,660.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from VA to SC will
range from $1,559 to
$4,251, and a large move from Virginia
to South Carolina will cost from $2,371
to $5,675.
Cost of moving containers from Virginia to South Carolina
If you’re moving from Virginia to South Carolina,
expect to pay between $623
and $1,491 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,044 up to
$2,153.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,494 and
$2,502. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia 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
$319 and
$593.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $353
and $655. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $409 up to
$849 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from VA to SC
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Virginia 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 Virginia 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 VA to SC
A relocation from Virginia to South Carolina comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Virginia vs. South Carolina
Comparing expenses in Virginia 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:
|
Virginia |
South Carolina |
| Average rent |
$1,440 |
$1,065 |
| Average home cost |
$392,682 |
$295,769 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$87,249 |
$63,623 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
4.7% |
| Average sales tax |
5.73% |
7.46% |
| State income tax |
5.75% |
7.0% |
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Expect to pay around 26% less in rent in South Carolina than in Virginia, which means more savings in your wallet every month.
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Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 25% lower in South Carolina than in Virginia.
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Double-check your budget before moving. Average incomes in South Carolina are about 27% lower than in Virginia.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in South Carolina and Virginia, 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 62% higher than in Virginia. 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 30% higher in South Carolina than in Virginia, so you’ll pay extra for everyday purchases like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household items.
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Income taxes are 22% higher in South Carolina than in Virginia. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
How life is different in South Carolina vs. Virginia
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 Virginia across important lifestyle factors:
|
South Carolina |
Virginia |
| Population |
5,373,555 |
8,715,698 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 58-42 |
Democratic 52-48 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
14″ |
| Crime index |
28.0 |
19.3 |
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With a population about 38% smaller than Virginia, South Carolina offers you more room to breathe, lower costs, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Just keep in mind, you may need to get used to fewer amenities and a job market that moves at a slower pace.
-
In the most recent presidential election, South Carolina leaned Republican, while Virginia went with Democratic.
-
In South Carolina, summer highs hover around 91°F, while Virginia sits at 87°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, South Carolina bottoms out around 33°F, compared to 25°F in Virginia.
A move to South Carolina with milder winters offers easier living, lower bills, and more outdoor freedom.
-
In South Carolina, you’ll get about 48 inches of rain each year, while Virginia sees around 44 inches annually.
So, your total yearly rainfall won’t change much with the move. However, keep in mind that when and how that rain falls throughout the seasons can still affect your daily routine.
-
In South Carolina, you can expect about 1 inch of snow each year, much less than the 14 inches you’d deal with in Virginia.
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 Virginia with a crime index of 28.0 vs. 19.3.
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 Virginia vs. South Carolina
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in South Carolina versus Virginia:
| Pros of living in Virginia |
Pros of living in South Carolina |
| Strong economy |
Warm southern hospitality |
| Beautiful scenery |
Plentiful outdoor activities |
| Abundance of outdoor activities |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Enjoyable four season weather |
Consistently gorgeous weather |
| Strong military presence |
Rich historical significance |
Comparing the cons of living in Virginia vs. South Carolina
Moving from Virginia to South Carolina comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Virginia |
Cons of living in South Carolina |
| High cost of living |
High cost of living |
| Unpredictable weather |
Hurricane frequency |
| Bad traffic congestion |
Low quality of healthcare |
| Lack of public transportation |
High taxes |
| Air noise pollution |
Abundance of construction |
Other things to consider for your Virginia 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 Virginia to South Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Virginia to South Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Virginia to South Carolina?
The main reasons people are moving from Virginia 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 Virginia or South Carolina?
Living in South Carolina usually costs less than in Virginia.
Housing
is more affordable in South Carolina,
with average rent about 26% less and home prices 25% lower than in Virginia.
However, taxes are
lower in Virginia, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by South Carolina residents.
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.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Virginia?
Some movers in Virginia provide budget-friendly deals.
Special pricing for military members is available from 3 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 2 movers.
Student savings are available through 1 moving providers.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Virginia to South Carolina, expect to spend between
$1,559–$4,251 if using professional movers, about
$1,598 for a moving container, and around
$504
for a rental truck.
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