($945) Cost to Move From Richmond, VA to Columbia, SC

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Cost to hire movers from Richmond to Columbia

When planning a move to Columbia from Richmond, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $945 and $2,940. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $1,550 and $4,346 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $2,562 to $6,433.

Cost of moving containers from Richmond to Columbia

When you’re heading from Richmond to Columbia, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $604 and $1,460. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,084 and $2,154. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,478 to $2,796. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Virginia easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Richmond to Columbia

A moving rental truck from Richmond to Columbia is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $343 to $620. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $365 to $700, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Richmond to Columbia costs around $435 to $863.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

• Rent is about 9% less expensive in Columbia than in Richmond, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
• Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 37% cheaper in Columbia than in Richmond.
• Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 9% greater in Columbia than in Richmond, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
• Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Columbia. The cost of living for a single person there is 14% below that of Richmond.
• A move to Columbia can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 20% lower compared to Richmond.
• Columbia has a lower unemployment rate than Richmond by about 27%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
• Sales taxes in Columbia surpass those in Richmond by 33%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
• Income taxes are 22% more in South Carolina than in Virginia. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

• Columbia’s population is about 40% less than Richmond.
• Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Richmond’s score of 7.
• Columbia is less walkable than Richmond with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Richmond’s 51 out of 100.
• Columbia has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Richmond, which has a score of 51.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Richmond with a score of 3.0 compared to Richmond’s 48.45. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Richmond neighborhoods are safer than 48.45%.
• Columbia is considered to be less safe than Richmond with a score of 48.39 vs Richmond’s 51.55.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Richmond it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Costs across Richmond and Columbia are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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. Ensure the company you choose is 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: Moving permits aren’t typically required in South Carolina, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
• Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Columbia. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Cayce
• Seven Oaks
• Forest Acres
• Irmo
• Lexington
• West Columbia
• St. Andrews
• Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

• Irmo
• Forest Acres
• Lexington
• Blythewood
• Seven Oaks
• Chapin
• Cayce
• Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

With your move to South Carolina complete, you can dive right into experiencing Columbia. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

• Arts and culture: Columbia is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
• Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.