How we chose the best moving companies for your VA to SD move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 101 Virginia moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Virginia to South Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Virginia to South Dakota.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,095 – $4,647 |
$982 – $2,438 |
$883 – $1,576 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,668 – $5,891 |
$1,703 – $3,419 |
$954 – $2,032 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,905 – $8,450 |
$2,271 – $4,378 |
$1,214 – $2,386 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,481-mile move from VA to
SD using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Virginia to South Dakota
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Virginia to South Dakota typically costs between
$1,095 and
$4,647.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,668
and $5,891
when moving from VA to SD.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Virginia to South Dakota,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,905
up to $8,450.
Cost of moving containers from Virginia to South Dakota
If you’re relocating from Virginia to South Dakota,
you’ll typically spend between $982
and $2,438 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,703 up to
$3,419.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,271 and
$4,378. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Virginia.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Virginia to South Dakota
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$883 and
$1,576.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$954 to
$2,032.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,214 and
$2,386.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from VA to SD
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Virginia to South Dakota. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Virginia, which usually means higher prices.
-
Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from VA to SD
Transitioning from Virginia to South Dakota gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Virginia vs. South Dakota
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Virginia and South Dakota are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Virginia |
South Dakota |
| Average rent |
$1,440 |
$878 |
| Average home cost |
$392,682 |
$306,944 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$87,249 |
$69,457 |
| Cost of living index |
100 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
1.9% |
| Average sales tax |
5.73% |
6.4% |
| State income tax |
5.75% |
0.0% |
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Rent is about 39% less expensive in South Dakota than in Virginia, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
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Home prices in South Dakota are about 22% lower than in Virginia, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Make sure to review your budget before your move. Average incomes in South Dakota are roughly 20% lower than in Virginia.
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With a similar cost of living in both Virginia and South Dakota, you can relax about your budget and concentrate on finding the lifestyle and environment that fit you best.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 34% lower than Virginia, South Dakota offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in South Dakota runs 12% higher than in Virginia, so expect to spend more on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and household goods.
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South Dakota has no state income tax, so you’ll get to keep more of your paycheck compared to Virginia. This can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
How life is different in South Dakota vs. Virginia
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how South Dakota and Virginia compare.
|
South Dakota |
Virginia |
| Population |
919,318 |
8,715,698 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 63-37 |
Democratic 52-48 |
| Summer high |
85ºF |
87ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
25ºF |
| Annual rain |
23″ |
44″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
14″ |
| Crime index |
21.14 |
19.3 |
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With a population roughly 89% smaller than Virginia, South Dakota gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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In the last presidential election, South Dakota leaned Republican, while Virginia supported Democratic.
-
The average summer high in South Dakota is 85°F, while Virginia averages 87°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
-
In the coldest months, South Dakota dips to about 7°F, colder than 25°F in Virginia.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
-
In South Dakota, you’ll get about 23 inches of rain each year, less than the 44 inches you’re used to in Virginia.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
Each year, South Dakota gets about 39 inches of snow, far more than the 14 inches you might be accustomed to in Virginia.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
South Dakota has a higher crime rate than Virginia, with a crime index of 21.14 compared to 19.3.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Virginia vs. South Dakota
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in South Dakota to Virginia:
| Pros of living in Virginia |
Pros of living in South Dakota |
| Strong economy |
Outstanding tax benefits |
| Beautiful scenery |
Robust job market |
| Abundance of outdoor activities |
Low cost of living |
| Enjoyable four season weather |
Beautiful rural landscapes |
| Strong military presence |
Abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Virginia vs. South Dakota
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Virginia to South Dakota:
| Cons of living in Virginia |
Cons of living in South Dakota |
| High cost of living |
Extreme weather |
| Unpredictable weather |
Small-town mindset |
| Bad traffic congestion |
Sparsely populated |
| Lack of public transportation |
Strange and offensive laws |
| Air noise pollution |
Unpredictable weather |
Other things to consider for your Virginia to South Dakota move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
State licensing:
Although a local license is not required in South Dakota, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a South Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in South Dakota, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to South Dakota. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. In South Dakota, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. To enhance protection, discuss Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, consider exploring third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your moving insurance in South Dakota.
-
Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in South Dakota
Get excited to explore South Dakota. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in South Dakota
- Adams House
- The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
- Adams Museum
- Tatanka: Story of the Bison
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum
Parks in South Dakota
- Falls Park
- Canyon Lake Park
- Founders Park
- Memorial Park
- Upper Chautauqua Park
Sports teams in South Dakota
- Aberdeen Wings (NAHL)
- Rapid City Rush (ECHL)
- Sioux Falls Skyforce (NBA G League)
- Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Universities in South Dakota
- University of South Dakota
- South Dakota State University
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
- Dakota State University
- Augustana University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Virginia to South Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Virginia to South Dakota?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Virginia to
South Dakota
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Virginia to South Dakota?
Many people are making the move from Virginia to South Dakota to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in South Dakota has to offer, like outstanding tax benefits and robust job market.
Is it cheaper to live in Virginia or South Dakota?
Living in South Dakota usually costs less than in Virginia.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in South Dakota,
with average rent about 39% less and home prices 22% lower than in Virginia.
Taxes are also
lower in South Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 100% less than those paid by Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in South Dakota?
Planning to move to South Dakota? A single adult should aim for an income of around $62,655 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,529 for an individual, or $5,562 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Virginia?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Virginia:
3 provide military discounts;
2 have senior-discount programs;
1 list student deals;
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Virginia to South Dakota, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,668 to
$5,891, roughly
$2,561 for a container move, and close to
$1,493
for a rental truck.
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