($1,136) Cost to Move From Madison, WI to Columbia, SC

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Cost to hire movers from Madison to Columbia

When planning a move to Columbia from Madison, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,136 and $4,664. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,594 and $6,204 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $4,289 to $8,230.

Cost of moving containers from Madison to Columbia

When you’re heading from Madison to Columbia, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $817 and $2,009. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,481 and $2,796. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,015 to $3,672. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Madison to Columbia

A moving rental truck from Madison 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 $598 to $1,181. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $715 to $1,474, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Madison to Columbia costs around $879 to $1,707.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

• Rent is about 10% less expensive in Columbia than in Madison, 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 40% cheaper in Columbia than in Madison.
• There’s good news: the average income differences between Columbia and Madison are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
• 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 15% below that of Madison.
• 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 22% lower compared to Madison.
• Columbia has a higher unemployment rate than Madison by about 58%. 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.
• Sales taxes in Columbia surpass those in Madison by 45%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
• Income taxes are 8% less in South Carolina compared to Wisconsin, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

• Columbia’s population is about 49% less than Madison.
• Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Madison’s score of 6.
• Columbia is less walkable than Madison with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Madison’s 50 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 Madison, which has a score of 66.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Madison with a score of 3.0 compared to Madison’s 34.57. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
• Columbia is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 48.39 vs Madison’s 65.43.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Madison it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Costs across Madison 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.