Best Iowa to South Carolina Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Iowa to South Carolina and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,086 mile IA to SC move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 Iowa to South Carolina moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Adamantine Spine Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Iowa compared to South Carolina. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Iowa to South Carolina Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.42 | 9.28 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Swamp Rabbit Moving | 9.34 | 9.45 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC | 9.33 | 9.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 6 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Iowa to South Carolina
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,086 miles from Iowa to South Carolina will cost on average $2,705 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IA to SC move is roughly $6,502. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup in Iowa and dropoff in South Carolina as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve Iowa to South Carolina movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,818 | 300 ft³ | 6.06 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,705 | 450 ft³ | 6.01 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,470 | 750 ft³ | 5.96 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,502 | 1100 ft³ | 5.91 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,377 | 1600 ft³ | 5.86 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,459 | 1800 ft³ | 5.81 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from South Carolina to Iowa guide.
Popular Iowa to South Carolina Moving Destinations
Make an easier move when you book with the best.
See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Iowa to South Carolina
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Iowa to South Carolina Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best IA to SC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Adamantine Spine Moving
2815 36th St
Des Moines, IA, 50310
About Adamantine Spine Moving
With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
| Registered Drivers | 40 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (2022) |
Adamantine Spine Moving
656 S Governor St
Iowa City, IA, 52240
About Adamantine Spine Moving
Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transport your...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
| Registered Drivers | 40 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (2022) |
Swamp Rabbit Moving
2106 Airport Rd
Greer, SC, 29651
About Swamp Rabbit Moving
Swamp Rabbit Moving is a South Carolina business specializing in local and long-distance moves. From its location in Greer, this company...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Packing/Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3449704 / 1163908 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 300,000 (2023) |
Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC
178 Sago Palm Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC, 29579
About Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC
Luxury Movers Moving Company is a Myrtle Beach-based moving company that serves all surrounding areas, including Horry, Georgetown, Marion, and Dillion...
Services
- Local Move
- Long-Distance Move
- Apartment Move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3288750 / 1041081 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
Best Move Inc
Burlington, IA, 52601
About Best Move Inc
Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its...
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 749231 / 376435 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,976 (2022) |
Hemmen Moving
1293 W Ave
Ames, IA, 50014
About Hemmen Moving
For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and...
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 608245 / 292343 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 604,536 (2023) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Iowa to South Carolina
Making a move from one state to another can be a significant life decision. To help you weigh your options, we've compared the cons of staying in Iowa against the pros of moving to South Carolina, and vice versa. This comparison is designed to reflect an honest appraisal of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Iowa to South Carolina , ensuring you have a balanced view of what to expect.
Iowa- Colder winters
- Less cultural diversity
- Fewer historical sites
- Less seafood
South Carolina- Milder winters
- More cultural diversity
- Rich historical heritage
- Fresher seafood
South Carolina- Higher cost of living
- More congested areas
- Less agriculture focus
- More touristy
Iowa- Lower cost of living
- Spacious landscapes
- Strong agriculture
- Community-focused
In considering a move from Iowa to South Carolina, you're trading the expansive cornfields and community-oriented lifestyle for the allure of coastal living, and a rich tapestry of historical sites such as Charleston's Market (linked here: Charleston CVB), Fort Sumter, and the idyllic streets of Myrtle Beach. South Carolina boasts renowned seafood restaurants like Pearlz Oyster Bar (linked here: Pearlz Oyster Bar), which offers fresh catches that showcase the coastal lifestyle. Despite facing a potential increase in living costs, the vibrant cities, culture, and milder winters in South Carolina present a compelling case for making the move, promising new experiences and adventures in the Palmetto State.
Iowa vs. South Carolina Food Guide
When making a move, understanding the local cuisine is vital as food is a significant part of local culture and life quality. This guide compares the local cuisine between Iowa & South Carolina , giving you a taste of what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Iowa | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Corn-fed Beef | Lowcountry Boil |
| Most popular street food item | Fried on a Stick Varieties | Fried Green Tomatoes |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Okra Soup |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In moving to South Carolina, you're stepping into a rich tapestry of culinary tradition blended with modern twist. Shrimp and Grits, a staple, can be savored in the historic neighborhood of Charleston, providing a creamy and comforting taste of the Lowcountry. The food scene is vibrant, with establishments like Husk leading the charge in innovating Southern cuisine while respecting its roots. The increase in vegan options and health-conscious eateries reflects a growing trend in South Carolina, making it an exciting time for food enthusiasts to explore this state's offerings.
Ready to start your move?
Iowa vs. South Carolina Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of Iowa and South Carolina sheds light on important differences and similarities that will affect your decision. Understanding the housing cost, architecture style, and lifestyle options in each state can guide you towards making an informed choice.
| Comparison | Iowa | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie School, Ranch | Colonial, Charleston Single House |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Historic features, Proximity to beaches |
The contrast in median home prices and monthly rent reflects the broader economic landscape and living standards in Iowa compared to South Carolina. While Iowa offers affordable living with its spacious yards and emphasis on quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods, South Carolina's higher cost of living comes with perks such as closer proximity to beaches and historic, charming architecture styles like the Colonial and Charleston Single House. The walkability and bikeability scores show slight variations, depicting Iowa's slightly more pedestrian-friendly environment against South Carolina’s slightly more bike-friendly roads. These factors contribute to each state’s unique urban lifestyle, where South Carolina edges out with a slightly higher rating, likely due to its vibrant coastal cities and richer historical sites.
Iowa vs. South Carolina Weather Considerations
Moving to a new location brings exciting changes, and one key difference you'll encounter is the shift in weather. Understanding how Iowa's climate contrasts with that of South Carolina's is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will guide you through weather patterns, from average temperatures and humidity to the frequency of natural disasters, ensuring you know exactly what to expect in your new home.
Iowa
South Carolina
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Iowa
South Carolina
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Iowa
South Carolina
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Iowa
South Carolina
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Iowa | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Severe Snowstorms | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Iowa and South Carolina share some weather traits, like good air quality and common allergens, there are stark differences to prepare for, especially when it comes to seasonal climates. Iowa's winters are significantly colder, with average lows dipping to 14°F, compared to South Carolina's milder 38°F. Conversely, South Carolinian summers are warmer and more humid, which can take some adjustment for those used to milder climates. Besides temperature, natural disaster preparedness shifts from snowstorms and tornadoes in Iowa to hurricanes and flooding in South Carolina. Adapting to these changes will not only require a wardrobe update but also a new mindset towards home maintenance and weather preparedness.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to South Carolina
When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might shift. This comparison is designed to illuminate the differences in cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities between Iowa and South Carolina, equipping you with the insights needed to make an informed relocation decision.
| Comparison | Iowa | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,588 | $64,115 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.9 | 96.85 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 - 8.53 | 0 - 7 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.53 | 0.57 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.8 | 7.46 |
| Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Finance | Manufacturing, Tourism, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Higher |
| Homelessness | Low | Low |
Moving from Iowa to South Carolina, you'll notice subtle but important differences in economic landscapes. Your income might stretch slightly further in South Carolina due to its marginally lower cost of living index. However, bear in mind the average household income also tends to be lower. The difference in state income tax rates could favor South Carolina, especially for higher earners. Property taxes are notably lower in South Carolina, which can be a significant advantage if you're planning to buy a home. But, remember to factor in the slightly higher sales tax. The shift in dominant industries could also impact your career opportunities, depending on your profession.
Iowa vs. South Carolina Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Iowa to South Carolina brings a shift not just in landscape but also in the political and religious makeup comparing Iowa & South Carolina. This comparison aims to provide you with a quick snapshot of the political leanings and religious affiliations predominant in each state.
| Iowa | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mixed; swings in national elections | Conservative, leaning Republican |
| Local Politics | Varies widely between rural and urban areas | Strongly conservative, especially in rural areas |
| Religion | Protestant, Catholic | Protestant, with a strong Evangelical presence |
When moving from Iowa to South Carolina, you'll notice several differences in the societal fabric. Iowa's political landscape is quite mixed, with rural areas tending towards conservatism and urban areas being more liberal. This makes for a state that can swing in national elections. In contrast, South Carolina has a strong conservative and Republican influence across the state, with an especially pronounced presence in its rural areas. Religion plays a significant role in both states, yet in South Carolina, there's a notable emphasis on Protestant and Evangelical traditions. This comparison sheds light on the diverse political and religious environments you're transitioning between.
Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to South Carolina
When considering a move from Iowa to South Carolina, one critical factor to consider is the education system. This comparison aims to help you better understand the differences between school options in Iowa and South Carolina, ensuring you can make the best decision for your family's educational needs.
| Iowa | South Carolina |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern IowaUniversity of South Carolina Clemson University College of Charleston | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon) Shimek Elementary (Iowa City)Buist Academy (Charleston) Mount Pleasant Academy (Mount Pleasant) Mitchell Road Elementary (Greenville) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Ames Middle School (Ames) Northwest Junior High (Coralville) North Central Junior High (North Liberty)Thomas C. Cario Middle School (Mount Pleasant) Moultrie Middle School (Mount Pleasant) Riverside Middle School (Greer) | |
Top 3 High Schools West High School (Iowa City) Ames High School (Ames) Decorah High School (Decorah)Academic Magnet High School (North Charleston) Charleston County School of the Arts (North Charleston) Wando High School (Mount Pleasant) | |
Top 3 private high schools Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids) Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines) Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)Porter-Gaud School (Charleston) Hammond School (Columbia) Christ Church Episcopal School (Greenville) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Maharishi School (Fairfield) Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids) Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)Hilton Head Preparatory School (Hilton Head Island) Spartanburg Day School (Spartanburg) Hammond School (Columbia) | |
Top 3 School Districts Iowa City Community School District Ames Community School District Decorah Community School DistrictGreenville County School District Charleston County School District Lexington 1 School District | |
While both Iowa and South Carolina offer outstanding educational institutions, there are distinctions in their offerings that might influence your decision. For instance, the top universities where most seniors pursue higher education reflect the states' strong academic focuses, with Iowa leaning towards state universities and South Carolina offering both public and historic universities like the College of Charleston. Similarly, in terms of K-12 education, Iowa's Iowa City Community School District is renowned for its academic excellence and innovative programs, while South Carolina's Greenville County School District is the largest district in the state, known for its diversity and a wide range of educational programs. This comparison underscores the different strengths and opportunities provided by each state's education system, paving the way for a more informed decision based on your family's educational priorities.
Additional Resources
Iowa Moving Services
Popular Iowa Routes
Popular Moving Resources
