Best South Carolina to Iowa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from South Carolina to Iowa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,085 mile SC to IA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 South Carolina to Iowa 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 South Carolina compared to Iowa. 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 South Carolina to Iowa 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 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Smooth Move | 9.20 | 9.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from South Carolina to Iowa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,085 miles from South Carolina to Iowa will cost on average $2,704 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom SC to IA move is roughly $6,500. 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 South Carolina and dropoff in Iowa 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 South Carolina to Iowa 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 | $2,704 | 450 ft³ | 6.01 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,469 | 750 ft³ | 5.96 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,500 | 1100 ft³ | 5.91 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,374 | 1600 ft³ | 5.86 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,456 | 1800 ft³ | 5.81 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Iowa to South Carolina guide.
Popular South Carolina to Iowa Moving Destinations
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular South Carolina to Iowa Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best SC to IA 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) |
Smooth Move Charleston
4767 Rivers Ave
North Charleston, SC, 29405
About Smooth Move Charleston
With locations in Rock Hill and Charleston, South Carolina, Smooth Move is a locally owned and operated moving company that is...
Services
- Full Service Packing and Unpacking
- Short or Long Distance Moves
- Residential or Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2357653 / 834668 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Smooth Move
1461 Dave Lyle Blvd
Rock Hill, SC, 29730
About Smooth Move
Smooth Move is a family-owned local business, providing its services to the local community. Known to be a reliable option among...
Services
- Full Service Packing and Unpacking
- Short or Long Distance Moves
- Residential or Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2823802 / 942089 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 125,000 (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 South Carolina to Iowa
Embarking on the move from South Carolina to Iowa embodies a journey between distinct lifestyle choices and cultural environments. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from South Carolina to Iowa , by comparing cons to pros and vice versa, facilitating a clearer decision-making process for your big move.
South Carolina- Higher humidity
- Less snow
- Smaller tech hub
- Lower average salary
Iowa- Lower humidity
- Beautiful winters
- Larger tech scene
- Higher average salary
Iowa- Colder winters
- No beaches
- Quieter culture
- Fewer historic landmarks
South Carolina- Warmer winters
- Beaches
- Vibrant culture
- Historic charm
Moving from South Carolina to Iowa introduces you to a strikingly different environment. In Iowa, you'll trade the sultry, damp climate for crisp, invigorating air and a chance to experience all four seasons vividly, including picturesque snowy winters. Cities like Des Moines offer burgeoning tech opportunities, reflected in the expanding Greater Des Moines Partnership initiatives, outstripping South Carolina's tech scene significantly. Although you might miss South Carolina's rich historic sites and the Atlantic beaches, Iowa compensates with vibrant community life in locales such as the East Village in Des Moines, known for its unique shops, restaurants, and a bustling cultural scene. Here, you're never too far from a tranquil park or a hearty meal at establishments like Zombie Burger providing a unique blend of culinary delight and quirky ambience. Transitioning to Iowa also means embracing its peaceful, slower-paced life, a stark contrast to South Carolina's vibrant and sometimes boisterous atmosphere, yet equally enriching in its community and spirit.
South Carolina vs. Iowa Food Guide
Understanding the diverse culinary landscapes you'll be moving into enriches your relocation experience. This comparison of the local cuisine between South Carolina & Iowa will acquaint you with the food scene in both states, helping you get a taste of what life there is like.
| South Carolina | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Corn on the Cob |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork BBQ | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Boiled Peanuts | Walking Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | Sweet Corn Gazpacho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In South Carolina, the rich, creamy texture of Shrimp and Grits from Husk in Charleston offers a mouth-watering introduction to the state's coastal cuisine, while Iowa's fresh, sweet Corn on the Cob epitomizes the state's agricultural prowess. Pulled Pork BBQ, a South Carolina staple, is best enjoyed in the historic settings of Charleston and Greenville. Conversely, in Iowa, the classic Pork Tenderloin Sandwich finds its roots in the state's strong pork industry, with places like The High Life Lounge in Des Moines showcasing this iconic dish. Both states offer unique culinary experiences reflective of their local cultures and agricultural resources, promising a delightful gustatory adventure as you make your move.
Ready to start your move?
South Carolina vs. Iowa Real Estate & Living Facts
Whether you're moving for a new job, family, or simply a change of scenery, understanding the real estate differences between South Carolina and Iowa is crucial. This comparison reveals essential housing aspects such as cost, style, and lifestyle, helping you make an informed decision for your big move.
| Comparison | South Carolina | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Brick | Prairie and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Oceanfront, Porches | Family-friendly, Quiet streets |
When comparing the real estate markets of South Carolina and Iowa, several key differences emerge. Iowa's cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, is notably lower, making it an attractive option for those looking to purchase a home. However, South Carolina offers unique architectural styles influenced by its historical and coastal settings, such as colonial and brick designs that appeal to many. For those prioritizing a more active lifestyle, Iowa scores higher in terms of walkability and bikeability, reflecting its more compact urban planning and emphasis on outdoor spaces. Additionally, real estate listings in Iowa commonly highlight family-friendly neighborhoods and quiet streets, contrasting with South Carolina's focus on oceanfront properties and the charm of porches for socializing and enjoying the mild climate.
South Carolina vs. Iowa Weather Considerations
Understanding the differences in weather when moving can significantly impact your acclimatization to a new place. This guide compares the climatic conditions of South Carolina and Iowa , helping you grasp what weather patterns to expect and how they contrast with each other.
South Carolina
Iowa
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
South Carolina
Iowa
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
South Carolina
Iowa
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
South Carolina
Iowa
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | South Carolina | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, floods | Tornadoes, blizzards |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The weather in South Carolina and Iowa presents a varied picture that could affect your daily lifestyle after the move. South Carolina offers a warmer climate year-round with mild winters, in contrast to Iowa's colder winters and moderate summers. Iowa experiences significantly more snowfall, which could mean a new experience if you're coming from South Carolina, where snow is rare. On average, both states enjoy a similar amount of sunshine throughout the year, although South Carolina leads slightly. The natural disaster risks also change, with South Carolina being more prone to hurricanes and Iowa facing tornadoes and blizzards. Understanding these differences can help you prepare better for your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from South Carolina to Iowa
When considering a move from one state to another, it's pivotal to grasp how financial aspects will change. A comparison between South Carolina and Iowa will illuminate differences in living costs, taxes, and average incomes, guiding you in preparing for your new setting.
| Comparison | South Carolina | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,115 | $69,588 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.85 | 95.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 - 7% | 0.33 - 8.53% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 1.53% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.22% | 6.94% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Tourism, Agriculture | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Financial Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately High |
| Poverty | Notable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Mild |
While both South Carolina and Iowa offer appealing opportunities for residents, several financial distinctions are clear. Iowa has a slightly higher average household income which aligns with its moderately higher cost of living index. Conversely, South Carolina presents a more beneficial property tax rate, which may appeal to homeowners. However, Iowa's lower sales tax rate and progressive stance on poverty and homelessness make it an attractive option for those seeking economic stability and social responsibility. These observations illuminate the importance of understanding the nuanced financial landscape when relocating.
South Carolina vs. Iowa Political & Religious Comparison
This short guide provides a quick comparison of the political and religious makeup between South Carolina & Iowa, offering insights into the local communities you'll be joining or leaving behind. Whether you're curious about the prevailing political sentiments or the dominant religious landscapes, this overview aims to highlight some key differences and similarities.
| South Carolina | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservatively Leaned | Moderately Varied |
| Local Politics | Republican Dominance | Mixed, with swings |
| Religion | Evangelical Protestant | Mainline Protestant |
The political landscape in South Carolina tends to lean more conservatively, with a solid Republican presence in local politics. This contrasts with Iowa, where political leanings are more varied, and local politics can see swings between parties from election to election. Religion plays a significant role in both states, albeit with different majority denominations. South Carolina's population primarily comprises evangelical Protestants, while Iowa's religious landscape is dominated by mainline Protestants. Understanding these dynamics can offer a richer context as you transition from one state to the other, acknowledging the diverse communities and ideologies you may encounter.
Education Guide When Moving from South Carolina to Iowa
Moving across state lines can be a daunting task, especially when it involves selecting the best educational environment for your children. To aid in your decision-making, we've created a comparison to better understand what the comparisons are between school options from South Carolina to Iowa . This will help you navigate through the wealth of educational opportunities available in both states.
| South Carolina | Iowa |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of South Carolina Clemson University Coastal Carolina UniversityUniversity of Iowa Iowa State University University of Northern Iowa | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Mount Pleasant Academy (Mount Pleasant) Buist Academy (Charleston) Charleston Development Academy (Charleston)Wickham Elementary (Coralville) Roosevelt Elementary (Ames) Grant Wood Elementary (Bettendorf) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Moultrie Middle School (Mount Pleasant) Hand Middle School (Columbia) Thomas C. Cario Middle School (Mount Pleasant)North Central Junior High (North Liberty) Ames Middle School (Ames) Bettendorf Middle School (Bettendorf) | |
Top 3 High School Schools Academic Magnet High School (North Charleston) Charleston School of the Arts (North Charleston) Wando High School (Mount Pleasant)West High School (Iowa City) Ames High School (Ames) Pleasant Valley High School (Bettendorf) | |
Top 3 private high schools Porter-Gaud School (Charleston) Hammond School (Columbia) Hilton Head Preparatory School (Hilton Head Island)The Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Maharishi School (Fairfield) Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Trident Academy (Mount Pleasant) Ashley Hall (Charleston) Camden Military Academy (Camden)Scattergood Friends School (West Branch) Maharishi School (Fairfield) Rivermont Collegiate (Bettendorf) | |
Top 3 School Districts Charleston County School District Greenville County School District Lexington School District OneWest Des Moines Community School District Iowa City Community School District Ames Community School District | |
Both South Carolina and Iowa boast impressive educational institutions, from public schools to private K-12 options. For example, South Carolina's Academic Magnet High School in North Charleston and Iowa's West High School in Iowa City are known for their rigorous academic programs and vibrant extracurricular activities, providing students with well-rounded educational experiences. Likewise, unique opportunities such as those offered by Charleston County School District and West Des Moines Community School District underline the commitment both states have to high-quality education across all grade levels. The choice between the two may ultimately hinge on specific programs or atmospheres that best fit your family's needs and aspirations.
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