Best South Dakota to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from South Dakota to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,662 mile SD to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 294 South Dakota to California 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in South Dakota compared to California. 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 Dakota to California Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Dial-A-Move Inc. | 8.92 | 7.93 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.91 | 8.11 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Dial-A-Move | 8.25 | 7.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | The Moving Guys, LLC | 8.06 | 7.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from South Dakota to California
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,662 miles from South Dakota to California will cost on average $3,195 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom SD to CA move is roughly $7,699. 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 Dakota and dropoff in California 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 Dakota to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,145 | 300 ft³ | 7.15 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,195 | 450 ft³ | 7.10 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,287 | 750 ft³ | 7.05 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,699 | 1100 ft³ | 7.00 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,118 | 1600 ft³ | 6.95 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,418 | 1800 ft³ | 6.90 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to South Dakota guide.
Popular South Dakota to California Moving Destinations
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Compare the 6 Best SD to CA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Dial-A-Move Inc.
640 9th Ave SW Suite 200
Aberdeen, SD, 57401
About Dial-A-Move Inc.
Family-run Dial-A-Move is a professional moving company incorporated in 2001. It has a location in Aberdeen, SD, offering a wide range...
Services
- Cheap moving options
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 885778 / 386322 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2022) |
Two Men and a Truck
222 N Marion Rd Ste B
Sioux Falls, SD, 57107
About Two Men and a Truck
Launched in the 1980s, Two Men and a Truck serves residential and commercial customers all over the country. The company opened...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2575221 / 904586 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 180,000 (2023) |
Dial-A-Move
1744 7th Ave SW
Watertown, SD, 57201
About Dial-A-Move
Dial-A-Move is your one-stop shop for affordable moving options. It has offices in Watertown, Aberdeen, and Huron, serving the Midwest and...
Services
- Cheap moving options
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 885778 / 386322 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2022) |
The Moving Guys, LLC
1741 Deadwood Ave
Rapid City, SD, 57702
About The Moving Guys, LLC
The Moving Guys, LLC is a locally-owned moving company based in Rapid City, providing comprehensive moving services to the Black Hills...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3199241 / 160684 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 175,000 (2022) |
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 Dakota to California
Moving from one state to another can be a life-changing event. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from South Dakota to California. By highlighting these aspects, we hope to give you a better understanding of what to expect in your new home.
South Dakota- Harsher winters
- Less diverse
- Smaller economy
- Lesser job opportunities
- Less cultural attractions
California- Milder winters
- More diversity
- Larger economy
- Greater job opportunities
- More cultural attractions
California- Higher cost of living
- More traffic congestion
- Faster-paced lifestyle
- Less open spaces
- Higher property taxes
South Dakota- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic congestion
- Quieter lifestyle
- More open spaces
- Lower property taxes
Moving to California introduces you to a vibrant lifestyle filled with diverse cultures and opportunities. Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles are melting pots of culture, offering an endless array of museums, restaurants like Gjelina in Venice, and natural sights such as Yosemite National Park. However, this move comes with its trade-offs. The cost of living in California is notably higher than in South Dakota, with housing, groceries, and utilities being significantly more expensive. The bustling lifestyle also means more traffic, evidencing a stark contrast to South Dakota's peaceful and open landscapes. Nevertheless, many find the trade worthwhile for California's unbeatable climate, landscape diversity, and economic opportunities.
South Dakota vs. California Food Guide
Food profoundly impacts our experience of a location's culture and lifestyle. As you plan your move, understanding the differences in the food scene is crucial. This guide features a comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & California , providing insights into what you can expect from each state's culinary offerings.
| South Dakota | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Chislic | California roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Bison steak | Tri-tip |
| Most popular street food item | Fry bread | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Wild rice bowl | Avocado toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In comparison, South Dakota's food scene holds a rustic charm with highlights like Chislic and Bison steak that offer a taste of local tradition and flavors rooted in the state's history and geography. On the other hand, California's food scene is vibrant and diverse, with significant influences from various cultures around the globe. Notably, in California, neighborhoods such as Los Angeles' Koreatown or San Francisco's Mission District are culinary hotspots where you can find everything from street food to haute cuisine. Restaurants like Chez Panisse in Berkeley epitomize the farm-to-table movement that is popular in California. Additionally, California's high fitness and health conscientiousness are reflected in its abundance of vegan options and health-centric eateries, making the state a paradise for food lovers who also value nutrition and sustainability.
Ready to start your move?
South Dakota vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's crucial to examine real estate differences between your current and future home. Understanding how South Dakota and California compare in housing will help you make an informed decision. The comparison spans cost, architectural styles, as well as lifestyle factors such as walkability.
| Comparison | South Dakota | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Private driveways | Proximity to beaches, Sustainable features |
The move from South Dakota to California entails significant adjustments, particularly in terms of real estate. The notable difference in the median home prices and monthly rents reflects the high cost of living in California, driven by its bustling urban centers and scenic coasts. However, this cost is often justified by a more vibrant urban lifestyle and an increased focus on sustainability and proximity to natural attractions like beaches. California's emphasis on Spanish Revival architecture also offers a unique aesthetic compared to South Dakota's predominant Ranch-style homes. Understanding these factors can help you better prepare for your new life in the Golden State, balancing costs with the perks of Californian living.
South Dakota vs. California Weather Considerations
When moving from one location to another, it's essential to understand how the weather compares in South Dakota and California. This insight can significantly affect your daily life and choice of activities.
South Dakota
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
South Dakota
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
South Dakota
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
South Dakota
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | South Dakota | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Considering the chart above, when moving from South Dakota to California, you'll notice a significant change in the number of sunny days annually and winter temperatures. California enjoys more sunshine and milder winters. The variation in natural disasters between the two states is also significant—with South Dakota experiencing severe weather such as blizzards and tornadoes, while California faces earthquakes and wildfires. This shift could affect not only your daily comfort but also your preparedness for natural disasters. Moreover, the air quality and types of seasonal allergies in California can vary greatly depending on which region you settle in, making it essential to consider these factors in your moving decision.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from South Dakota to California
When contemplating a move, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial climate of your new location compares to your current state . If you're considering relocating from South Dakota to California , this comparison will illuminate the financial adjustments you may need to make.
| Comparison | South Dakota | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,728 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94.1 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 1 to 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.22 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 4.5 | 7.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Tourism | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
In transitioning from South Dakota to California, you'll navigate a landscape of financial contrasts. Despite California's higher average household income, this figure is counterbalanced by a significant jump in the cost of living and income tax rates. The allure of California's economic hubs in technology and entertainment contrasts sharply with South Dakota's emphasis on agriculture and manufacturing, indicating not just a shift in potential career pathways but also in everyday living costs. This financial panorama underscores the importance of preparing for the economic realities that accompany a move to California, including the possibility of higher property values but also increased taxation.
South Dakota vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from South Dakota to California, one key element to consider is how the two states differ socially and culturally. This quick comparison aims to give you a snapshot of the comparison of the politics between South Dakota & California , alongside religious inclinations, providing a deeper understanding of the environment you're moving into.
| South Dakota | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservative, Republican-leaning | Liberal, Democratic-leaning |
| Local Politics | Local governance tends to lean Republican, with occasional pockets of Democratic support | Diverse, with a strong presence of Democratic governance, especially in urban areas |
| Religion | Largely Christian, with evangelical Protestantism being significant | Diverse religious landscape, with a significant number of non-religious individuals |
While South Dakota is known for its conservative and Republican-leaning political makeup, California is recognized for its liberal and Democratic-leaning tendencies. This fundamental difference is reflected in the local politics as well. In South Dakota, local governance generally leans Republican, although there are areas of Democratic support. In contrast, California's political scene is very diverse but with a strong Democratic presence, especially in urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco. The religious landscape in South Dakota is predominantly Christian, with a notable emphasis on evangelical Protestantism. California, however, presents a much more diverse religious makeup, including a significant portion of residents who identify as non-religious. Understanding these differences can help you better adapt to your new environment.
Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to California
Moving from South Dakota to California brings a host of changes, especially if you're comparing schools and education systems. This guide is designed to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in South Dakota and California , ensuring you can make informed decisions for your family's educational needs.
| South Dakota | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) South Dakota State University University of South Dakota Dakota State UniversityUniversity of California (multiple campuses) California State University (multiple campuses) Stanford University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Fred Assam Elementary (Sioux Falls) Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls) Woodland Heights Elementary (Rapid City)Point Vicente Elementary (Rancho Palos Verdes) Mill Valley Middle School (Mill Valley) La Canada Elementary (La Canada Flintridge) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Yankton Middle School (Yankton) Edison Middle School (Sioux Falls) Dakota Valley Middle School (North Sioux City)Henry E. Huntington Middle School (San Marino) JLS Middle School (Palo Alto) Rancho San Joaquin Middle School (Irvine) | |
Top 3 High School Schools Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls) Washington High School (Sioux Falls) Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)Torrance High School (Torrance) Lowell High School (San Francisco) Gunn High School (Palo Alto) | |
Top 3 private high schools O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls) Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls) Great Plains Lutheran (Watertown)Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) The Harker School (San Jose) Phillips Academy (Andover) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Sioux Falls Lutheran School Rapid City Christian School Aberdeen Christian SchoolThe Nueva School (Hillsborough) Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica) The Thacher School (Ojai) | |
Top 3 School Districts Sioux Falls School District Harrisburg School District Brandon Valley School DistrictSan Marino Unified School District Palo Alto Unified School District Arcadia Unified School District | |
Comparing educational systems between South Dakota and California, you'll find noteworthy differences. For instance, the college destinations for high school seniors display a shift from primarily state universities in South Dakota to a mixture of prestigious public and private universities in California. Similarly, you'll observe that elementary, middle, and high schools in California, such as Point Vicente Elementary and Henry E. Huntington Middle School, often boast higher enrollment numbers and potentially more diverse programs due to the state's larger population and economic resources. Private education also shows variation, with California offering globally recognized institutions like Harvard-Westlake School, highlighting the state's unique position in providing high-caliber educational opportunities across all levels.
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