Best South Dakota to Louisiana Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from South Dakota to Louisiana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,224 mile SD to LA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 South Dakota to Louisiana 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 Henry Hauling LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in South Dakota compared to Louisiana. 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.

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Best South Dakota to Louisiana Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Henry Hauling LLC9.209.33ActiveContact
2Dial-A-Move Inc.8.927.93Authorized For HHGContact
3Two Men and a Truck8.918.11Authorized For HHGContact
4Two Men and a Truck8.827.92Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Dial-A-Move8.257.86Authorized For HHGContact
6The Moving Guys, LLC8.067.63Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from South Dakota to Louisiana

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,224 miles from South Dakota to Louisiana will cost on average $2,822 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom SD to LA move is roughly $6,788. 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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,896300 ft³6.32
1 Bedroom$2,822450 ft³6.27
2 Bedrooms$4,666750 ft³6.22
3 Bedrooms$6,7881100 ft³6.17
4 Bedrooms$9,7941600 ft³6.12
5+ Bedrooms$10,9281800 ft³6.07
*Please note: These South Dakota to Louisiana moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from South Dakota & Louisiana. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed SD to LA mover.
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Most Popular South Dakota to Louisiana Moving Routes

Compare the 6 Best SD to LA Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Henry Hauling LLC Logo

Henry Hauling LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.20/10
based on 566+ data points

2045 N 3rd St

Baton Rouge, LA, 70802

About Henry Hauling LLC

Henry Hauling LLC is a licensed, bonded, and insured moving company based in Baton Rouge, LA. Established in 2018, it has...

Services

  • Packing/Unpacking
  • Local MovingResidential
  • Local MovingCommercial

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3593908 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo

Dial-A-Move Inc.

Superb8.92/10
based on 483+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/21/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

885778 / 386322

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Superb8.91/10
based on 843+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2575221 / 904586

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved180,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Superb8.82/10
based on 1,142+ data points

2615 Country Club Rd

Lake Charles, LA, 70605

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck of Lake Charles is a locally owned and operated franchisee of a nationwide company started in...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2554983 / 890877

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved207,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Dial-A-Move Logo

Dial-A-Move

Very Good8.25/10
based on 108+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

885778 / 386322

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
The Moving Guys, LLC Logo

The Moving Guys, LLC

Good8.06/10
based on 157+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3199241 / 160684

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved175,000 (2022)
View Full Review
6
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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 Louisiana

Moving from one state to another brings a mix of emotions and considerations. This comparison offers an honest reflection to help weigh the good and bad aspects of relocating from South Dakota to Louisiana. By detailing both sides, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Colder winters
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower population density
  • Scarce cultural events
  • Limited nightlife
Louisiana iconLouisiana
  • Milder winters
  • Rich culinary scene
  • Vibrant communities
  • Lively cultural festivals
  • Dynamic nightlife
Louisiana iconLouisiana
  • More crowded
  • Noisier environment
  • Can feel overwhelming
  • Urban-centric lifestyle
  • High humidity
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Vast open spaces
  • Quiet lifestyle
  • Close-knit communities
  • Natural landscapes
  • Lower humidity

Moving from South Dakota's expansive landscapes and quiet lifestyle to Louisiana's vibrant and culturally rich environment offers a stark contrast in living experiences. In Louisiana, you'll find a culinary paradise, especially in cities like New Orleans, known for its iconic dishes at establishments like Commander's Palace. The state's milder winters and lively cultural festivals, such as the world-renowned Mardi Gras in New Orleans, provide an exhilarating atmosphere absent in South Dakota's more reserved lifestyle. Although Louisiana's higher humidity and noisier, more crowded living conditions could be a downside for some, its dynamic communities and rich cultural life offer compelling reasons to make the move.

South Dakota vs. Louisiana Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Louisiana, highlighting how food is a significant part of local culture and the living experience. Understanding the food scene is crucial for anyone planning to move, ensuring you're well-informed about the culinary delights waiting for you.

South DakotaLouisiana
Most iconic local food itemChislicGumbo
Most popular meat dishBison steakJambalaya
Most popular street food itemIndian TacosPo'boy sandwiches
Most popular vegan foodWild Rice SoupOkra Gumbo
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Phillips Avenue Diner
  • Minervas
  • The Capitol
  • Commander's Palace
  • Antoine's
  • Café du Monde
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from South Dakota to Louisiana, you’re transitioning from a place known for its Chislic and Bison steak to a state celebrated for its rich flavors in Gumbo and Jambalaya. Louisiana is a culinary haven, especially noted for its vibrant foodie scene, particularly in areas like New Orleans where you can explore the historic French Quarter for a taste of iconic establishments like Commander's Palace and Café du Monde. Here, the abundance of food trucks and vegan options ensures there's something for every palate. Meanwhile, South Dakota offers a more localized food experience with unique delicacies like Indian Tacos found across the state and a growing food truck culture, particularly in Sioux Falls.

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South Dakota vs. Louisiana Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning your move, comparing real estate between South Dakota and Louisiana is crucial for finding the right home. This comparison will guide you through the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle aspects.

ComparisonSouth DakotaLouisiana
Typical Architecture StyleRanchColonial, French Creole
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, Attached garagesHistoric properties, Waterfront access

Housing in South Dakota and Louisiana offers contrasting lifestyles, with Louisiana's rich cultural heritage reflected in its architecture styles, such as the iconic Colonial and French Creole. Meanwhile, South Dakota's housing market tends to emphasize functional features like spacious yards and attached garages, catering to a more suburban lifestyle. Louisiana’s higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate more community-oriented environments, particularly in urban areas such as New Orleans. The difference in the median home price is notable, with South Dakota's market being somewhat pricier. This can be a critical factor in deciding where to plant your new roots, especially when considering the unique charm and history that Louisiana's real estate brings to the table.

South Dakota vs. Louisiana Weather Considerations

When planning a move from South Dakota to Louisiana, it’s crucial to understand the differences in climate and weather patterns you’ll encounter. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather varies between South Dakota and Louisiana, helping you adjust to your new environment more comfortably.

Summer icon
85°F / 60°F

South Dakota

91°F / 73°F

Louisiana

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F / 10°F

South Dakota

62°F / 42°F

Louisiana

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
24"

South Dakota

60"

Louisiana

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
39"

South Dakota

0.2"

Louisiana

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSouth DakotaLouisiana
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersBlizzards, TornadosHurricanes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from South Dakota to Louisiana, you'll experience a significant change in weather patterns, from the winters to the intensity of the summer heat. In Louisiana, the summers are not only hotter but also more humid, amplifying the feel of the high temperatures. Unlike the dry, cold winters of South Dakota that bring considerable snowfall, Louisiana winters are mild and much less likely to see snow. Additionally, being mindful of Louisiana’s higher annual rainfall and potential for hurricanes is crucial for new residents. Adapting to these weather changes will be an essential part of making your move successful.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from South Dakota to Louisiana

If you're moving from one location to another, it's essential to understand how the cost of living and other financial factors will compare. This guide highlights key financial comparisons between South Dakota and Louisiana, offering a clearer view of what to expect when relocating.

ComparisonSouth DakotaLouisiana
Avg. Household Income$69,728$55,416
Cost of Living Index94.196
State Income Tax0%2% - 6%
Avg. Property Tax1.22%0.52%
Avg. Sales Tax4.5%4.45%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Retail, HealthcarePetrochemicals, Agriculture, Tourism
AffluenceModerateLower
PovertyLowHigh
HomelessnessLowModerate

Moving from South Dakota to Louisiana, you'll notice significant differences in finances. Louisiana enjoys a slightly lower cost of living and property tax rates, potentially stretching your budget further in daily life and real estate investments. However, its higher state income tax and levels of poverty could impact overall affordability and quality of life. The difference in top industries suggests a change in job opportunities, depending on your career path. As these financial landscapes vary, considering these aspects can ensure a smoother transition to your new home in Louisiana.

South Dakota vs. Louisiana Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one state to another can be an adventure and understanding the community you’re moving into is crucial. This quick comparison provides a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between South Dakota & Louisiana , offering insights into what you can expect in your new home.

South DakotaLouisiana
Political Make-upRepublican-leaningDemocrat-leaning
Local PoliticsConservative in both urban and rural areasMix of conservative rural areas and liberal urban centers
ReligionChristian, predominantly LutheranChristian, predominantly Catholic

When moving from South Dakota to Louisiana, you'll transition from a predominantly Republican-leaning state to one that leans more Democrat, especially in urban areas like New Orleans. While both states have a strong Christian presence, South Dakota is predominantly Lutheran whereas Louisiana has a larger Catholic community, reflecting in local culture and festivals. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more smoothly to your new surroundings.

Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Louisiana

When contemplating a move from South Dakota to Louisiana, understanding educational opportunities is paramount. This chart aims to help you better understand the comparisons between school options in South Dakota and Louisiana, providing a clear view on where your family might fit best in terms of education.

South DakotaLouisiana

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University
Louisiana State University
Tulane University
University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls)
Freedom Elementary (Harrisburg)
Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Lusher Charter School (New Orleans)
South Highlands Elementary Magnet (Shreveport)
Baton Rouge Foreign Language Academic Immersion Magnet (Baton Rouge)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Edison Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Memorial Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Whittier Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy (Jefferson)
Caddo Parish Middle Magnet (Shreveport)
Youngsville Middle School (Youngsville)

Top 3 High Schools

Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Brookings High School (Brookings)
Benjamin Franklin High School (New Orleans)
Haynes Academy School for Advanced Studies (Metairie)
Louisiana School for Math
Science
and the Arts (Natchitoches)

Top 3 private high schools

O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Rapid City Christian School (Rapid City)
Jesuit High School (New Orleans)
St. Joseph’s Academy (Baton Rouge)
Episcopal High School (Baton Rouge)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Rapid City Christian School (Rapid City)
Freedom Valiant Academy (Rapid City)
Isidore Newman School (New Orleans)
Metairie Park Country Day School (Metairie)
The Dunham School (Baton Rouge)

Top 3 School Districts

Sioux Falls School District
Harrisburg School District
Brookings School District
Zachary Community School District
Central Community School System
Ascension Parish School Board

When it comes to education, both South Dakota and Louisiana offer unique prospects for students. In South Dakota, notable institutions like South Dakota State University and the highly rated Challenge Center in Sioux Falls highlight the state's commitment to quality education. Meanwhile, Louisiana boasts prestigious schools such as Louisiana State University and Lusher Charter School in New Orleans, known for their rigorous academics and strong community involvement. Both states offer diverse options for private education as well, with schools like O'Gorman High School in South Dakota and Jesuit High School in Louisiana, ensuring that families can find the right fit for their children's educational needs.

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