Best South Dakota to Alaska Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from South Dakota to Alaska and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,505 mile SD to AK move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 South Dakota to Alaska moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Dial-A-Move Inc.), how much the move costs (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in South Dakota compared to Alaska. 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 Alaska Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Dial-A-Move Inc.8.957.93Authorized For HHG
2Two Men and a Truck8.928.11Authorized For HHG
3Dial-A-Move8.307.86Authorized For HHG
4The Moving Guys, LLC8.087.63Authorized For HHG
5The Moving Man7.818.91Authorized For HHG
6Air Van Moving6.806.98Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alaska to South Dakota guide.

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Compare the 6 Best SD to AK Movers

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

Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo

Dial-A-Move Inc.

Superb8.95/10
based on 454+ 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
1
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Superb8.92/10
based on 769+ 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
2
Dial-A-Move Logo

Dial-A-Move

Very Good8.30/10
based on 104+ 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
3
The Moving Guys, LLC Logo

The Moving Guys, LLC

Good8.08/10
based on 149+ 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
4
The Moving Man Logo

The Moving Man

Good7.81/10
based on 215+ data points

550 W 54th Ave

Anchorage, AK, 99518

About The Moving Man

The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...

Services

  • Local Residential Moving
  • Local Commercial Moving
  • Out-of-State Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

807379 / 359080

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved55,000 (2018)
View Full Review
5
Air Van Moving Logo

Air Van Moving

6.80/10
based on 37+ data points

209 Post Rd

Anchorage, AK, 99501

About Air Van Moving

Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town,...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

125012 / 118474

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (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 Alaska

Moving from South Dakota to Alaska offers a unique opportunity to experience a different lifestyle. This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes you might encounter while relocating.

CONs
PROs
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Harsh winters
  • Less diversity
  • Limited coastline
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Stunning landscapes
  • Cultural richness
  • Vast coastline
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Higher costs
  • Remote areas
  • Isolation
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Low cost of living
  • Open spaces
  • Low population density

Relocating from South Dakota to Alaska brings forth some notable differences in lifestyle. While South Dakota offers the comfort of a low cost of living, Alaska can present higher expenses, especially in its larger cities like Anchorage, where dining at popular spots like Moose's Tooth Pub and Pizzeria can be pricey. However, Alaska compensates with a stunning natural environment, exemplified by Kenai Fjords National Park, offering sights unparalleled by the relatively flat terrain of South Dakota. The bustling cultural scene in Juneau's arts district provides an enriching experience for those seeking cultural diversity beyond the quiet plains of South Dakota.

South Dakota vs. Alaska Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Alaska, highlighting the importance of food as a part of local culture and living experience. By comparing these two locations, you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.

South Dakota
Alaska
Most iconic local food item
Chislic
Salmon
Most popular meat dish
Bison steak
King crab legs
Most popular street food item
Indian tacos
Reindeer sausage
Most popular vegan food
Quinoa salad
Seaweed salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Minervas
  • Phillips Avenue Diner
  • The Crawford Hotel
  • Simon & Seafort's
  • Glacier Brewhouse
  • The Saltry
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In South Dakota, chislic—a simple, delicious deep-fried meat dish—has become the state's iconic food. You can find this savory bite most prominently in local bars and restaurants, especially in the eastern parts of the state. On the other hand, Alaska's rich seafood tradition is highlighted by its salmon dishes, found across various establishments, from upscale restaurants like Simon & Seafort's in Anchorage to quaint eateries in more remote areas. Alaska also offers unique street food, with reindeer sausage being a must-try for those interested in experiencing local flavors. For those moving to Alaska, exploring Anchorage's food scene, from the Glacier Brewhouse to the array of food trucks serving fresh, seafood-centric fare, is an excellent introduction to what the state has to offer culinary wise.

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South Dakota vs. Alaska Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor when considering a relocation. Understanding how the housing markets of South Dakota and Alaska compare can significantly impact your moving decision. This comparison will highlight key differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle to aid in your planning.

South Dakota
Alaska
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch
Log Cabins, Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, Proximity to parks
Natural scenery, Proximity to wildlife

When relocating from South Dakota to Alaska, you'll notice significant differences in housing characteristics and lifestyle. In Alaska, the median home price is higher, reflecting the unique challenges of building and maintaining properties in its harsher climate. However, this cost comes with the undeniable benefit of living amidst stunning natural scenery, frequently highlighted in real estate listings. Alaskan homes, often log cabins or modern takes on rustic designs, are tailored to withstand these conditions. Despite a lower walkability score, the access to unparalleled outdoor experiences compensates for urban conveniences that might be more accessible in South Dakota. The varied landscape of South Dakota offers its own charms, with ranch-style homes epitomizing the regional architecture and spacious yards, emphasizing a more open, accessible lifestyle. Both states offer distinctive living experiences shaped by their geography and culture, making them unique places to call home.

South Dakota vs. Alaska Weather Considerations

If you're considering a move from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in South Dakota will compare to Alaska. This comparison will help you anticipate seasonal changes and prepare accordingly.

South Dakota
Alaska
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes, Blizzards
Earthquakes, Volcanoes
Air Quality
Good
Varies by region, generally good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F/60°F
60°F/40°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

30°F/10°F
20°F/-10°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

20-30"
20-200" (varies greatly by region)
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

30-40"
60-100+" (varies greatly by region)


Moving from South Dakota to Alaska, you'll experience a significant shift, not only in temperature but also in the number of sunlight days. With Alaska's longer winters and shorter summers, the average high temperatures are notably lower, especially during the summer months. Additionally, while both states experience their share of natural disasters, it's essential to prepare for earthquakes and volcanic activity in Alaska, contrasting with the tornadoes and blizzards common in South Dakota. The wide range in annual rainfall and snowfall in Alaska also suggests a need for adaptability, depending on the specific region you choose to settle in.

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

When considering a move from one region to another, grasping the financial implications is vital. This comparison aims to simplify the financial transition by illuminating the differences in living costs and economic conditions between South Dakota and Alaska. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare adequately for your new life.

South Dakota
Alaska
Avg. Household Income
$69,728
$88,121
Cost of Living Index
94.1
132.6
State Income Tax
0
0
Avg. Property Tax
1.22
1.19
Avg. Sales Tax
4.5
0
Top 3 Industries
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Finance and Healthcare
Oil and Gas, Fishing, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Lower
Lower
Homelessness
Low
Moderate

Moving from South Dakota to Alaska, you can expect a significant shift in your cost of living due to Alaska's higher index. Despite both states having a 0% state income tax, Alaska's higher average household income is pivotal when considering its higher cost of living. Interestingly, Alaska bucks the trend with a 0% average sales tax, potentially offsetting some expenses, unlike South Dakota's 4.5%. The major economic drivers in each state reflect unique ecological and geographical advantages, influencing employment opportunities and lifestyle. While both regions exhibit lower poverty rates, Alaska's moderate homelessness level compared to South Dakota's low level is an aspect to consider when planning your move.

South Dakota vs. Alaska Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a quick comparison of the political and religious makeup between South Dakota & Alaska . It provides a snapshot to help understand the diverse characteristics of your new neighbors, and what local issues might resonate most.

South Dakota
Alaska
Political Make-up
Lean Conservative
Independent-leaning with Conservative tendencies
Local Politics
Emphasis on agriculture and rural development
Focus on natural resources and indigenous rights
Religion
Predominantly Christian with Lutheran and Catholic majorities
Diverse, with significant Orthodox Christian, Protestant, and indigenous spiritual practices

In transitioning from South Dakota to Alaska, you'll find distinct shifts in the political landscape and social fabric. South Dakota's politics revolve significantly around agricultural and rural community interests, reflecting its landlocked, Midwestern position. In contrast, Alaska's political scene is heavily influenced by its natural resources, indigenous populations' rights, and strategic geographic positioning. While both states have a solid Christian presence, Alaska presents a much more diverse religious tapestry, including a notable percentage of residents who follow indigenous spiritual practices or no religion at all. Understanding these nuances will help you quickly feel more at home in your new Alaskan community.

Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Alaska

Making a move from South Dakota to Alaska is a big step, especially if you're considering the educational opportunities for yourself or your children. To help you make an informed decision, we've created a comparison chart. The purpose of this chart is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in South Dakota and Alaska.

South DakotaAlaska

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University
University of Alaska Anchorage
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Alaska Pacific University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Discovery Elementary - Sioux Falls
Fred Assam Elementary - Sioux Falls
Endeavor Elementary - Harrisburg
Bayshore Elementary - Anchorage
Northern Lights ABC School - Anchorage
Watershed Charter School - Fairbanks

Top 3 Middle Schools

Patrick Henry Middle School - Sioux Falls
George S. Mickelson Middle School - Brookings
East Middle School - Rapid City
Mears Middle School - Anchorage
Mirror Lake Middle School - Chugiak
Romig Middle School - Anchorage

Top 3 High Schools

Lincoln High School - Sioux Falls
Roosevelt High School - Sioux Falls
Brookings High School - Brookings
West High School - Anchorage
South Anchorage High School - Anchorage
Dimond High School - Anchorage

Top 3 private high schools

O'Gorman High School - Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls Christian Schools - Sioux Falls
Aberdeen Roncalli High School - Aberdeen
Anchorage Christian Schools - Anchorage
Grace Christian School - Anchorage
Monroe Catholic High School - Fairbanks

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Sioux Falls Christian Schools - Sioux Falls
Aberdeen Christian School - Aberdeen
Mitchell Christian School - Mitchell
Pacific Northern Academy - Anchorage
Birchwood Christian School - Chugiak
Lumen Christi High School - Anchorage

Top 3 School Districts

Sioux Falls School District
Harrisburg School District
Brookings School District
Anchorage School District
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District
Fairbanks North Star Borough School District

Transitioning between states with distinct educational systems, such as South Dakota and Alaska, may initially seem daunting. However, exploring the highly-rated schools in both locations can provide some peace of mind. For example, the University of Alaska Anchorage offers unique opportunities, particularly in marine biology and environmental science, reflecting Alaska's rich natural resources and diverse ecosystems. In South Dakota, schools like South Dakota State University are known for strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and nursing, aligning with the state's predominant industries. Regardless of the shift, both states boast supportive educational environments conducive to fostering academic success and personal growth.

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