Best South Dakota to Kentucky Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from South Dakota to Kentucky and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,131 mile SD to KY move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 South Dakota to Kentucky 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 From Here to There), 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 Dakota compared to Kentucky. 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 Kentucky Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | From Here to There | 9.17 | 8.82 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
2 | Smooth Move Relocation Services | 9.10 | 9.64 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
3 | Dial-A-Move Inc. | 8.95 | 7.93 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.92 | 8.11 | Authorized For HHG |
5 | Dial-A-Move | 8.30 | 7.86 | Authorized For HHG |
6 | The Moving Guys, LLC | 8.08 | 7.63 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from South Dakota to Kentucky?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,131 miles from South Dakota to Kentucky will cost on average $2,743 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom SD to KY move is roughly $6,595. 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,844 | 300 ft³ | $6.15 |
1 Bedroom | $2,743 | 450 ft³ | $6.10 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,534 | 750 ft³ | $6.05 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,595 | 1100 ft³ | $6.00 |
4 Bedrooms | $9,513 | 1600 ft³ | $5.95 |
5+ Bedrooms | $10,612 | 1800 ft³ | $5.90 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Kentucky to South Dakota guide.

Popular South Dakota to Kentucky Moving Destinations
Make an easier move when you book with the best.
See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from South Dakota to Kentucky
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular South Dakota to Kentucky Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best SD to KY Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

From Here to There
Lexington, KY, 40507
About From Here to There
From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive...
Services
- Residential Move
- Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
- Commercial/Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3481118 / 1254688 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,500 (2022) |

Smooth Move Relocation Services
1132 Cherevilla Ln
Cincinnati, OH, 45238
About Smooth Move Relocation Services
Smooth Move Relocation Services is a moving company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, that has been serving clients since 2000. They offer...
Services
- Affordable local and long distance moving
- Packing and Boxes
- Insurance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1878284 / 781353 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 24,500 (2023) |

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 Kentucky
When considering a move from South Dakota to Kentucky, it is vital to explore both locations' benefits and drawbacks. This guide offers an honest reflection of South Dakota and Kentucky to help you assess whether this transition aligns with your lifestyle preferences, focusing on how each state's attributes weigh against the other.
- Harsh winters
- Rural isolation
- Limited job opportunities
- Slow-paced lifestyle
- Mild winters
- Vibrant communities
- Diverse job market
- Dynamic urban areas
- Higher housing costs
- Less expansive views
- Busy urban centers
- More hustle and bustle
- Low cost of living
- Natural beauty
- Low traffic congestion
- Peaceful environment
Moving from the expansive landscapes of South Dakota, with its enchanting natural beauty and peaceful environment, you might initially find Kentucky’s bustling cities and vibrant communities a bit overwhelming. However, Kentucky offers numerous attractions like Louisville's eclectic dining scene, where you can savor southern flavors, or the lush spaces of Cherokee Park. The dynamic job market in metropolitan areas like Lexington provides diverse employment options compared to the limited opportunities previously available. While you might miss the serenity and lower cost of living found in South Dakota, Kentucky's cultural charm and temperate climate could offer a refreshing change.
South Dakota vs. Kentucky Food Guide
Food is an integral part of experiencing local culture and understanding what life is like in a new area. To help you transition smoothly, we've compared the local cuisine in your current and future homes. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Kentucky, providing a flavorful snapshot of what each state has to offer. Let's dive into the culinary scene to better inform you about the food landscape of your new home.
- Phillips Avenue Diner
- Minervas
- Parker's Bistro
- The Brown Hotel
- KFC
- Mammoth Cafe
When you move to Kentucky, you'll find yourself immersed in a rich culinary tradition known for its comfort food. Lexington and Louisville, in particular, are hotspots for food lovers, where dishes like the Hot Brown—an open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon, tomatoes, and a Mornay sauce—originated at The Brown Hotel. Kentucky's Fried Chicken, from none other than KFC, has set the standard worldwide, but the state also surprises with offerings like Burgoo, a spicy stew that's a common find at local festivals. Vegan options are rising in popularity too, with dishes like BBQ Jackfruit becoming more available, showcasing Kentucky’s adaptability to modern dietary preferences. Whether you’re after the traditional, the innovative, or the health-conscious, Kentucky’s culinary scene will not disappoint.

Ready to start your move?
South Dakota vs. Kentucky Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it’s pivotal to consider the real estate landscape. Comparing South Dakota and Kentucky provides clarity on housing costs, styles, and living conditions. This insight is crucial for making an informed decision on your relocation.
When comparing the real estate markets of South Dakota and Kentucky, distinct differences and attractive qualities in each state emerge. For instance, while Kentucky generally offers more affordable home prices, South Dakota flaunts spacious yards often mentioned in listings, appealing to those prioritizing outdoor space. Interestingly, architecture styles also reflect the local culture and history - with Ranch-style homes prevailing in South Dakota and Colonial Revival in Kentucky. Moreover, Kentucky slightly outperforms in terms of walkability and bikeability, suggesting a somewhat more convenient lifestyle for those without cars or who prefer a more active lifestyle.
South Dakota vs. Kentucky Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one state to another, understanding how the weather compares between South Dakota and Kentucky can be crucial for adapting to your new home. Differences in climate can impact everything from your wardrobe to your daily activities.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both South Dakota and Kentucky experience four distinct seasons, the specific weather conditions differ substantially. South Dakota's winters are notably harsher, with lows averaging 13°F and significant snowfall, making winter weather preparedness a must if you’re moving from Kentucky. On the other hand, Kentucky's warmer and more humid climate comes with its own challenges, including higher average annual rainfall and the potential for severe thunderstorms. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your lifestyle and ensure your new home is equipped for local weather patterns.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from South Dakota to Kentucky
When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp financial differences awaiting on the other side. This comparison aims to highlight key financial aspects that could affect your lifestyle transition. Understanding the cost of living and money matters is essential when moving from South Dakota to Kentucky.
Moving from South Dakota to Kentucky presents a notable shift in financial landscapes. You'll find that despite Kentucky's lower average household income, the state offers a more affordable cost of living index, making some expenses potentially less than you're accustomed to in South Dakota. However, be aware of Kentucky's state income tax which South Dakota lacks. Kentucky's top industries suggest a vibrant automotive and manufacturing sector, potentially offering new employment opportunities. Understanding these differences can help you navigate your transition and manage expectations as you embrace your new home in Kentucky.
South Dakota vs. Kentucky Political & Religious Comparison
In planning your move from South Dakota to Kentucky, understanding the landscape to which you're transitioning is crucial. This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of residents between South Dakota & Kentucky , helping you navigate the cultural vibes of your new home.
While South Dakota tends to have a more uniformly conservative or Republican political landscape, you'll find Kentucky showcases a vibrant mix, leaning Republican but with notable Democratic strongholds in urban areas like Louisville and Lexington. The local politics of Kentucky are characterized by a distinctive urban vs. rural dynamic not as pronounced in South Dakota. Religion plays a significant role in both states, with South Dakota featuring a predominantly Protestant population. In contrast, Kentucky exhibits a diverse Christian spectrum, heavily featuring Baptist traditions. Understanding these aspects will help smooth your transition and allow for a richer integration into your new community.
Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Kentucky
Moving from South Dakota to Kentucky involves numerous changes, including the educational opportunities available for your children or future academic pursuits. This comparison aims to clarify the differences in school options between South Dakota and Kentucky, helping you to make informed decisions about your family's educational future.
South Dakota | Kentucky |
---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of South Dakota South Dakota State University Black Hills State UniversityUniversity of Kentucky University of Louisville Western Kentucky University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Challenge Center (Sioux Falls) Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls) Fred Assam Elementary (Sioux Falls)Greathouse/Shryock Traditional (Louisville) Rosa Parks Elementary (Lexington) Brandeis Elementary (Louisville) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools George McGovern Middle School (Sioux Falls) Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls) Mickelson Middle School (Brookings)DuPont Manual High (Louisville) Meyzeek Middle School (Louisville) Beaumont Middle School (Lexington) | |
Top 3 High School Schools Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls) Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls) Brookings High School (Brookings)DuPont Manual High (Louisville) Highlands High School (Fort Thomas) Beechwood High School (Fort Mitchell) | |
Top 3 private high schools O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls) Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls) Roncalli High School (Aberdeen)Sacred Heart Academy (Louisville) Trinity High School (Louisville) Lexington Catholic High School (Lexington) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls) Great Plains Lutheran (Watertown) Mitchell Christian School (Mitchell)The Lexington School (Lexington) Louisville Collegiate School (Louisville) Sayre School (Lexington) | |
Top 3 School Districts Sioux Falls School District Brookings School District Rapid City School DistrictFayette County Public Schools Jefferson County Public Schools Daviess County Public Schools |
While the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University are popular choices for South Dakota seniors, Kentucky students often opt for larger institutions like the University of Kentucky and University of Louisville. In terms of K-12 education, the Sioux Falls School District in South Dakota is known for its high-performing public schools such as the Challenge Center. In contrast, Kentucky's Fayette County Public Schools offer exceptional elementary schools, including Greathouse/Shryock Traditional. Kentucky also boasts prestigious private options like Sacred Heart Academy in Louisville, offering diverse educational landscapes suited for various needs and preferences.



Additional Resources
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