Best South Dakota to Kentucky Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best South Dakota to Kentucky Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1From Here to There9.178.82Authorized For Property, HHG
2Smooth Move Relocation Services9.109.64Authorized For Property, HHG
3Dial-A-Move Inc.8.957.93Authorized For HHG
4Two Men and a Truck8.928.11Authorized For HHG
5Dial-A-Move8.307.86Authorized For HHG
6The Moving Guys, LLC8.087.63Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,844300 ft³$6.15
1 Bedroom$2,743450 ft³$6.10
2 Bedrooms$4,534750 ft³$6.05
3 Bedrooms$6,5951100 ft³$6.00
4 Bedrooms$9,5131600 ft³$5.95
5+ Bedrooms$10,6121800 ft³$5.90
*Please note: These South Dakota to Kentucky moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from South Dakota & Kentucky. 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 KY mover.
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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 Logo

From Here to There

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 614+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3481118 / 1254688

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,500 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Smooth Move Relocation Services Logo

Smooth Move Relocation Services

Exceptional9.10/10
based on 2,201+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1878284 / 781353

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved24,500 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
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
5
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
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 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.

CONs
PROs
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Harsh winters
  • Rural isolation
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Slow-paced lifestyle
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Mild winters
  • Vibrant communities
  • Diverse job market
  • Dynamic urban areas
Kentucky iconKentucky
  • Higher housing costs
  • Less expansive views
  • Busy urban centers
  • More hustle and bustle
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • 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.

South Dakota
Kentucky
Most iconic local food item
Chislic
Hot Brown
Most popular meat dish
Pheasant
Fried Chicken
Most popular street food item
Indian Tacos
Burgoo
Most popular vegan food
Wild Rice Dish
BBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Phillips Avenue Diner
  • Minervas
  • Parker's Bistro
  • The Brown Hotel
  • KFC
  • Mammoth Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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.

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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.

South Dakota
Kentucky
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch-style
Colonial Revival
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious Yards, Natural Light
Hardwood Floors, Proximity to Parks

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.

South Dakota
Kentucky
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Blizzards, Tornadoes
Tornadoes, Thunderstorms
Air Quality
Good
Variable
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 60°F
87°F / 66°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

32°F / 13°F
44°F / 28°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

20-30
45-50
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

30-40
10-20


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.

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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.

South Dakota
Kentucky
Avg. Household Income
$69,728
$59,341
Cost of Living Index
94.1
87.8
State Income Tax
0
5
Avg. Property Tax
1.22
0.72
Avg. Sales Tax
4.5
6
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Retail Trade, Healthcare
Automotive, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderate
Lower-Middle
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Lower
Higher

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.

South Dakota
Kentucky
Political Make-up
Conservative/Republican
Mixed, leaning Republican
Local Politics
More homogeneous, rural influence
Urban vs. Rural Dynamics
Religion
Predominantly Protestant
Christian Mix, with Baptist predominance

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 DakotaKentucky

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of South Dakota
South Dakota State University
Black Hills State University
University 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 District
Fayette 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.

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