Best Virginia to South Dakota Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Virginia to South Dakota and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,476 mile VA to SD move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 130 Virginia to South Dakota 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 ARS Movers), 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 Virginia compared to South Dakota. 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 Virginia to South Dakota Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1ARS Movers9.649.76Authorized For HHG
2A Change of Place Movers9.599.44Authorized For Property
3Matthew's Nationwide Moving9.509.63Authorized For Property, HHG
4TrueMover, LLC.9.489.52Authorized For HHG
5Dial-A-Move Inc.8.957.93Authorized For HHG
6Two Men and a Truck8.928.11Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Virginia to South Dakota?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,476 miles from Virginia to South Dakota will cost on average $3,036 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom VA to SD move is roughly $7,312. 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 Virginia and dropoff in South Dakota 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 Virginia to South Dakota movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,039300 ft³$6.80
1 Bedroom$3,036450 ft³$6.75
2 Bedrooms$5,023750 ft³$6.70
3 Bedrooms$7,3121100 ft³$6.65
4 Bedrooms$10,5561600 ft³$6.60
5+ Bedrooms$11,7861800 ft³$6.55
*Please note: These Virginia to South Dakota moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Virginia & South Dakota. 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 VA to SD mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from South Dakota to Virginia guide.

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Compare the 6 Best VA to SD Movers

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

ARS Movers Logo

ARS Movers

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,509+ data points

Herndon, VA, 20170

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a...

Services

  • Local Moving (Residential Moving)
  • Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
  • Office Moving (Commercial Moving)

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3260258 / 1027666

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved3 (2022)
View Full Review
1
A

A Change of Place Movers

Exceptional9.59/10
based on 801+ data points

Hopewell, VA, 23860

About A Change of Place Movers

The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1293943 / 503371

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved290,815 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Matthew's Nationwide Moving Logo

Matthew's Nationwide Moving

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 1,189+ data points

5004 Philip Rd

Annandale, VA, 22003

About Matthew's Nationwide Moving

Matthew's Nationwide Moving is a family-owned and operated company founded in 2012 in Annandale, Virginia. With over 20 seasoned moving contractors...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Nationwide Moving Services
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2375124 / 819110

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved400,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
TrueMover, LLC. Logo

TrueMover, LLC.

Exceptional9.48/10
based on 715+ data points

21531 Blackwood Ct Suite # 100

Sterling, VA, 20166

About TrueMover, LLC.

TrueMover, LLC, founded in 2016 by Robert Murphy and Chris Gibson, is a moving company based in Sterling, VA. They are...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2862283 / 959205

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
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
5
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
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 Virginia to South Dakota

Relocating from Virginia to South Dakota offers a balanced perspective of moving from Virginia to South Dakota , highlighting both the pros and cons . By examining the attributes of each location, this comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the potential changes you'll experience: from lifestyle to climate, and everything in between.

CONs
PROs
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Dense traffic
  • Higher cost of living
  • Humid summers
  • Urban noise
  • Expensive real estate
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Less congestion
  • Lower cost of living
  • Cooler summers
  • Quieter environment
  • Affordable housing
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer job options
  • No coastline
  • Developing infrastructure
  • Harsher winters
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Diverse culture
  • Plentiful job opportunities
  • Ocean access
  • Established infrastructure
  • Mild winters

Moving to South Dakota from Virginia means trading the bustling, diverse atmosphere of cities like Richmond and Virginia Beach for the serene, open landscapes of places like Sioux Falls and Rapid City. While South Dakota lacks the coastal charm and ocean access of Virginia, it offers a unique tranquility, underscored by stunning natural parks such as Badlands National Park and Custer State Park. Although the winters can be harsher and the cultural scene less vibrant, the stunning views, affordable real estate, and absence of urban noise make South Dakota an enticing alternative for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle.

Virginia vs. South Dakota Food Guide

Food plays a pivotal role in understanding local culture and what living in a new area might be like. In this guide, we're excited to offer a comparison of the local cuisine between Virginia & South Dakota so you can get a taste of what awaits in your new home.

Virginia
South Dakota
Most iconic local food item
Virginia Ham
Chislic
Most popular meat dish
BBQ Ribs
Pheasant
Most popular street food item
Peanuts
Indian Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegetable-based dishes
Wild Rice Dishes
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Inn at Little Washington
  • L'Auberge Chez Francois
  • Sally Bell's Kitchen
  • Mad Mary's Steakhouse
  • Phillips Avenue Diner
  • Camino Grill & Bar
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Virginia, the BBQ scene, especially around Richmond, is unmissable with its slow-cooked ribs and vegetable-based sides making it a hit among diners looking for comfort food with a gourmet twist. The Inn at Little Washington, nestled in Rappahannock County, offers a fine dining experience that encapsulates Virginia's agricultural heritage. Meanwhile, South Dakota's culinary landscape boasts unique items like Chislic, cubed meat traditionally made from lamb or beef, primarily found in pubs and bars across the state. Restaurants like Mad Mary's Steakhouse in Flandreau offer a taste of local flavors with their own unique twists, giving you a real sense of South Dakota's food scene in locales like Sioux Falls, known for its emerging foodie scene and comfort food staples.

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Virginia vs. South Dakota Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the reality of real estate between Virginia and South Dakota can give you a better understanding of what to expect. This comparison will help you grasp differences in housing costs , architecture , and lifestyle crucial for a smooth transition.

Virginia
South Dakota
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Cape Cod
Ranch, Split Level
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Hardwood floors, Granite countertops
Spacious backyards, Natural scenery

When diving into the details, Virginia's typical architecture like Colonial and Cape Cod reflects its rich American heritage, whereas South Dakota's preference for Ranch and Split Level homes mirrors its expansive, open landscapes. The difference in median home prices and rents highlights the more affordable cost of living in South Dakota. However, Virginia offers a slightly better urban lifestyle, scoring higher in walkability and bikeability, indicative of its more densely populated areas. When browsing real estate listings, you'll notice Virginia homes often boast hardwood floors and granite countertops, showcasing modern amenities, contrasted with South Dakota's emphasis on spacious backyards and natural scenery, offering a tranquil and serene living environment.

Virginia vs. South Dakota Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Virginia to South Dakota, understanding how the climate and weather patterns will change is essential. Our comparison charts will highlight key weather differences between Virginia and South Dakota, helping you prepare for the new conditions you will experience.

Virginia
South Dakota
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Floods
Blizzards, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

86°F / 66°F
85°F / 60°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 27°F
26°F / 6°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

44"
20"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

10-20"
30-60"


Moving from Virginia to South Dakota, you'll find that winters are considerably colder with more snowfall, making cold weather gear a must-have. With South Dakota experiencing more sunshine days annually, outdoor enthusiasts may appreciate the extra days of clear skies. However, it's crucial to prepare for South Dakota's unique weather challenges, including blizzards and tornadoes, differing from Virginia's hurricanes and floods. Adapting to the drier climate and potentially more extreme temperature shifts between seasons will be part of your new normal.

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

When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp how financial elements such as income, taxation, and the cost of living might shift. Understanding these factors can ease your transition, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new life. Our comparison chart provides a clear snapshot of the financial landscapes in Virginia and South Dakota , designed to help you align your expectations with reality.

Virginia
South Dakota
Avg. Household Income
$85,873
$69,728
Cost of Living Index
96.6
94.1
State Income Tax
2.0 to 5.75
None
Avg. Property Tax
0.80
1.22
Avg. Sales Tax
5.3
4.5
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Government, Defense
Agriculture, Tourism, Finance
Affluence
Higher
Modest
Poverty
Lower
Moderate
Homelessness
Noticeable
Lower

In comparing Virginia and South Dakota, you'll find that Virginia generally has a higher cost of living and household income, reflecting its more affluent economic status. This is partly attributed to the state's robust industries in technology, government, and defense. South Dakota, on the other hand, boasts no state income tax, offering a unique financial advantage despite its lower average household income. The agriculture, tourism, and finance sectors drive its economy, contributing to a modest yet stable living condition. South Dakota's lower cost of living index and property tax rate make it an appealing destination for many seeking financial relief or a simpler lifestyle, highlighting the diversity of economic landscapes across the states.

Virginia vs. South Dakota Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Virginia to South Dakota involves not just a change of scenery, but also a transition between different political and religious landscapes. This overview provides a comparison of the politics between Virginia & South Dakota to give you a quick snapshot of what to expect from your new neighbors and local community.

Virginia
South Dakota
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Leans Republican
Local Politics
Moderate with regional variations
Conservative, especially in rural areas
Religion
Mixed, with significant Protestant and Catholic communities
Dominantly Protestant with a notable Catholic minority

As you settle into your new home in South Dakota, you'll notice differences in local attitudes and community participation. The state's political leanings might be more conservative than what you're used to in Virginia, especially in rural areas. In terms of religion, both states enjoy a rich tapestry of faiths, though you'll find a stronger Protestant presence in your new surroundings. Social gatherings, community events, and even local legislation may reflect these differences, giving you a unique slice of American diversity to explore.

Education Guide When Moving from Virginia to South Dakota

Making a move from one state to another can be a life-changing decision, especially when it comes to your children's education. To help you make an informed choice, we've created a comparison to better understand what the comparisons are between school options when moving from Virginia to South Dakota . This comparison will provide insights into the educational landscape of both states, outlining the top schools and school districts.

VirginiaSouth Dakota

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
George Mason University
South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Arlington Science Focus School (Arlington)
Stenwood Elementary School (Vienna)
Lucketts Elementary School (Leesburg)
Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Robert Bennis Elementary (Brandon)
John Harris Elementary (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Longfellow Middle School (Falls Church)
Cooper Middle School (McLean)
Frost Middle School (Fairfax)
Edison Middle School (Sioux Falls)
George McGovern Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 High Schools

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
McLean High School (McLean)
Langley High School (McLean)
Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Brookings High School (Brookings)

Top 3 private high schools

The Madeira School (McLean)
The Potomac School (McLean)
Norfolk Academy (Norfolk)
O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Aberdeen Central High School (Aberdeen)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Covenant School (Charlottesville)
Flint Hill School (Oakton)
Madeira School (McLean)
Sacred Heart School (Yankton)
Roncalli Primary (Aberdeen)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 School Districts

Fairfax County Public Schools
Loudoun County Public Schools
Arlington Public Schools
Sioux Falls School District
Brookings School District
Aberdeen School District

In examining the schools and school districts highlighted in the chart, it's evident that both Virginia and South Dakota offer exceptional educational opportunities, albeit in different ways. Virginia is home to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, one of the top high schools in the nation, renowned for its STEM-focused curriculum. On the other hand, South Dakota excels in offering close-knit educational communities with schools like Challenge Center in Sioux Falls, which is highly praised for its personalized learning environment. School districts in both states are well-regarded, but Virginia's Fairfax County Public Schools stand out with their comprehensive programs and resources. Whether you're prioritizing a STEM-oriented education in Virginia or a community-focused approach in South Dakota, you'll find both states have unique strengths to offer.

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