How Much Does It Cost to Move in South Carolina?
South Carolina is a top migration destination with affordable moving costs. Charleston runs highest at $950–1,100 due to tourism demand and historic district access challenges. Greenville and Columbia are more affordable. Local moves average $840 statewide.
Average Moving Costs in South Carolina — 2026
| Move Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Local move — professional movers | $840 |
| Long-distance move — professional movers | $3,600 |
| Mover hourly rate (per mover) | $40/hr |
| Moving truck rental (per day) | $95/day |
Averages based on a 2-bedroom local move. Long-distance averages assume 500+ miles.
What Affects Moving Costs in South Carolina
Distance: Local moves are priced hourly ($40/mover/hr). Long-distance moves switch to a weight-plus-mileage model, which is why the jump from local to long-distance is so large.
Timing: Peak season (May–September) adds 15–30% to any quote. The last 3 days of a month are the most expensive — most leases expire on the 1st, so demand spikes.
Home size: Every additional bedroom adds roughly $100–200 to a local move (more movers or more hours). Long-distance moves price by weight — a 3-bedroom house weighs 3× a studio.
Access: Stairs, long carry distances, and tight elevator access trigger surcharges. Expect $50–100 per flight of stairs. Parking permits in dense South Carolina cities can add $50–150.
South Carolina Moving Cost by City
Metro areas with high demand and traffic typically run 15–25% above the state averages listed above.
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How much does it cost to move locally in South Carolina?
Local moves in South Carolina average $840 for a 2-bedroom home. Mover hourly rates run $40/hr per mover. Most local moves take 4–8 hours with a 2–3 mover crew.
How much does a long-distance move to or from South Carolina cost?
Long-distance moves to or from South Carolina average $3,600 with professional movers. DIY truck rentals typically run $1,200–2,500 depending on distance and truck size.
What is the cheapest way to move in South Carolina?
Renting a moving truck yourself is the cheapest option — expect $95/day plus fuel. Booking movers for a weekday in the off-season (October–April) can save 20–30% vs. weekend peak rates.
When is the cheapest time to move in South Carolina?
October through April is the cheapest time to move in South Carolina. Avoid May–September (peak season), the last three days of any month, and weekends — all carry 15–30% premiums.
Which cities in South Carolina are most expensive for moving?
Charleston and Columbia typically run 15–25% above the state average due to higher demand, traffic congestion, and longer drive times between pickup and delivery.
Is South Carolina gaining or losing residents?
South Carolina is currently a net migration destination — more people are moving in than out, which keeps mover demand and prices elevated.