Best Iowa to South Carolina Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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IA to SC Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks the start of an exciting new chapter in your life. You're swapping the expansive cornfields and friendly faces of the Hawkeye State for the sun-soaked shores and vibrant culture of the Palmetto State. To ensure this long-distance adventure unfolds smoothly, it's crucial to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where we come in, offering you the very best through our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving.

Iowa iconArrow iconSouth Carolina icon

Best Iowa to South Carolina Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.53A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Adamantine Spine Moving9.42A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Swamp Rabbit Moving9.34C+Authorized For HHGContact
Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Best Move Inc9.23A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Hemmen Moving9.10A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from South Carolina to Iowa guide.

6 Best IA to SC Moving Companies

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

Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional9.53/10
based on 956+ data points

About Adamantine Spine Moving

With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Adamantine Spine Moving Logo
Exceptional9.42/10
based on 1,268+ data points

About Adamantine Spine Moving

Adamantine Spine Moving is an accomplished entity amongst the professional movers in Cedar Rapids, IA. This company can conveniently transp...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Apartment/Condo Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1471037 / 556716

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans37
Registered Drivers40
Total Annual Miles Moved393,823 (2022)
View Full Review
2
S
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,278+ data points

About Swamp Rabbit Moving

Swamp Rabbit Moving is a South Carolina business specializing in local and long-distance moves. From its location in Greer, this company can...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing/Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3449704 / 1163908

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved300,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 743+ data points

About Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC

Luxury Movers Moving Company is a Myrtle Beach-based moving company that serves all surrounding areas, including Horry, Georgetown, Marion, ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long-Distance Move
  • Apartment Move

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3288750 / 1041081

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional9.23/10
based on 520+ data points

About Best Move Inc

Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its BBB accreditation...Read More >>

Services

  • Material Packing
  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

749231 / 376435

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,976 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional9.10/10
based on 621+ data points

About Hemmen Moving

For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and comme...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long distance moving
  • Small moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

608245 / 292343

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved604,536 (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 Iowa to South Carolina

Making a move from one state to another can be a significant life decision. To help you weigh your options, we've compared the cons of staying in Iowa against the pros of moving to South Carolina, and vice versa. This comparison is designed to reflect an honest appraisal of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Iowa to South Carolina , ensuring you have a balanced view of what to expect.

CONs
PROs
Iowa iconIowa
  • Colder winters
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer historical sites
  • Less seafood
South Carolina iconSouth Carolina
  • Milder winters
  • More cultural diversity
  • Rich historical heritage
  • Fresher seafood
South Carolina iconSouth Carolina
  • Higher cost of living
  • More congested areas
  • Less agriculture focus
  • More touristy
Iowa iconIowa
  • Lower cost of living
  • Spacious landscapes
  • Strong agriculture
  • Community-focused

In considering a move from Iowa to South Carolina, you're trading the expansive cornfields and community-oriented lifestyle for the allure of coastal living, and a rich tapestry of historical sites such as Charleston's Market (linked here: Charleston CVB), Fort Sumter, and the idyllic streets of Myrtle Beach. South Carolina boasts renowned seafood restaurants like Pearlz Oyster Bar (linked here: Pearlz Oyster Bar), which offers fresh catches that showcase the coastal lifestyle. Despite facing a potential increase in living costs, the vibrant cities, culture, and milder winters in South Carolina present a compelling case for making the move, promising new experiences and adventures in the Palmetto State.

Iowa vs. South Carolina Food Guide

When making a move, understanding the local cuisine is vital as food is a significant part of local culture and life quality. This guide compares the local cuisine between Iowa & South Carolina , giving you a taste of what culinary delights await you in your new home.

IowaSouth Carolina
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichShrimp and Grits
Most popular meat dishCorn-fed BeefLowcountry Boil
Most popular street food itemFried on a Stick VarietiesFried Green Tomatoes
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladOkra Soup
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Machine Shed
  • Zombie Burger
  • The Great Plains Sauce & Dough Company
  • Husk
  • Home Team BBQ
  • Poogan's Porch
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In moving to South Carolina, you're stepping into a rich tapestry of culinary tradition blended with modern twist. Shrimp and Grits, a staple, can be savored in the historic neighborhood of Charleston, providing a creamy and comforting taste of the Lowcountry. The food scene is vibrant, with establishments like Husk leading the charge in innovating Southern cuisine while respecting its roots. The increase in vegan options and health-conscious eateries reflects a growing trend in South Carolina, making it an exciting time for food enthusiasts to explore this state's offerings.

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Iowa vs. South Carolina Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of Iowa and South Carolina sheds light on important differences and similarities that will affect your decision. Understanding the housing cost, architecture style, and lifestyle options in each state can guide you towards making an informed choice.

ComparisonIowaSouth Carolina
Typical Architecture StylePrairie School, RanchColonial, Charleston Single House
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, Quiet neighborhoodsHistoric features, Proximity to beaches

The contrast in median home prices and monthly rent reflects the broader economic landscape and living standards in Iowa compared to South Carolina. While Iowa offers affordable living with its spacious yards and emphasis on quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods, South Carolina's higher cost of living comes with perks such as closer proximity to beaches and historic, charming architecture styles like the Colonial and Charleston Single House. The walkability and bikeability scores show slight variations, depicting Iowa's slightly more pedestrian-friendly environment against South Carolina’s slightly more bike-friendly roads. These factors contribute to each state’s unique urban lifestyle, where South Carolina edges out with a slightly higher rating, likely due to its vibrant coastal cities and richer historical sites.

Iowa vs. South Carolina Weather Considerations

Moving to a new location brings exciting changes, and one key difference you'll encounter is the shift in weather. Understanding how Iowa's climate contrasts with that of South Carolina's is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will guide you through weather patterns, from average temperatures and humidity to the frequency of natural disasters, ensuring you know exactly what to expect in your new home.

Summer icon
82°F / 63°F

Iowa

91°F / 71°F

South Carolina

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F / 14°F

Iowa

60°F / 38°F

South Carolina

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Iowa

49.8

South Carolina

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
32

Iowa

2

South Carolina

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIowaSouth Carolina
Air QualityGoodGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, Severe SnowstormsHurricanes, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Iowa and South Carolina share some weather traits, like good air quality and common allergens, there are stark differences to prepare for, especially when it comes to seasonal climates. Iowa's winters are significantly colder, with average lows dipping to 14°F, compared to South Carolina's milder 38°F. Conversely, South Carolinian summers are warmer and more humid, which can take some adjustment for those used to milder climates. Besides temperature, natural disaster preparedness shifts from snowstorms and tornadoes in Iowa to hurricanes and flooding in South Carolina. Adapting to these changes will not only require a wardrobe update but also a new mindset towards home maintenance and weather preparedness.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Iowa to South Carolina

When planning a move from one state to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might shift. This comparison is designed to illuminate the differences in cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities between Iowa and South Carolina, equipping you with the insights needed to make an informed relocation decision.

ComparisonIowaSouth Carolina
Avg. Household Income$69,588$64,115
Cost of Living Index95.996.85
State Income Tax0.33 - 8.530 - 7
Avg. Property Tax1.530.57
Avg. Sales Tax6.87.46
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Manufacturing, FinanceManufacturing, Tourism, Agriculture
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyLowHigher
HomelessnessLowLow

Moving from Iowa to South Carolina, you'll notice subtle but important differences in economic landscapes. Your income might stretch slightly further in South Carolina due to its marginally lower cost of living index. However, bear in mind the average household income also tends to be lower. The difference in state income tax rates could favor South Carolina, especially for higher earners. Property taxes are notably lower in South Carolina, which can be a significant advantage if you're planning to buy a home. But, remember to factor in the slightly higher sales tax. The shift in dominant industries could also impact your career opportunities, depending on your profession.

Iowa vs. South Carolina Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Iowa to South Carolina brings a shift not just in landscape but also in the political and religious makeup comparing Iowa & South Carolina. This comparison aims to provide you with a quick snapshot of the political leanings and religious affiliations predominant in each state.

IowaSouth Carolina
Political Make-upMixed; swings in national electionsConservative, leaning Republican
Local PoliticsVaries widely between rural and urban areasStrongly conservative, especially in rural areas
ReligionProtestant, CatholicProtestant, with a strong Evangelical presence

When moving from Iowa to South Carolina, you'll notice several differences in the societal fabric. Iowa's political landscape is quite mixed, with rural areas tending towards conservatism and urban areas being more liberal. This makes for a state that can swing in national elections. In contrast, South Carolina has a strong conservative and Republican influence across the state, with an especially pronounced presence in its rural areas. Religion plays a significant role in both states, yet in South Carolina, there's a notable emphasis on Protestant and Evangelical traditions. This comparison sheds light on the diverse political and religious environments you're transitioning between.

Education Guide When Moving from Iowa to South Carolina

When considering a move from Iowa to South Carolina, one critical factor to consider is the education system. This comparison aims to help you better understand the differences between school options in Iowa and South Carolina, ensuring you can make the best decision for your family's educational needs.

IowaSouth Carolina

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Iowa
Iowa State University
University of Northern Iowa
University of South Carolina
Clemson University
College of Charleston

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Wickham Elementary (Coralville)
Lincoln Elementary (Mount Vernon)
Shimek Elementary (Iowa City)
Buist Academy (Charleston)
Mount Pleasant Academy (Mount Pleasant)
Mitchell Road Elementary (Greenville)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Ames Middle School (Ames)
Northwest Junior High (Coralville)
North Central Junior High (North Liberty)
Thomas C. Cario Middle School (Mount Pleasant)
Moultrie Middle School (Mount Pleasant)
Riverside Middle School (Greer)

Top 3 High Schools

West High School (Iowa City)
Ames High School (Ames)
Decorah High School (Decorah)
Academic Magnet High School (North Charleston)
Charleston County School of the Arts (North Charleston)
Wando High School (Mount Pleasant)

Top 3 private high schools

Xavier High School (Cedar Rapids)
Dowling Catholic High School (West Des Moines)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Porter-Gaud School (Charleston)
Hammond School (Columbia)
Christ Church Episcopal School (Greenville)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Maharishi School (Fairfield)
Cedar Valley Christian School (Cedar Rapids)
Scattergood Friends School (West Branch)
Hilton Head Preparatory School (Hilton Head Island)
Spartanburg Day School (Spartanburg)
Hammond School (Columbia)

Top 3 School Districts

Iowa City Community School District
Ames Community School District
Decorah Community School District
Greenville County School District
Charleston County School District
Lexington 1 School District

While both Iowa and South Carolina offer outstanding educational institutions, there are distinctions in their offerings that might influence your decision. For instance, the top universities where most seniors pursue higher education reflect the states' strong academic focuses, with Iowa leaning towards state universities and South Carolina offering both public and historic universities like the College of Charleston. Similarly, in terms of K-12 education, Iowa's Iowa City Community School District is renowned for its academic excellence and innovative programs, while South Carolina's Greenville County School District is the largest district in the state, known for its diversity and a wide range of educational programs. This comparison underscores the different strengths and opportunities provided by each state's education system, paving the way for a more informed decision based on your family's educational priorities.

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