Best Montana to South Dakota Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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MT to SD Moving Specialists

Embarking on a state-to-state move is not just a change of scenery; it's an exciting journey into a new phase of your life. From the rugged, picturesque landscapes of "The Treasure State" to the rolling prairies and historical landmarks of "The Mount Rushmore State," you're transitioning between two of America's most storied regions. Understanding the importance of this move, we stress the necessity of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your belongings arrive safely, making your transition as smooth as possible.

Montana iconArrow iconSouth Dakota icon

Best Montana to South Dakota Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Dial-A-Move Inc.8.94A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck8.91A+Authorized For HHGContact
Moving On Up8.81NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
On The Move LLC8.52NRActiveContact
A Team Moving and Storage8.30NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck8.25NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from South Dakota to Montana guide.

6 Best MT to SD Moving Companies

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

Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo
Superb8.94/10
based on 483+ data points

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 of af...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving options
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/6/2024)

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
1
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb8.91/10
based on 843+ data points

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 its Sioux Fa...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

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

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
2
M
Superb8.81/10
based on 214+ data points

About Moving On Up

Moving On Up is a Montana-based moving company that specializes in providing reliable, honest, and efficient moving services to its customer...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3890213 / 1487675

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
On The Move LLC Logo
Fabulous8.52/10
based on 293+ data points

About On The Move LLC

On The Move LLC provides excellent moving services throughout Southwest Montana, including Belgrade, Big Sky, Livingston, Paradise Valley, T...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Packing Help

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2399161 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
A Team Moving and Storage Logo
Very Good8.30/10
based on 186+ data points

About A Team Moving and Storage

A-Team Moving and Storage is a family-owned moving company in Marion, MT, offering comprehensive relocation services. With over 70 years of ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/6/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2376754 / 815908

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers24
Total Annual Miles Moved318,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Very Good8.25/10
based on 174+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a national, full-service moving company that has been in business for over 35 years. They offer comprehensive home an...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Junk Removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/6/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3818801 / 1381093

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved75,000 (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 Montana to South Dakota

Moving can be a significant life decision, often filled with excitement and anxiety in equal measure. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of moving from Montana to South Dakota , highlighting the good and bad aspects of such a relocation. Understanding these differences will help you make a more informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Montana iconMontana
  • Colder winters
  • Less tax relief
  • Smaller cities
  • Less job diversity
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Milder winters
  • No state income tax
  • Larger city options
  • More job opportunities
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Less public land
  • Fewer state parks
  • More urbanized
  • Larger populations
Montana iconMontana
  • Vast wilderness
  • Rich in parks
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Close-knit communities

Moving from the sprawling wilderness of Montana to South Dakota presents a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. Montana's vast wilderness, such as the iconic Glacier National Park and the serene settings of Flathead Lake, offer unparalleled outdoor experiences that are harder to find in the less expansive public lands of South Dakota. However, South Dakota, with attractions like Badlands National Park and the historical city of Deadwood, provides its own unique landscapes and stories. The transition may mean adapting to more urbanized centers, like Sioux Falls or Rapid City, which offer a greater diversity of job opportunities and amenities. This includes an array of restaurants, such as Minervas in Sioux Falls, known for its steak and seafood, or the local favorite Firehouse Brewing Company in Rapid City, which combines handcrafted beers with live entertainment. The change in scenery doesn't mean a loss of community or natural beauty but rather a shift in the type of lifestyle and opportunities available.

Montana vs. South Dakota Food Guide

Understanding local cuisine is vital to grasping the essence of a region's culture and lifestyle. Through this guide, we aim to enrich your transitioning experience by comparing the local cuisine between Montana & South Dakota, highlighting the differences and unique flavors each state has to offer, so you can savor the local food scene of your new home.

MontanaSouth Dakota
Most iconic local food itemHuckleberry PieChislic
Most popular meat dishBison steakPheasant
Most popular street food itemElk burgersIndian tacos
Most popular vegan foodWild rice and mushroom pilafLentil stew
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • 2nd Street Bistro
  • Cattlemen's Cut Supper Club
  • Uptown Cafe
  • Phillips Avenue Diner
  • Minervas
  • Queen City Bakery
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Montana, you'll find a love for huckleberries that transcends simple pie, with local artisans incorporating them into jams, jellies, and even savory dishes. The state's restaurants, like the acclaimed 2nd Street Bistro, offer a taste of this local favorite alongside hearty comfort foods like bison steak, showcasing Montana's rich agricultural heritage. On the other hand, South Dakota prides itself on Chislic, cubes of deep-fried meat, often found at local fairs and eateries like the Phillips Avenue Diner. South Dakota's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural influences, especially in dishes like Indian tacos that combine Native American culinary traditions with contemporary flavors. Both states offer rich, albeit distinct, food experiences that reflect their cultural and geographic uniqueness.

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Montana vs. South Dakota Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating; understanding how Montana and South Dakota compare in terms of housing can greatly influence your decision. This comparison aims to spotlight cost, architectural styles, and lifestyle nuances between the two states.

ComparisonMontanaSouth Dakota
Typical Architecture StyleRustic, MountainSuburban, Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingScenic views, PrivacyFamily-friendly, Affordable

Moving between states involves more than just comparing numbers; it's about finding the lifestyle fit for you. Montana’s higher home prices are often attributed to its scenic landscapes and the predominance of expansive properties that appeal to those seeking privacy and a connection with nature. In contrast, South Dakota offers a more economical housing market, making it an attractive choice for families looking for affordability without sacrificing the sense of community. Its slightly higher walkability and bikeability scores suggest a bit more convenience for daily errands and commuting. Reflecting on these aspects will help you align your residential needs with what each state can best offer.

Montana vs. South Dakota Weather Considerations

Making the move from Montana to South Dakota? Understanding the differences in climate and weather is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide compares essential weather characteristics to help you adjust. Weather comparison charts highlight key differences and similarities between Montana and South Dakota, ensuring you know what to expect in your new home.

Summer icon
82°F / 45°F

Montana

85°F / 60°F

South Dakota

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F / 10°F

Montana

29°F / 12°F

South Dakota

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15

Montana

23

South Dakota

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
84

Montana

39

South Dakota

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMontanaSouth Dakota
Air QualityGoodGood
Natural DisastersWildfires, FloodsFloods, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

If you're contemplating a move from Montana to South Dakota, you'll notice a marked change in the climate. South Dakota enjoys more sunny days annually, which could mean more opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Despite similar average UV index ratings, the increased sunshine does require a heightened awareness of sun protection. Also, South Dakota generally experiences less snow but more rainfall than Montana, influencing everything from daily life decisions to agricultural practices. Every region has its natural disaster risks; while Montana faces wildfires, South Dakota is more prone to tornadoes. Adapting to these conditions requires preparation and awareness.

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

When considering a move from Montana to South Dakota, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and overall financial health might differ. This comparison aims to shed light on these important aspects, presenting a clearer financial picture for potential movers.

ComparisonMontanaSouth Dakota
Avg. Household Income$67,631$69,728
Cost of Living Index99.494.1
State Income Tax6.90
Avg. Property Tax0.831.22
Avg. Sales Tax04.5
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Tourism, TimberFinance, Retail Trade, Health Care
AffluenceModerateModerate to High
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessModerateLow

Although the average household income is slightly higher in South Dakota compared to Montana, South Dakota boasts a 0% state income tax, potentially offering you more net income. However, this is balanced by a higher average property tax rate in South Dakota than in Montana. Additionally, South Dakota's cost of living index is marginally lower, which, combined with no state income tax, may leave you with more disposable income. The top industries in South Dakota—finance, retail trade, and healthcare—reflect a diversely growing economy, potentially offering varied job opportunities compared to Montana's agriculture, tourism, and timber-focused economy. Understanding these factors can significantly influence your financial planning and quality of life in your new state.

Montana vs. South Dakota Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Montana to South Dakota, it’s helpful to get a quick snapshot of the differences in the communities you’ll be joining. This guide offers a brief comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Montana & South Dakota , providing insights into what you might expect when making this transition.

MontanaSouth Dakota
Political Make-upMixed; leans RepublicanStrongly Republican
Local PoliticsCommunity-oriented, outdoor-focusedAgricultural interests, conservative policies
ReligionChristianity predominant, with a diverse range of practicesChristianity predominant, Evangelical & Catholic strongholds

In moving from Montana to South Dakota, you'll find the political environment shifts noticeably towards a stronger Republican presence, directly impacting local policies and community priorities. Both states pride themselves on community values and outdoorsman lifestyles, though South Dakota tends to have a more agricultural focus. Religiously, both states are predominantly Christian, but South Dakota showcases a strong influence of Evangelical and Catholic traditions that shape cultural events and community programs. These aspects collectively paint a picture of the local life waiting for you in South Dakota.

Education Guide When Moving from Montana to South Dakota

To better understand what the comparisons are between school options in moving from Montana to South Dakota, this guide provides a clear picture of the educational landscape in both states. It will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision whether you're a parent deciding on the best schooling options for your children or a student pondering over colleges.

MontanaSouth Dakota

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Montana
Montana State University
Carroll College
South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Hawthorne Elementary School (Bozeman)
Chief Joseph Elementary School (Bozeman)
Cold Springs Elementary School (Missoula)
Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Fred Assam Elementary (Sioux Falls)
Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Sacajawea Middle School (Bozeman)
Lewis & Clark Middle School (Billings)
Washington Middle School (Missoula)
George S. Mickelson Middle School (Brookings)
Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Edison Middle School (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 High School Schools

Bozeman High School (Bozeman)
Hellgate High School (Missoula)
Sentinel High School (Missoula)
Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Washington High School (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 private high schools

Billings Central Catholic High School (Billings)
Loyola Sacred Heart High School (Missoula)
Great Falls Central Catholic High School (Great Falls)
O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Aberdeen Roncalli High School (Aberdeen)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Missoula International School (Missoula)
Bozeman Field School (Bozeman)
Petra Academy (Bozeman)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Aberdeen Roncalli (Aberdeen)
Holy Spirit School (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 School Districts

Bozeman School District
Billings School District
Missoula School District
Sioux Falls School District
Brookings School District
Harrisburg School District

When comparing the educational landscapes of Montana to South Dakota, both states showcase a range of high-quality educational institutions from elementary level to higher education. For instance, Montana's University of Montana and South Dakota's South Dakota State University are renowned for their comprehensive educational programs and state-of-the-art research facilities. Similarly, on the school district front, Bozeman School District in Montana is known for its student-focused services and innovative programs, much like the Sioux Falls School District in South Dakota. Such comparisons are crucial for families and students to consider when planning a move, ensuring they can continue or embark on an enriching educational journey.

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