Best South Dakota to Alaska Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from one state to another is not just a relocation; it's an exhilarating journey into a new phase of your life. Imagine trading the rolling prairies and iconic Mount Rushmore of South Dakota for the vast wilderness and majestic mountains of Alaska, the Last Frontier. To ensure this adventure begins on the right foot, it's crucial to entrust your move to professional movers who've earned their reputation as the best in the business through our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving.
Best South Dakota to Alaska Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dial-A-Move Inc. | 8.92 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Two Men and a Truck | 8.91 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Dial-A-Move | 8.25 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| The Moving Guys, LLC | 8.06 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| The Moving Man | 7.80 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. | 6.93 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alaska to South Dakota guide.
6 Best SD to AK Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
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
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 b...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving options
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
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 commu...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...Read More >>
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
About Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.
Having been in the vehicle transportation business since 1951, Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. is a pioneer in the industry in Alaska. With te...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
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.
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 Alaska
Moving involves weighing both the advantages and disadvantages of your new and old homes. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from South Dakota to Alaska, highlighting the unique aspects of each location to help you understand what you're leaving behind and what awaits you in your new home.
South Dakota- Harsh winters
- Less diverse wildlife
- Smaller population
- Less seafood
- Flat landscapes
Alaska- Stunning landscapes
- Rich wildlife
- Larger communities
- Fresh seafood abundance
- Vast forests and mountains
Alaska- Higher expenses
- Can be isolating
- Limited urban areas
- Less farming focus
- Remote locations
South Dakota- Lower cost of living
- Quieter lifestyle
- Extensive rural areas
- Strong agricultural community
- Easy road travels
While South Dakota might offer a quieter lifestyle with an emphasis on agriculture, moving to Alaska opens up a new chapter filled with larger communities and stunning landscapes that are unlike anywhere else in the United States. In Alaska, you can look forward to exploring lush forests, towering mountains, and getting up close with a diverse range of wildlife. For seafood lovers, Anchorage's restaurants offer some of the freshest catches you'll find. Meanwhile, the city of Juneau presents a blend of modern living amidst incredible natural beauty, from the Mendenhall Glacier to the vibrant arts scene. Despite the potential challenges such as higher living expenses and more remote locations, the unique experiences awaiting in Alaska can make the move a truly rewarding adventure.
South Dakota vs. Alaska Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Alaska, highlighting the importance of food as a part of local culture and living experience. By comparing these two locations, you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| South Dakota | Alaska | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Chislic | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Bison steak | King crab legs |
| Most popular street food item | Indian tacos | Reindeer sausage |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa salad | Seaweed salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In South Dakota, chislic—a simple, delicious deep-fried meat dish—has become the state's iconic food. You can find this savory bite most prominently in local bars and restaurants, especially in the eastern parts of the state. On the other hand, Alaska's rich seafood tradition is highlighted by its salmon dishes, found across various establishments, from upscale restaurants like Simon & Seafort's in Anchorage to quaint eateries in more remote areas. Alaska also offers unique street food, with reindeer sausage being a must-try for those interested in experiencing local flavors. For those moving to Alaska, exploring Anchorage's food scene, from the Glacier Brewhouse to the array of food trucks serving fresh, seafood-centric fare, is an excellent introduction to what the state has to offer culinary wise.
Ready to start your move?
South Dakota vs. Alaska Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal factor when considering a relocation. Understanding how the housing markets of South Dakota and Alaska compare can significantly impact your moving decision. This comparison will highlight key differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle to aid in your planning.
| Comparison | South Dakota | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch | Log Cabins, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Proximity to parks | Natural scenery, Proximity to wildlife |
When relocating from South Dakota to Alaska, you'll notice significant differences in housing characteristics and lifestyle. In Alaska, the median home price is higher, reflecting the unique challenges of building and maintaining properties in its harsher climate. However, this cost comes with the undeniable benefit of living amidst stunning natural scenery, frequently highlighted in real estate listings. Alaskan homes, often log cabins or modern takes on rustic designs, are tailored to withstand these conditions. Despite a lower walkability score, the access to unparalleled outdoor experiences compensates for urban conveniences that might be more accessible in South Dakota. The varied landscape of South Dakota offers its own charms, with ranch-style homes epitomizing the regional architecture and spacious yards, emphasizing a more open, accessible lifestyle. Both states offer distinctive living experiences shaped by their geography and culture, making them unique places to call home.
South Dakota vs. Alaska Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in South Dakota will compare to Alaska. This comparison will help you anticipate seasonal changes and prepare accordingly.
South Dakota
Alaska
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
South Dakota
Alaska
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
South Dakota
Alaska
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
South Dakota
Alaska
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | South Dakota | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Varies by region, generally good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from South Dakota to Alaska, you'll experience a significant shift, not only in temperature but also in the number of sunlight days. With Alaska's longer winters and shorter summers, the average high temperatures are notably lower, especially during the summer months. Additionally, while both states experience their share of natural disasters, it's essential to prepare for earthquakes and volcanic activity in Alaska, contrasting with the tornadoes and blizzards common in South Dakota. The wide range in annual rainfall and snowfall in Alaska also suggests a need for adaptability, depending on the specific region you choose to settle in.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from South Dakota to Alaska
When considering a move from one region to another, grasping the financial implications is vital. This comparison aims to simplify the financial transition by illuminating the differences in living costs and economic conditions between South Dakota and Alaska. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare adequately for your new life.
| Comparison | South Dakota | Alaska |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,728 | $88,121 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94.1 | 132.6 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.22 | 1.19 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 4.5 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Finance and Healthcare | Oil and Gas, Fishing, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Lower |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
Moving from South Dakota to Alaska, you can expect a significant shift in your cost of living due to Alaska's higher index. Despite both states having a 0% state income tax, Alaska's higher average household income is pivotal when considering its higher cost of living. Interestingly, Alaska bucks the trend with a 0% average sales tax, potentially offsetting some expenses, unlike South Dakota's 4.5%. The major economic drivers in each state reflect unique ecological and geographical advantages, influencing employment opportunities and lifestyle. While both regions exhibit lower poverty rates, Alaska's moderate homelessness level compared to South Dakota's low level is an aspect to consider when planning your move.
South Dakota vs. Alaska Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick comparison of the political and religious makeup between South Dakota & Alaska . It provides a snapshot to help understand the diverse characteristics of your new neighbors, and what local issues might resonate most.
| South Dakota | Alaska | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Independent-leaning with Conservative tendencies |
| Local Politics | Emphasis on agriculture and rural development | Focus on natural resources and indigenous rights |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian with Lutheran and Catholic majorities | Diverse, with significant Orthodox Christian, Protestant, and indigenous spiritual practices |
In transitioning from South Dakota to Alaska, you'll find distinct shifts in the political landscape and social fabric. South Dakota's politics revolve significantly around agricultural and rural community interests, reflecting its landlocked, Midwestern position. In contrast, Alaska's political scene is heavily influenced by its natural resources, indigenous populations' rights, and strategic geographic positioning. While both states have a solid Christian presence, Alaska presents a much more diverse religious tapestry, including a notable percentage of residents who follow indigenous spiritual practices or no religion at all. Understanding these nuances will help you quickly feel more at home in your new Alaskan community.
Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Alaska
Making a move from South Dakota to Alaska is a big step, especially if you're considering the educational opportunities for yourself or your children. To help you make an informed decision, we've created a comparison chart. The purpose of this chart is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in South Dakota and Alaska.
| South Dakota | Alaska |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) South Dakota State University University of South Dakota Dakota State UniversityUniversity of Alaska Anchorage University of Alaska Fairbanks Alaska Pacific University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Discovery Elementary - Sioux Falls Fred Assam Elementary - Sioux Falls Endeavor Elementary - HarrisburgBayshore Elementary - Anchorage Northern Lights ABC School - Anchorage Watershed Charter School - Fairbanks | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Patrick Henry Middle School - Sioux Falls George S. Mickelson Middle School - Brookings East Middle School - Rapid CityMears Middle School - Anchorage Mirror Lake Middle School - Chugiak Romig Middle School - Anchorage | |
Top 3 High Schools Lincoln High School - Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School - Sioux Falls Brookings High School - BrookingsWest High School - Anchorage South Anchorage High School - Anchorage Dimond High School - Anchorage | |
Top 3 private high schools O'Gorman High School - Sioux Falls Sioux Falls Christian Schools - Sioux Falls Aberdeen Roncalli High School - AberdeenAnchorage Christian Schools - Anchorage Grace Christian School - Anchorage Monroe Catholic High School - Fairbanks | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Sioux Falls Christian Schools - Sioux Falls Aberdeen Christian School - Aberdeen Mitchell Christian School - MitchellPacific Northern Academy - Anchorage Birchwood Christian School - Chugiak Lumen Christi High School - Anchorage | |
Top 3 School Districts Sioux Falls School District Harrisburg School District Brookings School DistrictAnchorage School District Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District Fairbanks North Star Borough School District | |
Transitioning between states with distinct educational systems, such as South Dakota and Alaska, may initially seem daunting. However, exploring the highly-rated schools in both locations can provide some peace of mind. For example, the University of Alaska Anchorage offers unique opportunities, particularly in marine biology and environmental science, reflecting Alaska's rich natural resources and diverse ecosystems. In South Dakota, schools like South Dakota State University are known for strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and nursing, aligning with the state's predominant industries. Regardless of the shift, both states boast supportive educational environments conducive to fostering academic success and personal growth.
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