Best South Dakota to Arizona Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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SD to AZ Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. Leaving behind South Dakota's rolling prairies for Arizona's sun-kissed deserts can feel like embracing a whole new world, from the Badlands to the Grand Canyon. It's crucial, therefore, to entrust your journey to reliable professional movers, which is why we at Great Guys Moving apply our unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're supported by the best in the business for this significant transition.

South Dakota iconArrow iconArizona icon

Best South Dakota to Arizona Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Sterling Interstate LLC9.75A+Authorized For HHGContact
New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.32A+Authorized For PropertyContact
Dial-A-Move Inc.8.92A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck8.91A+Authorized For HHGContact
Dial-A-Move8.25A+Authorized For HHGContact
The Moving Guys, LLC8.06NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Arizona to South Dakota guide.

6 Best SD to AZ Moving Companies

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

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.75/10
based on 2,279+ data points

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo
Exceptional9.32/10
based on 991+ data points

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and h...Read More >>

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo
Superb8.92/10
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 12/18/2024)

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
3
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
4
Dial-A-Move Logo
Very Good8.25/10
based on 108+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

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
The Moving Guys, LLC Logo
Good8.06/10
based on 157+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3199241 / 160684

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved175,000 (2022)
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 South Dakota to Arizona

Moving from one state to another can be a major life decision filled with various factors to consider. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from South Dakota to Arizona , helping you weigh your options thoroughly. By examining the pros and cons side by side, you can make a more informed decision about your future home.

CONs
PROs
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Cold winters
  • Less urban amenities
  • Less diverse landscape
  • Smaller population
Arizona iconArizona
  • Warmer winters
  • More city life
  • Diverse geography
  • Larger, diverse communities
Arizona iconArizona
  • Busier, urban environments
  • Higher living costs
  • More anonymity in crowds
  • More traffic
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Quiet, rural landscapes
  • Lower living costs
  • Close-knit communities
  • Less traffic congestion

Relocating from South Dakota to Arizona brings about significant changes in lifestyle and environment. For instance, while South Dakota's rural landscapes offer a tranquil and quieter living, Arizona's diverse geography includes the vast beauty of the Grand Canyon, the urban excitement of Phoenix, and the serene deserts. This move could mean swapping snowy winters for Arizona's mild ones, enjoying outdoor activities year-round at places like Sedona's scenic trails or the bustling nightlife in Scottsdale. The cost of living might be higher in Arizona, but the state compensates with a rich variety of restaurants, such as Tucson's famous El Charro Café, and neighborhood parks like Phoenix's Encanto Park, providing a vibrant community life that may appeal to those seeking more urban amenities.

South Dakota vs. Arizona Food Guide

When you're relocating, understanding the local culture is crucial, and food plays a significant role in that. Here, we'll dive into a comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Arizona to help you get a taste of what life will be like in your new home.

South DakotaArizona
Most iconic local food itemChislicSonoran Hot Dog
Most popular meat dishBison steakCarne asada
Most popular street food itemFried doughTacos
Most popular vegan foodLentil stewVegan tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Cattleman's Club Steakhouse
  • Minervas
  • Phillips Avenue Diner
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • El Charro Café
  • FnB
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving to Arizona, you're entering a vibrant food scene highlighted by the iconic Sonoran Hot Dog, a delicious twist on the American classic, often found in food trucks and diners throughout the state, especially in neighborhoods like downtown Phoenix and Tucson. The state's love for carne asada showcases its rich culinary influence from Mexico, promising your palate a diverse array of flavors. Arizona's food scene is highly rated for its vegan options, like innovative vegan tacos available at many restaurants around Phoenix and Scottsdale. The abundance of food trucks and health-conscious eateries in Arizona reflects a community that values both taste and well-being.

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South Dakota vs. Arizona Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate aspects between South Dakota and Arizona is crucial for making an informed decision. Understanding the differences in housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly impact your choice and help you adjust to your new surroundings efficiently.

ComparisonSouth DakotaArizona
Typical Architecture StyleRanchPueblo Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, GarageSwimming pools, Patios

Moving from South Dakota to Arizona, you'll notice significant changes in housing costs and lifestyles. Arizona's higher median home price and rent reflect its robust real estate market, influenced by picturesque landscapes and a more urban-centric lifestyle. The typical Pueblo Revival architecture in Arizona offers a unique aesthetic distinct from the ranch-style homes prevalent in South Dakota. The increased walkability and bikeability in Arizona cities like Phoenix and Tucson enhance the urban living experience, offering more opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement.

South Dakota vs. Arizona Weather Considerations

Moving from South Dakota to Arizona significantly changes your weather experience. Understanding the climate differences is crucial as you adapt to your new home. It makes preparing for the shifts in weather patterns, sunshine exposure, and potential natural disasters easier. This comparison outlines key aspects of the climate in both states, emphasizing the importance of adapting to your new environment.

Summer icon
85°F / 60°F

South Dakota

104°F / 81°F

Arizona

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F / 10°F

South Dakota

68°F / 44°F

Arizona

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23"

South Dakota

13"

Arizona

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
39"

South Dakota

0 - 25" (Varies by elevation)

Arizona

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSouth DakotaArizona
Air QualityGoodVaries (Moderate to Poor)
Natural DisastersBlizzards, TornadoesHeatwaves, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Understanding the weather differences between South Dakota and Arizona is essential for a smooth transition. Arizona's higher summer temperatures and increased sunshine days mean staying hydrated and applying sunscreen becomes a daily routine. The drastic reduction in humidity levels in Arizona compared to South Dakota can impact your skin and respiratory system, so prepare to moisturize more frequently and possibly use a humidifier. The switch from dealing with blizzards to navigating through heatwaves and floods requires a shift in your preparedness strategies, emphasizing the need for a different approach to seasonal challenges.

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

When considering a move from South Dakota to Arizona, it is crucial to weigh how your financial landscape might shift. This comparison aims to provide a clear understanding of the differences in living costs, taxes, and economic environments between these two states. Our comparison chart is designed to help you grasp the financial nuances of moving from South Dakota to Arizona , ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your financial well-being.

ComparisonSouth DakotaArizona
Avg. Household Income$69,728$74,568
Cost of Living Index94.1101.2
State Income Tax0%Up to 4.5%
Avg. Property Tax1.22%0.72%
Avg. Sales Tax4.5%8.4%
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Manufacturing, TourismHealthcare, Transportation, Aerospace
AffluenceModerateModerately high
PovertyLowHigh
HomelessnessLowModerate

While both South Dakota and Arizona offer their unique financial advantages, there are notable differences to consider. South Dakota's absence of a state income tax stands out, potentially offering a higher net income for the same salary. However, Arizona's higher average household income and somewhat higher cost of living reflect its diverse economy and dense urban centers. The jump in sales tax from South Dakota to Arizona is significant, affecting daily and large purchases alike. Additionally, the industries driving these economies differ greatly, which could influence job opportunities based on your career. Understanding these distinctions will enable you to better plan your finances and lifestyle in either state.

South Dakota vs. Arizona Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a quick snapshot to help you understand the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between South Dakota & Arizona . Explore what distinguishes the cultural and political climate of your current home from your new one.

South DakotaArizona
Political Make-upConservativeModerately Conservative
Local PoliticsState Legislature leans RepublicanState Legislature has a mix of Democratic and Republican influence
ReligionChristianity predominant, with a strong Protestant representationDiverse, with Christianity predominant but a significant proportion of non-religious residents

South Dakota tends to have more conservative viewpoints, particularly evident in its predominantly Republican state legislature. Meanwhile, Arizona exhibits a more mixed political landscape, where both Democratic and Republican influences are noticeable, making its political makeup more moderate. As for religious composition, both states have a Christian majority, but Arizona features greater religious diversity, including a higher percentage of non-religious individuals. This shift not only reflects in the political discussions but also in the cultural fabric of the communities you'll become a part of.

Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Arizona

Moving across states brings its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to education. To make this transition smoother, we've compiled a comparison between South Dakota and Arizona schools. The purpose of this chart is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in South Dakota and Arizona . This guide will give you a clearer picture of your options.

South DakotaArizona

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University
University of Arizona
Arizona State University
Northern Arizona University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls)
Fred Assam Elementary (Sioux Falls)
Basis Chandler (Chandler)
Knox Gifted Academy (Chandler)
Basis Oro Valley (Oro Valley)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Vermillion Middle School (Vermillion)
Mickelson Middle School (Brookings)
Basis Scottsdale (Scottsdale)
Basis Tucson North (Tucson)
Basis Chandler (Chandler)

Top 3 High Schools

Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Washington High School (Sioux Falls)
Basis Scottsdale (Scottsdale)
Basis Tucson North (Tucson)
Basis Peoria (Peoria)

Top 3 private high schools

O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls)
Roncalli High School (Aberdeen)
Brophy College Preparatory (Phoenix)
Xavier College Preparatory (Phoenix)
The Gregory School (Tucson)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Spearfish Classical Christian School (Spearfish)
Dakota Christian School (Corsica)
Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls)
Green Fields School (Tucson)
Rancho Solano Preparatory School (Scottsdale)
The Gregory School (Tucson)

Top 3 School Districts

Sioux Falls School District
Brookings School District
Yankton School District
Chandler Unified School District
Scottsdale Unified School District
Gilbert Public Schools

When considering the transition from South Dakota to Arizona, it's important to note the strengths in Arizona's educational offerings, especially in its charter schools such as Basis Scottsdale and Basis Tucson North, which consistently rank highly nationwide. Arizona's focus on choice in education allows for a variety of charter and private school options across all grade levels, providing numerous opportunities for students to excel in their academic pursuits. Whether your preferences lean toward public, charter, or private education, Arizona offers robust educational environments that cater to a wide array of learning preferences and needs.

How Much Does It Cost To Move From South Dakota to Arizona

It costs approximately $10,320 to move from South Dakota to Arizona. This includes roughly $3,680 in moving costs, $480 in travel related expenditures, $2,240 in housing expenses, $320 in administrative & legal fees, $440 in children's school related transition costs, $160 in miscellaneous expenses, $640 in post-move expenses, $560 in an emergency fund, and $1,800 in other job search/transition related costs.

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