Best South Dakota to Minnesota Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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SD to MN Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state heralds an exhilarating chapter in your life, filled with new possibilities and adventures. As you transition from South Dakota's rugged beauty and the Great Faces, Great Places motto, to Minnesota's Land of 10,000 Lakes, welcoming community spirit, and bustling Twin Cities, the shift is not just about changing landscapes but also about embracing a new cultural tapestry. To ensure this significant transition is smooth, we underscore the importance of entrusting your move to reliable and trusted professionals, leveraging our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving to connect you with the best movers suited for your long-distance journey.

South Dakota iconArrow iconMinnesota icon

Best South Dakota to Minnesota Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Metro Movers9.50NRAuthorized For HHGContact
General Expert Moving Service LLC9.28NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Dial-A-Move Inc.8.94A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck8.91A+Authorized For HHGContact
Dial-A-Move8.28A+Authorized For HHGContact
The Moving Guys, LLC8.09NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Minnesota to South Dakota guide.

6 Best SD to MN Moving Companies

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

Metro Movers Logo
Exceptional9.50/10
based on 1,008+ data points

About Metro Movers

Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared vision...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Business Moving
  • Long Distance Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3263274 / 1029026

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2022)
View Full Review
1
General Expert Moving Service LLC Logo
Exceptional9.28/10
based on 528+ data points

About General Expert Moving Service LLC

General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup truck back ...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2846187 / 1285395

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers24
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2024)
View Full Review
2
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 10/18/2024)

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 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2575221 / 904586

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved170,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Dial-A-Move Logo
Very Good8.28/10
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
Good8.09/10
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 10/18/2024)

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 Minnesota

Moving from South Dakota to Minnesota is a significant life event that brings about changes, both challenging and rewarding. This comparison aims to give a balanced view by honestly reflecting the pros and cons of relocating from South Dakota to Minnesota, helping you make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Harsher winters
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Smaller population
  • Less natural lakes
Minnesota iconMinnesota
  • Milder winters
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • More job opportunities
  • Larger, vibrant communities
  • Land of 10,000 lakes
Minnesota iconMinnesota
  • Higher cost of living
  • More crowded
  • Higher taxes
  • Adjustment to new community
  • Fiercer competition for activities
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Lower cost of living
  • Wide open spaces
  • Lower taxes
  • Strong sense of community
  • Abundant outdoor activities

Moving to Minnesota opens up a plethora of cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities. In cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul, you'll find a vibrant scene filled with renowned establishments such as the Walker Art Center and the bustling Nicollet Mall. From exploring the natural beauty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area to enjoying a prolific variety of restaurants like those in the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District, there's an endless list of new experiences awaiting you. Meanwhile, South Dakota's serene landscapes and close-knit communities provide a peaceful living environment that some might miss after relocating. This contrast of lifestyles between the two states emphasizes the diverse opportunities and challenges one faces when moving from the wide-open spaces of South Dakota to the lake-dotted and culturally rich state of Minnesota.

South Dakota vs. Minnesota Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Minnesota aims to help you get acquainted with the food scene of your new home. Food deeply reflects the local culture and living experience, enabling a smoother transition.

South DakotaMinnesota
Most iconic local food itemChislicHotdish
Most popular meat dishBison steakWalleye fish fry
Most popular street food itemIndian TacosJucy Lucy burger
Most popular vegan foodWild rice soupVegan Wild Rice Soup
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving to Minnesota, you'll exchange the traditional chislic of South Dakota for the comforting embrace of a hearty hotdish. The food scene in Minnesota particularly shines with its abundance of food trucks and a vibrant foodie culture, evident in neighborhoods like Uptown Minneapolis and the North Loop. Here, you can relish in local favorites like the Walleye fish fry and explore vegan options with a local twist, such as the Vegan Wild Rice Soup. Not to mention, iconic eats like the Jucy Lucy burger await you at Matt's Bar, offering a taste that's uniquely Minnesotan.

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South Dakota vs. Minnesota Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, the comparison of real estate aspects between South Dakota and Minnesota is crucial. Housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle significantly influence your decision-making, ensuring that your new home fits your needs and preferences perfectly.

ComparisonSouth DakotaMinnesota
Typical Architecture StyleRanch, CraftsmanColonial, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge lots, Quiet streetsLakeside access, Urban conveniences

Delving deeper into the specifics, South Dakota's housing market is characterized by more affordable median home prices and rents, which might suit your budget better if affordability is a priority for you. The state's preference for Ranch and Craftsman architectural styles reflects its appreciation for space and classic American designs. Despite scoring lower in walkability and bikeability, South Dakota offers a calm and spacious environment for those who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle. On the other hand, Minnesota offers a different set of attractions. With slightly higher housing costs, it compensates with its Colonial and Modern architectural styles, higher walkability, and bikeability scores, catering to those who value an urban lifestyle. Minnesota's real estate listings frequently highlight lakeside access and proximity to urban conveniences, appealing to individuals and families seeking a balance between nature and city living.

South Dakota vs. Minnesota Weather Considerations

When considering a move from South Dakota to Minnesota, it's crucial to understand how the weather will compare between these two states. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for the changes and make your transition smoother. This comparison will shed light on the different weather patterns you might experience.

Summer icon
85°F / 60°F

South Dakota

83°F / 63°F

Minnesota

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F / 10°F

South Dakota

24°F / 7°F

Minnesota

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22

South Dakota

30

Minnesota

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
39

South Dakota

55

Minnesota

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSouth DakotaMinnesota
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, BlizzardsTornadoes, Blizzards, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from South Dakota to Minnesota, you'll notice some differences and similarities in the weather patterns. Minnesota experiences slightly cooler temperatures in both summer and winter, highlighting the importance of being prepared for more frigid winters. Despite having fewer days of sunshine, Minnesota has higher annual rainfall and snowfall, which could impact your day-to-day life, especially if you're not accustomed to heavier snow. Both states share commonalities such as the top seasonal allergies being pollen and mold, indicating that if you have allergies, your experience may be similar in either state. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt more easily to Minnesota's climate.

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

Moving from one location to another involves many changes, and understanding how your finances will be impacted is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp the cost of living, taxes, and overall economic health when moving from South Dakota to Minnesota , highlighting significant financial considerations.

ComparisonSouth DakotaMinnesota
Avg. Household Income$69,728$82,338
Cost of Living Index94.198.75
State Income Tax05.35 - 9.85
Avg. Property Tax1.221.08
Avg. Sales Tax4.56.875
Top 3 IndustriesAgriculture, Finance & Insurance, Retail TradeManufacturing, Agriculture, Health Care & Social Assistance
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyLowerLower
HomelessnessLowerModerate

When considering a move from South Dakota to Minnesota, you'll notice several key differences in the economic landscape. Minnesota's average household income is notably higher, which is accommodating to the higher cost of living index in the state. However, this increase in living cost is balanced by a broader range of job opportunities in sectors like manufacturing and healthcare, which are prominent in Minnesota. Also, the presence of state income tax in Minnesota as opposed to none in South Dakota is an important factor to consider when budgeting for your move. Despite these differences, both states portray a relatively lower level of poverty, indicating that they are conducive environments for a stable living condition.

South Dakota vs. Minnesota Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between South Dakota & Minnesota provides a quick glance at the political and religious landscape of both states. Understanding these factors can help you get a sense of what to expect in your new home.

South DakotaMinnesota
Political Make-upLean ConservativeLean Liberal
Local PoliticsRepublican DominanceDemocratic Strongholds in Urban Areas
ReligionChristian MajorityChristian Majority with Diverse Religious Communities

When moving from South Dakota to Minnesota, you'll find a shift in the political climate, from a state that leans conservative to one that leans liberal, especially in urban areas like Minneapolis and Saint Paul. This can influence local policies and community initiatives that affect daily life. Additionally, while both states have a Christian majority, Minnesota offers a broader diversity in religious communities, including larger Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu populations, enriching the state's cultural fabric. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate and connect with your new community.

Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Minnesota

When planning to move from South Dakota to Minnesota, it’s essential for families to compare educational opportunities. This guide aims to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in South Dakota and Minnesota , helping you make an informed decision for your children’s education.

South DakotaMinnesota

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of South Dakota
South Dakota State University
Dakota State University
University of Minnesota
Minnesota State University
University of St. Thomas

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Endeavor Elem (Harrisburg)
Discovery Elem (Sioux Falls)
Deephaven Elementary (Minnetonka)
Greenwood Elementary (Plymouth)
Excelsior Elementary (Excelsior)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Edison Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Whittier Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Wayzata Central Middle School (Plymouth)
Minnetonka Middle School East (Minnetonka)
Eden Prairie Central Middle School (Eden Prairie)

Top 3 High Schools

Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Edina High School (Edina)
Minnetonka High School (Minnetonka)
Wayzata High School (Plymouth)

Top 3 private high schools

O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls)
Great Plains Lutheran (Watertown)
Breck School (Golden Valley)
The Blake School (Minneapolis)
St. Paul Academy and Summit School (St. Paul)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls)
Great Plains Lutheran (Watertown)
Roncalli Catholic Schools (Aberdeen)
Breck School (Golden Valley)
The Blake School (Minneapolis)
Marshall School (Duluth)

Top 3 School Districts

Sioux Falls School District
Harrisburg School District
Aberdeen School District
Wayzata Public Schools
Minnetonka Public School District
Edina Public Schools

In both South Dakota and Minnesota, families have access to a range of public and private educational institutions renowned for their quality. Notably, Minnesota offers a slightly more diverse selection of highly regarded private schools, such as Breck School in Golden Valley and The Blake School in Minneapolis, which are also notable for their K-12 programs. On the side of higher education, Minnesota showcases a strong presence of esteemed universities, including the flagship University of Minnesota, offering a wider array of programs and research opportunities compared to South Dakota's most attended institutions like the University of South Dakota. This comparison suggests that Minnesota might offer a broader range of educational opportunities, especially for those looking for extensive private schooling options and strong university programs.

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