Moving from South Dakota to Virginia?

6 Best SD to VA Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Moving from one state to another opens up a thrilling chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. As you transition from South Dakota's breathtaking Mount Rushmore and serene landscapes to Virginia's rich historical tapestry and vibrant community life, you're not just moving between states—you're embracing a whole new way of life. For such a significant journey, it's crucial to have trusted and reliable professional movers by your side, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transition. With Great Guys Moving, we take the guesswork out of finding the best movers, using an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with top-tier moving services for your long-distance move.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia to South Dakota guide.

6 Best South Dakota to Virginia Movers

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

#1
ARS Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,704+ data points

Herndon, VA
Local Moving (Residential Moving), Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving), Office Moving (Commercial Moving) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT: 3260258 Verify

About ARS Movers

ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>

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#2
A
Exceptional

based on 925+ data points

Hopewell, VA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 1293943 Verify

About A Change of Place Movers

The staff members at A Change of Place Movers are some of the most thoughtful, caring moving professionals you will ever meet. They genuinel...Read More >>

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#3
Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo
Superb

based on 483+ data points

Aberdeen, SD
Cheap moving options, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 885778 Verify

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 >>

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#4
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb

based on 843+ data points

Sioux Falls, SD
Local moving, Junk removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2575221 Verify

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 >>

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#5
Dial-A-Move Logo
Very Good

based on 108+ data points

Watertown, SD
Cheap moving options, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 885778 Verify

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 >>

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#6
The Moving Guys, LLC Logo
Very Good

based on 157+ data points

Rapid City, SD
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3199241 Verify

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 >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from South Dakota to Virginia

Moving from one state to another can be a daunting yet exciting endeavor. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from South Dakota to Virginia. By examining the pros and cons through tailored charts, you'll gain a clear perspective on what to expect from your new home in contrast to what you're leaving behind.

CONs
PROs
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Harsh winters
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Limited job market
  • Fewer entertainment options
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Milder winters
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Broader job market
  • More entertainment options
Virginia iconVirginia
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less open space
  • More traffic
  • Less community intimacy
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Lower cost of living
  • Vast natural landscapes
  • Less traffic
  • Strong community bonds

While moving from South Dakota to Virginia, you'll find that Virginia offers a wide array of cultural and entertainment options, from the iconic theaters and museums in Charlottesville to the vibrant restaurant scene in Richmond. Notable places such as the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts or the historic Colonial Williamsburg offer enriching experiences that are rare in South Dakota. However, this comes with the trade-off of a higher cost of living, especially in popular areas like Arlington and Alexandria. Additionally, Virginia's natural beauty, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, might offer less open space than South Dakota's vast landscapes but compensates with breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Nevertheless, the adjustment to more congested traffic, particularly in the Northern Virginia region, can be significant for those accustomed to South Dakota's quieter roads.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Virginia

Understanding the local cuisine is vital as food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll embark on a journey to compare the food scenes of two distinct locations. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Virginia, aimed at offering you a better picture of what culinary delights await you in your new home.

South DakotaVirginia

Most iconic local food item

ChislicVirginia Ham

Most popular meat dish

PheasantBarbecue

Most popular street food item

Indian TacosFood Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Wild Rice DishVegetable Grain Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

    • Minervas
    • Phillips Avenue Diner
    • Cattleman's Club Steakhouse
    • The Inn at Little Washington
    • L’Opossum
    • Mama 'Zu

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

69

Vegan Friendly

58

In South Dakota, chislic, a simple yet delicious fried meat dish, reigns supreme as the state's most iconic food item. In contrast, Virginia offers a rich history with its famous Virginia Ham, a staple you must try. Virginia is known for its vibrant food scene, particularly in trendy neighborhoods and cities like Richmond and Norfolk, where you'll find an array of vegan options and a pulsating food truck culture. The Inn at Little Washington, located in Virginia, is a notable restaurant that provides an unforgettable dining experience, highlighting the state's commitment to culinary excellence and innovation.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from South Dakota to Virginia

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. Here's a comparison to help you gauge how South Dakota and Virginia stack up in terms of housing , highlighting differences in costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle aspects.

Moving from South Dakota to Virginia, you'll find notable differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle. For instance, the higher median home price and rent in Virginia reflect its proximity to major urban centers and richer historical influences, offering Colonial and Craftsman styles. However, both states value outdoor space, seen through South Dakota's spacious yards and Virginia's appreciation for historic charm and accessibility to amenities. While South Dakota offers a more laid-back urban lifestyle with its ranch and split-level homes nestled among natural landscapes, Virginia provides a denser urban experience with better walkability and bikeability, perfect for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and urban convenience.

Weather Considerations for Moving from South Dakota to Virginia

Moving from one state to another can be a big adjustment, especially when it comes to the weather. It's vital to compare weather patterns and prepare for how they will impact your daily life moving between South Dakota and Virginia. This overview will help you understand the differences and similarities in climate you can expect.

Summer icon
85°F / 60°F

South Dakota

87°F / 67°F

Virginia

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F / 10°F

South Dakota

48°F / 29°F

Virginia

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
20-30"

South Dakota

40-45"

Virginia

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
30-40"

South Dakota

10-20"

Virginia

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from South Dakota to Virginia, you'll find Virginia's winters milder and the summers slightly more humid and warmer. While both states enjoy a roughly comparable number of sunny days, Virginia receives significantly more rainfall annually, which contributes to its lush landscapes. Notably, Virginia is prone to different natural disasters, including hurricanes and floods, as opposed to South Dakota's blizzards and tornadoes. This means you'll need to prepare for different emergency situations. Additionally, the increased humidity and pollen types in Virginia could affect those with allergies differently than in South Dakota. Understanding these differences will help you better adjust to your new environment.

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

When considering relocating from one state to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. Understand how the cost of living and economic factors of South Dakota and Virginia compare to ensure a smooth transition. This overview will help you anticipate changes in your expenditures and lifestyle.

Relocating from South Dakota to Virginia, you’ll notice differences in both income and expenses. Despite the higher average household income in Virginia, the cost of living is also greater, shaped by higher housing and living expenses. However, Virginia's broader employment opportunities in the technology and defense industries may offset these costs. While state income tax in Virginia varies, South Dakota enjoys a 0% income tax rate, which could be a significant adjustment. Each state presents a unique financial portrait, influenced by local industries and tax policies, which underscores the importance of planning your move carefully.

Political & Religious Comparison between South Dakota and Virginia

As you plan your move from South Dakota to Virginia, it's beneficial to understand the communities you'll be embracing. This comparison of the politics between South Dakota & Virginia provides a quick glance at the political and religious landscape, helping you prepare for the cultural shift.

South DakotaVirginia

Political Make-up

Lean conservativeSwing state, recently leaning Democratic

Local Politics

Rural interests dominateUrban and suburban interests more influential

Religion

High Protestant presenceDiverse religious landscape

If you're moving from South Dakota to Virginia, you'll find the political landscape quite different. South Dakota tends to have a conservative leaning heavily influenced by its rural makeup, where local concerns, such as agriculture, tend to guide political discussions. In contrast, Virginia's political climate has been shifting, particularly due to the growing influence of its urban and suburban areas, making it a key swing state with a more diverse set of political views. Religion in South Dakota is predominantly Protestant, reflecting the state's traditional values. On the other hand, Virginia offers a more pluralistic religious scene, mirroring its diverse population. This shift from a more homogenous to a diverse environment in terms of politics and religion might be particularly noticeable.

Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Virginia

Moving from South Dakota to Virginia brings a host of changes, especially when it comes to education. By comparing the educational landscape between these two states, the purpose of this chart is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options from South Dakota to Virginia. This guide will help you navigate your options and make informed decisions for your family's educational journey.

South DakotaVirginia

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
William & Mary

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Endeavor Elem (Harrisburg)
Discovery Elem (Sioux Falls)
Arlington Science Focus School (Arlington)
Stenwood Elementary (Vienna)
Nottingham Elementary (Arlington)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mickelson Middle (Brookings)
George S. Mickelson Middle School (Brookings)
Yankton Middle School (Yankton)
Longfellow Middle School (Falls Church)
Frost Middle (Fairfax)
Kilmer Middle (Vienna)

Top 3 High Schools

Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Washington High School (Sioux Falls)
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
McLean High School (McLean)
Langley High School (McLean)

Top 3 private high schools

O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian (Sioux Falls)
Roncalli High School (Aberdeen)
The Madeira School (McLean)
St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School (Alexandria)
Episcopal High School (Alexandria)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Aberdeen Christian School (Aberdeen)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
James Valley Christian School (Huron)
Thomas Jefferson School for Science and Technology (Alexandria)
The Potomac School (McLean)
Flint Hill School (Oakton)

Top 3 School Districts

Sioux Falls School District
Harrisburg School District
Brandon Valley School District
Fairfax County Public Schools
Loudoun County Public Schools
Arlington Public Schools

When considering the move from South Dakota to Virginia, noting the educational opportunities available can help ease the transition. For instance, Virginia's Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria is nationally recognized for its STEM curriculum, an excellent option for students with a keen interest in sciences and technology. Similarly, South Dakota prides itself on having strong community involvement in local schools such as the Roosevelt High School in Sioux Falls, which boasts a wide range of extracurricular activities and programs. The contrast in school options extends to higher education, where Virginia offers prestigious universities such as the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech, known for their research and academic excellence. Understanding these differences ensures you can make an informed decision on what's best for your educational paths and career future.

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