Best Alaska to South Dakota Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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AK to SD Moving Specialists

Embarking on a state-to-state move is an exhilarating journey, marking a significant transition in your life. Leaving behind Alaska's majestic "Last Frontier" for South Dakota's rolling "Mount Rushmore State" landscapes opens up a realm of new experiences, from unique culinary delights to diverse neighborhoods. Understanding the monumental task ahead, it's crucial to entrust your move to professional movers renowned for their reliability and excellence, ensuring peace of mind as you navigate this significant life change.

Alaska iconArrow iconSouth Dakota icon

Best Alaska 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
The Moving Man7.82A+Authorized For HHGContact
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.6.97NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Air Van Moving6.85NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Royal Alaskan Movers6.46A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from South Dakota to Alaska guide.

6 Best AK 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 12/5/2024)

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
2
The Moving Man Logo
Good7.82/10
based on 232+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

807379 / 359080

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved55,000 (2018)
View Full Review
3
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. Logo
6.97/10
based on 45+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

125137 / 118208

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved450,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Air Van Moving Logo
6.85/10
based on 40+ data points

About Air Van Moving

Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town, across the country, or...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

125012 / 118474

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Royal Alaskan Movers Logo
6.46/10
based on 338+ data points

About Royal Alaskan Movers

Royal Alaskan Movers is a professional moving company that has been serving clients in Anchorage, Alaska, and its surrounding areas since 20...Read More >>

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2077580 / FF-10566 725677

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans13
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved92,150 (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 Alaska to South Dakota

Moving from Alaska to South Dakota? This guide offers an honest reflection, comparing the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. The purpose of the Alaska to South Dakota relocation comparative charts is to give you a clear, side-by-side view of what you're leaving behind and what you'll gain. Whether it's the climate, cost of living, or lifestyle differences, understanding both the pros and cons will help ensure you're making an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Extreme cold
  • High cost of living
  • Remote locations
  • Limited daylight (winter)
  • Scarce job market
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Milder winters
  • Lower cost of living
  • Easier accessibility
  • More balanced daylight
  • Diverse job opportunities
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Fewer mountains
  • Less wildlife diversity
  • More populated areas
  • Different cultural focus
  • Different outdoor activities
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Stunning landscapes
  • Abundant wildlife
  • Seclusion
  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Outdoor recreation

The transition from Alaska to South Dakota brings meaningful changes in your daily scenery and lifestyle. In Alaska, you might have been accustomed to the breathtaking views of Denali and the abundant wildlife encounters from your own backyard. Moving to South Dakota, while the Black Hills offer their own type of stunning landscapes, the geographical diversity will change. Cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City offer vibrant community events, unique local restaurants like Minervas, and attractions such as the iconic Mount Rushmore. The job market in South Dakota, especially in sectors like healthcare, finance, and education, presents new opportunities. Although you might miss Alaska's secluded wilderness, South Dakota's diverse outdoor activities, including hiking in the Badlands or visiting Custer State Park, offer their own allure. This move is a chance to embrace a different pace of life while discovering new natural beauties and community-centric living.

Alaska vs. South Dakota Food Guide

As you plan your move, understanding the local culture is crucial and food plays a big part in that. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Alaska & South Dakota to give you a taste of what to expect and help you navigate the culinary scene of your new home.

AlaskaSouth Dakota
Most iconic local food itemKing CrabChislic
Most popular meat dishSalmonPheasant
Most popular street food itemReindeer Hot DogIndian Taco
Most popular vegan foodKelp SalsaWild Rice Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • The Alaska Fish House
  • Simon & Seafort's
  • Glacier Brewhouse
  • Cattleman's Steakhouse
  • Phillips Avenue Diner
  • Minervas
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Alaska and South Dakota offer unique culinary experiences reflective of their local cultures and histories. In Alaska, you'll find an abundance of seafood-centric meals such as King Crab and Salmon dishes, best savored at iconic spots like The Alaska Fish House and Glacier Brewhouse. On the streets, the reindeer hot dog stands out as a must-try. Moving to South Dakota, you'll discover Chislic, a regional specialty, and Indian Tacos, which offer a taste of the local Indigenous culinary influence. Restaurants like Minervas and Cattleman's Steakhouse deliver on providing traditional American fare with a South Dakotan twist. Notably, both states have growing food scenes, but Alaska shows a slightly higher interest in health-conscious and food truck culture.

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Alaska vs. South Dakota Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering a move. It's essential to understand how the housing markets in Alaska and South Dakota stack up against each other to make an informed decision.

ComparisonAlaskaSouth Dakota
Typical Architecture StyleCabin/LogRanch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingNatural scenery, PrivacyCommunity, Affordability

When looking deeper into the housing aspects, it's clear that the choice between Alaska and South Dakota involves more than just numbers. Alaska's higher median home prices reflect its unique market, often characterized by its stunning natural scenery, which is frequently highlighted in real estate listings. On the other hand, South Dakota offers a more affordable housing market and boasts an appeal towards community-centric living, as seen in its popular ranch-style homes. This difference in lifestyle and community highlights the diverse offerings of both states beyond just walkability and bikeability scores, wherein South Dakota slightly leads.

Alaska vs. South Dakota Weather Considerations

Moving between locations, it's crucial to grasp how the climate shifts. Understanding the weather comparison ensures you're prepared for life in Alaska versus South Dakota . This insight aids in adjusting from the frigid north to the more temperate Great Plains.

Summer icon
60°F/40°F

Alaska

85°F/60°F

South Dakota

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
20°F/-10°F

Alaska

30°F/10°F

South Dakota

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
22"

Alaska

30"

South Dakota

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
75"

Alaska

45"

South Dakota

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonAlaskaSouth Dakota
Air QualityGoodVariable
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanoesTornadoes, Blizzards
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When relocating from Alaska to South Dakota, you'll find a significant climate adjustment. South Dakota enjoys more sunny days annually, which can be a pleasant change. However, the summer temperatures are notably warmer, necessitating adaptations in your daily and seasonal routine. Despite receiving less snow, South Dakota faces its own weather challenges, including tornadoes and blizzards. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for and thrive in your new environment.

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

When moving from Alaska to South Dakota, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will shed light on the differences in cost of living, taxes, and more between these two states. By examining the financial landscape of moving from Alaska to South Dakota, you're better equipped to plan your relocation budget.

ComparisonAlaskaSouth Dakota
Avg. Household Income$88,121$69,728
Cost of Living Index132.694.1
State Income Tax0%0%
Avg. Property Tax1.19%1.22%
Avg. Sales Tax1.76%4.5%
Top 3 IndustriesOil, Fishing, TourismAgriculture, Manufacturing, Tourism
AffluenceModerately affluentLess affluent
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessVariableLower

Moving from Alaska to South Dakota can significantly alter your financial landscape due to the notable differences in average household income and cost of living. Although both states boast a 0% state income tax, offering a unique advantage over many other states, South Dakota presents a lower cost of living index at 88.3 compared to Alaska's 123.5. However, the average sales tax in South Dakota is higher, which can impact daily expenses differently than in Alaska. The change in principal industries from oil, fishing, and tourism in Alaska to agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism in South Dakota might also influence job opportunities and economic engagements. These shifts indicate a different economic environment, which could affect your lifestyle and financial planning post-relocation.

Alaska vs. South Dakota Political & Religious Comparison

In planning your move from Alaska to South Dakota, it's crucial to grasp a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Alaska & South Dakota will aid in setting your expectations and help in your adaptation to your new home.

AlaskaSouth Dakota
Political Make-upLean conservative, mixedStrongly conservative
Local PoliticsMix of Democratic and Republican, with independent influenceDominantly Republican in local and state government
ReligionChristianity predominant, diverse religious communitiesPrimarily Christian, significant Lutheran and Catholic populations

Alaska and South Dakota share a conservative tilt politically, but Alaska presents a more mixed political landscape with a significant independent streak and a blend of Democratic and Republican influences. On the other hand, South Dakota has a stronger conservative profile with dominantly Republican leadership. In terms of religion, both states are predominantly Christian, yet Alaska boasts a more diverse set of religious beliefs reflecting its wide range of ethnicities and cultures. South Dakota's religious landscape is primarily Christian with a notable presence of Lutheran and Catholic communities, which could be of interest if you're keen on engaging with local religious groups.

Education Guide When Moving from Alaska to South Dakota

Moving between states can be a big decision, especially when it comes to educational opportunities for you or your family. To help with this transition, we've created a comparison chart to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Alaska and South Dakota. This guide aims to give you a clear understanding of the educational landscape in both states.

AlaskaSouth Dakota

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Alaska Anchorage
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Alaska Pacific University
South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Aurora Elementary (Anchorage)
Northern Lights ABC School (Anchorage)
Scenic Park Elementary (Anchorage)
Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Fred Assam Elementary (Sioux Falls)
Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Mears Middle School (Anchorage)
Romig Middle School (Anchorage)
Mirror Lake Middle School (Chugiak)
George S. Mickelson Middle School (Brookings)
Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Edison Middle School (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 High Schools

West High School (Anchorage)
South Anchorage High School (Anchorage)
Dimond High School (Anchorage)
Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Washington High School (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 private high schools

Grace Christian School (Anchorage)
Anchorage Christian Schools (Anchorage)
Holy Rosary Academy (Anchorage)
O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Roncalli High School (Aberdeen)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Pacific Northern Academy (Anchorage)
Birchwood Christian School (Chugiak)
Lumen Christi High School (Anchorage)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Great Plains Lutheran High School (Watertown)
Dakota Christian School (Corsica)

Top 3 School Districts

Anchorage School District
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
Sioux Falls School District
Brookings School District
Watertown School District

When looking closer at educational opportunities in Alaska and South Dakota, it's evident that both states offer a range of quality options from elementary through to high school. In Alaska, the Anchorage School District stands out for its variety of top-rated schools, reflecting the city's diverse educational needs. South Dakota boasts its own strengths, particularly in Sioux Falls, where the Sioux Falls School District offers robust programs across a number of high achieving schools. For those considering private education, both states provide reputable private high schools and K-12 schools, ensuring that families have multiple choices for their children's education. Choosing between states, it's essential to consider specific needs such as college preparation, special programs, or the type of school environment that will best suit your family.

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