Moving from Oregon to South Dakota?

6 Best OR to SD Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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OR to SD Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state marks an exciting chapter in your life, brimming with new beginnings and opportunities. Transitioning from Oregon, land of lush forests and artisanal culture, to South Dakota, home of iconic Mount Rushmore and sprawling prairies, is a journey of leaving the verdant Pacific Northwest for the rugged charm of the Great Plains. To ensure this extensive move is smooth and stress-free, it’s crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we rigorously select here at Great Guys Moving, using our unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best in the business.

Oregon iconArrow iconSouth Dakota icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from South Dakota to Oregon guide.

6 Best Oregon to South Dakota Movers

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

#1
Pacific Northwest Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 899+ data points

Location DotCentral Point, OR
GearResidential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3680404 Verify

About Pacific Northwest Moving

Pacific Northwest Moving has been offering their reliable services as movers in Medford, OR for more than ten years. It is a locally owned a...Read More >>

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#2
Elite Relocation Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,111+ data points

Location DotEugene, OR
GearLocal and Long Distance moving, Residential moving, Office & Industrial moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3027188 Verify

About Elite Relocation Services

Elite Relocation Services has been awarded Business of the Year, Torch Awards for Ethics, and an A+ rating from the BBB. Shawn Jones, the ow...Read More >>

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#3
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Location DotOregon City, OR
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1999959 Verify

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#4
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 9,065+ data points

Location DotPortland, OR
GearResidential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1863079 Verify

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>

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#5
Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo
Superb

based on 483+ data points

Location DotAberdeen, SD
GearCheap moving options, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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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top 10 ranked movers in sioux falls 2023 dial a move inc image
top 10 ranked movers in sioux falls 2022 dial a move inc image
#6
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb

based on 843+ data points

Location DotSioux Falls, SD
GearLocal moving, Junk removal, Storage See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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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Pros and Cons of Moving from Oregon to South Dakota

Moving from one state to another involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oregon to South Dakota , helping you to consider all aspects. The comparison charts below will assist you in understanding how the cons of living in Oregon turn into pros in South Dakota, and vice versa.

CONs
PROs
Oregon iconOregon
  • Higher cost of living
  • Wet, rainy weather
  • Heavy traffic in cities
  • Less affordable housing
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Lower cost of living
  • Drier climate
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More affordable housing
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Smaller cities
  • More plains, less forest
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • More conservative
Oregon iconOregon
  • Vibrant city life
  • Lush landscapes
  • Rich cultural scenes
  • Progressive communities

While Oregon offers vibrant city life, filled with lush landscapes and rich cultural scenes – appreciated through places like Portland's Pearl District and the Oregon Zoo, South Dakota presents a different set of attributes. You'll find a quieter, more affordable life in cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City, where the cost of living allows for a more comfortable lifestyle. Historic sites such as Mount Rushmore and natural beauty like the Custer State Park offer unique adventures. Yes, South Dakota might have smaller cities and fewer cultural venues, but it compensates with its wide-open spaces, friendly communities, and opportunities for a simpler, less hurried life.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Oregon to South Dakota

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oregon & South Dakota, allowing you to delve into the food scene where you're moving. Understanding the local cuisine is crucial as it reflects the cultural and living experiences of an area.

OregonSouth Dakota

Most iconic local food item

Dungeness Crab
Chislic

Most popular meat dish

Portland Pork Tenderloin
Bison Burgers

Most popular street food item

Voodoo Doughnuts
Frybread Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Tofu Scramble
Lentil Stew

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Pok Pok
  • Screen Door
  • Le Pigeon
  • Carnaval Brazilian Grill
  • Minervas
  • JL Beers

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
6

Abundance of Food Trucks

9
4

Foodie Scene

9
6

Vegan Friendly

8
5

Exploring Oregon's vibrant food scene, you'll discover that cities like Portland are renowned for their innovative and diverse cuisine, ranging from the iconic Dungeness Crab to the quirky Voodoo Doughnuts. Oregon's strong fitness and health-conscious culture reflect in its cuisine, with an abundance of vegan options and food trucks. Meanwhile, South Dakota offers a more traditional American culinary experience focused on local meats like Bison Burgers and Chislic, a unique South Dakotan delicacy. The food scene here is more straightforward, but that doesn't mean it lacks in flavor or interest, with establishments such as Carnaval Brazilian Grill and JL Beers providing a taste of local and international flavors.

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

Real estate is a pivotal aspect of moving, particularly when considering a shift from Oregon to South Dakota. Understanding how these two states compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and overall lifestyle is paramount.

In comparing Oregon and South Dakota, you'll find significant differences, particularly in housing costs. Oregon's higher median home price reflects its diverse landscapes and proximity to the Pacific Ocean, driving up real estate prices especially in areas like Portland. In contrast, South Dakota offers more affordable housing, with prices reflecting the state's less dense population and a focus on spacious, family-friendly living. South Dakota's architecture tends towards practical, split-level homes set in spacious lots, underscoring the state's appeal for those seeking a quieter, more spread-out living environment. Meanwhile, Oregon's preference for eco-friendly features and craftsman-style homes reflects its residents' appreciation for sustainability and the outdoors. Thus, your choice between these states may hinge on what you value more: the accessibility to nature and eco-conscious living of Oregon, or the affordability and family-friendly communities of South Dakota.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Oregon to South Dakota

When planning a move from Oregon to South Dakota, it’s critical to understand how the weather will change. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences and prepare you for the environmental adjustments you'll need to make. Our focus is to ensure you are informed about the key weather aspects affecting your lifestyle in both Oregon and South Dakota.

Summer icon
68-85 / 49-54

Oregon

85-90 / 60-65

South Dakota

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
46-49 / 35-37

Oregon

30-40 / 10-20

South Dakota

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
27-46

Oregon

19-25

South Dakota

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
3-11

Oregon

30-60

South Dakota

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While Oregon offers mild summers and cool, wet winters, South Dakota experiences more extreme temperatures, ranging from hot summers to cold, snowy winters, making it crucial to prepare for a broader range of weather conditions. With significantly more days of sunshine, South Dakota might offer more outdoor opportunities year-round but also requires readiness for more significant snowfall and the distinct possibility of tornadoes and blizzards. Adjusting to a drier climate may also change how you manage allergies and skin care due to the lower humidity and higher UV index compared to Oregon.

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

When relocating from Oregon to South Dakota, grasping the financial differences between the two states is crucial. Comparing the cost of living, average income, and taxes between Oregon and South Dakota helps in making an informed decision about your move and managing expectations regarding expenses and lifestyle adaptability.

The financial and economic landscapes of Oregon and South Dakota present distinct contrasts that are vital to understand if you're considering a move. Notably, Oregon's average household income is higher, but when coupled with its significantly higher cost of living and the presence of state income tax, the disposable income difference may not be as vast as it initially appears. South Dakota, on the other hand, boasts no state income tax, a lower cost of living, and a lower average property tax rate, making it a financially attractive option for many. The disparities in the top industries between the two states also highlight the possible career opportunities or shifts you might encounter. Understanding these nuances will provide a clearer picture of what to expect financially, aiding in a smoother transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between Oregon and South Dakota

This guide provides a quick snapshot to help you understand the differences in the politics between Oregon & South Dakota , alongside their religious landscapes. It's aimed to give you a glimpse into what life might be like in your new home state compared to what you're used to.

OregonSouth Dakota

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticConservative/Republican

Local Politics

Progressive urban centersRural, conservative governance

Religion

Less religiously affiliatedHigher religious affiliation, notably Christian

Understanding these distinctions can significantly influence your adjustment period. Oregon's political atmosphere is starkly different from South Dakota's, with the former having more progressive policies particularly in its urban centers like Portland, while South Dakota maintains a stronger conservative stance, reflected in both state and local governance. The religious landscape varies too, where you might find South Dakota to have a higher percentage of residents identifying as Christian. This could influence local culture, community events, and the social fabric of the neighborhoods you choose to live in. If you're moving from Oregon, you'll find the transition intriguing as you navigate these social and political dynamics.

Education Guide When Moving from Oregon to South Dakota

When planning a move from Oregon to South Dakota, understanding the differences in the education landscape is crucial. This comparison will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Oregon and South Dakota and make an informed decision for your family's educational needs.

OregonSouth Dakota

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Oregon
Oregon State University
Portland State University
South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Ainsworth Elementary (Portland)
Bethany Elementary (Portland)
Forest Park Elementary (Portland)
Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls)
Fred Assam Elementary (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Stoller Middle School (Portland)
Lake Oswego Junior High (Lake Oswego)
Cedar Park Middle School (Portland)
Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Edison Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Whittier Middle School (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 High Schools

Lincoln High School (Portland)
Lake Oswego High School (Lake Oswego)
Corvallis High School (Corvallis)
Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Washington High School (Sioux Falls)
Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)

Top 3 private high schools

Catlin Gabel School (Portland)
OES (Portland)
St. Mary's Academy (Portland)
O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Great Plains Lutheran High School (Watertown)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Catlin Gabel School (Portland)
OES (Portland)
Delphian School (Sheridan)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Aberdeen Christian School (Aberdeen)
Roncalli Catholic Schools (Aberdeen)

Top 3 School Districts

Lake Oswego School District
Portland Public Schools
West Linn-Wilsonville School District
Sioux Falls School District
Harrisburg School District
Brandon Valley School District

Within this detailed comparison, you'll find that both Oregon and South Dakota offer robust educational options, but they manifest differently due to regional priorities and community values. For instance, Oregon's focus on progressive education models is evident with schools like Ainsworth Elementary in Portland, which integrates comprehensive environmental science programs. Contrastingly, South Dakota boasts outstanding achievements in standardized assessments, particularly noted at the Challenge Center in Sioux Falls, highlighting a strong emphasis on academic fundamentals. Furthermore, the diverse range of private education in Oregon, including the highly acclaimed Catlin Gabel School, offers tailored educational experiences that emphasize creative thinking and holistic development. Meanwhile, South Dakota's private sector, like Sioux Falls Christian Schools, focuses on integrating faith-based learning with academic excellence, providing a unique educational perspective. These distinctions reflect the broader educational philosophies present in each state, making your decision crucially dependent on the specific needs and values of your family.

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