Alabama to South Dakota Moving Guide

Pros and Cons of Moving from Alabama to South Dakota

ConsAlabama

• High humidity
• Hurricane risk
• Traffic congestion
• Hot summers

ProsSouth Dakota

• Low humidity
• Low natural disaster risk
• Minimal traffic
• Cooler summers

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South Dakota

• Fewer Southern traditions
• Harsh winters
• Limited dining options
• Less historical architecture

Alabama

• Southern hospitality
• Mild winters
• Diverse cuisine
• Rich history

Pros of moving from Alabama to South Dakota

• Say goodbye to high humidity and hello to low humidity
• Look forward to moving away from hurricane risk and moving to South Dakota with low natural disaster risk
• Swap the traffic congestion of Alabama for minimal traffic in South Dakota
• Get ready for cooler summers in South Dakota

Cons of moving from Alabama to South Dakota

• Unfortunately, you'll be moving away from Southern hospitality in Alabama to live with fewer Southern traditions in South Dakota
• You'll lose out on the pro of mild winters and have to settle for the con of harsh winters
• Time to bid farewell to diverse cuisine and get used to limited dining options in South Dakota
• Swap rich history for less historical architecture

Alabama vs. South Dakota: Comparing the Local Foodie Scene

If you're moving from Alabama to South Dakota, you will be trading the iconic Shrimp and Grits of Alabama for the equally delicious Chislic of South Dakota. And while the locals in Alabama rave about their flavorful Barbecue Ribs and sumptuous Conecuh Sausage Dog, South Dakota residents know they have tasty Pheasant and Indian Tacos to savor. While the vegan transplants might be saying goodbye to the Okra Gumbo they've grown to love, they can get ready for the Lentil Stew of South Dakota. In the days before your move, make sure you get one final trip to iconic Alabama eateries like Highlands Bar and Grill, Saw’s BBQ, and Hot and Hot Fish Club. After the boxes are unpacked in South Dakota, don't wait too long before making your way to South Dakota's acclaimed eateries like Minervas, Carnaval Brazilian Grill, and Phillips Avenue Diner.

When comparing lifestyles, South Dakota shows a greater emphasis on fitness and health consciousness than Alabama. Food truck fans will discover a greater selection in South Dakota, compared to what you are used to in Alabama. Also, the overall foodie scene is less bustling in South Dakota.

Real Estate & Lifestyle Differences between Alabama and South Dakota

• The Colonial and Craftsman architecture that Alabama is known for will be replaced with the Ranch and Split-level architecture typical of South Dakota.
• Compared to Alabama's real estate listings that commonly reference large yards and proximity to schools, South Dakota real estate listings often highlight features like energy efficiency and scenic views.
• Make sure you unpack those walking shoes; South Dakota is more walkable than Alabama.
• Make sure the movers take care of your bike; South Dakota is more bike-friendly than Alabama.
• South Dakota has more of an urban feel than Alabama.
• South Dakota housing costs are 32% more expensive than they are in Alabama, with a median home price of $299,062 compared to Alabama’s $226,045.
• Over the prior 5 years, home prices in South Dakota have increased 48% compared to a 45% increase in Alabama.
• Rent in South Dakota is 19.24% more affordable than in Alabama.

Your Move, Your Forecast: Key Weather Differences between Alabama and South Dakota

• Break out the sunglasses for your move from Alabama to South Dakota. South Dakota gets 8% more sunshine days than Alabama.
• South Dakota has lower humidity and a lower average UV index compared to Alabama.
• Say goodbye to the possible hurricanes and tornadoes in Alabama, but be on the lookout for potential blizzards and floods in South Dakota.
• Get ready for colder summers. The average summer high temperature in South Dakota is 5 degrees colder than in Alabama.
• The average winter lows are 26 degrees colder than they are in Alabama.
• Your umbrella might be neglected in South Dakota. South Dakota receives 38 fewer inches of rain compared to Alabama.

Financial & Community Snapshot: Alabama and South Dakota

• When it comes to your monthly paycheck, residents in South Dakota tend to earn about 17% more than those in Alabama
• The COLI in South Dakota will be 3% higher than what you are used to living in Alabama
• Hooray, moving to SD means you'll no longer have state income taxes
• The affluence in South Dakota is high compared to moderate affluence in Alabama
• The poverty level is lower in South Dakota compared to higher levels in Alabama
• In terms of homelessness, it is noticeable in Alabama and minimal in South Dakota

Political and Religious Climate in Alabama vs. South Dakota

• Alabama tends to lean strongly Republican in its political climate
• South Dakota, on the other hand, is often described as strongly Republican
• South Dakota's religious environment can be described as predominantly Christian with sizable Mainline Protestant, especially Lutheran, and Catholic populations; the Evangelical Protestant presence is notable but generally a smaller share than in Alabama, and some residents observe Indigenous spiritual traditions; overall affiliation is somewhat lower than in Alabama
• Alabama's residents' religious practices can be generally categorized as having very high religious affiliation and church attendance; the majority are Christian, with a large Evangelical Protestant presence, notably Southern Baptist; there are smaller Catholic, Mainline Protestant, and other faith communities.

How Much Do Alabama to South Dakota Movers Cost?

Moving 1,375 miles from Alabama to South Dakota will typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000 to hire full service movers. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by home size.