Factors influencing moving costs from Columbia to Virginia

The cost of Columbia movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have โ€” as well as your home size and layout โ€” will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Columbia, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

What to know before moving from Columbia, SC, to Virginia

If youโ€™re moving to Virginia from Columbia, SC, youโ€™ll want to compare what life will be like.

Compare cost of living: Columbia vs. Virginia

Columbia, SC Virginia
Average rent cost $1,447 $1,440
Average home cost $220,612 $392,682
Average income (per capita) $64,683 $87,249
Unemployment rate 5.2% 2.9%
State income tax 7.0% 5.75%
  • Rent is about the same cost in Virginia and Columbia.
  • Home prices are about 58.2% higher in Virginia than in Columbia.
  • The average income is about 35.5% higher in Virginia than in Columbia.
  • Virginia has a lower unemployment rate than Columbia by about 48.9%.
  • Income taxes are 17.86% lower in Virginia than in Columbia.

How life is different in Columbia, SC, from Virginia

Columbia, SC Virginia
Population 136,632 8,715,698
Political leaning Democratic 52-48
Summer high 94ยบF 87ยบF
Winter low 35ยบF 25ยบF
Annual rain 46" 44"
Annual snow 1" 14"
Crime index 3.0 19.3
  • The population of Virginia is approximately 6,279% greater than the population of Columbia.
  • In the last presidential election, Virginia voted Democratic and Columbia voted .
  • The average high in the summertime in Virginia is 87ยบ F and in Columbia, itโ€™s 94ยบ F.
  • During the coldest part of the year, Virginia reaches the temperature of 25ยบ F and Columbia gets down to 35ยบ F.
  • You can expect about 44 inches of annual rainfall in Virginia vs. 46 inches of rainfall in Columbia.
  • In Virginia, it snows about 14 inches annually vs. 1 inches of snow in Columbia.

Other considerations when moving to Virginia from Columbia

  • Weather: Virginia has humid hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters. The Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream have a strong effect on eastern and southeastern coastal areas of the Commonwealth, making the climate there warmer and more constant. .
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, youโ€™ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Virginia moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Virginia. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know youโ€™ve got everything covered.

Things to do in Virginia

Whether youโ€™re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, youโ€™ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Virginia.

Museums in Virginiatoggle

  • Colonial Williamsburg
  • Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
  • Historic Jamestowne
  • Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe
  • Military Aviation Museum
  • The Mariners' Museum & Park
  • Amazement Square
  • George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor
  • White House of the Confederacy
  • Virginia Air & Space Science Center
  • Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
  • Virginia Living Museum
  • American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
  • Chrysler Museum of Art
  • Steven F Udvar-Hazy Center

Parks in Virginiatoggle

  • Mill Mountain Star & Park
  • Morven Park
  • The Mariners' Museum & Park
  • Great Falls Park
  • Leesylvania State Park
  • Bull Run Regional Park
  • Oak Grove Lake Park
  • Ashburn Park
  • Pamplin Historical Park
  • Neptune's Park
  • Algonkian Regional Park
  • Belle Isle
  • Meadowlark Botanical Garden
  • Sandy Bottom Nature Park
  • Colonial National Historic Park

Sports Teams in Virginiatoggle

  • Fredericksburg Nationals (Low-A East)
  • Loudoun United FC (USL Championship)
  • Lynchburg Hillcats (Low-A East)
  • Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)
  • Norfolk Tides Baseball (Triple-A East)
  • Richmond Flying Squirrels (Double-A Northeast)
  • Richmond Kickers (USL League One)
  • Salem Red So (Low-A East)

Universities in Virginiatoggle

  • University of Virginia
  • Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
  • George Mason University
  • Virginia Commonwealth University
  • College of William & Mary
  • Liberty University
  • James Madison University
  • Old Dominion University
  • University of Richmond
  • Washington and Lee University
  • Radford University
  • Regent University
  • University of Mary Washington
  • Sweet Briar College
  • Virginia Military Institute

FAQs

How long does a move from Columbia to Virginia take?

The time it takes to move from Columbia, SC, to Virginia depends on the moving method you choose. A DIY move with a rental truck can take a day or two, depending on your exact destination and how much you stop along the way. If youโ€™re using professional movers or a moving container company, delivery times can range from a few days to two weeks, depending on demand. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.

For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.

What is the best way to get a car from Columbia to Virginia?

Need to get your car from Columbia to Virginia? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Columbia to Virginia car shippers.

Why are people moving from Columbia to Virginia?

Many people are moving to Virginia because of its strong economy and beautiful scenery.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Columbia?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Columbia.

Helpful moving resources