Best Irvine to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Irvine to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,542 mile move from California to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 19 Irvine to Charleston moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Terry Moving & Storage), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Irvine compared to Charleston. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Irvine to Charleston Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.37 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | NorthStar Moving Company | 9.24 | 8.97 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property |
5 | Ready Set Movers | 9.17 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Irvine to Charleston?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,542 miles from Irvine, CA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $3,943 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Irvine to Charleston move is roughly $9,528. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,644 | 300 ft³ | $8.81 |
1 Bedroom | $3,943 | 450 ft³ | $8.76 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,534 | 750 ft³ | $8.71 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,528 | 1100 ft³ | $8.66 |
4 Bedrooms | $13,779 | 1600 ft³ | $8.61 |
5+ Bedrooms | $15,412 | 1800 ft³ | $8.56 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Irvine guide.
Compare the 5 Best Irvine to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
Registered Drivers | 11 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |

NorthStar Moving Company

633 W 5th St 26th floor
Los Angeles, CA, 90071
About NorthStar Moving Company
Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- International Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1836576 / 665757 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
Registered Drivers | 10 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2023) |

Smooth Move Charleston
4767 Rivers Ave
North Charleston, SC, 29405
About Smooth Move Charleston
With locations in Rock Hill and Charleston, South Carolina, Smooth Move is a locally owned and operated moving company that is...
Services
- Full Service Packing and Unpacking
- Short or Long Distance Moves
- Residential or Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2357653 / 834668 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
Registered Drivers | 12 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |

Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |

Ready Set Movers
454 Deanna Ln
Charleston, SC, 29492
About Ready Set Movers
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Ready Set Movers provides relocation services for both local and long-distance moves. Since...
Services
- Local and interstate moves
- Full-service moving
- Accurate and detailed estimates
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2150739 / 756179 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |

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.

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.
Irvine vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
This comparison is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare local neighborhoods between Irvine, CA & Charleston, SC to identify comparable areas in each city.
Irvine | Charleston | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Woodbridge | West Ashley | family-friendly parks and amenities |
Northwood | Mount Pleasant | suburban feel with excellent schools |
University Park | Downtown Charleston | vibrant culture, history, and academia |
Stonegate | Daniel Island | planned communities with modern facilities |
Turtle Rock | James Island | close-knit communities with natural beauty |
Portola Springs | Sullivans Island | serene environment with outdoor activities |
Quail Hill | Isle of Palms | upscale living near beaches |
Laguna Altura | French Quarter | artistic vibe with unique architecture |
Cypress Village | Avondale | trendy eateries with community charm |
Eastwood Village | Harleston Village | leafy neighborhoods with historical elegance |
Exploring the charming neighborhood of Woodbridge in Irvine, renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and accessibility, you'll find a similar vibe in Charleston's West Ashley, complete with sprawling parks like the scenic Charles Towne Landing. If the cultural richness of Irvine's University Park appeals to you, then Downtown Charleston offers a tapestry of history, from its cobblestone streets to the renowned Charleston City Market. Meanwhile, Turtle Rock's close-knit surroundings mirror the warmth of James Island, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the James Island County Park amidst a lively community.

Things to Do in Charleston
- Stroll the Historic Battery
- Kayak on Kiawah Island
- Explore the Hunting Island State Park
- Visit the Patriots Point Museum
- Catch a show at Gaillard Center
- Shop at City Market
- Discover art at Gibbes Museum
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Charleston
Moving from Irvine, CA to Charleston, SC can be a life-changing experience. This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Irvine, CA to Charleston, SC . By examining the most significant differences, you'll gain a clearer picture of what this move could mean for you.
- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Limited historical sites
- No beach within city
- Less diverse architecture
- Lower cost of living
- Lesser traffic
- Rich history and culture
- Beach access nearby
- Charming colonial buildings
- Humid summers
- Lesser tech opportunities
- Fewer higher education options
- Lack of luxury offerings
- Varying neighborhood conditions
- Mild weather
- Thriving tech industry
- Renowned universities
- Sophisticated amenities
- Planned communities
In making the move from Irvine's urban sprawl, characterized by places like the charming Orange County Great Park, to Charleston's serene suburbs, you trade off the hustle and bustle for a taste of Southern charm and history. Charleston offers captivating sites like Fort Sumter and Rainbow Row, which contrast with Irvine's modern landscape. The dining scene is another key highlight; while Irvine boasts an array of contemporary restaurants, Charleston is renowned for its Southern cuisine, with acclaimed spots like Hyman's Seafood. Adjusting to Charleston's humidity might require patience, but the city's leisure-filled lifestyle and access to lush parks such as Charleston Parks make it worthwhile.
Irvine vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an intrinsic part of local culture and greatly influences daily life. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine & Charleston to help you get a taste of what your future meals and culinary experiences might look like when relocating from Irvine, CA to Charleston, SC.
- Din Tai Fung
- Blue Map
- André Japanese Cuisine
- Halls Chophouse
- Fleet Landing
- Hominy Grill
Charleston offers a rich culinary experience that reflects its Southern roots, with shrimp and grits being iconic, particularly popular in the historic district. You’ll find restaurants like Fleet Landing and Halls Chophouse offering these Southern delicacies in the heart of downtown. Food trucks serving up boiled peanuts and other local street foods dot the city, particularly around King Street, which has become a foodie's paradise. While not as vegan-centric as Irvine, you can still enjoy delicious vegan collard greens and other options in areas like West Ashley.
Irvine vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is important for making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide from Irvine, CA to Charleston, SC .
Irvine | Charleston | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Ootoro Sushi | O-Ku | Renowned for its creative sushi offerings and fresh, high-quality ingredients |
The Cut | Husk | Famous for its innovation in American cuisine and rustic charm |
Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine | Basic Kitchen | Known for its focus on healthy, farm-to-table dishes |
Habana | Charleston Grill | Offers an upscale dining experience with a mix of Southern and international flavors |
Taco Rosa | Taco Boy | Delivers vibrant Mexican dishes in a lively atmosphere |
Bonjour Bagel Café | Callie's Hot Little Biscuit | Offers delightful breakfast options with Southern flair |
North Italia | Indaco | Rivals known Italian restaurants with its handcrafted pastas and rustic Italian dishes |
Agora Churrascaria | Halls Chophouse | Known for its expertly grilled meats and luxurious dining atmosphere |
Slapfish | Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar | Specializes in fresh seafood with a scenic waterfront view |
Baekjeong | 167 Raw | Offers an intimate and delicious seafood dining experience |
Moving from Irvine to Charleston brings not only new scenery but a new culinary landscape to explore. At O-Ku, sushi enthusiasts can continue their gastronomic adventures with plates reminiscent of Irvine's Ootoro Sushi, providing a seamless transition for sushi lovers accustomed to creativity and quality. Charleston’s renowned Husk offers a parallel to Irvine’s The Cut, sharing a commitment to mixing modern American flavors with traditional techniques. Meanwhile, Halls Chophouse offers a grilled meat experience echoing the sophistication of Agora Churrascaria, ensuring fans of expertly cooked meats feel right at home in their new city. This journey of discovery allows you to find new favorites that provide familiar tastes and experiences.

Ready to start your move?
Irvine vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how the two cities compare to make an informed decision. This analysis highlights the housing differences between Irvine and Charleston , offering insight into costs, architecture, and lifestyle, which are crucial in making your relocation decision.
Moving from Irvine to Charleston involves a shift in lifestyle and costs. While Irvine offers a modern architectural landscape, Charleston boasts a rich colonial charm with historic buildings lining its streets. The lower median home price in Charleston makes it an attractive option for those looking to invest in real estate, despite the trade-off in walkability. You might find that Charleston's focus on history and waterfront living offers a unique appeal compared to Irvine's more suburban, modern lifestyle. Exploring areas like Downtown Charleston will introduce you to a vibrant urban setting, potentially reshaping your perspective on city living.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, SC
1. Mount Pleasant : You’ll love the abundance of parks and walking trails, perfect for enjoying quality time with your pet in a serene coastal environment.
2. West Ashley : Your furry friend will enjoy the spacious yards and proximity to numerous pet-friendly parks and open spaces.
3. North Charleston : You and your pets will appreciate the variety of pet-friendly apartments and the community's ongoing efforts to create welcoming environments for animals.
Irvine vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When relocating from Irvine, CA to Charleston, SC , it’s essential to compare how the weather varies between the two cities. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for changes in temperature, humidity, and other climatic factors you'll encounter in your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
When transitioning to Charleston from Irvine, you'll notice the significant increase in average annual rainfall, which is nearly four times higher. This contributes to a more humid environment, something to consider if you're sensitive to humidity. Additionally, Charleston's higher summer temperatures might require adjustments in your daily routines, particularly during peak heat. Natural disaster risks also shift from earthquakes in Irvine to potential hurricanes in Charleston, impacting how you prepare for seasonal weather events. Despite these differences, the lack of heavy snowfall in both locations might be a reassuring constant.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Irvine to Charleston
If you're considering a move from Irvine, CA to Charleston, SC , understanding the financial aspects and cost of living in these two distinct cities is essential. By evaluating differences in expenses and economic opportunities, you can better prepare for the changes in your budget and lifestyle.
When moving from Irvine to Charleston, you will notice a significant decrease in the average household income, reflecting the differing economic landscapes of these cities. However, this is balanced by a lower cost of living in Charleston, making your dollar go further. California's higher state income tax contrasts sharply with South Carolina's, which may affect your net income after taxes. Irvine's prominent technology industry may provide numerous high-paying job opportunities, whereas Charleston's economy is bolstered by tourism and manufacturing, perhaps offering a different employment landscape. Understanding these nuances can help you make informed financial decisions as you transition to your new home.
Irvine vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This is a comparison of the politics between Irvine & Charleston , highlighting the diversity and cultural nuances that await you as you move.
As you transition from Irvine to Charleston, expect to experience a shift in local politics. Irvine's local government emphasizes sustainability and progressive policies, reflecting its generally liberal stance. On the other hand, Charleston pays homage to its rich historical roots with policies focusing on preservation and tourism. This charm is accentuated by its predominantly Christian community, adding a traditional layer to the city's cultural fabric. Embrace the nuanced differences to enrich your new coastal life.
Irvine vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To help you better understand the daily commute and traffic, this is a guide comparing the driving and transportation options between Irvine & Charleston . By examining key aspects like commute times, traffic congestion, and transit availability, you can prepare for your move with confidence and adjust to the new transportation landscape seamlessly.
When moving from Irvine to Charleston, you'll notice a slight difference in commute times, with Charleston having a marginally shorter average commute. Traffic congestion in both cities is relatively comparable, though Irvine experiences slightly more congestion. Public transit is more developed in Irvine, which could make it easier to rely on services like the Orange County Transportation Authority without needing a car, whereas Charleston’s transit options may compel you to consider having a personal vehicle for convenience. In Irvine, you might feel more comfortable getting by without a car, but in Charleston, the sprawling nature and lower transit availability could make car ownership more of a necessity.



Additional Resources
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Popular Irvine to South Carolina Routes
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