Best Oakland to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Oakland to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,547 mile move from California to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 12 Oakland 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), 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 Oakland 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 Oakland to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Ready Set Movers | 9.17 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Fairprice Movers | 8.90 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Upline Moving | 8.61 | 8.62 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.18 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Oakland to Charleston?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,547 miles from Oakland, CA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,947 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Charleston move is roughly $9,539. 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 | $2,646 | 300 ft³ | $8.82 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,947 | 450 ft³ | $8.77 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,541 | 750 ft³ | $8.72 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,539 | 1100 ft³ | $8.67 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,794 | 1600 ft³ | $8.62 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,429 | 1800 ft³ | $8.57 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
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) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
Upline Moving
30956 San Clemente St
Hayward, CA, 94544
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1881933 / 678648 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2012) |
Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
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.
Oakland vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Use this guide to help familiarize yourself with local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Charleston, WV by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in each city with their closest counterparts to ease your transition and help you feel at home.
| Oakland | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | East End | Trendy eateries and local cafes |
| Piedmont Avenue | Kanawha City | Vibrant shopping and dining |
| Lake Merritt | Magic Island | Scenic views and recreational spaces |
| Temescal | South Hills | Diverse culture and art scene |
| Montclair | South Hills | Upscale and beautiful landscape |
| Fruitvale | North Charleston | Diverse food markets |
| Jack London Square | Haddad Riverfront Park | Waterside attractions and activities |
| Downtown Oakland | Downtown Charleston | Urban vibe with a mix of historic and modern |
| Grand Lake | Edgewood | Family-friendly with lakeside activities |
| Glenview | Fort Hill | Quiet residential and green spaces |
If you're fond of Rockridge's trendy eateries and local cafes, you'll be right at home in Charleston's East End, where places like The Grape Vine mirror Rockridge's café culture. Piedmont Avenue's vibrant shopping and dining scene finds its equal in Kanawha City, where you can explore unique shops and beloved local spots such as Bridge Road Bistro. For those who treasure Oakland's Lake Merritt for its scenic views and recreational spaces, Magic Island in Charleston offers a similar retreat with lush green areas and captivating water vistas. Temescal's eclectic culture and art scene is echoed in Charleston's South Hills, where artists and creatives converge, making it a vibrant cultural hub.
Things to Do in Charleston
Explore the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences- Stroll through Capitol Market
- Hike in Kanawha State Forest
- Catch a show at Mountain Stage
- Shop at Charleston Town Center
- Learn at West Virginia State Museum
- Enjoy a meal at Bricks & Barrels
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Charleston
Considering a move from Oakland, CA to Charleston, WV? Here's an honest reflection
of the good and bad attributes associated with this relocation.
Oakland, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Urban noise
- Crime rates
- Busy lifestyle
Charleston, WV- Affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Peaceful environment
- Safer neighborhoods
- Slower pace
Charleston, WV- Less cultural variety
- Fewer restaurant options
- Limited historical sites
- Fewer transit options
- Far from the ocean
Oakland, CA- Diverse culture
- Eclectic dining
- Rich history
- Public transportation
- Near the coast
Your new home in Charleston, WV offers a much lower cost of living compared to the bustling urban environment of Oakland,
especially when considering housing affordability. Although you might miss the diverse and eclectic dining scene in Oakland
with favorites like Brown Sugar Kitchen,
Charleston's local eateries such as Bluegrass Kitchen
offer a quaint charm of their own. Despite the lack of extensive public transportation, you can enjoy peaceful strolls
in the serene Haddad Riverfront Park. True, you may find less
cultural variety, but the community events in Capitol Market mark
an inviting opportunity to explore new local traditions.
Oakland vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and helps define what it's like to live in a particular area. In this guide, we compare the local cuisine between Oakland & Charleston to better inform you about the food scene in both places before you make your move.
- Chez Panisse
- Hopscotch
- Brown Sugar Kitchen
- Leon's Lobster Hut
- Toast!
- Hall's Chophouse
As you transition from Oakland to Charleston, you'll notice a distinct difference in the food scene. While Oakland boasts a vibrant foodie atmosphere, with an abundance of food trucks and vegan options, Charleston offers its unique charm rooted in traditional Southern flavors. Explore Charleston’s East End for its local specialty, the Slaw Dogs, or visit restaurants like Leon's Lobster Hut in the historic downtown area to savor some iconic Appalachian culinary delights. Though Charleston may have a smaller number of food trucks and vegan options, its commitment to country cooking ensures a warm welcome and plenty of hearty meals.
Oakland vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential element in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries in Oakland and Charleston by using your current hometown's culinary landscape as a guide.
| Oakland | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Chez Panisse | Le Bistro | Emphasizes locally sourced, seasonal ingredients |
| Homeroom | Tudor's Biscuit World | Comfort food with a homey feel |
| Camino | The Chop House | Upscale dining experience with open-fire cooking |
| Souley Vegan | Bluegrass Kitchen | Plant-forward options with Southern flair |
| The Star on Grand | First Watch | Known for all-day breakfast and casual dining atmosphere |
| Shan Dong | Main Kwong Chinese Restaurant | Known for hand-pulled noodles and authentic flavors |
| Plum Bar | Vino’s Bar & Grill | Casual bar favorites and craft cocktails |
| Tacos Sinaloa | Mi Cocina de Amor | Vibrant, flavorful Mexican meals |
| Pizzaiolo | Pies & Pints | Artisan pizza with a focus on local ingredients |
| Barlago | Bricks & Barrels | Italian inspired dishes with a cozy vibe |
When yearning for a high-end dining experience, head to Camino in Oakland, known for its open-fire cooking techniques, which have a strong parallel to Portland's The Chop House. The open flames bring out rich, smoky flavors, providing a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. In the mood for something comforting? Homeroom serves up classic comfort food, a reminder of Charleston's own beloved Tudor's Biscuit World with its heartwarming menu options. For those seeking plant-based delights, Souley Vegan in Oakland can be compared to Charleston’s Bluegrass Kitchen, both offering a rich array of innovative, plant-forward dishes that delight veggie lovers.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a relocation, understanding the housing landscape is crucial. Comparing Oakland and Charleston helps prospective movers make informed decisions. Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how the two cities compare.
Oakland's housing market is notably more expensive than Charleston's, with a median home price of $900,000 compared to Charleston's $150,000. The cost reflects Oakland's vibrant cultural scene and proximity to tech hubs such as San Francisco. If you prefer a walkable urban lifestyle, Oakland may appeal more to you with its higher walkability and bikeability scores. Charleston, on the other hand, offers an affordable, laid-back living atmosphere, featuring charming architecture that reminds you of its colonial and craftsman roots. Whether you choose Oakland for its modern vibrancy or Charleston for its historical charm, each city offers a unique set of benefits.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, WV
1. Kanawha City : You and your pet will love the ample park space and numerous pet-friendly amenities around every corner.
2. South Hills : This neighborhood offers convenient access to trails and lush green spaces that are perfect for long walks with your furry friend.
3. East End : Known for its vibrant community and pet-friendly businesses, you and your pet will feel right at home here.
Oakland vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
Whether you're relocating from Oakland, CA to Charleston, WV , understanding how the weather in these cities compares can help you prepare for the changes you'll experience. This chart highlights the key differences and similarities in the climate of each region, so you can better anticipate what to expect in your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
As you transition from Oakland to Charleston, you'll encounter a more pronounced seasonal climate in West Virginia. Summers in Charleston are generally warmer and more humid than the mild, dry summers you are used to in Oakland. Winters will require some adjustment as well, given the significantly colder temperatures and the regular snowfall, unlike the virtually snow-free winters of the Bay Area. Charleston's annual rainfall is nearly double that of Oakland, so it's advisable to invest in quality rain gear. Despite these differences, each city presents its own natural beauty, with Charleston offering rich fall foliage and picturesque snowy landscapes, in contrast to Oakland's year-round greenery and consistent sunshine.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Charleston
If you're planning a move from Oakland, CA to Charleston, WV , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and related financial aspects will differ. This comparison aims to help you adjust your budget and expectations effectively as you transition between these two distinct locations.
Moving from Oakland to Charleston will offer you a considerable reduction in living expenses, notably with a significant decrease in the cost of living index. Charleston's average household income is lower, but this is tempered by a much lower state income tax rate and decreased prices for everyday goods and services. In terms of industries, while Oakland thrives on technology, Charleston offers opportunities in healthcare and government sectors, which may suit different career aspirations. Additionally, you'll notice a decrease in the level of homelessness in Charleston compared to Oakland, offering a different community dynamic.
Oakland vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Oakland, CA to Charleston, WV, understanding the cultural landscape is crucial. This snapshot compares the political and religious characteristics of these two cities, offering a glimpse into their distinct personalities. Oakland & Charleston's politics present an intriguing contrast that may impact your decision.
When moving from Oakland to Charleston, you'll encounter a significant shift in the local political landscape. Oakland's progressive nature fosters a culture of innovation and inclusivity, which you can see in local initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and social equity. In contrast, Charleston leans more conservative, with a focus on traditional values that influence local governance and community life. The religious composition also diverges, as Oakland is home to a diverse mix of beliefs, while Charleston's community is predominantly Christian, impacting everything from community events to holiday celebrations. Adjusting to these differences could be an engaging part of your relocation journey.
Oakland vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic dynamics can greatly influence your transition to a new city. This comparison offers insights into the traffic and transportation options between Oakland and Charleston , helping you anticipate the lifestyle changes that come with moving from one city to the other.
In Oakland, the commute can be a major consideration, averaging around 35 minutes, due to higher traffic congestion levels. With a vibrant public transit system, including the BART and AC Transit, you'll find it easier to navigate the city without a car. Conversely, Charleston may appeal with its shorter commute times and less traffic, offering a more relaxed driving experience. However, public transportation options are limited, making a car necessary for daily activities.
Additional Resources
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Popular Oakland to West Virginia Routes
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