Best San Francisco to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,558 mile move from California to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 11 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.17 | 9.22 | 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 San Francisco to Charleston?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,558 miles from San Francisco, CA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,957 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Charleston move is roughly $9,562. 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 | $2,653 | 300 ft³ | $8.84 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,957 | 450 ft³ | $8.79 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,557 | 750 ft³ | $8.74 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,562 | 1100 ft³ | $8.69 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,828 | 1600 ft³ | $8.64 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,466 | 1800 ft³ | $8.59 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco 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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (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) |
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.
San Francisco vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Explore the neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Charleston, WV to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in one city with the closest similar neighborhood in the other city.
| San Francisco | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Mission District | East End | Vibrant arts scene |
| Haight-Ashbury | Morgantown | Historic vibe |
| Castro | South Hills | Diverse community |
| Chinatown | Kanawha City | Rich cultural history |
| North Beach | Capitol Street | Small cafes and diners |
| SOMA | Downtown Charleston | Business district |
| Pacific Heights | Edgewood | Upscale residential area |
| Marina District | Riverwalk Plaza | Scenic waterfront views |
| Richmond District | South Charleston | Family-friendly community |
| Tenderloin | West Side | Urban lifestyle |
If you love the vibrant arts scene and eclectic vibe of San Francisco's Mission District, you'll feel right at home in East End, Charleston's cultural hub, bustling with local artists and galleries. Those who appreciate the historic and bohemian charm of Haight-Ashbury should explore Morgantown, with its quaint shops and colorful street art. Meanwhile, if the elegant streets of Pacific Heights captivate you with their panoramic views and classic architecture, you'll find Edgewood's grand homes and mature trees offering a similar upscale ambiance. For those drawn to North Beach's small cafes and lively atmosphere, Capitol Street provides inviting spots for a laid-back afternoon coffee break. Lastly, if the scenic Marina District is your happy place, the charming Riverwalk Plaza is sure to enthrall you with its views of the Kanawha River.
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 San Francisco to Charleston
Considering a move from San Francisco, CA to Charleston, WV involves assessing both cities' distinctive traits. This guide provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects, assisting you in making an informed decision for your relocation. The following charts outline how living in San Francisco compares to Charleston, enabling a clear understanding of what's ahead.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Dense population
- Expensive dining
- Foggy weather
Charleston, WV- Affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Relaxed pace
- Affordable cuisine
- Brighter skies
Charleston, WV- Fewer tech jobs
- Less diversity
- Limited dining options
- No coastal sights
- Slower pace
San Francisco, CA- Tech opportunities
- Diverse culture
- Top-tier restaurants
- Ocean views
- Bustling energy
While leaving the vibrant vibe of San Francisco for Charleston may entail missing out on the tech-job marketplace of Silicon Valley, the shift comes with its own unique charms. Charleston’s lower cost of living allows for a more comfortable lifestyle, potentially enabling you to explore delightful neighborhood spots like the Taste-of-All Festival or the serene Cherokee Park. Dining might not reach San Francisco’s high profile, but Charleston's local eateries offer cozy settings and tasty dishes at places like Bluegrass Kitchen. As you wander into the historic district, the relaxed ambiance will provide a nice counterbalance to the hectic buzz of city life.
San Francisco vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and plays a significant role in what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll compare the diverse and exciting food scenes in San Francisco & Charleston so you can be better informed about the culinary experiences awaiting you in Charleston, WV.
- Farallon
- Zuni Café
- Tadich Grill
- Bluegrass Kitchen
- The Bluegrass Kitchen
- Pies & Pints
Charleston, WV may not rival the bustling food scene of San Francisco, but it offers its own charm with iconic dishes such as the Pepperoni Roll, a staple that reflects the area's cultural heritage, often found in bakeries and corner stores. The popularity of comfort foods such as country fried steak and slaw dogs speaks to the hearty, home-style cooking prevalent in this region. For a taste of local favorites, explore the East End neighborhood, where you can find spots like Bluegrass Kitchen and Pies & Pints known for their unique interpretations of traditional Appalachian cuisine. Don't miss the chance to savor these local delicacies, which embody the warmth and charm of this welcoming southern city.
San Francisco vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
For anyone moving from the culinary haven of San Francisco to the equally passionate food scene in Charleston, WV, this comparison will smoothly guide you to your next favorite restaurant, helping you feel at home. Use this restaurant comparison as a roadmap to discover Charleston’s unique flavors, drawing on your beloved favorites from San Francisco.
| San Francisco | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | The Block | Modern American with an inventive twist |
| Tartine Bakery | Red Rooster Coffee Co. | Artisan breads and decadent pastries |
| Benu | Laury's Restaurant | Fine dining with artful presentation |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Shon's Seafood | Fresh, locally-sourced seafood offerings |
| State Bird Provisions | Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Tapas-style innovative dishes |
| House of Prime Rib | Steak Escape | Classic steakhouse experience |
| La Taqueria | Rio Grande | Authentic Mexican flavors |
| Nopa | Bluegrass Kitchen | Seasonal menus highlighting local ingredients |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Ellen's Homemade Ice Cream | Gourmet ice cream with unique flavors |
| Gary Danko | South Hills Market & Café | Upscale culinary artistry |
Charleston boasts its own exceptional dining scene, perfectly paralleled to some of San Francisco's top spots. For those who relished the iconic baked goods at Tartine Bakery, the Red Rooster Coffee Co. offers a delightful array of artisan breads and pastries that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Similarly, connoisseurs of fine dining will find solace at Laury's Restaurant, where the meticulous presentation and refined flavors echo the sophistication of San Francisco’s Benu. Seafood lovers, rest assured that Shon's Seafood delivers fresh, locally-sourced fish reminiscent of the choices at Swan Oyster Depot, bridging the gap between the Pacific and the Mountain State's culinary delight. As you explore Charleston, you’ll discover a vibrant food landscape ready to be your new favorite.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect of any relocation, and understanding the differences between San Francisco and Charleston's housing markets is essential for a smooth transition. This comparison highlights key factors like cost, architecture, and livability to help you make an informed decision.
The stark contrast in median home prices reflects the different economic landscapes of San Francisco and Charleston. While San Francisco boasts modern conveniences and breathtaking views, often listed in its real estate offerings, Charleston frequently emphasizes spacious land and vintage charm, indicative of its colonial roots. Although San Francisco scores higher on both walkability and bikeability, Charleston provides a quieter urban lifestyle. Finding the right balance for your lifestyle is key, whether you lean towards the bustling vibe of San Francisco or the tranquil, historic air of Charleston.
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.
San Francisco vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When relocating from one region to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial to adapting to your new environment. This comparison will help you anticipate what to expect when moving from San Francisco, CA to Charleston, WV and adjust accordingly.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from San Francisco to Charleston, you'll experience more distinct seasonal changes. Summers in Charleston are notably warmer, often climbing into the mid-80s compared to San Francisco's temperate mid-60s. Winters, on the other hand, can be quite cold in Charleston, dropping below freezing frequently. While San Francisco enjoys more sunny days overall, Charleston compensates with lush greenery due to its higher annual rainfall. However, prepare for seasonal allergies as pollen and ragweed are more prevalent in the Charleston area.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Charleston
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This chart highlights the money and finance differences between San Francisco, CA and Charleston, WV to help you make an informed decision.
Moving from San Francisco to Charleston will significantly affect your financial landscape. Although the average household income in Charleston is much lower, the cost of living is also substantially reduced, providing a balanced budget-friendly environment. With lower property and sales taxes, Charleston offers a less taxing financial climate. However, keep in mind that the job market in Charleston may not be as lucrative as San Francisco's tech-driven economy, but it still has a stable foundation in government, healthcare, and retail industries. This transition could offer you more financial freedom and reduced expenses, allowing for potentially increased savings or investments.
San Francisco vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this section is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents, comparing the politics between San Francisco & Charleston to help you gauge the cultural dynamics of your new city.
When moving from San Francisco to Charleston, you'll notice a shift in political landscapes. San Francisco is known for its liberal and progressive stance, which is reflected in the city's local politics. Conversely, Charleston has a more conservative political culture, often focusing on traditional viewpoints. Additionally, religion plays a more significant role in Charleston's community life than it does in the diverse and less religiously focused San Francisco area.
San Francisco vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide will help you compare the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Charleston , aiming to provide a clearer understanding of what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like in each city.
When moving from San Francisco to Charleston, you'll notice a stark difference in traffic congestion. San Francisco is notorious for its heavy traffic, with an 8 out of 10 congestion rating, making your commute noticeably longer. Conversely, Charleston's less congested roads could provide a more pleasant driving experience. Public transportation in San Francisco is readily available and widely used, with options such as BART and Muni being highly rated. In Charleston, however, public transit options are relatively limited, so owning a car becomes more of a necessity to get around efficiently. As you navigate your new environment, consider how these transportation differences might influence your daily routine.
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