Best Washington DC to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 364 mile move from DC to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Washington DC 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Mic's Moving | 9.60 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Ap Pro Moving Llc | 9.45 | 9.39 | Active |
| 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 Washington DC to Charleston?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 364 miles from Washington DC, DC to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,091 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Charleston move is roughly $5,001. 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 | $1,409 | 300 ft³ | $4.70 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,091 | 450 ft³ | $4.65 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,447 | 750 ft³ | $4.60 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,001 | 1100 ft³ | $4.55 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,194 | 1600 ft³ | $4.50 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,003 | 1800 ft³ | $4.45 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
1250 9th st. nw
Washington DC, DC, 20011
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
Ap Pro Moving Llc
5021 Seminary Rd # 822
Alexandria, VA, 22311
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
If you're planning to move from Washington DC to Charleston, WV , this guide will 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.
| Washington DC | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown | South Hills | Historic charm and upscale vibe |
| Dupont Circle | East End | Vibrant arts and cultural scene |
| Capitol Hill | Kanawha City | Close to government institutions |
| Adams Morgan | West Side | Eclectic mix of dining and nightlife |
| Foggy Bottom | Heart of Town | Proximity to downtown and major attractions |
| Shaw | Quarrier Street | Revitalized urban area with local culture |
| The Wharf | Riverfront | Scenic water views with dynamic development |
| Kalorama | Fort Hill | Quiet, affluent with historic homes |
| Navy Yard | Elk City | Up-and-coming area with modern amenities |
| Logan Circle | Edgewood | Trendy location with diverse culinary experiences |
If you enjoy the historic charm and upscale vibe of Georgetown with its cobblestone streets and high-end boutiques, you'll find South Hills in Charleston offers a similar experience with its beautiful historic homes and scenic parks like February Park. Dupont Circle's vibrant arts and culture scene is echoed in Charleston's East End, where galleries and unique restaurants create a lively atmosphere. For those accustomed to the government-centric environment of Capitol Hill, Kanawha City provides easy access to state offices and a community feel, complemented by local cafes and parks such as Kanawha Station Park. As you navigate your new home in Charleston, you'll find that each neighborhood offers distinctive characteristics, mirroring some of the features you loved in Washington DC while presenting their unique twists.
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 Washington DC to Charleston
As you consider relocating from Washington DC, DC to Charleston, WV, it's essential to have an honest reflection of both cities. This section provides a clear look at the pros and cons , helping you weigh what you gain and lose from the move. Understanding these aspects will aid in making an informed decision.
Washington DC, DC- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- High pollution levels
- Overcrowded public spaces
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Slower pace
- Cleaner air
- Less crowded areas
Charleston, WV- Fewer cultural attractions
- Limited job market
- Fewer restaurant options
- Limited public transit
- Quieter nightlife
Washington DC, DC- World-class museums
- More job opportunities
- Diverse dining options
- Extensive public transportation
- Lively nightlife
Moving to Charleston, WV might appeal to you if you're looking for a quieter lifestyle and a reduction in living costs. The charm of Charleston lies in its community feel and cleaner environment. You can enjoy local hotspots like [Haddad Riverfront Park](Haddad Riverfront Park), where local events and outdoor activities are popular. While the dining scene might not match DC's diversity, Charleston still offers gems like [The Block](The Block Restaurant & Wine Cellar) and [Bluegrass Kitchen](Bluegrass Kitchen). While job options might be more limited, sectors such as education and healthcare often provide opportunities through institutions like [Charleston Area Medical Center](CAMC). Embracing the slower pace and appreciating the natural beauty of sights like [Kanawha State Forest](Kanawha State Forest) can make this move rewarding.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and contributes significantly to what it's like to live in an area. This guide provides insight into the comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Charleston so you can be better informed about the food scene where you're moving to.
- Ben’s Chili Bowl
- Joe’s Seafood
- Old Ebbitt Grill
- Bluegrass Kitchen
- Soho's
- Pies & Pints
Charleston may be best known for its pepperoni rolls, a delicious local tradition you can savor in places like the East End neighborhood. If you're a fan of BBQ, you won't want to miss the barbecue pulled pork sandwiches often served at local festivals. The city's charm is enhanced by spots like Bluegrass Kitchen, where they bring Appalachian flavors to life. For vegan options, keep an eye out for vegan chili, a hearty dish that doesn't skimp on taste. As you explore your new surroundings, you may find that while Charleston’s food scene may not rival Washington DC's in size, it makes up for it with a unique local flavor that you'll come to appreciate.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential element in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Washington DC and Charleston, WV will serve as a culinary guide to discover your new favorite eateries by relating them to your current city’s vibrant dining scene.
| Washington DC | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Diplomate | Bricks & Barrels | Offers a sophisticated menu with European influences |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Swiftwater Cafe | Known for iconic comfort food with a local touch |
| The Dabney | 1010 Bridge | Emphasizes farm-to-table dishes with seasonal ingredients |
| Old Ebbitt Grill | Soho's | Historic ambiance and a diverse American menu |
| Rose's Luxury | The Block | Casual yet inventive dining with eclectic flavors |
| Blue Duck Tavern | Laury's Restaurant | Upscale dining with locally sourced ingredients |
| Founding Farmers | Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Fresh, locally inspired comfort meals |
| Rasika | Taste of Asia | A go-to for vibrant, flavorful global cuisine |
| Maydan | Tidewater Grill | Offers an exotic menu with coastal and international influences |
| Little Serow | Pies & Pints | Casual atmosphere with an emphasis on bold, dynamic flavors |
As you explore your new surroundings in Charleston, you'll find that restaurants like Bricks & Barrels capture the elegant yet welcoming nature of Washington DC’s Le Diplomate with a menu featuring European-inspired dishes. For those lazy weekend brunches, make sure to visit Soho's, which offers a classic American menu and historic ambiance reminiscent of DC's own Old Ebbitt Grill. And when it comes to indulging in diverse and flavorful bites, Taste of Asia is the Charleston counterpart to the vibrant fare of Rasika. Whether you are drawn to world-class upscale dining or local comfort food, Charleston's culinary scene offers enticing options that echo the best of Washington DC.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most significant factors when planning your relocation. That's why it's essential to compare the housing prospects between Washington DC and Charleston . These insights can help you make an informed decision about your move.
When considering housing between these two cities, the stark difference in median home prices is immediately evident. In Washington DC, proximity to landmarks such as the National Mall adds premium value to homes, reflected in higher costs. Charleston, in contrast, offers more affordable housing along with scenic mountain views, providing a serene lifestyle alternative. For those who value a vibrant urban setting, Washington DC's excellent walkability and bikeability scores might be appealing. However, if you prefer a slower pace with natural vistas, Charleston could be your ideal destination.
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.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When relocating from Washington DC to Charleston, WV , it's crucial to understand how the weather may differ. Weather can influence your lifestyle, from clothing choices to leisure activities, so knowing these differences will help you prepare and adapt seamlessly to your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Washington DC to Charleston, WV, means adjusting to slightly cooler summer days and more pronounced winter chills. While Washington DC enjoys more sunshine annually, Charleston’s air quality generally stands out as better. Expect a shift in humidity with Charleston being more humid, contributing to lush landscapes but also possibly more frequent indoor discomfort without air conditioning. The increase in annual snowfall will require some winter readiness that may not have been as necessary in DC, making it vital to account for these changes in your planning.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC 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. Here's a look at how financial aspects in Washington DC stack up against those in Charleston, WV .
Transitioning from Washington DC to Charleston, WV, presents some intriguing financial contrasts. While the average household income is significantly lower in Charleston, the cost of living is almost half, potentially stretching your dollar further than you're used to. Despite the similar state income tax rates, Charleston offers a slightly higher sales tax. The top industries also differ, with Charleston leaning more toward healthcare and energy. These insights will help you understand adjustments needed in managing your finances, ensuring a smooth transition to your new environment.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Use this comparison to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This is a comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Charleston that should help you understand the cultural differences you may encounter.
As you transition from the capital's diverse political landscape to Charleston, you'll notice a shift from a predominantly Democratic voter base in Washington DC to a more Republican-leaning community in Charleston. This difference can significantly impact local policies and community values, with Washington DC highly influenced by federal concerns and Charleston focusing more on state-level priorities. Additionally, the religious landscape becomes less diverse in Charleston, with Christianity playing a more central role in community life. This setting can influence everything from local events to the social environment you experience daily.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding daily commute and traffic differences can greatly assist in your transition to a new city. This comparison between Washington DC & Charleston, WV aims to provide insights into their transportation landscapes, helping you adapt more smoothly to your new urban environment.
Moving from a bustling metropolis like Washington DC to a smaller city such as Charleston, WV, offers both relief and adjustment challenges with regard to commuting. In Washington DC, high traffic congestion is a daily reality, but it's offset by the robust public transit system. You can easily move around the city using the metro or buses. However, Charleston offers significantly less congestion, which might appeal to you if you're tired of sitting in traffic. Despite the change in your commute experience, remember that Charleston's sparse public transit may necessitate owning a car to move freely around the city. This could introduce both new freedoms and challenges to your daily routine.
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