Best Charlotte to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charlotte to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 209 mile move from North Carolina to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Charlotte 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 You Move Me Charlotte), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charlotte 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.

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Best Charlotte to Charleston Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1You Move Me Charlotte9.339.23Authorized For HHG
2Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHG
3Ready Set Movers9.179.22Authorized For HHG
4Road Haugs Moving & Storage9.069.1Authorized For HHG
5Bulldog Moving LLC9.038.42Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Charlotte to Charleston?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 209 miles from Charlotte, NC to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,665 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charlotte to Charleston move is roughly $3,977. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,123300 ft³$3.74
1 Bedroom$1,665450 ft³$3.70
2 Bedrooms$2,743750 ft³$3.66
3 Bedrooms$3,9771100 ft³$3.62
4 Bedrooms$5,7161600 ft³$3.57
5+ Bedrooms$6,3541800 ft³$3.53
*Please note: These North Carolina to South Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & South Carolina. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed NC to SC mover.
North Carolina iconArrow iconSouth Carolina icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Charlotte guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charlotte to Charleston Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

You Move Me Charlotte Logo

You Move Me Charlotte

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 2,524+ data points

4222 Barringer Dr

Charlotte, NC, 28217

About You Move Me Charlotte

You Move Me is a franchised moving company that has locations all across North America, including Charlotte, NC. Serving the entire...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Piano moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2518689 / 878140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2024)
View Full Review
1
Smooth Move Charleston Logo

Smooth Move Charleston

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 2,898+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2357653 / 834668

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Ready Set Movers Logo

Ready Set Movers

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 819+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2150739 / 756179

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Road Haugs Moving & Storage Logo

Road Haugs Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 1,542+ data points

2700 Hutchison McDonald Rd Suite A

Charlotte, NC, 28269

About Road Haugs Moving & Storage

Road Haugs Moving & Storage is a Charlotte-based moving company that is second-generation family-owned and operated. Primarily executing local residential moves,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Specialty Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2535952 / 882889

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
4
B

Bulldog Moving LLC

Exceptional9.03/10
based on 115+ data points

Charlotte, NC, 28202

About Bulldog Moving LLC

Bulldog Moving LLC is a reputable moving service in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company provides a range of services including local...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Residential Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1670218 / 613925

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved29,677 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Charlotte vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but using your current home as a reference point can help. This guide uses neighborhoods between Charlotte, NC & Charleston, SC as a baseline for comparison, helping you get acquainted with your new surroundings.

CharlotteCharlestonHow They're Similar
Myers ParkSouth of BroadHistoric homes with lush landscapes
NoDaPark CircleArtsy vibe with eclectic galleries
South EndCannonborough/ElliotboroughTrendy, vibrant dining scene
Plaza MidwoodAvondaleEclectic mix of restaurants and bars
DilworthHarleston VillageHistoric district with charming streets
BallantyneMount PleasantSuburban area with family amenities
ElizabethWagener TerraceOld-fashioned charm and small-town feel
UptownDowntown CharlestonBusiness hub with bustling activity
Fourth WardFrench QuarterQuaint and picturesque with historic charm
SouthParkWest AshleyUpscale shopping and suburban comfort

If you enjoy the creative flair of Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood, you’ll feel at home in Charleston’s Park Circle, where local art galleries and unique shops invite exploration. For those who love dining out in the trendy South End, Cannonborough/Elliotborough offers a similar culinary experience with its vibrant array of restaurants and cafes. Myers Park's stately, tree-lined streets find their counterpart in Charleston's South of Broad, where historic mansions are enveloped in Southern charm. For a taste of suburban life with plenty of family-friendly activities, consider Ballantyne's counterpart, Mount Pleasant, where you'll find parks like Memorial Waterfront Park, perfect for weekend outings.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Charlotte to Charleston

Moving from Charlotte, NC to Charleston, SC requires an honest reflection of the good and the bad . Our chart comparison aims to uncover the potential challenges and exciting opportunities you’ll face when leaving Charlotte for Charleston.

CONs
PROs
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Traffic congestion
  • Higher cost of living
  • Harsh winters
  • Concrete landscape
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Less crowded roads
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder weather
  • Natural beauty
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Limited nightlife
  • Fewer green spaces
  • Less urban development
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Thriving job market
  • Diverse cultural scene
  • Multiple city parks
  • Dynamic downtown

While Charlotte's booming job market and diverse cultural scene make it a vibrant place to live, the traffic congestion and higher cost of living can be daunting. In contrast, you'll find Charleston offers the charm of milder weather and beautiful natural surroundings. Stroll through the picturesque Waterfront Park or dine at acclaimed restaurants like Hank’s Seafood Restaurant. However, be prepared for a quieter nightlife and fewer job opportunities compared to the bustling scene on Tryon Street in Charlotte. Exploring areas like the historic district will immerse you in the city's rich heritage, offering a lifestyle shift that may suit those seeking a more relaxed pace.

Charlotte vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is an important part of local culture and greatly influences what it's like to live in an area. For those contemplating a move, understanding the culinary landscape can enhance the transition. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charlotte & Charleston , providing insights into two rich and diverse food scenes.

Charlotte
Charleston
Most iconic local food item
Pimento Cheese
Shrimp and Grits
Most popular meat dish
Barbecue Pork
She-Crab Soup
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Fried Oysters
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Burger
Vegan Grits
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Cowfish
  • Parks Sandwiches
  • Zadie’s Bakehouse
  • Husk
  • Hometeam BBQ
  • Magnolia's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

As you move to Charleston, you'll notice its vibrant culinary identity, deeply rooted in Lowcountry cuisine. From the cobblestone streets of the historic district, you can savor iconic shrimp and grits at numerous spots like Poogan's Porch. Notable neighborhoods like Upper King Street host a range of popular restaurants to explore. While Charleston excels in health consciousness, emphasizing fresh seafood and farm-to-table meals, the city's foodie scene is not just limited to traditional dishes. A growing number of innovative vegan options, such as vegan grits available in places like Miller’s All Day, add to Charleston’s culinary allure.

Charlotte 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. Here's a closer look at some of the best dining spots, comparing Charlotte 's top restaurants to Charleston 's closest comparable spots.

CharlotteCharlestonWhat You'll Love
The Fig Tree RestaurantHalls ChophouseKnown for its refined ambiance and exceptional steak offerings
Price's Chicken CoopHannibal's KitchenOffers a beloved local experience with soul food favorites
Cabo Fish TacoCoast Bar & GrillOffers vibrant seafood dishes with a coastal flair
Good Food on MontfordChurch and UnionPresenting inventive New American cuisine in a trendy setting
Little Spoon EateryMillers All DayKnown for all-day brunch and nostalgic treats
LuLu's Maryland Style Chicken & SeafoodBertha's KitchenFamous for homestyle chicken and comfort foods
Mac's Speed ShopPoogan's PorchIdeal for BBQ lovers with their classic Southern and barbecue fusion
KindredHuskOffers a farm-to-table approach with an emphasis on Southern ingredients
Amélie's French BakeryNormandy Farm Artisan BakerySavored for traditional French pastries and artisanal breads
Upstream167 RawEmbraced by seafood enthusiasts for fresh oysters and a lively atmosphere

For a premier steakhouse experience akin to Charlotte's The Fig Tree Restaurant, you’ll find Halls Chophouse in Charleston, where diners revel in exquisite steaks and premium service. If you crave seafood, Coast Bar & Grill offers the vibrant coastal flavors you love at Charlotte's Cabo Fish Taco. And for those casual brunch mornings that warm your soul, Millers All Day in Charleston nods to Little Spoon Eatery's delightful array in Charlotte, serving all-day brunch with a touch of nostalgic goodness. Each of these pairings harmoniously aligns local character with familiar tastes, allowing you to transition into your new culinary landscape effortlessly.

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Charlotte vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is among the most crucial elements of a move. When you're transitioning from one city to another, it’s vital to understand how Charlotte and Charleston compare in terms of housing dynamics in order to make an informed decision.

Charlotte
Charleston
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman
Georgian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Open floor plans, Proximity to Uptown
Historic charm, Proximity to Beaches

Charlotte presents a more affordable housing market compared to Charleston, with a median home price of $325,000 versus Charleston's $385,000. This can result in lower property taxes, freeing up more spending power for local activities or investments. In Charleston, the high walkability score of 8 reflects the city's vibrant community and convenience, making daily errands accessible on foot. Moreover, Charleston's historic charm adds a unique flair to real estate listings, often showcasing Georgian architecture that blends seamlessly into the city's rich past. Meanwhile, Charlotte's urban lifestyle appeals to those who enjoy modern amenities and proximity to its sprawling uptown area, a hub for both work and play.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Charlotte vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

When moving from Charlotte, NC to Charleston, SC , understanding the weather differences is crucial to adjust to your new environment. The following comparison highlights what you can expect in terms of climate, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.

Charlotte
Charleston
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Floods, Tornadoes
Hurricanes, Floods
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

88/67
89/74
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

52/32
59/39


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

43
51
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4.3
0.4


As you transition from Charlotte to Charleston, expect a noticeable increase in humidity, with Charleston being more humid and enjoying slightly more sunshine throughout the year. Summers in both cities are hot, but you may find Charleston's coastal location brings a warmer touch in winter. While Charlotte contends with occasional tornadoes, moving to Charleston means preparing for the potential impact of hurricanes. The slight increase in Charleston’s UV index suggests the need for adequate sun protection. Furthermore, those susceptible to seasonal allergies will find ragweed more prevalent in Charleston.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charlotte to Charleston

If you're considering a move from Charlotte, NC to Charleston, SC , understanding the cost of living differences can be crucial for financial planning. This comparison highlights key financial aspects to help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

Charlotte
Charleston
Avg. Household Income
$70,869
$74,139
Cost of Living Index
93.2
98.3
State Income Tax
5.25%
7%
Avg. Property Tax
0.82%
0.57%
Avg. Sales Tax
7.25%
9%
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Tourism, Healthcare, Tech
Affluence
Thriving
Comfortable
Poverty
Moderate
Medium
Homelessness
Managing
Rising

While average salaries in Charlotte tend to be higher, Charleston offers a slightly lower cost of living, making it potentially easier to stretch your dollar. However, bear in mind that South Carolina has a higher state income tax rate compared to North Carolina. Property taxes, on the other hand, are significantly lower in Charleston, which could be beneficial if you plan to buy a home. Moreover, the economic landscape differs as Charleston thrives on a tourism-driven economy, whereas Charlotte's economy is anchored by finance and healthcare industries, lending different career opportunities depending on your field.

Charlotte vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

To assist in your relocation, this snapshot highlights the comparison of the politics between Charlotte & Charleston , along with a glance at the religious makeup of these vibrant cities for a better understanding of your new community.

Charlotte
Charleston
Political Make-up
Moderately liberal
Moderately conservative
Local Politics
City Council is predominantly Democratic
City Council is a mix of Republican and Democratic members
Religion
Diverse religious communities with a mix of Protestant and Catholic
Strong Protestant presence, particularly Baptist and Methodist

As you transition from Charlotte to Charleston, you'll notice differences in political dynamics. While Charlotte leans towards a moderately liberal stance with a predominantly Democratic City Council, Charleston offers a more balanced political scene with both Republican and Democratic influences. When it comes to religion, both cities have vibrant spiritual life, yet Charleston has a notably strong Protestant community, especially with an emphasis on Baptist and Methodist denominations. These contrasts provide a unique cultural and social landscape that may enrich your experience in your new city.

Charlotte vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Relocating from Charlotte to Charleston? Understanding daily commutes can be crucial in this transition, as each city has its unique dynamics. This guide provides a comparison of traffic and transportation options between Charlotte & Charleston to help you prepare for the change in lifestyle and commuting experience.

Charlotte
Charleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
29
23
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
5 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes, in some areas

In Charlotte, traffic congestion is notably higher than in Charleston, often adding to commute times and making rush hours particularly daunting. Although Charlotte offers a relatively robust public transit system, including the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), many residents still find the need for a car. Charleston, on the other hand, boasts a more relaxed traffic environment, and in areas like the downtown district, you might find public transport and biking more feasible. Nonetheless, the overall availability of public transit is less comprehensive than in Charlotte, requiring strategic planning if you choose to live without a vehicle.

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