Best Portland to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,909 mile move from Oregon to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Portland 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 Northwest Grace Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland 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 Portland to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.31 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.17 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | Comfortable Moving | 9.17 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Portland to Charleston?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,909 miles from Portland, OR to Charleston, SC will cost on average $4,255 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Charleston move is roughly $10,291. 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 | $2,852 | 300 ft³ | $9.51 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,255 | 450 ft³ | $9.46 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,054 | 750 ft³ | $9.41 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,291 | 1100 ft³ | $9.36 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,889 | 1600 ft³ | $9.31 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,660 | 1800 ft³ | $9.26 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |
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) |
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) |
Comfortable Moving
3305 Main St # 023
Vancouver, WA, 98663
About Comfortable Moving
Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3236736 / 1015844 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2020) |
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.
Portland vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when familiarizing yourself with new neighborhoods. This guide aims to help you navigate this transition by providing a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Charleston, SC . We’ll match popular areas in Portland with their Charleston counterparts to offer a sense of comfort and familiarity.
| Portland | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | King Street | Trendy shops, dining |
| Alberta Arts District | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Artsy vibe, local galleries |
| Hawthorne | Avondale | Vintage feel, eclectic eateries |
| Nob Hill | South of Broad | Historic charm, stylish boutiques |
| Sellwood-Moreland | West Ashley | Family-friendly parks, cozy cafes |
| Division | Downtown | Bustling nightlife, diverse dining |
| Mississippi Avenue | Upper King | Lively bar scene, fun atmosphere |
| Belmont | East Bay | Historic pubs, waterfront views |
| St. Johns | North Charleston | Community-oriented feel, local parks |
| Goose Hollow | Westside | Mix of residential and urban culture |
If you love the vibrant energy of Portland's Pearl District, you'll find similar excitement in Charleston's lively King Street, with its trendy shops and diverse dining options. Portland's artsy Alberta Arts District might remind you of Cannonborough/Elliotborough in Charleston, both boasting unique galleries and creative spaces. For those who revel in the historic charm of Nob Hill, Charleston's South of Broad offers elegant, timeless architecture alongside stylish boutiques. To satisfy your culinary adventures, Portland's Division Street and Charleston's Downtown provide bustling nightlife with a vast array of restaurants catering to diverse palettes.
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 Portland to Charleston
Relocating from Portland , OR to Charleston , SC offers an opportunity to weigh the pros and cons . This comparison delivers an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this move. Our charts highlight what you'll gain in Charleston and what you might miss from Portland, providing a balanced view for your decision-making process.
Portland, OR- Rainy weather
- Higher cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Cloudy days
- High taxes
Charleston, SC- Sunny climate
- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Beach proximity
- Lower taxes
Charleston, SC- Smaller art community
- Limited public transit
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer green spaces
Portland, OR- Vibrant arts scene
- Public transportation
- Progressive culture
- Excellent dining options
- Lush parks
While Charleston's sunny climate allows for more outdoor activities, you'll find Portland's Mt. Tabor Park (link) offers lush greenery and walking trails you'll miss. Charleston's proximity to the beach is refreshing, making places like Folly Beach (link) great weekend getaways. However, the vibrant dining scene in Portland, known for restaurants like Pok Pok and Le Pigeon , contrasts with Charleston's less diverse but rich Southern cuisine where you can enjoy gems like Husk (link). While Charleston encompasses charming streets and a rich history with famed sites like The Battery (link), you might miss the progressive cultural vibe and extensive public transportation network found in Portland.
Portland vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and everyday life. To help you transition smoothly, this guide provides a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Charleston . It will help you become familiar with the food scenes where you are moving to.
- Voodoo Doughnut
- Pok Pok
- Le Pigeon
- Husk
- Poogan's Porch
- Magnolias
Charleston offers a flavorful dive into Southern cuisine with renowned spots like Husk located in the historic district. Here, iconic dishes such as shrimp and grits can be savored. For a local twist on vegan eats, head to Gaia's Kitchen for a delightful vegan southern platter. Charleston's restaurant scene, concentrated around neighborhoods like Cannonborough and Elliotborough, brings a mix of traditional and modern culinary experiences that highlight its rich southern hospitality.
Portland vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is a crucial part of 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, highlighting how Portland, OR 's top spots compare to those in Charleston, SC .
| Portland | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Husk | Celebrated for innovative use of local ingredients |
| Pok Pok | Little Jack's Tavern | Known for an eclectic and flavorful food experience |
| Screen Door | Slightly North of Broad | Offers hearty, Southern-inspired cuisine |
| Tasty n Alder | Edmund's Oast | Shares a reputation for creative and diverse menu options |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Xiao Bao Biscuit | Known for bringing culinary street food flair to patrons |
| Pine State Biscuits | Callie's Hot Little Biscuit | Crafts biscuits with a beloved local twist |
| Salt & Straw | Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Offers innovative and tempting ice cream flavors |
| Ox | Hall's Chophouse | Both are famous for exquisite meat-centered dishes |
| Blue Star Donuts | Glazed Gourmet Doughnuts | Creative takes on classic doughnut flavors |
| Grain & Gristle | The Grocery | Emphasizes fresh ingredients and sustainable practices |
As you transition from Portland to Charleston, indulge in culinary experiences that rival your favorite hometown haunts. At Husk, you'll encounter the same commitment to local ingredients as Portland's Le Pigeon, each dish celebrating regional flavors. For a taste of Southern-inspired comfort food, Slightly North of Broad (SNOB) captures the same essence you loved at Portland's Screen Door. When it comes to biscuits, Callie's Hot Little Biscuit brings a delicious twist reminiscent of every bite at Pine State Biscuits. The charm and creativity of Charleston's food scene promise to offer a comforting yet fresh gastronomic adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Portland 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. This comparison will help you make an informed decision about your housing options when relocating from Portland, OR to Charleston, SC.
When considering a move from Portland to Charleston, it's essential to consider the distinct real estate landscapes of each city. Portland offers higher median home prices, reflecting its vibrant urban life and strong focus on eco-friendly living, such as open floor plans and sustainable resources. While the city boasts higher walkability and bikeability scores, helping you live a less car-dependent lifestyle, Charleston stands out with its unique Colonial architecture and waterfront homes that highlight historic charm. This southern city offers a more laid-back lifestyle and slightly lower rent and home prices, making it attractive for those looking to own property near water and embrace the history of the region.
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.
Portland vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're relocating, comparing weather between Portland, OR and Charleston, SC is essential to understand the climate changes you'll experience. This comparison highlights key weather differences, such as temperature ranges, humidity, and types of natural elements to better prepare for your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Portland to Charleston means you'll likely notice a shift in sunshine and precipitation patterns. Charleston enjoys significantly more sunny days, making it essential to prepare for a higher UV index and increased sun exposure. Although both cities experience similar humidity levels, Charleston's warmer temperatures can make the climate feel more humid. Natural disaster risks also differ; expect to prepare for hurricanes rather than earthquakes. Moreover, while pollen is a common allergen in both places, Charleston's longer warm season could mean a more prolonged allergy season.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland 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. A thorough examination of the money and finance differences between Portland, OR and Charleston, SC will help you make an informed decision about your move.
Relocating from Portland to Charleston poses a marked difference in both taxation and overall cost of living. Portland's state income tax is notably higher at 9%, while Charleston enjoys no state income tax, which can mean substantial savings for individuals and businesses. Although the cost of living is lower in Charleston compared to Portland, where the index stands at 105 versus Portland's 130, you'll find that the sales tax in Charleston is considerably higher at 9%. Each city's economic landscape is also unique, with Portland's economy buoyed by technology and manufacturing, whereas Charleston thrives on tourism and ports. These differences will have a considerable impact on your financial planning and quality of life.
Portland vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of both cities, comparing the politics between Portland & Charleston to help you understand what to expect when moving.
Moving from Portland to Charleston means adjusting to a different political and religious landscape. In Portland, you'll find a more liberal environment, with Democratic policies largely influencing the local government. The city has a more secular atmosphere, accommodating a variety of beliefs and lifestyles. Charleston, on the other hand, is known for its conservative leaning, with Republican ideals often steering city politics. The religious scene is predominantly Christian, which influences much of the community life and cultural events. Embracing these differences will offer a rich cultural shift as you settle into your new home.
Portland vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic scenarios can make your transition from one city to another smoother. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Charleston to help you better navigate these urban landscapes.
In Portland, you'll find a robust public transit system that makes it relatively easy to get around without a car. This includes options like the MAX Light Rail and extensive bus routes, supported by local businesses such as TriMet. Meanwhile, Charleston offers a charming but less comprehensive public transit network. Even though Charleston has a slightly shorter average commute time, having your own vehicle is essential for efficient travel, especially if you plan to visit places beyond downtown. While neither city's traffic congestion is untenable, it's worth noting that Portland's higher congestion score may affect how you plan your daily travels.
Additional Resources
Portland Moving Services
Popular Portland to South Carolina Routes
Popular Moving Resources
