Best Pittsburgh to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 230 mile move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Charleston Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pittsburgh Moving9.649.51Authorized For HHG
2Ready Set Movers9.179.22Authorized For HHG
3Meta Movers9.159.43Authorized For HHG
4Two Men and a Truck8.818.2Authorized For Property, HHG
5Central Van Lines8.188.11Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 230 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $1,977 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to Charleston move is roughly $4,722. 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$1,333300 ft³$4.44
1 Bedroom$1,977450 ft³$4.39
2 Bedrooms$3,257750 ft³$4.34
3 Bedrooms$4,7221100 ft³$4.29
4 Bedrooms$6,7891600 ft³$4.24
5+ Bedrooms$7,5471800 ft³$4.19
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to West Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & West Virginia. 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 PA to WV mover.
Pennsylvania iconArrow iconWest Virginia icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Pittsburgh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh to Charleston Movers

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

Pittsburgh Moving Logo

Pittsburgh Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,121+ data points

5746 Pierce St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15232

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...

Services

  • Local move in Pittsburgh
  • Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
  • Residential move

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3901080 / 1437162

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Meta Movers Logo

Meta Movers

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 310+ data points

13 Holt St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15203

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...

Services

  • Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
  • Long distance residential and commercial moves
  • Loading or unloading your truck or pod

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3295834 / 1044452

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Superb8.81/10
based on 2,598+ data points

3555 Valley Dr

Pittsburgh, PA, 15234

About Two Men and a Truck

With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Junk Removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1321899 / 509618

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved260,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Central Van Lines Logo

Central Van Lines

Very Good8.18/10
based on 322+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1243887 / 11266

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans44
Registered Drivers35
Total Annual Miles Moved487,000 (2019)
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.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from Pittsburgh, PA to Charleston, WV can be a significant life change. To help you adapt more easily, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Pittsburgh, PA & Charleston, WV to use your current city as a baseline. This guide will introduce you to similar areas in your new city.

PittsburghCharlestonHow They're Similar
ShadysideEast EndTrendy shops and dining
LawrencevilleSouth HillsBohemian art scene
South SideKanawha CityVibrant nightlife
Squirrel HillSouth HillsQuaint, community feel
Strip DistrictDowntown CharlestonBustling markets
BloomfieldEast EndItalian heritage influence
Mount WashingtonCapitol ComplexScenic views
OaklandUniversity of Charleston AreaCollege town vibe
North ShoreKanawha RiverfrontScenic water views
Point BreezeSouth HillsResidential quiet charm

When you venture from the vibrant atmosphere of Pittsburgh's Shadyside to Charleston’s East End, you'll find a similar mix of trendy shops and eclectic dining options. East End's charm lies in its array of unique cafes and boutiques that mirror the lively streets of Shadyside. For those from Lawrenceville who love the bohemian art scene, the South Hills area offers plenty of local art galleries and events. The iconic PNC Park, offering spectacular views in Pittsburgh’s North Shore, finds its counterpart in the scenic beauty along the Kanawha Riverfront. Additionally, if you're accustomed to the bustling weekend markets of the Strip District, Charleston's Downtown will provide a familiar sense of energy and discovery. Enjoy exploring the Capitol Complex area for its panoramic views and scenic charm reminiscent of Mount Washington.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston

Relocating from one city to another is a life-altering decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. In this comparison, you will find an honest reflection of both the pros and cons of moving from Pittsburgh, PA to Charleston, WV . This presentation will help you weigh the benefits and downsides to make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • High cost of living
  • Crowded city life
  • Severe winter weather
  • Heavy traffic
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less congestion
  • Milder winters
  • Lighter traffic
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Limited job market
  • Less diversity
  • Limited options
  • Fewer higher ed choices
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Job opportunities
  • Cultural diversity
  • Public transport
  • Renowned universities

Moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston offers a shift from a bustling metropolis to a more laid-back cityscape. While Pittsburgh is known for its vibrant neighborhoods like the [Strip District](Strip District) and cultural spots like the [Carnegie Museum of Art](Carnegie Museum of Art), Charleston's charm lies in its access to nature and quieter lifestyle. You might trade the crowded parks of Pittsburgh, such as [Schenley Park](Schenley Park), for the breathtaking views from [Coonskin Park](Coonskin Park) in Charleston. While you may miss the hustle, Charleston makes up with its classic Southern hospitality and cozy eateries like [Bluegrass Kitchen](Bluegrass Kitchen).

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture, offering a taste of what life in a particular region feels like. This guide provides a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh and Charleston , helping you savor the flavors and culinary scene of your future home.

Pittsburgh
Charleston
Most iconic local food item
Primanti Bros. Sandwich
Pepperoni Roll
Most popular meat dish
Pittsburgh-style Steak
Venison
Most popular street food item
Polish Boy
Hot Dog
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Wings
Vegan BBQ Sandwich
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Charleston, the pepperoni roll is a must-try, especially found in the local bakeries of the East End neighborhood. For those excited about meats, Charleston offers delicious venison dishes, which celebrate its Appalachian roots. Don't miss out on the vibrant scene at Leon's Seafood and Tricky Fish, where you can enjoy a local flair with a touch of Southern hospitality. The city also boasts a developing vegan food scene, with options like vegan BBQ sandwiches popular among locals, although it's not as established as Pittsburgh's. Exploring these eateries will offer you a delightful introduction to the flavors of West Virginia's capital.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a vital role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to guide you in discovering your new favorite eateries by using Pittsburgh to Charleston as a culinary roadmap.

PittsburghCharlestonWhat You'll Love
SpoonThe BlockOffers a modern American menu with avant-garde dishes
Primanti Bros.Tudor's Biscuit WorldKnown for hearty, local flavors amidst a casual vibe
GirasoleLaury's RestaurantItalian fine dining with an emphasis on authentic cuisines
Pamela's DinerFirst WatchBrunch spot offering classic comfort with a twist
Meat & PotatoesBricks & BarrelsKnown for hearty American fare and a rustic ambiance
ElevenSoho'sOffers a refined menu in a trendy, upscale setting
Sienna MercatoTidewater GrillSeafood varieties matched with a contemporary feel
The CommonerBlack Sheep Burritos & BrewsGastro pub atmosphere blending creativity and tradition
HofbräuhausRecovery Sports GrillLively setting with German-inspired bites and brews
Point Brugge CafeSouth Hills Market & CaféCozy eatery known for unique European entrees

When you move to Charleston, you can find familiar culinary landscapes awaiting your exploration. Enjoy modern American dishes at The Block, echoing Pittsburgh's renowned Spoon. If casual dining with a distinct local flavor is on your radar, head to Tudor's Biscuit World, capturing the essence of Primanti Bros.' comforting fare. Laury's Restaurant, with its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine, will remind you of evenings at Girasole, offering a taste of home-away-from-home. These carefully selected dining establishments will ease your transition and provide delightful culinary adventures in your new city.

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Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to compare housing in cities like Pittsburgh and Charleston to make an informed decision tailored to your needs.

Pittsburgh
Charleston
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian and Modern
Craftsman and Colonial
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to universities, parking space
Backyard gardens, historic homes

Both Pittsburgh and Charleston offer unique housing experiences but have notable differences. In Pittsburgh, the higher home prices come with a vibrant urban lifestyle and exquisite Victorian and Modern architecture. This means living close to universities and having amenities like parking spaces, as often highlighted in local listings. Meanwhile, Charleston offers more affordable housing with charm in its Craftsman and Colonial styles, often boasting features like spacious backyard gardens. The city might cater to those who prefer quieter neighborhoods, valuing historic preservation and a suburban feel. Whether you prioritize walkability, price, or architectural preference, these cities present distinct prospects.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

When relocating from Pittsburgh, PA to Charleston, WV , understanding the weather differences is essential to prepare for your new environment. These comparisons help you anticipate climate variations that may affect your lifestyle and daily activities.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83/62
86/64
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

39/23
44/27


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

38.2
45.1
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

41.9
28.5


When moving to Charleston from Pittsburgh, you'll enjoy more sunny days annually, which might brighten your daily routine. Charleston experiences slightly higher average temperatures in both summer and winter, making it generally warmer. However, it also has a higher risk of tornadoes compared to Pittsburgh. While both cities face potential flooding, Charleston's air quality tends to be better, providing a healthier environment. Although both locations have similar allergy concerns, the increase in days of sunshine may benefit those sensitive to gloomy weather.

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

When relocating from Pittsburgh to Charleston , it's essential to compare financial aspects to manage your budget effectively. This chart will help you understand the differences in the cost of living and other financial factors between the two cities.

Pittsburgh
Charleston
Avg. Household Income
$57,821
40,000
Cost of Living Index
91.5
92.7
State Income Tax
3.07
6.5
Avg. Property Tax
2.19
0.55
Avg. Sales Tax
7
6
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Technology
Government, Healthcare, Retail
Affluence
Moderate
Lower
Poverty
Moderate
Higher
Homelessness
Manageable
Noticeable

While moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston, you’ll notice that Charleston boasts a lower cost of living index, making it a more affordable place in terms of daily expenses. However, Charleston has a higher state income tax rate, which could impact your budget if your income level is significant. Furthermore, the average household income is higher in Pittsburgh, which might reflect greater economic opportunities there, especially in top industries like technology and education. Charleston presents a contrasting economic landscape where government and retail occupations dominate, potentially offering a different set of career paths and opportunities.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Pittsburgh, PA to Charleston, WV, entails understanding key aspects of both locales. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, focusing on the comparison of the politics between Pittsburgh & Charleston .

Pittsburgh
Charleston
Political Make-up
Liberal
Conservative
Local Politics
Democratic leadership
Republican leadership
Religion
Diverse religious affiliations
Predominantly Christian

When moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston, the shift in political and religious landscapes can be quite pronounced. Pittsburgh is known for its liberal leanings and Democratic leadership, making it a vibrant city for political discourse and diversity. In contrast, Charleston leans more conservative, with a Republican political alignment influencing local policies and community life. This fundamental difference can impact everything, from the local culture to how city governance priorities are set. Furthermore, while Pittsburgh offers a melting pot of religious affiliations, Charleston often focuses more on Christian-based community activities and gatherings. This makeup enriches Charleston's local culture, influencing community experiences and social interactions you may find appealing.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the ins and outs of daily commuting is crucial when relocating. This section provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Charleston to help you better grasp what to expect in terms of daily travel and commuting experiences in these two cities.

Pittsburgh
Charleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
26
18
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
2 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possibly
Unlikely

Moving from a bustling city like Pittsburgh to Charleston might come with less stress in terms of traffic congestion, as Charleston experiences significantly less congestion than Pittsburgh. However, while Pittsburgh offers a robust public transit system with various options such as buses and a light rail, Charleston's public transportation is more limited. This might mean that in Charleston, a car becomes more essential for your daily commute. If you're accustomed to relying on public transit in Pittsburgh, you may need to adjust your transportation strategy upon transitioning to Charleston.

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