Best Charleston to Phoenix Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charleston to Phoenix and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,162 mile move from South Carolina to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Charleston to Phoenix 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Phoenix. 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 Charleston to Phoenix Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.339.4Authorized For Property
3Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHG
4Ready Set Movers9.179.22Authorized For HHG
5Armstrong Relocation8.167.27Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,162 miles from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ will cost on average $3,620 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Phoenix move is roughly $8,738. 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$2,428300 ft³$8.09
1 Bedroom$3,620450 ft³$8.04
2 Bedrooms$5,995750 ft³$7.99
3 Bedrooms$8,7381100 ft³$7.94
4 Bedrooms$12,6301600 ft³$7.89
5+ Bedrooms$14,1191800 ft³$7.84
*Please note: These South Carolina to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from South Carolina & Arizona. 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 SC to AZ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Charleston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Phoenix Movers

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

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.76/10
based on 2,064+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 887+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
Armstrong Relocation Logo

Armstrong Relocation

Very Good8.16/10
based on 397+ data points

7167 Cross County Rd

North Charleston, SC, 29418

About Armstrong Relocation

Established in 1957, Armstrong Relocation has long been a stalwart of the moving industry. Although based in Memphis, Tennessee, the company...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Employee Relocation

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3528195 / 1173611

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (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.

Charleston vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another offers new experiences but can feel daunting. By comparing local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Phoenix, AZ , you can quickly familiarize yourself with what your new home has to offer, using your current city as a familiar baseline.

CharlestonPhoenixHow They're Similar
French QuarterDowntown Phoenix – vibrant art and dining scenesDowntown Phoenix – vibrant art and dining scenes
South of BroadArcadia – historic charm with upscale homesArcadia – historic charm with upscale homes
Wagener TerraceArcadia Lite – young professionals with local eateriesArcadia Lite – young professionals with local eateries
Harleston VillageRoosevelt Row – cultural hubs with galleriesRoosevelt Row – cultural hubs with galleries
Cannonborough/ElliotboroughCoronado – eclectic vibe with vintage architectureCoronado – eclectic vibe with vintage architecture
West AshleyAhwatukee – residential with green spacesAhwatukee – residential with green spaces
James IslandParadise Valley – scenic views with outdoor activitiesParadise Valley – scenic views with outdoor activities
Sullivan's IslandTempe Beach Park – water activities and beach vibeTempe Beach Park – water activities and beach vibe
Daniel IslandChandler – family-oriented with suburban amenitiesChandler – family-oriented with suburban amenities

If you're drawn to the bustling art scene and historic charm of the French Quarter, you'll likely enjoy Downtown Phoenix's vibrant array of art galleries and top-rated dining experiences. In Charleston's South of Broad, its iconic antebellum homes and coastal beauty find their match in Arcadia, where historic residences meet with citrus-lined streets. For those who love the local eateries and hip atmosphere of Wagener Terrace, Arcadia Lite offers an equally appealing landscape of trendy spots such as La Grande Orange Grocery & Pizzeria. Meanwhile, if your heart belongs to the eclectic neighborhood of Cannonborough/Elliotborough, with its unique boutiques and culinary outposts, you'll appreciate the vintage architecture and neighborhood pride of Phoenix's Coronado, which boasts popular spots like The Coronado.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Phoenix

  • Explore Desert Botanical Garden
  • Visit Heard Museum for Native American art
  • Hike Camelback Mountain
  • Enjoy Phoenix Zoo with family
  • Shop at Old Town Scottsdale
  • Watch a game at Chase Field
  • Relax at Tempe Town Lake

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Phoenix

Considering a move from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ is a major life decision that involves weighing both positive and negative factors. Our goal is to provide an honest reflection of the Pros and Cons of relocating from Charleston to Phoenix , ensuring you have a balanced perspective.

CONs
PROs
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Humidity
  • Hurricane risk
  • High pollen count
  • Limited diversity
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Dry climate
  • Low disaster occurrence
  • Better air quality
  • Rich cultural scene
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • No beach access
  • Less historic feel
  • Cold desert nights
  • Modern style dominate
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Southern charm
  • Mild winters
  • Historic architecture

Moving from Charleston to Phoenix offers a change in climate and lifestyle that might suit those who favor a drier environment and a bustling urban vibe. If you're tired of Charleston's high humidity and frequent hurricane threats, Phoenix offers a desert climate with low disaster risks, which could make [Papago Park](Papago Park) and hiking trails your new weekend adventures. Phoenix's rich cultural scene replaces coastal charm with vibrant nightlife and cultural hubs like the [Phoenix Art Museum](Phoenix Art Museum). However, the loss of beach days in Charleston might require a transition to enjoying the stunning desert landscapes and ageless vistas of places like [Camelback Mountain](Camelback Mountain). Embrace this new chapter with an open mind, as both cities boast unique attractions and lifestyles!

Charleston vs. Phoenix Food Guide

Food is an essential part of local culture and offers a taste of what it's like to live in an area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Phoenix to better inform you about the food scene where you are moving to.

Charleston
Phoenix
Most iconic local food item
Shrimp & Grits
Sonoran Hot Dog
Most popular meat dish
Fried Chicken
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Boiled Peanuts
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan BBQ
Vegan Tacos
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)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Phoenix offers a diverse culinary scene that you'll find vibrant and full of flavor. Areas like Downtown Phoenix and Roosevelt Row are teeming with food trucks offering everything from tacos to gourmet desserts. For a taste of traditional Arizona cuisine, visit Pizzeria Bianco for its famed wood-fired pizzas. If vegan options are your preference, neighborhoods like Tempe are bustling with innovative restaurants that serve vegan tacos reflecting the local taste. The abundance of food trucks and the eagerness of local chefs to embrace food trends make Phoenix's dynamic food scene an exciting adventure as you settle in.

Charleston vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison

Relocating from Charleston to Phoenix doesn't just mean finding a new place to live but also discovering your new favorite eateries. This guide helps you feel at home by matching some of your favorite spots in Charleston with similar vibes in Phoenix , easing your culinary transition.

CharlestonPhoenixWhat You'll Love
Tavern & TablePostino CentralCombines delicious bites with a cozy atmosphere
HuskFnBShowcases seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients
Poe's TavernRehab Burger TherapyOffers a wide variety of unique, gourmet burgers
MagnoliasBinkley's RestaurantHigh-end experience with an emphasis on Southern flavors
Fleet LandingSalt CellarSeafood-centric menu with waterfront views
Lewis BarbecueLittle Miss BBQAuthentically smoked meats and backyard vibes
Callie's Hot Little BiscuitOven+VineFresh breads with a unique twist
Butcher & BeePane BiancoFocus on fresh ingredients and inventive sandwiches
Xiao Bao BiscuitNew Asian Bar & RestaurantInnovative takes on Asian cuisine
Leon's Oyster ShopBuck & RiderOysters and other seafood with a relaxed, casual vibe

Diving deeper into what makes these restaurants comparable, you'll find that both Husk in Charleston and FnB in Phoenix focus intensely on local produce and seasonal flavors, ensuring each visit offers something fresh and unexpected. When you're craving burgers with an imaginative twist, Poe's Tavern and Rehab Burger Therapy elevate the experience with their diverse menus. On seafood nights, Fleet Landing and Salt Cellar promise waterfront dining infused with local coastal charm, making seafood feel both fresh and familiar. Additionally, BBQ aficionados will find solace in the richly smoked offerings of Lewis Barbecue and Little Miss BBQ, both renowned for their authentic and savory meats that truly capture the essence of Southern hospitality.

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Ready to start your move?

Charleston vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how Charleston and Phoenix compare in terms of housing. This comparison will guide you to make an informed decision about your new home.

Charleston
Phoenix
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial and Victorian
Southwestern and Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing

Both Charleston and Phoenix offer unique architectural experiences, with Charleston renowned for its Colonial and Victorian styles and Phoenix favoring Southwestern and Ranch designs. Walkability is somewhat comparable, although Charleston slightly edges Phoenix. However, if bikeability is crucial, you might find Phoenix offers slightly better infrastructure for biking enthusiasts. Additionally, the urban lifestyle is more pronounced in Phoenix, with its focus on modern amenities and proximity to recreational areas. With Charleston's historic charm, you enjoy more than just living space but an entire cultural heritage, easily accessible via local tours and scenic drives.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ

1. Arcadia : You'll love the abundance of pet-friendly parks and trails, making it an ideal spot for pet lovers.

2. Paradise Valley : This neighborhood offers vast outdoor spaces and numerous pet-friendly restaurants and cafes for you and your furry friend.

3. North Mountain : With its variety of hiking trails and pet-friendly activities, you'll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your pet.

Charleston vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations

If you're moving from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ , it's important to understand how the weather will differ between the two. This comparison will help you prepare for the changes in climate that you'll experience after the move.

Charleston
Phoenix
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes
Droughts/Heat
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

91/73
106/81
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58/38
67/46


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

48.3
8.2
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0.4
0


When moving from Charleston to Phoenix, you'll notice a significant change in humidity levels, as Charleston's moist air is replaced by Phoenix's dry desert climate. The number of sunny days in Phoenix vastly outnumbers those in Charleston, which might encourage more outdoor activities. While Charleston experiences high rainfall and occasional hurricanes, Phoenix is characterized by its low precipitation and frequent droughts, requiring adjustments in water usage. Additionally, the higher average UV index in Phoenix means taking extra precautions to protect your skin is necessary.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ , understanding the financial differences is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge how your lifestyle might need to adjust and what financial expectations you should have.

Charleston
Phoenix
Avg. Household Income
$74,139
$68,435
Cost of Living Index
98.3
100.7
State Income Tax
7%
2.59% - 4.50%
Avg. Property Tax
0.51%
0.61%
Avg. Sales Tax
9%
8.6%
Top 3 Industries
Tourism, Healthcare, Tech
Tech, Real Estate, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderate
Diverse
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
High

A move to Phoenix from Charleston may initially bring you slightly lower average household income but also lower living costs. The cost of living in Phoenix is more affordable, mainly due to lesser housing expenses despite a similar state income tax range. Sales tax is slightly higher in Charleston, although property tax is higher in Phoenix. Understanding these differences can aid in financial planning, especially since industry focuses differ, with Phoenix offering opportunities in real estate and manufacturing compared to Charleston's tourism-centric economy.

Charleston vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison

Looking for a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents? This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Phoenix , allowing you to understand how the two cities differ in their political leanings and religious landscapes.

Charleston
Phoenix
Political Make-up
Moderate to liberal
Conservative to moderate
Local Politics
Democrat-leaning
Republican-leaning
Religion
Predominantly Christian
Diverse religious beliefs

When moving to Phoenix from Charleston, you'll notice distinct differences in local governance and community beliefs. Charleston's politics tend to lean more Democrat, a perspective that influences city policies and local governance, as seen in institutions like the Charleston City Council. By contrast, Phoenix typically votes Republican, resulting in different political priorities. On the religious front, while Charleston has a strong Christian presence, Phoenix boasts a more eclectic mix of beliefs, offering a tapestry of spiritual and religious diversity. This can be seen in various neighborhoods, where you'll find vibrant communities supporting diverse religious frameworks.

Charleston vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When considering a move from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ, it's essential to understand the daily commute and traffic differences to adapt smoothly. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Phoenix helps you navigate and plan better for your new daily routine in each city.

Charleston
Phoenix
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24
27
Traffic Congestion
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Possibly

In Charleston, the relatively lower traffic congestion means that even with limited public transit, getting around might be easier than you'd expect. However, owning a car remains almost essential due to the area's layout and limited transit options. In Phoenix, the public transit system is more robust, featuring options like the Valley Metro light rail. This development allows for more flexibility, potentially enabling you to navigate the city without a car, though it's often more convenient to have one. The slightly higher traffic congestion in Phoenix compared to Charleston reflects its larger size and population, requiring you to plan your commute to avoid peak traffic hours.

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