Best Charleston to Sacramento Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charleston to Sacramento and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,941 mile move from South Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Charleston to Sacramento 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 Rickey's Gold Country 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 Charleston compared to Sacramento. 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 Sacramento Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Rickey's Gold Country Moving9.238.91Authorized For HHG
2Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHG
3Ready Set Movers9.179.22Authorized For HHG
4Workhorse Moving Co.8.488.69Authorized For Property, HHG
5Armstrong Relocation8.167.27Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,941 miles from Charleston, SC to Sacramento, CA will cost on average $4,282 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Sacramento move is roughly $10,358. 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$2,870300 ft³$9.57
1 Bedroom$4,282450 ft³$9.52
2 Bedrooms$7,100750 ft³$9.47
3 Bedrooms$10,3581100 ft³$9.42
4 Bedrooms$14,9861600 ft³$9.37
5+ Bedrooms$16,7691800 ft³$9.32
*Please note: These South Carolina to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from South Carolina & California. 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 CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sacramento to Charleston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Sacramento Movers

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

Rickey's Gold Country Moving Logo

Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Exceptional9.23/10
based on 334+ data points

15887 Rattlesnake Rd

Grass Valley, CA, 95945

About Rickey's Gold Country Moving

Rickey's Gold Country Moving is a moving company based in Grass Valley, CA. They have received positive customer reviews for their...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3065202 / 1398360

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2023)
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
Workhorse Moving Co. Logo

Workhorse Moving Co.

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 266+ data points

West Sacramento, CA, 95691

About Workhorse Moving Co.

Workhorse Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company in Calaveras County that has been serving the Gold Country since...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3369346 / 1080028

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2023)
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. Sacramento Neighborhood Comparison

By examining the Charleston, SC & Sacramento, CA neighborhoods, this guide helps you settle into an unfamiliar city by drawing parallels to your previous home. Discover comparable communities to ease your transition.

CharlestonSacramentoHow They're Similar
French QuarterMidtownVibrant arts and dining scene
West AshleyEast SacramentoSuburban feel with city access
Mount PleasantLand ParkFamily-friendly parks and schools
Daniel IslandNatomas ParkPlanned community lifestyle
South of BroadFab 40sHistorical homes & charm
Harleston VillageOak ParkUniversity atmosphere and youth culture
Johns IslandArden-ArcadeBlend of rural and residential
James IslandPocket-GreenhavenRelaxed, suburban vibe
North CharlestonSouth NatomasDiverse and dynamic community
Downtown CharlestonDowntown SacramentoUrban lifestyle and business hub

If you’re drawn to the vibrant arts and dining of Charleston's French Quarter, you’ll find Sacramento’s Midtown district offers a similar lively atmosphere, complete with eclectic eateries and artistic venues. For those who favored the suburban comfort of West Ashley, East Sacramento provides a peaceful escape with quick city access, framed by leafy streets and charming local cafes. If you were captivated by the history and grandeur of Charleston's South of Broad neighborhood, the iconic Fab 40s in Sacramento will intrigue with its tree-lined avenues and vintage elegance. Finally, Downtown Charleston enthusiasts will appreciate the bustling energy of Downtown Sacramento, where modern skyscrapers mingle with historical landmarks, offering a bustling metropolis experience.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Sacramento


When planning a move from Charleston, SC to Sacramento, CA, it's crucial to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages of each location. This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Charleston, SC to Sacramento, CA , helping you make informed decisions for your new beginning.

CONs
PROs
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • humid summers
  • heavy hurricane season
  • tourist congestion
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • dry summers
  • less extreme weather
  • more urban sprawl
Sacramento, CA iconSacramento, CA
  • modern architecture
  • limited coastline
  • fast-paced lifestyle
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • historic charm
  • beach access
  • laid-back lifestyle


Moving from Charleston's deep-rooted historic charm, exemplified by neighborhoods like the French Quarter, to Sacramento's modern and cosmopolitan vibe can be a refreshing change. While you'll miss the direct beach access of Folly Beach, Sacramento offers ample outdoor activities through places like the Anderson Park and the scenic American River Bike Trail. Both cities offer vibrant dining scenes, but Sacramento's Midtown District stands out with its eclectic mix of restaurants and breweries. The transition may bring about a faster pace of life, yet the diverse cultural experiences and creative energy of popular areas like Old Sacramento retain a welcoming atmosphere.

Charleston vs. Sacramento Food Guide

Food is an important part of local culture and can significantly influence what it's like to live in an area. This guide aims to help you understand the culinary landscape of your potential new home by offering a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Sacramento , equipping you with insights into what you might experience after your move.

Charleston
Sacramento
Most iconic local food item
Shrimp and Grits
Farm-to-Fork Dishes
Most popular meat dish
Frogmore Stew
Tri-tip
Most popular street food item
Boiled Peanuts
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
She-Crab Soup (Vegan twist)
Zucchini Noodles
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Husk
  • Halls Chophouse
  • 82 Queen
  • The Kitchen
  • Grange Restaurant
  • Magpie Café
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving to Sacramento, you're in for a treat with the vibrant farm-to-fork focus that defines the region's culinary identity. Midtown Sacramento is a hotspot for food enthusiasts, offering establishments like The Kitchen that highlight locally sourced produce. With a high abundance of food trucks, you'll find no shortage of diverse flavors and convenient meals, particularly around events held in Southside Park. If you're vegan, you'll appreciate Sacramento’s embracing attitude, especially in trendy places like the Oak Park neighborhood. Whether you're looking for tacos at one of the city’s many food trucks or seeking out vegan delights in Magpie Café, the city offers a wide array of dining experiences to explore.

Charleston vs. Sacramento Restaurant Comparison

When moving from Charleston, SC to Sacramento, CA, food plays a pivotal role in making a new place feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help someone find their new favorite eateries by using Charleston and Sacramento as a guide .

CharlestonSacramentoWhat You'll Love
HuskThe KitchenBoth offer a seasonal menu with locally-sourced ingredients
FIGThe WaterboyFocus on refined dishes rooted in local agriculture
Lewis BarbecueTank House BBQ & BarSavory meats and authentic barbecue experience
167 RawSunfish PokeFresh seafood and casual coastal vibe
Charleston GrillBiba RestaurantHigh-end dining with a classic touch
Xiao Bao BiscuitHawks Public HouseBoth offer a creative fusion of Asian flavors
Page’s Okra GrillPancake CircusCasual setting with Southern comfort food
Poe’s TavernBurgers & BrewInnovative burger creations and laid-back atmosphere
Fleet LandingRio City CaféWaterfront dining with a casual ambiance
Callie's Hot Little BiscuitPushkin's BakeryArtisan baked goods perfect for a morning treat

As you explore the culinary offerings in your new city, you'll find that places like The Kitchen in Sacramento can quickly become a beloved spot, akin to Charleston's Husk, with its devotion to seasonal and local ingredients. For nights when you crave that smoky, grilled perfection, Tank House BBQ & Bar brings the wonderful essence of true barbecue reminiscent of Lewis Barbecue. When in need of some creative Asian-inspired dishes, Hawks Public House presents a delightful parallel to the bold flavors offered at Xiao Bao Biscuit in Charleston. Exploring these parallels will help you adjust to your new home with familiar, delectable comforts.

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Charleston vs. Sacramento Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a vital role in your relocation journey. Understanding the differences in housing between Charleston, SC and Sacramento, CA can help you make informed decisions. Comparing aspects like cost, architecture, and walkability ensures you find the best fit for your lifestyle.

Charleston
Sacramento
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial
Craftsman
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Historic Homes, Waterfronts
Backyards, Proximity to Parks

When comparing Charleston and Sacramento, you'll notice a significant difference in architectural styles, with Charleston offering elegant Colonial homes adorned with history, many featuring stunning waterside views. Meanwhile, Sacramento leans towards charming Craftsman homes, often highlighted by spacious backyards. If you revel in biking, Sacramento's higher bikeability score might appeal to you, offering more accessible bike paths and favorable terrain. Conversely, if history and southern charm are your passion, exploring the historic districts of Charleston might feel like a daily adventure. Both cities boast vibrant urban lifestyles, but your choice might depend on whether the coastal allure of Charleston or the suburban ease of Sacramento better matches your personal aspirations.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sacramento, CA

1. Midtown Sacramento : You'll love Midtown for its abundance of dog parks and pet-friendly establishments, ensuring your furry friend will feel welcome everywhere you go.

2. East Sacramento : Known for its tree-lined streets and spacious yards, East Sacramento offers a tranquil environment where you and your pet can enjoy long, leisurely walks.

3. Land Park : With its large park areas and community-focused atmosphere, Land Park provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities with your pet right at your doorstep.

Charleston vs. Sacramento Weather Considerations

If you're moving from Charleston, SC to Sacramento, CA , it's essential to understand how the weather will compare to what you're used to. This comparison can help you prepare for daily activities and adapt to your new environment with ease.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/73
92/58
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

60/40
55/39


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

48
20
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


Moving from Charleston to Sacramento brings a significant change in climate, particularly in terms of humidity and sunshine. Sacramento's climate is much drier, with far fewer annual inches of rain and a lower average humidity level, making it ideal for those who prefer a less humid environment. You'll also notice more sunny days in Sacramento, which might affect your outdoor plans positively. While Charleston's main natural threat is hurricanes, Sacramento requires vigilance against wildfires, emphasizing different types of preparedness in these regions.

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

When you're moving from Charleston, SC to Sacramento, CA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This guide helps you identify the financial differences and similarities between these two cities, making your move more informed and strategic .

Charleston
Sacramento
Avg. Household Income
$74,139
$75,311
Cost of Living Index
98.3
116.2
State Income Tax
7%
9.3%
Avg. Property Tax
0.51%
0.74%
Avg. Sales Tax
9%
8.75%
Top 3 Industries
Tourism, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Government, Healthcare, Technology
Affluence
Moderate
Expansive
Poverty
Moderate
Noticeable
Homelessness
Contained
Wide-spread

Moving from Charleston to Sacramento, you're likely to notice an increase in the cost of living, as indicated by a higher Cost of Living Index. Sacramento's diverse economy, particularly in government and technology sectors, offers different opportunities compared to Charleston's focus on tourism and healthcare. However, California's income taxes are notably higher, potentially impacting your disposable income. Despite this, both cities support a vibrant community life with their unique economic landscapes, though Sacramento faces greater challenges with issues like homelessness.

Charleston vs. Sacramento Political & Religious Comparison

Whether you're curious about the political landscape or religious tendencies, this comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the city dynamics. Political Makeup of Charleston & Sacramento provides insights that can help you acclimate to your new environment.

Charleston
Sacramento
Political Make-up
Moderate with a slight conservative leaning
Liberal
Local Politics
Influenced by state and <a href="https://www.charleston-sc.gov/">city traditions</a>
Progressive with a strong focus on social policies
Religion
Predominantly Christian with diverse denominations
More religiously diverse with a range of faiths

Moving from Charleston to Sacramento introduces you to a different political and cultural dynamic. Charleston's moderate political atmosphere contrasts with Sacramento's liberal tendencies, where social policies often lead local politics. While Charleston is known for its rich Christian heritage, Sacramento offers a more diverse religious landscape, reflecting its varied population. Exploring the local politics in Sacramento will provide new perspectives on governance and civic engagement as you settle into your new home.

Charleston vs. Sacramento Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This guide aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like by providing a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Sacramento . Whether you're considering a move or just curious, comparing these two cities will shed light on your daily navigation options including public transit and overall congestion.

Charleston
Sacramento
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
23
26
Traffic Congestion
5 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
No
Possibly

Navigating Charleston generally involves less congestion, with an average commute time of around 23 minutes. Traffic isn't as intense here compared to Sacramento, which scores higher on the congestion scale. However, public transit availability is lower in Charleston with limited options if you're looking to avoid using a car. On the other hand, Sacramento offers a relatively robust public transportation system that might allow you to manage without a car. While living in Sacramento, you might consider exploring the [SacRT service](https://www.sacrt.com) for a more environmentally friendly commute solution.

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