Best Charleston to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,463 mile move from South Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Charleston to San Diego 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 The Rock Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to San Diego. 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 Charleston to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.50 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.49 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.17 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.16 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Charleston to San Diego?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,463 miles from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA will cost on average $3,876 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to San Diego move is roughly $9,364. 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 | $2,599 | 300 ft³ | $8.66 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,876 | 450 ft³ | $8.61 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,422 | 750 ft³ | $8.56 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,364 | 1100 ft³ | $8.51 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,540 | 1600 ft³ | $8.46 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,143 | 1800 ft³ | $8.41 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
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) |
Armstrong Relocation
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3528195 / 1173611 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
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.
Charleston vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
This comparison aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods of Charleston, SC & San Diego, CA to find similarities that could make your move smoother.
| Charleston | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown | Gaslamp Quarter | Vibrant nightlife |
| Mount Pleasant | La Jolla | Beachfront luxury |
| West Ashley | Pacific Beach | Laid-back atmosphere |
| North Charleston | North Park | Diverse arts scene |
| James Island | Coronado | Island living feel |
| Summerville | Del Mar | Family-friendly and suburban |
| Isle of Palms | Mission Beach | Beach-centric lifestyle |
| Sullivan's Island | Encinitas | Surfer town charm |
Downtown Charleston's lively historic charm, dining, and shopping make it akin to San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, renowned for its bustling nightlife and vibrant energy. If you love spending weekends at the beach, Mount Pleasant offers beautiful water views and is similar in opulence to La Jolla, with both offering upscale dining and shopping options. For those seeking a more laid-back, arts-centric community, West Ashley shares a bohemian flair with Pacific Beach, often drawing in visitors with their vibrant arts scenes. The lush parks of North Charleston suggest similarities with North Park’s diverse culture and numerous local cafes and arts venues. Each neighborhood provides unique aspects and also shares delightful similarities to help you make your new home in San Diego.
Things to Do in San Diego
Visit the San Diego Zoo- Tour the USS Midway Museum
- Explore Balboa Park
- Relax at Coronado Beach
- Dine in Little Italy
- Experience SeaWorld San Diego
- Play golf at Torrey Pines
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to San Diego
Making a move from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA involves various similarities and differences. This section offers an honest reflection, revealing the good and bad attributes of such relocation through comparative charts to guide you in making the best decision for your future lifestyle in both Charleston and San Diego .
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Hurricane threats
- Limited public transport
- Smaller job market
- Seasonal tourists
San Diego, CA- Dry climate
- Mild weather
- Extensive public transit
- Vibrant job opportunities
- Year-round attractions
San Diego, CA- Higher cost of living
- High property prices
- Traffic congestion
- Density and crowds
- More expensive dining
Charleston, SC- Southern charm
- Historic architecture
- Sandy beaches
- Community feel
- Delicious seafood
Charleston's historic charm and community feel can be incredibly welcoming, with picturesque streets and notable places like Charleston City Market or Folly Beach. However, living in San Diego brings the advantage of more consistent weather and extensive public transit options, making areas like Balboa Park and La Jolla easily accessible. Dining options in San Diego, though potentially pricier, boast a variety that rivals that of Charleston's delicious seafood. Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego offers vibrant night scenes that can be contrasted with Charleston's small-town feel. Deciding on the move is about weighing these factors to suit your personal priorities.
Charleston vs. San Diego Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and significantly influences one's living experience in a region. To help you get a taste of what's in store, we'll compare the local cuisine between Charleston & San Diego . Discover the flavors that define these cities and what you can expect when moving from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA.
- Hominy Grill
- Husk
- Peninsula Grill
San Diego offers a vibrant culinary scene with an abundance of food trucks and a strong focus on fitness and health. Neighborhoods like La Jolla and Pacific Beach are known for their fresh and innovative cuisine. Fish tacos, a local favorite, can be enjoyed in seaside venues and taco stalls across the city. For a vegan twist, explore areas such as North Park where avocado toast reigns supreme. You'll also find iconic restaurants like George's at the Cove, offering breathtaking views and delectable dishes that capture the essence of Southern California living. If you're moving to San Diego, prepare for a diverse and rich culinary experience that blends local specialties with a commitment to fresh and health-focused options.
Charleston vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Food is a cornerstone of feeling at home, and discovering new dining spots can help you connect to your new city. This Charleston to San Diego restaurant comparison will guide you in finding your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a culinary guide.
| Charleston | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| FIG | Addison | Both offer a fine dining experience with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients |
| Husk | Juniper & Ivy | A nod to contemporary cuisine with a focus on seasonal, locally harvested produce |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | Mitch’s Seafood | Attracts seafood lovers with its fresh, sustainably sourced catch |
| Hominy Grill | The Cottage La Jolla | Celebrates comfort food reflective of its region’s rich culinary heritage |
| Taco Boy | City Tacos | Offers a vibrant variety of unique, inventive tacos |
| Fleet Landing | Point Loma Seafoods | Delight in seaside dining with panoramic waterfront views and fresh seafood |
| Fuel Cantina | Oscar’s Mexican Seafood | Shares a vibrant and casual atmosphere paired with bold Mexican flavors |
| Rodney Scott’s BBQ | Phil’s BBQ | Masters the art of barbecue with a distinctive, local flair and robust flavors |
| Lewis Barbecue | Smokin’ Joe’s BBQ | Offers a true taste of Southern-style smoked meats |
| The Ordinary | George’s at the Cove | Both champion sophisticated seafood dishes with a touch of elegance |
If you're a fan of the innovative dining experience at Addison or Husk, then Juniper & Ivy will captivate you with its modern flair for seasonal, local ingredients. Seafood aficionados transitioning from Mitch’s Seafood will find a similar local livelihood at Fleet Landing, ensuring freshness is always on the menu. When in need of comforting Southern flavors, head to The Cottage La Jolla, which mirrors the heartwarming allure of Charleston’s cherished Hominy Grill.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects when considering a move from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA . It's crucial to understand how these two cities compare in various housing factors that could affect your lifestyle and financial decisions.
When comparing the housing markets of Charleston and San Diego, affordability stands out as a significant difference. While Charleston offers lower median home prices, an enticing factor for many, San Diego presents a more vibrant urban lifestyle with high walkability and bikeability scores, appealing to those seeking an active city life. The architectural styles also reflect the unique culture of each city; Charleston's Colonial charm meets San Diego's Spanish Mission elegance. Living in a city known for its porches and beach proximity versus one famous for balconies and ocean views caters to distinct lifestyle preferences. Whether you value affordability or a more urban experience will heavily influence your move.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach : You'll find this laid-back community perfect for you and your pet, thanks to its dedicated Dog Beach and numerous pet-friendly establishments.
2. North Park : This vibrant neighborhood offers you plenty of parks and outdoor cafes where pets are always welcome, making it easy to enjoy the day with your furry friend.
3. Carmel Valley : With its abundance of trails and wide-open spaces, you and your pet can enjoy plenty of outdoor adventures in this family-friendly neighborhood.
Charleston vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
If you're planning to relocate from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA , understanding the weather differences between these cities is crucial for a smoother transition. The provided comparison highlights key aspects of the climate you’ll encounter, helping you prepare accordingly for your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving to San Diego from Charleston will bring you to a sunnier locale with 57 more days of sunshine annually. The average humidity in San Diego is generally lower, making it feel less sticky compared to Charleston's subtropical climate. San Diego's mild winter temperatures and minimal rainfall might be appealing if you prefer drier, stable weather patterns. However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the possibility of earthquakes, a stark contrast to the hurricane warnings in Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to San Diego
When relocating from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA , it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape differ to adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.
Moving from Charleston to San Diego presents a shift in both economic opportunities and challenges. San Diego boasts a notably higher average household income, but this is tempered by a much steeper cost of living index. The disparity between state income tax rates is significant, with California's rates nearly doubling that of South Carolina. Weathering these financial differences will involve considering the dominant industries in San Diego, with opportunities particularly abundant in military and biotech sectors. Furthermore, while San Diego is generally more affluent, it is essential to prepare for a more visible homelessness issue compared to Charleston.
Charleston vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
In your move from Charleston, SC to San Diego, CA, understanding the social landscape, such as political and religious demographics, provides a context for adaptation. The comparison of the politics between Charleston & San Diego will give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of these cities' residents.
When relocating from Charleston to San Diego, you might notice a shift in the political climate. Charleston's political setting often features a conservative undertone, whereas San Diego tends more toward liberalism, with its diverse and inclusive policies reflected in local governance. On the religious spectrum, Charleston has a strong Christian presence, enriching its community life with numerous churches and faith-based events. In contrast, San Diego offers a more secular environment with a smorgasbord of religious diversity, expanding your opportunities to explore new cultural and spiritual experiences.
Charleston vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the nuances of daily commuting and traffic in a new city can significantly affect your lifestyle. This comparison aims to provide a clear view of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & San Diego , helping you better prepare for the differences in daily travel.
As you transition from Charleston to San Diego, you will notice an increase in traffic congestion, with San Diego scoring a 7 out of 10 compared to Charleston's 5. This might mean a slight adjustment in departure times if you want to avoid the heaviest traffic. Public transit is more viable in San Diego, with various options like the Trolley or numerous bus routes, allowing some residents to manage without a car. In contrast, getting by without a car in Charleston might be challenging due to its limited public transit options. The average commute time difference is subtle, so locating near employment or activities can save you some valuable time.
Additional Resources
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