Best Charleston to Lexington Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Lexington and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 540 mile move from South Carolina to Kentucky go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 16 Charleston to Lexington 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 Smooth Move Charleston), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Lexington. 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 Lexington Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Ready Set Movers | 9.17 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | From Here to There | 9.17 | 8.82 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 4 | Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving | 8.77 | 9.14 | 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 Lexington?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 540 miles from Charleston, SC to Lexington, KY will cost on average $2,240 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Lexington move is roughly $5,367. 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 | $1,509 | 300 ft³ | $5.03 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,240 | 450 ft³ | $4.98 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,697 | 750 ft³ | $4.93 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,367 | 1100 ft³ | $4.88 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,726 | 1600 ft³ | $4.83 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,602 | 1800 ft³ | $4.78 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lexington to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Lexington Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
From Here to There
Lexington, KY, 40507
About From Here to There
From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive...
Services
- Residential Move
- Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
- Commercial/Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3481118 / 1254688 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,500 (2022) |
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving
1861 Williamson Ct
Louisville, KY, 40223
About Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving
Your one-stop-shop moving company in Louisville, Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving serves local Kentucky and Southern Indiana residents and businesses with...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1834511 / 1460292 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (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. Lexington Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but familiarizing yourself with local neighborhoods can ease the transition. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Lexington, KY , you can use your current knowledge as a baseline to explore your new home.
| Charleston | Lexington | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Historic Charleston | Chevy Chase | Historic charm and upscale amenities |
| Mount Pleasant | Beaumont | Family-friendly with parks and schools |
| West Ashley | Southland | Suburban feel with retail options |
| James Island | Pinckard | Residential, close to nature |
| North Charleston | Hamburg | Commercial hub with diverse dining |
| Summerville | Masterson Station | Equestrian facilities and expansive parks |
| Sullivans Island | Lakewood | Lakeside with recreational activities |
| Folly Beach | Shadeland | Vibrant community near water |
| Daniel Island | Palomar | Picturesque, modern developments |
| Isle of Palms | Andover Hills | Upscale living with scenic views |
If you enjoy the historical elegance of Charleston's neighborhoods, you'll find a similarity in Chevy Chase, known for its architectural beauty and vibrant streets lined with cafes such as Josie's. In Mount Pleasant, popular for its community feel and schools, you'll feel at home in Beaumont, where family-friendly parks like Jacobson Park offer lots of outdoor activities. North Charleston's bustling commercial scene can be matched with Hamburg, a neighborhood boasting diverse dining options including the well-loved Malone's. Lastly, those drawn to the coastal vibes of Sullivans Island may find Lakewood's lakeside recreational opportunities appealing, with facilities such as Lexington Clubhouse enhancing the community space.
Things to Do in Lexington
Explore Kentucky Horse Park- Stroll through Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate
- Sample bourbon at Buffalo Trace Distillery
- Attend a race at Keeneland Racetrack
- Discover art at Lexington Art League
- Watch a movie at Kentucky Theater
- Enjoy live music at The Burl
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Lexington
When moving from Charleston, SC to Lexington, KY , it's essential to have an honest reflection of the upsides and downsides. This comparison highlights the primary benefits and drawbacks you may encounter during your relocation.
Charleston, SC- Frequent hurricanes
- High tourist traffic
- Higher cost of living
- Hot, humid summers
Lexington, KY- Milder climate
- Less tourism congestion
- More affordable living
- Cooler summer temperatures
Lexington, KY- No local beaches
- Less historical significance
- Fewer dining options
- More limited arts scene
Charleston, SC- Beach access
- Rich history
- Diverse culinary scene
- Vibrant arts community
In Lexington, you'll enjoy a respite from Charleston's [hot, humid summers](https://www.weather-us.com/en/south-carolina-usa/charleston-climate), breathing in cooler air while exploring lush parks like [Keeneland](https://www.keeneland.com) or dining in locales minus the hustle of tourists that often crowd downtown Charleston. Although you might miss Charleston's beaches, the variety of landscapes in [the Bluegrass region](https://www.visitlex.com/bluegrass/) can be equally captivating. While the culinary scene is less diverse, Lexington's [local favorites](https://www.visitlex.com/restaurants/) offer a delightful gastronomic experience, perfectly complementing the vibrant yet distinct charm of the city. If you yearn for culture, Charleston's [Gibbes Museum of Art](https://www.gibbesmuseum.org/) may be missed, but Lexington's art galleries and thriving community scene offer their own unique encounters.
Charleston vs. Lexington Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and a significant aspect of experiencing life in a new area. This comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Lexington will help you become better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
- Husk
- FIG
- Magnolias
- Keeneland
- Bluegrass Grill
- Windy Corner Market
Lexington is known for its hearty and comforting dishes like the Hot Brown, which can be explored in the neighborhoods like Chevy Chase or dining spots such as Bluegrass Grill. On the other hand, Charleston offers culinary delights like shrimp and grits that define its vibrant foodie scene; popular choices include visiting the famous Husk in the historic district. While both cities have a unique approach to street food, you might find a greater variety of food trucks frequenting the Charleston area, offering everything from boiled peanuts to gourmet creations. Dive into the local restaurant culture, which embodies the essence of Kentucky’s flavors at celebrated venues as compared to Charleston’s strong seafood-centric menus.
Charleston vs. Lexington Restaurant Comparison
Finding your go-to places for eating out is a big part of making a new city feel like home. By comparing the top dining spots in Charleston with those in Lexington , you can easily explore new favorites that match the vibe and tastes you already love.
| Charleston | Lexington | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Coles 735 Main | Known for southern cuisine that focuses on local ingredients |
| FIG | Middle Fork Kitchen Bar | Shares a farm-to-table philosophy with a rotating seasonal menu |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | Smithtown Seafood | Offers fresh seafood with a casual atmosphere |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Asian Wind | Delivers a fusion of Asian flavors in a vibrant setting |
| Poogan’s Porch | Ramsey’s Diner | Emphasizes comfort food with a local touch |
| Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit | Doodle’s | Specializes in breakfast fare and beloved biscuits |
| Rodney Scott's BBQ | Blue Door Smokehouse | Excels in authentic BBQ flavors with a loyal following |
| The Ordinary | Lockbox | Offers a sophisticated dining experience serving high-end seafood |
| Lewis Barbecue | Corto Lima | Provides a range of flavors, incorporating wood-grilled elements into Latin-inspired dishes |
| 82 Queen | Holly Hill Inn | Offers a charming dining experience with a blend of southern flair and seasonally-inspired menus |
If you love indulging in fresh seafood, you'll certainly appreciate Smithtown Seafood in Lexington, which mirrors the relaxed yet refined ambiance of Charleston's Leon’s Oyster Shop. For fans of farm-to-table dining, Middle Fork Kitchen Bar will remind you of the beloved FIG, with its commitment to seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes. Meat lovers won't miss out either; the mouthwatering barbecue at Blue Door Smokehouse captures the genuine taste and smoky aroma you enjoy at Charleston's Rodney Scott's BBQ. Whether it's southern comfort or eclectic Asian fusion you crave, Lexington's dining scene ensures your culinary experiences will be rich and fulfilling.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Lexington Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a key factor when planning a move. Understanding how Charleston and Lexington compare in terms of housing can make your transition smoother. Here, we delve into important metrics such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help you make informed decisions efficiently with these charts .
When comparing Charleston and Lexington, one immediately notices the difference in housing costs. Charleston's median home price is notably higher, reflecting its historical charm and popularity. However, Lexington, while offering more affordable properties, also presents unique characteristics, boasting spacious yards and modern features as frequently seen in listings. While Charleston offers a rich tapestry of Colonial and Victorian architecture, Lexington provides a distinct feel with Federal and Greek Revival styles. For those who prioritize walkability and bikeability, Lexington offers a slight edge, possibly making everyday transit more convenient in this city compared to Charleston.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lexington, KY
1. Chevy Chase : You'll love the walkable streets and abundance of parks, making it an ideal location for pet owners who enjoy outdoor activities with their furry friends.
2. Beaumont : This neighborhood offers spacious homes and multiple green spaces, perfect for those who want ample room for their pets to roam.
3. Masterson Station : With its large dog park and numerous outdoor trails, you'll find it easy to keep your pets active and engaged in this community.
Charleston vs. Lexington Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will give you insights into the differences between Charleston, SC and Lexington, KY climates, helping you prepare for changes in temperature, precipitation, and other environmental factors.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
As you prepare for your move, it's helpful to note that Charleston has notably warmer winters compared to Lexington, though both cities offer ample sunshine throughout the year. While Charleston's climate is more humid, it's the potential for hurricanes that sets it apart from Lexington, which is more prone to tornadoes. Additionally, Lexington experiences a higher amount of snowfall, which might mean investing in winter gear if you're accustomed to Charleston's milder winters. Understanding these differences can help you adapt to your new environment more smoothly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Lexington
If you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Lexington, KY , understanding the cost of living differences is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate economic changes and adjust your financial planning accordingly.
When moving from Charleston to Lexington, you'll notice a difference in the cost of living, which is significantly lower in Lexington. This can positively impact your spending power despite a slightly lower average household income. Additionally, Lexington offers a favorable tax environment with lower state income and sales tax rates. However, property taxes are higher in Lexington compared to Charleston, which may influence your decision if homeownership is a priority. These factors, combined with the different dominant industries, highlight the economic landscape changes you'll encounter in Lexington.
Charleston vs. Lexington Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This is a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Lexington , designed to give you insights into the cultural landscapes of these two vibrant cities.
As you move from Charleston to Lexington, you will experience different community priorities reflected in the local politics. Charleston, with its focus on tourism and historical preservation, often sees local initiatives aimed at maintaining its historic charm. In contrast, Lexington has a strong emphasis on urban development and education, attracting those interested in growth and innovation. Religious landscapes vary as well; Charleston's high percentage of Protestant communities shapes its cultural events, while Lexington offers a diverse array of religious experiences, including a growing non-religious community, which might present new opportunities for cultural engagement.
Charleston vs. Lexington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide provides a detailed comparison of daily commuting experiences in both cities to help you better understand the differences between traffic and transportation options between Charleston, SC & Lexington, KY . Whether you are considering public transit or driving on your commute, knowing these contrasts will make your move more seamless.
While both cities require some form of transportation, Lexington typically offers a slightly easier commuting experience. With an average commute time of 20 minutes, you’ll generally spend less time on the road compared to Charleston's 25-minute average. Traffic congestion tends to be less intense in Lexington, scoring a manageable 4 out of 10, as opposed to Charleston's 6. Public transit options are available in both cities but are more feasible in Lexington, offering more frequent routes and slightly higher availability. It’s still beneficial to have a car in both locations, though Lexington provides a bit more flexibility for those who prefer public transport.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to Kentucky Routes
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