Best Charleston to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 825 mile move from South Carolina to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Charleston to Detroit 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.49 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Balance Detroit | 8.48 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 5 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.16 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Charleston to Detroit?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 825 miles from Charleston, SC to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,483 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Detroit move is roughly $5,959. 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 | $1,670 | 300 ft³ | $5.57 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,483 | 450 ft³ | $5.52 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,100 | 750 ft³ | $5.47 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,959 | 1100 ft³ | $5.42 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,588 | 1600 ft³ | $5.37 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,571 | 1800 ft³ | $5.32 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Detroit 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) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
11850 E Jefferson
Detroit, MI, 48214
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
Livonia, MI, 48150
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |
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. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from Charleston, SC to Detroit, MI can be a thrilling yet daunting experience. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Detroit, MI , you'll find familiar vibes in a brand-new city. This guide will help you navigate your relocation by drawing parallels between popular areas in both locations.
| Charleston | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Corktown | historic charm, vibrant arts scene |
| Mount Pleasant | Grosse Pointe | suburban feel, waterfront views |
| West Ashley | Royal Oak | family-friendly, shopping and dining |
| Downtown Charleston | Downtown Detroit | bustling urban life, cultural attractions |
| Sullivan's Island | St. Clair Shores | coastal vibe, beach-like environment |
| James Island | Ferndale | young, eclectic community |
| Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Midtown | trendy, youthful energy |
| North Charleston | Warren | diverse, rapidly growing community |
| Isle of Palms | Grosse Ile | island living feel, serene environment |
| Harleston Village | Brush Park | mix of old and new architecture |
In Charleston's French Quarter, you are surrounded by cobblestone streets and a thriving arts scene, akin to the charm you’ll find in Detroit’s Corktown. If you are a fan of catching live music at the annual Corktown Strut Music Festival, Corktown could feel like home. For a more suburban atmosphere, Mount Pleasant’s waterfront views are reminiscent of the residential area of Grosse Pointe, known for its family-friendly community. If you're relocating to the energetic Downtown Charleston, you’ll find similar excitement in Downtown Detroit, with its rich array of cultural attractions like the iconic Detroit Institute of Arts. Each neighborhood in Charleston has its unique counterpart in Detroit, ensuring that you’ll find your niche in the Motor City.
Things to Do in Detroit
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts- Visit the Belle Isle Park
- Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
- Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
- Discover the Henry Ford Museum
- Experience the Motown Museum
- Try local eats at Eastern Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Detroit
Considering moving from Charleston, SC to Detroit, MI involves weighing both the pros and cons. Our guide aims to deliver an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this locale transition, helping you better understand what a change from Charleston, SC to Detroit, MI entails.
Charleston, SC- High summer humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Limited public transport
Detroit, MI- Cooler summers
- Less storm activity
- Efficient transport system
Detroit, MI- Fewer historic sites
- No nearby beaches
- Harsh winters
Charleston, SC- Charming historic districts
- Beach proximity
- Milder winters
Charleston's historic charm is evident in places like Battery Park and the cobblestoned streets of the French Quarter, evoking a bygone era. In contrast, Detroit offers rich cultural sites such as the Detroit Institute of Arts and the vibrant atmosphere of Corktown. While Charleston’s limited public transport may necessitate a car, Detroit’s extensive network allows you to explore areas such as Detroit Riverwalk with ease. Although you may miss Charleston’s beaches like Isle of Palms, Detroit compensates with parks like Belle Isle Park offering stunning waterfront views.
Charleston vs. Detroit Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and offers a glimpse into what life is like in a region. Comparing the local cuisine between Charleston and Detroit can help you gain insights into the food scene of the area you're moving to and connect with its unique flavors and traditions.
- Buddy’s Rendezvous
- Lafayette Coney Island
- Slows Bar BQ
Upon moving to Detroit, you'll find a vibrant food scene that mixes traditional Midwestern flavors with a dynamic urban twist. The iconic Detroit-style pizza, with its thick crust, crispy edges, and unique square shape, is a must-try and readily available in neighborhoods like Corktown and Greektown. If you’re a fan of meat dishes, the legendary Coney Dog is a staple, often debated between locals over Lafayette and American Coney Island hot spots. For vegan options, the city provides ample choices like vegan sliders at eateries such as Slows Bar BQ, often found in the youthful Midtown district. Detroit's eclectic mix of food trucks further enhances the city's street food culture, showcasing a wide range of culinary delights that continue to evolve and grow.
Charleston vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new area feel like home. Whether you're a foodie, enjoy the occasional fine dining experience, or relish great street eats, this comparison of top restaurants in Charleston, SC and Detroit, MI will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Charleston | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Halls Chophouse | Prime + Proper | Both are renowned for their exquisite steaks and upscale dining. |
| FIG | Selden Standard | Known for creative, seasonal dishes in a trendy setting. |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Takoi | Both offer eclectic Asian fusion cuisine with dynamic flavors. |
| Home Team BBQ | Slows Bar BQ | Both serve up smoky BBQ that locals rave about. |
| The Ordinary | The Apparatus Room | These are seafood havens with modern, stylish atmospheres. |
| 167 Raw | Joe Muer Seafood | Both are celebrated for fresh shellfish and creative cocktails. |
| Poogan's Porch | Good Cakes and Bakes | Known for their rich comfort foods and cozy ambiance. |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | The Sardine Room | Offers a similar hip vibe and commitment to fresh, quality oysters. |
| Coast Bar & Grill | Standby | Both feature innovative cocktails and seafood in chic settings. |
| Maison | Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails | Celebrated for inventive cuisine and fresh ingredients. |
If you're transitioning from Charleston's culinary landscape, know that Detroit promises equally tantalizing delights. When seeking the perfect steakhouse, Prime + Proper stands out with meticulous attention to its cuts, a dining experience echoing Charleston's beloved Halls Chophouse. For seafood aficionados, The Apparatus Room offers the freshest sea fare reminiscent of The Ordinary in Charleston. Meanwhile, lovers of Asian fusion can revel in Takoi's vibrant dishes, a parallel to Xiao Bao Biscuit, ensuring your palate will find its new home in Detroit.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how Charleston and Detroit compare in terms of housing can significantly ease your transition. It's essential to assess differences such as cost, architecture, and urban lifestyle to ensure your move aligns with your expectations and needs.
Charleston and Detroit offer distinctly different real estate landscapes. With a median home price significantly lower in Detroit, cost is a significant factor to consider for your move. Detroit's vibrant urban lifestyle is highlighted by its art deco architecture, which contrasts with Charleston's colonial styles. While Charleston boasts historic charm, Detroit offers affordable lofts and creatively renovated spaces, providing a backdrop for artistic communities and entrepreneurs to thrive. Discovering the character of each city's neighborhoods can be a rewarding exploration in itself, influencing where you might choose to settle.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI
1 Corktown : You'll love how many parks and walking trails are in Corktown, making it perfect for your daily outings with your pet.
2 Midtown : Midtown offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops where you and your furry friend can enjoy a relaxed outing together.
3 Royal Oak : Known for its dog parks and pet-friendly community events, Royal Oak is a haven for pet owners like you seeking an active lifestyle for your pets.
Charleston vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
If you're planning a move from Charleston, SC to Detroit, MI , understanding the stark differences in weather between these cities is crucial for setting your expectations. This comparison will help you prepare for the climate changes you'll experience after relocating.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
As you transition from Charleston to Detroit, you'll notice a significant change in winter temperatures, as Detroit's winters are colder with noticeable snowfall, unlike Charleston's milder climate. You might miss the abundant sunshine of Charleston since Detroit experiences fewer sunny days annually. However, Detroit offers relief from the intense summer humidity common in Charleston. Be prepared for the differences in natural disasters; while Charleston is prone to hurricanes, Detroit's primary concern is tornadoes. This shift in climate will also affect seasonal allergies, with ragweed being more prevalent in Detroit than the pollen typical of Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Detroit
When you're moving from Charleston, SC to Detroit, MI , it's essential to have a clear understanding of how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This chart outlines key money and finance indicators, providing valuable insight for a smoother transition.
Adjusting to a new city often involves managing differences in the cost of living and financial landscape. Although Charleston has a higher average household income and a greater cost of living index than Detroit, it also comes with a higher state income tax. In contrast, Detroit offers lower property and sales taxes, which may ease some financial burdens. Despite an ongoing economic recovery bolstered by its top industries like automotive and technology, Detroit faces significant poverty and homelessness challenges, which are higher compared to Charleston. Understanding these disparities can help you better prepare and budget for your move.
Charleston vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents when comparing Charleston & Detroit politics . Understanding these differences can help you acclimate better to your new community and find common ground with your new neighbors.
As you transition from Charleston, you will notice Detroit's political scene diverges, characterized by a more liberal stance. This shift is reflected not just in broad political leanings but also in local governance, with Detroit showing a preference for democratic leadership. This may affect local policies and initiatives that you'll be interacting with daily. Additionally, while Charleston's religious landscape is largely Christian, Detroit offers a wider array of faith communities, potentially expanding your cultural and spiritual horizons. Whether you plan to explore new religious environments or engage in local politics, these aspects can enrich your transition.
Charleston vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the traffic and transportation options in a new city is crucial for a smooth relocation. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Detroit to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like in these two distinctive cities.
When moving from Charleston to Detroit, your commuting experience will see noticeable changes. Detroit offers a more extensive public transportation network, including options like the Detroit People Mover and a more developed bus system. This makes it feasible for many residents to live without a car, unlike in Charleston where a car is almost a necessity. Keep in mind that while Detroit's traffic congestion is slightly higher, the better availability of public transit means you might spend less time stuck in traffic. Adjusting to using public transit in Detroit could provide you with a more efficient and flexible daily routine.
Additional Resources
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