Best Charleston to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 279 mile move from South Carolina to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Charleston to Raleigh 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Raleigh. 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 Raleigh Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.44 | 9.6 | Active |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | 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 Raleigh?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 279 miles from Charleston, SC to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $1,716 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Raleigh move is roughly $4,100. 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 | $1,157 | 300 ft³ | $3.86 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,716 | 450 ft³ | $3.81 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,828 | 750 ft³ | $3.77 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,100 | 1100 ft³ | $3.73 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,896 | 1600 ft³ | $3.69 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,557 | 1800 ft³ | $3.64 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Raleigh Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
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. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can often be a daunting experience. By using your existing city as a baseline, this comparison will help you to familiarize yourself with an unknown location. We've compared the popular neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Raleigh, NC to make your transition smoother.
| Charleston | Raleigh | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Downtown Raleigh | Historic charm and vibrant nightlife |
| Mount Pleasant | Cameron Park | Residential area with parks and a community feel |
| West Ashley | North Hills | Suburban vibe with shopping and entertainment |
| Shem Creek | Glenwood South | Lively area with dining and nightlife spots |
| James Island | Oakwood | Scenic and close to nature |
| Folly Beach | Falls Lake | Water activities and outdoor recreation |
| Isle of Palms | Umstead State Park | Natural beauty and outdoor adventures |
| North Charleston | East Raleigh | Urban development and cultural diversity |
| Daniel Island | Brier Creek | Family-friendly suburb with amenities |
| Summerville | Holly Springs | Suburban community with a small-town feel |
If you’re fond of the historic charm and vibrant nightlife of Charleston’s French Quarter, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Downtown Raleigh, which offers both historic landmarks and an exciting array of restaurants and bars. Families who enjoy the community feel and parks of Mount Pleasant will feel at home in Cameron Park, well-known for its green spaces and boutique stores. Those drawn to the outdoors and water activities of Folly Beach might appreciate the recreational offerings at Falls Lake, a haven for water sports and nature trails. Meanwhile, the lively social scene and dining along Shem Creek find a parallel in Glenwood South, where culinary explorations and nightlife are abundant.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Raleigh
This comparison of moving from Charleston, SC to Raleigh, NC serves as an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of this relocation. These charts aim to give you a balanced outlook on what you gain and lose during this move, focusing on what makes each city unique—whether it's Charleston's beaches or Raleigh's vibrant job market.
Charleston, SC- Flood risks
- Tourist crowds
- High humidity
Raleigh, NC- Less flooding
- Less tourist congestion
- Milder climate
Raleigh, NC- No beaches
- Less historical sites
- Competitively culinary
Charleston, SC- Beach access
- Historic charm
- Culinary scene
While Charleston offers the allure of easy beach access with its well-known Isle of Palms and Folly Beach, Raleigh compensates through its extensive green spaces such as the Lake Johnson Park. Raleigh boasts a buzzing culinary scene, competing with Charleston's esteemed Husk restaurant, offering you new gastronomic adventures. If you’re drawn to Raleigh for its job market, renowned tech area Research Triangle Park provides ample career opportunities. Although Charleston is renowned for its historic charm, Raleigh's bustling areas like Glenwood South and its thriving art scene provide a modern contrast. All in all, both cities have distinct attributes and deciding factors that you should consider before making the move.
Charleston vs. Raleigh Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and a significant aspect of what it's like to live in an area. In this comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Raleigh , you'll gain insight into the food scene of each city, helping you better understand where you're moving to.
- Husk
- Hominy Grill
- Peninsula Grill
- Angus Barn
- Poole's Diner
- Ashley Christensen's Death & Taxes
Raleigh boasts a thriving barbecue scene, and you can find mouth-watering pulled pork and barbecue platters in the historic warehouse district, particularly at the famed Angus Barn. For vegan options, places like Weaver Street Market in nearby Carrboro offer delicious jackfruit tacos and other plant-based delights. Raleigh's food truck scene is abundant and diverse, making it easy to experience a wide range of cuisines on-the-go; weekends in the Warehouse District are particularly lively with culinary options. In contrast, Charleston's focus on traditional Southern fare delivers iconic dishes like shrimp and grits, while neighborhoods like the French Quarter and Upper King Street offer clusters of celebrated restaurants like Hominy Grill.
Charleston vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison
Food is a significant part of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Charleston and Raleigh aims to guide you in finding your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Charleston | Raleigh | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Poole's Diner | Known for its Southern-inspired menu and local ingredients |
| The Ordinary | Crawford and Son | Offers a focus on fresh, seasonal dishes like seafood |
| FIG | Herons | Emphasizes farm-to-table dining and innovative flavors |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar | Specializes in oysters and casual seafood |
| Chez Nous | Vidrio | Provides an intimate atmosphere with a rotating, eclectic menu |
| Rodney Scott’s BBQ | The Pit | Renowned for its authentic North Carolina barbecue style |
| Hominy Grill | Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Combines comfort foods with a Southern twist |
| Pizza Roma | Lilly's Pizza | Offers unique takes on pizza with a local vibe |
| Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit | Jubala Coffee | Known for its flaky pastries and homey feel |
| Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar | The Point at Glenwood | Features waterfront dining and classic seafood |
For those who appreciate Southern-inspired cuisine, Poole's Diner in Raleigh serves up rich, locally sourced dishes reminiscent of Charleston's Husk, where the region's culinary traditions are celebrated. When it comes to casual seafood dining, St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar offers a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere akin to Leon’s Oyster Shop in Charleston, allowing you to indulge in fresh oysters and satisfying seafood fare. If your cravings lean toward creative pizzerias, check out Lilly's Pizza in Raleigh, where unique flavors and a vibrant local vibe create an exciting dining experience, comparable to what Pizza Roma offers in Charleston. Raleigh's Jubala Coffee, celebrated for its pastries and comforting atmosphere, can become your new go-to spot for quick bites and morning indulgences, much like Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Charleston and Raleigh compare in terms of housing. This comparison will shed light on unique factors such as cost , architecture , and walkability , helping you make informed decisions in your potential relocation.
When considering a move to Raleigh, you'll find that home prices are generally more affordable than Charleston. While Charleston boasts charming Colonial architecture, a part of its historical appeal, Raleigh is known for its contemporary designs that cater to modern living. Though both cities offer a suburban feel with access to urban lifestyle conveniences, Charleston tends to highlight historic homes and proximity to beach attractions in its listings. Raleigh emphasizes its abundance of green spaces and modern amenities, attractive to individuals leaning towards a vibrant, eco-friendly lifestyle. Exploring local attractions such as Charleston's historic sites or Raleigh's parks may give you a better feel of what each city has to offer.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC
1. Five Points : You’ll love the convenient access to several dog-friendly parks and walking trails that make exercising and socializing with your pet enjoyable.
2. North Hills : This area offers pet-friendly apartments and a variety of outdoor spaces, including a nearby dog park, making it easy to live and play with your furry friend.
3. Glenwood South : With its numerous pet-welcoming cafes, bars, and community events, you and your pet can enjoy vibrant social activities together.
Charleston vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, SC to Raleigh, NC , understanding the weather differences can be crucial to your adaptation process. The climate in each location contributes to daily life and activities, and provides unique experiences throughout the year. This comparison will help you be more prepared and make a smoother transition.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving to Raleigh from Charleston means experiencing cooler winter lows, which might take some getting used to. Although both cities receive a generous amount of sunshine, Charleston typically has more sunny days per year. Humidity in Charleston is also noticeably higher, which can make summers feel hotter and stickier, a factor worth considering if you're sensitive to humidity. Additionally, while both cities are susceptible to hurricanes, Raleigh's potential for tornadoes might be a new concern for you. Understanding these differences can help you acclimate more easily and prepare for what Raleigh has to offer.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Raleigh
When relocating from one city to another, understanding how the cost of living and financial aspects of your new location compares to Charleston, SC is crucial. Our comparison highlights key money and finance components between Charleston and Raleigh, NC to help you make an informed decision.
As you evaluate a move from Charleston to Raleigh, you'll find Raleigh has a slightly lower cost of living index, making your dollar stretch further. Raleigh's lower state income tax can also result in significant annual savings. While property tax in Raleigh is higher, it supports exceptional public services that enrich overall quality of life. The industry landscape shifts from Charleston's focus on tourism and defense to Raleigh's thriving sectors in technology and biotechnology, offering diverse job opportunities for newcomers. Moving to Raleigh might offer you a more prosperous environment with a lower poverty rate, promoting a sense of stability and growth.
Charleston vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Charleston, SC to Raleigh, NC, it's useful to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political differences between Charleston & Raleigh , as well as the religious makeup of these cities. This comparison can help paint a better picture of what to expect in your new community.
As you transition to Raleigh, you’ll notice a slightly different political atmosphere compared to Charleston. While Charleston leans more conservative, Raleigh offers a more liberal ambience, thanks in part to its reputation as a tech and educational hub. The religious makeup remains predominantly Christian, though Raleigh's diverse religious communities reflect its vibrant cultural tapestry. Exploring local Charleston establishments and Raleigh locations can offer a deeper understanding of each city's unique blend of tradition and innovation. Whether planning to engage with new political landscapes or diverse religious communities, both Charleston and Raleigh offer rich environments for personal growth and community involvement.
Charleston vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Relocating to a new city means navigating new roads and transit systems. To help you adjust, we present a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Raleigh so you can better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like.
When moving to Raleigh, you'll find it generally easier to get around using public transit compared to Charleston. Raleigh boasts an extensive bus network and is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, allowing you more freedom without a car. Although both cities have similar commute times, Raleigh tends to experience less congestion. Furthermore, while Charleston's historic streets add charm, they can prolong travel, especially during peak times. If you’re planning to explore local establishments like Raleigh's Triangle Transit, you’ll appreciate the more efficient options available.
Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to North Carolina Routes
Popular Moving Resources
