Best Charleston to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charleston to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 687 mile move from South Carolina to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Charleston to Philadelphia 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 EverSafe Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.519.5Authorized For Property, HHG
2Pineapple Movers9.469.62Authorized For HHG
3Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHG
4Ready Set Movers9.179.22Authorized For HHG
5Armstrong Relocation8.167.27Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 687 miles from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $2,011 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Philadelphia move is roughly $4,821. 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$1,353300 ft³$4.51
1 Bedroom$2,011450 ft³$4.47
2 Bedrooms$3,319750 ft³$4.43
3 Bedrooms$4,8211100 ft³$4.38
4 Bedrooms$6,9451600 ft³$4.34
5+ Bedrooms$7,7361800 ft³$4.30
*Please note: These South Carolina to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from South Carolina & Pennsylvania. 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 PA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to Charleston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Philadelphia Movers

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

EverSafe Moving Co. Logo

EverSafe Moving Co.

Exceptional9.51/10
based on 2,789+ data points

8701 Torresdale Ave

Philadelphia, PA, 19136

About EverSafe Moving Co.

Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long-distance Movers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261303 / 771755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Pineapple Movers Logo

Pineapple Movers

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 667+ data points

Collingswood, NJ, 08108

About Pineapple Movers

Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...

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

3579435 / 1208543

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
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. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA can feel overwhelming, but finding neighborhood parallels helps. This comparison will help you discover similar neighborhoods to ease your transition into Philadelphia by using what you already know and appreciate in Charleston.

CharlestonPhiladelphiaHow They're Similar
French QuarterOld CityHistoric charm, cobblestone streets
Cannonborough/ElliotboroughFishtownTrendy, artistic vibe
South of BroadRittenhouse SquareUpscale, elegant homes
West AshleyManayunkSuburban feel with urban perks
Mount PleasantChestnut HillFamily-friendly, green spaces
Harleston VillageUniversity CityAcademic influence, vibrant community
North CharlestonSouth PhiladelphiaDiverse, community-centric

If you enjoy the elegance and historical charm of Charleston's French Quarter, you'll find much to appreciate in Philadelphia's Old City, known for its cobbled streets and iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell. For a neighborhood with a bustling and trendy atmosphere, akin to Charleston's Cannonborough/Elliotborough, Fishtown offers a similar eclectic mix of artistic influences and innovative culinary delights, such as the popular restaurant Frankford Hall. Meanwhile, Mount Pleasant's family-friendly environment, with its proximity to Shem Creek and versatile outdoor spaces, mirrors the lush residential feel of Chestnut Hill. As you settle into your new city, exploring these neighborhoods can help recreate the sense of community you cherished in Charleston, along with their unique local sights and attractions.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Philadelphia

  • Tour the Liberty Bell Center
  • Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art
  • Eat at Reading Terminal Market
  • Explore the Philadelphia Zoo
  • Stroll through Longwood Gardens
  • Tour Eastern State Penitentiary
  • Bike on Schuylkill Banks

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Philadelphia

This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the relocation from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA , highlighting both cities' good and bad attributes. Whether you value culture over climate or lifestyle over living costs, these charts offer a lens into what you might gain or lose in this move.

CONs
PROs
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • High humidity
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Hurricane risk
  • Traffic congestion
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Cooler summers
  • Diverse job market
  • No hurricane threat
  • Public transportation
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • No beaches
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fast-paced lifestyle
  • Few historic areas
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Beach access
  • Lower cost of living
  • Southern charm
  • Historic districts

Moving from Charleston to Philadelphia introduces exciting opportunities and new experiences. Philadelphia's cooler summers and lack of hurricane threats offer a distinct climatic advantage. It has a vibrant job market with diverse opportunities, particularly in areas like finance and healthcare. Neighborhoods like [Rittenhouse Square](Rittenhouse), known for its upscale restaurants and serene parks, offer a different pace than Charleston's more relaxed Southern charm. While you'll miss the beaches and historic districts like [The Battery](The Battery), Philadelphia compensates with cultural landmarks like the [Liberty Bell](Liberty Bell) and world-class museums. With an efficient public transportation system, getting around Philadelphia is considerably more manageable, unlike the congested roads of Charleston.

Charleston vs. Philadelphia Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture and significantly influences what it's like to live in a place. This comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Philadelphia will arm you with the culinary insights needed for your move.

Charleston
Philadelphia
Most iconic local food item
She-Crab Soup
Cheesesteak
Most popular meat dish
Shrimp and Grits
Roast Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Hush Puppies
Pretzels
Most popular vegan food
Cauliflower Steak
Vegan Cheesesteak
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    Pat’s King of Steaks
  • John's Roast Pork
  • Zeppoli
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to Philadelphia, you’ll find the robust food scene boasts delicious options all over the city. In the heart of the Italian Market neighborhood, you can enjoy an authentic Roast Pork Sandwich. For those interested in vegan culinary adventures, Philadelphia steps up with its Vegan Cheesesteak offerings, often found in neighborhoods like Fishtown. The city’s passion for food is palpable, with food trucks frequently discovered in the vibrant streets of West Philadelphia, highlighting the area's commitment to diverse and accessible dining.

Charleston vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison

Food is an essential ingredient for making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will guide you in finding your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown, Charleston, SC, as a culinary guide to Philadelphia, PA.

CharlestonPhiladelphiaWhat You'll Love
HuskZahavRenowned for its culinary innovation and vibrant local flavors
FIGVernick Food & DrinkEmphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients like FIG
Lewis BarbecueFette SauOffers a delightful BBQ experience in a casual setting
167 RawVernick FishCelebrates fresh seafood with a contemporary twist
Bertha's KitchenCarman's Country KitchenBrings homestyle comfort food to life
The OrdinaryOyster HouseKnown for its impeccable seafood offerings
Xiao Bao BiscuitHan DynastyDelivers bold, authentic Asian flavors
Callie's Hot Little BiscuitFederal DonutsOffers a unique take on local comfort snacks
Brown Dog DeliHigh Street on MarketKnown for gourmet sandwiches and casual dining
Tattooed MooseMemphis TaproomCombines a laid-back atmosphere with hearty dishes

When searching for the cozy, charmed ambiance reminiscent of Husk in Charleston, you'll find Zahav in Philadelphia equally enchanting with its innovative dishes and local character. If seafood is your passion, 167 Raw offers a vibrant experience in Charleston, and you'll be pleased to discover a similar fresh and contemporary approach at Vernick Fish. For those irresistible, high-quality bites that make a quick lunch memorable, Charleston's Callie's Hot Little Biscuit has its match in Philadelphia's beloved Federal Donuts, each serving comforting, satisfying treats to enjoy as you settle into your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Charleston vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding housing costs , architecture , and urban lifestyle in Charleston and Philadelphia helps you make informed decisions. Our comparison highlights key features and statistics for smoother relocations.

Charleston
Philadelphia
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial
Federal
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Historic charm
Proximity to amenities

Moving from Charleston to Philadelphia presents a change in both cost and lifestyle. While Charleston boasts picturesque Colonial architecture, Philadelphia offers the more urban Federal style, which aligns with its vibrant city life. Renters will find Philadelphia generally more affordable, coupled with higher walkability that compliments the city's dynamic urban scene. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Charleston or the amenities of Philadelphia, both cities offer unique living experiences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA

1. Fishtown : You’ll love the abundance of parks and pet-friendly cafes that make it easy to enjoy outings with your furry friend.

2. Fairmount : You can enjoy long walks with your pet along the scenic Schuylkill River Trail and explore numerous dog-friendly establishments.

3. Queen Village : You'll appreciate the neighborhood's welcoming green spaces and numerous pet-friendly businesses dedicated to making life enjoyable for pet owners.

Charleston vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations

If you're relocating from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA , understanding the weather changes you'll experience can help in your transition. By comparing climatic conditions, you can prepare and acclimate to your new environment, making your move smoother and more predictable.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/73
87/70
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

59/38
43/27


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

48.1
41.5
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0.5
23.4


Navigating the dramatic seasonal differences, Philadelphia's cooler winters stand out as a key adjustment from Charleston's milder climate. Philadelphia experiences substantial snowfall, unlike the near absence of it in Charleston, necessitating preparations for snow-related travel and attire. Additionally, while humid conditions persist in both cities, Charleston generally feels more humid, making Philadelphia's summers potentially more comfortable for those sensitive to humidity. Both cities receive a comparable number of sunny days, ensuring year-round opportunities for outdoor activities.

Ready to start your move?

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

If you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living , income, and other financial aspects in these cities compare. This comparison will guide you to make informed decisions for a seamless transition.

Charleston
Philadelphia
Avg. Household Income
$74,139
$52,899
Cost of Living Index
98.3
126.5
State Income Tax
7%
3.07%
Avg. Property Tax
0.5%
0.9%
Avg. Sales Tax
9%
8%
Top 3 Industries
Tourism, Military, IT
Education, Health Care, Finance
Affluence
Moderate
Diverse
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
Minimal
Noticeable

The financial landscape between Charleston and Philadelphia varies significantly. While Charleston has a higher average household income, the cost of living is also elevated, making day-to-day expenses comparable to Philadelphia despite its lower income levels. When planning for taxes, consider that Philadelphia boasts a lower state income tax but higher property tax rates. Additionally, the main industries in each city influence job opportunities; Philadelphia's focus on education, healthcare, and finance opens diverse employment avenues. Understanding these differences will help you manage expectations and plan your budget effectively.

Charleston vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison

As you prepare to move from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA, understanding the differences in community dynamics is helpful. Here is a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, allowing you to see how Charleston & Philadelphia compare politically and religiously.

Charleston
Philadelphia
Political Make-up
Moderate-to-Conservative
Largely Liberal
Local Politics
<a href="https://www.charleston-sc.gov/">City Council - Focus on historic preservation</a>
<a href="https://www.phila.gov/Pages/default.aspx">City Council - Focus on urban development</a>
Religion
Predominantly Christian
Religiously Diverse

When moving from Charleston to Philadelphia, you'll notice a fascinating shift in political and religious landscapes. Charleston's political scene tends to lean more conservative, with a focus on maintaining its rich historical heritage. In contrast, Philadelphia has a strong liberal presence, with an emphasis on urban modernization and progressive policy initiatives. Religiously, Charleston predominates in Christian practice, reflecting the Southern religious heritage, while Philadelphia offers a more culturally diverse tapestry of faiths, enhancing its broad societal mix. Embracing these differences can enrich your experience in adapting to the vibrant community of Philadelphia.

Charleston vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

In this guide, we'll delve into the everyday realities of traffic and transit, providing a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Philadelphia to help you better understand what the daily commute and transportation systems are like in each city.

Charleston
Philadelphia
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
23
31
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
No
Yes

In Charleston, driving is almost a necessity given the limited public transit options. Most people rely on their cars due to convenience and the relatively low traffic congestion levels. In contrast, Philadelphia's well-developed public transportation network, managed by SEPTA, offers a viable alternative to driving, making it easier to live car-free. The availability of buses, trolleys, and trains in Philadelphia significantly reduces the need for personal vehicles, particularly within the city limits. As a result, despite higher traffic congestion, many choose public transit for commuting needs.

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