Best Houston to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Houston to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,106 mile move from Texas to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Houston to Charleston 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 $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Houston compared to Charleston. 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 Houston to Charleston Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHG
2Ready Set Movers9.179.22Authorized For HHG
3Pinpoint Movers8.779.23Authorized For HHG
4Right Rate Movers of Houston8.688.59Active
5Go Movers8.529.1Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,106 miles from Houston, TX to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,722 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Houston to Charleston move is roughly $6,543. 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$1,830300 ft³$6.10
1 Bedroom$2,722450 ft³$6.05
2 Bedrooms$4,499750 ft³$6.00
3 Bedrooms$6,5431100 ft³$5.95
4 Bedrooms$9,4371600 ft³$5.90
5+ Bedrooms$10,5271800 ft³$5.85
*Please note: These Texas to South Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Texas & South Carolina. 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 TX to SC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Houston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Houston to Charleston Movers

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

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
1
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
2
Pinpoint Movers Logo

Pinpoint Movers

Superb8.77/10
based on 2,169+ data points

7100 Regency Square Blvd Suite 199

Houston, TX, 77036

About Pinpoint Movers

Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all...

Services

  • Homepage:
  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3070055 / 944442

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Right Rate Movers of Houston Logo

Right Rate Movers of Houston

Fabulous8.68/10
based on 3,455+ data points

2925 Richmond Ave

Houston, TX, 77098

About Right Rate Movers of Houston

Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Labor Only
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2200927 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
G

Go Movers

Fabulous8.52/10
based on 365+ data points

Missouri City, TX

About Go Movers

Go Movers has been serving as Houston, TX's trusted relocation experts for the past 10 years. They provide both local and...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Nationwide moves
  • Cheap moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3790949 / 1365663

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (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.

Houston vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

Use this guide to familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare neighborhoods between Houston, TX & Charleston, SC to help make your transition smoother.

HoustonCharlestonHow They're Similar
River OaksSouth of BroadUpscale, historic charm
The HeightsWagener TerraceEclectic, artistic vibe
MontroseCannonborough/ElliottboroughArtsy, vibrant culture
MidtownKing Street Historic DistrictNightlife, entertainment hub
West UniversityCharlestowneAcademic, family-friendly atmosphere
Galleria/UptownDowntown CharlestonShopping, commercial center
MemorialHarleston VillageSuburban feel, city access
Rice MilitaryFrench QuarterMixed-use, lively street scene
Energy CorridorWest AshleyCorporate spaces, residential areas
BellaireJames IslandQuiet, suburban with local conveniences

If you love the upscale, historic atmosphere of River Oaks, you'll find similar elegance in South of Broad. This area boasts historic homes and picturesque streets, resembling River Oaks’ polished vibe. Meanwhile, the artistic spirit of The Heights is reflected in Wagener Terrace, known for its eclectic charm and community galleries. For an energetic night out, King Street Historic District in Charleston channels Midtown's lively nightlife, offering a plethora of dining and entertainment options. As you explore, enjoy Charleston’s local hotspots like Magnolia Plantation and Gardens or the stunning views at Waterfront Park.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to Charleston

Relocating from Houston, TX to Charleston, SC? This honest comparison will help you weigh the pros and cons of your move . Discover how Houston's challenges can transform into Charleston's allures and, conversely, what you'll miss most about Houston and gain in Charleston .

CONs
PROs
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • High humidity
  • Heavy traffic
  • Flooding risks
  • Flat landscape
  • Urban sprawl
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Pleasant weather
  • Charming downtown
  • Rich history
  • Scenic beaches
  • Walkable neighborhoods
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Limited job market
  • Fewer culinary options
  • Fewer medical facilities
  • Less nightlife
  • Higher living costs
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • Thriving economy
  • Diverse food scene
  • Strong healthcare
  • Entertainment options
  • Low cost of living

While moving from Houston to Charleston, you'll likely appreciate Charleston’s cozy charm and beautiful vistas, such as the Battery, a picturesque promenade strewn with Southern history. Neighborhoods like Mount Pleasant offer a distinct contrast with their quaint appeal and inviting Park Circle restaurants, compared to Houston's bustling urban sprawl. You might find downtown Charleston's history more endearing than Houston’s modest vistas. For green spaces, enjoy waterfront views at Waterfront Park instead of the sprawling open areas of Houston's Hermann Park. While you may miss Houston's larger market and vibrant culinary culture, the promise of Charleston's inviting community could be refreshing if you value participation in local culture more than diversity.

Houston vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle and traditions of an area. In this guide, we'll explore the local cuisine between Houston & Charleston to provide you with insights into the flavors and dining experiences you can expect in your new city.

Houston
Charleston
Most iconic local food item
Tex-Mex
Shrimp and Grits
Most popular meat dish
Brisket
Lowcountry Boil
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Fried Green Tomatoes
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Vegan Grits
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Charleston's food scene draws heavily from the rich history and flavors of the Lowcountry. You'll find iconic dishes like shrimp and grits at local favorites such as Husk in the historic downtown area. Charleston is renowned for its fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed while exploring its charming neighborhoods. While not as vegan-oriented as some larger cities, Charleston offers a unique blend of traditional Southern cuisine and emerging vegan options, particularly in vibrant areas like North Charleston and West Ashley. The abundance of local farms also means that fresh, seasonal produce is always just within reach, making for a delightful culinary journey as you settle into your new home.

Houston vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Comparing Houston to Charleston can make your move smoother, especially when considering what delights your taste buds. Food is essential in feeling at home, and this restaurant comparison will guide you to find your new favorite eateries using your current hometown as a guide.

HoustonCharlestonWhat You'll Love
UchiO-KuBoth offer innovative twists on traditional Japanese cuisine
Hugo'sMineroBoth celebrate rich flavors of authentic Mexican favorites
Pappadeaux Seafood KitchenHank's Seafood RestaurantBoth beloved for fresh and flavorful seafood dishes
Common BondCallie's Hot Little BiscuitBoth known for artisan baked goods and breakfast offerings
The Breakfast KlubToast! All DayBoth are perfect for breakfast lovers seeking hearty morning meals
Killen's BarbecueLewis BarbecueBoth are essential stops for classic barbecue lovers
Ninfa's on NavigationPapi's TaqueriaBoth are go-to spots for authentic Tex-Mex favorites
XochiZia TaqueriaBoth shine with regional Mexican dishes and vibrant salsas
RielMagnoliasBoth praised for inventive takes on New American cuisine
UnderbellyHuskBoth restaurants embrace regional ingredients and Southern traditions

When you're in the mood for exceptional Japanese cuisine, head to O-Ku in Charleston, where the creative sushi rolls and modern ambiance reflect what you'd find at Houston's renowned Uchi. For a comforting brunch experience, visit Callie's Hot Little Biscuit in Charleston, which offers mouth-watering baked goods just like Houston's cherished Common Bond. And when your cravings veer towards barbecue, Lewis Barbecue delivers savory, slow-cooked meats reminiscent of the legendary offerings at Houston's Killen's Barbecue. These culinary gems ensure your gastronomic journey from Houston to Charleston is nothing short of delicious.

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Houston vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It’s crucial to know how Houston and Charleston compare in terms of costs , architecture , and walkability to make an informed decision .

Houston
Charleston
Typical Architecture Style
Modern Suburban
Colonial
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Smart Home Features
Historic Charm

When considering a move from Houston to Charleston, one of the first things you'll notice is the difference in architecture. Houston tends to feature modern suburban homes, while Charleston is known for its charming colonial-style houses, often highlighted in real estate listings. While median home prices are higher in Charleston, you may find the historic charm and vibrant urban lifestyle linked to a more walkable city an attractive benefit. Charleston's walkability score of 8 out of 10 makes it an ideal place if you prefer exploring the city on foot. Additionally, both cities offer unique amenities, but Houston's emphasis on smart home features may align better if you're interested in tech-forward living.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, SC

1. Mount Pleasant : You’ll love the abundance of parks and walking trails, perfect for enjoying quality time with your pet in a serene coastal environment.

2. West Ashley : Your furry friend will enjoy the spacious yards and proximity to numerous pet-friendly parks and open spaces.

3. North Charleston : You and your pets will appreciate the variety of pet-friendly apartments and the community's ongoing efforts to create welcoming environments for animals.

Houston vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

If you're relocating from Houston to Charleston , understanding the key differences in weather can help you prepare for changes in temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors. By comparing these two cities, you can get a clearer picture of what to expect and how to adjust to your new climate.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

93°F / 75°F
89°F / 73°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

63°F / 46°F
59°F / 38°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

50 inches
48 inches
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0.1 inches
0.5 inches


When relocating from Houston to Charleston, it's essential to consider the similarities and differences in climate. Both cities experience high humidity levels, although Charleston's is slightly higher. You might notice slightly cooler summer temperatures in Charleston, which could be a relief. While both locations are prone to hurricanes, Charleston enjoys better air quality overall. Additionally, Charleston has a bit more sunshine annually, which might enhance your opportunities for outdoor activities. Tailoring your lifestyle adjustments to these elements can make your move more seamless.

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

When you're considering a move from Houston, TX to Charleston, SC , understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison will shed light on various aspects like household income, cost of living, and taxes, helping you make an informed decision and adjust your financial plans accordingly.

Houston
Charleston
Avg. Household Income
$55,499
$74,139
Cost of Living Index
92.2
98.3
State Income Tax
0%
7%
Avg. Property Tax
2.31%
0.57%
Avg. Sales Tax
8.25%
9%
Top 3 Industries
Energy, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Tourism, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
Moderate
Homelessness
Low
Low

When moving from Houston to Charleston, you should be aware of key differences in financial aspects. Although Houston boasts a higher average household income, Charleston's cost of living index is notably higher, which may impact your day-to-day expenses. Additionally, while Houston residents enjoy no state income tax, Charleston imposes a 7% tax, which could affect your net income. Interestingly, property tax in Charleston is significantly lower than in Houston, potentially easing the financial burden if you plan to buy a home. The diverse industries in both cities offer employment opportunities but align with their unique economic profiles.

Houston vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

The purpose of this comparison is to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, focusing on the politics between Houston & Charleston .

Houston
Charleston
Political Make-up
Progressive-leaning
Conservative-leaning
Local Politics
Democratic-majority city government
Republican-majority city council
Religion
Diverse faith landscape
Predominantly Christian

When moving from Houston to Charleston, understanding the political spectrum can enrich your transition experience. Houston's political atmosphere tends to lean progressive, with a city government often led by Democrats. In contrast, Charleston exhibits a conservative influence, predominantly governed by a Republican-majority city council. When it comes to religious diversity, Houston offers a varied faith landscape, reflecting the city's multicultural population, while Charleston is primarily rooted in Christianity. This difference may impact your community engagements and cultural experiences as you settle into your new city.

Houston vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Whether you're planning to make Charleston your new home or just curious about the day-to-day logistics, this is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Houston & Charleston to aid you in better understanding what the daily commute and traffic are like.

Houston
Charleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
24
Traffic Congestion
8 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
7 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes

When considering your move, you'll find that navigating Houston often demands a car due to the sprawling layout and significant traffic congestion, which scores an 8 out of 10. In contrast, Charleston provides a more car-optional lifestyle, especially if you reside downtown. While public transit options are slightly more limited in Charleston, you may enjoy a shorter average commute time of 24 minutes, compared to Houston's 30. This difference can make your daily routine less hectic, offering more time to explore local spots like Rainbow Row or enjoy a quiet evening along the historic streets of Charleston.

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