Best Charleston to Virginia Beach Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Charleston to Virginia Beach and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 421 mile move from West Virginia to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 19 Charleston to Virginia Beach 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 Marathon Moving Services), 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 Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Marathon Moving Services9.299.25Authorized For HHG
2Ready Set Movers9.179.22Authorized For HHG
3Prime Movers USA9.099.39Authorized For Property, HHG
4Central Van Lines8.188.11Authorized For Property, HHG
5Two Men and a Truck7.707.26Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Charleston to Virginia Beach?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 421 miles from Charleston, WV to Virginia Beach, VA will cost on average $2,139 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Virginia Beach move is roughly $5,119. 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$1,441300 ft³$4.80
1 Bedroom$2,139450 ft³$4.75
2 Bedrooms$3,528750 ft³$4.70
3 Bedrooms$5,1191100 ft³$4.65
4 Bedrooms$7,3661600 ft³$4.60
5+ Bedrooms$8,1971800 ft³$4.55
*Please note: These West Virginia to Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from West Virginia & Virginia. 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 WV to VA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia Beach to Charleston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Virginia Beach Movers

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

Marathon Moving Services Logo

Marathon Moving Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.29/10
based on 970+ data points

MMS

Virginia Beach, VA, 23464

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
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
Prime Movers USA Logo

Prime Movers USA

Exceptional9.09/10
based on 576+ data points

531 Fountain Lake Dr

Virginia Beach, VA, 23451

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Central Van Lines Logo

Central Van Lines

Very Good8.18/10
based on 322+ data points

37 Jacobson Dr

Poca, WV, 25159

About Central Van Lines

Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving services
  • Residential moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1243887 / 11266

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans44
Registered Drivers35
Total Annual Miles Moved487,000 (2019)
View Full Review
4
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Good7.70/10
based on 758+ data points

2410 Air Park Rd

North Charleston, SC, 29406

About Two Men and a Truck

Since 1997, Two Men and a Truck has been the go-to moving company for families and businesses in North Charleston, SC....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Junk Removal

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3402685 / 1095537

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (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. Virginia Beach Neighborhood Comparison

By comparing local neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & Virginia Beach, VA , you can better familiarize yourself with an unfamiliar city using your current city as a baseline. We'll help you transition by highlighting similar neighborhoods in these two vibrant cities.

CharlestonVirginia BeachHow They're Similar
South HillsGreat NeckPrestigious, hilltop views
East EndChic's BeachArtsy vibe, eclectic shops
Kanawha CityKempsvilleFamily-friendly, good schools
Capitol Market AreaTown CenterShopping and dining hub
Fort HillRed MillSuburban feel, community-oriented
West SideThaliaHistoric charm, local attractions
EdgewoodBaysideBeach proximity, active lifestyle
North CharlestonShadowlawnQuiet, suburban retreats
The ViewsCroatan BeachScenic views, water activities
Downtown CharlestonOceanfront DistrictUrban excitement, boardwalk fun

If you cherish the community feel and scenic views of South Hills, Virginia Beach’s Great Neck offers similar charm with its prestigious hilltop views and luxurious homes. Chic's Beach mirrors the artsy vibe of Charleston's East End, boasting eclectic shops and a lively atmosphere. The bustling Capitol Market Area in Charleston is reflected in the Town Center of Virginia Beach, where shopping and dining experiences are aplenty—make sure to visit [Sandler Center for the Performing Arts](Francis Land House). Enjoy discovering comparable comfort and excitement in Virginia Beach!

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Things to Do in Virginia Beach

  • Stroll along Virginia Beach Boardwalk
  • Explore Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
  • Enjoy hikes at First Landing State Park
  • Visit Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Take a dolphin watching tour
  • Surf at Sandbridge Beach
  • Experience Neptune Festival events

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Virginia Beach

Looking to move from Charleston, WV to Virginia Beach, VA? This shift could transform your lifestyle. Analyzing both sides through a pros and cons list enables an honest reflection of the move from Charleston, WV to Virginia Beach, VA . See how the characteristics of these cities stack up against each other.

CONs
PROs
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Limited job market
  • Extreme weather fluctuations
  • Less outdoor recreation
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Stronger job opportunities
  • Milder coastal climate
  • Abundant beach activities
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Flat landscapes
  • Pricier housing market
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Close-knit community
  • Scenic mountains
  • Affordable housing

Although Virginia Beach offers more job prospects and recreational activities, such as visits to Virginia Beach Oceanfront, the move could result in higher living costs compared to Charleston’s affordability. However, if you value community connection, Charleston's tight-knit neighborhoods, like the charming Kanawha City, have a distinct edge. Virginia Beach, conversely, presents thrilling opportunities for water sports and seafood dining experiences at places like Waterman's Surfside Grille, enriching your coastal living experience. Both cities have their unique appeal; it's about finding which lifestyle suits you best.

Charleston vs. Virginia Beach Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture, offering a window into the lifestyle and traditions of an area. In this comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston, WV, and Virginia Beach, VA , you'll discover the unique gastronomic landscapes of these cities, equipping you with the knowledge needed to embrace the food scene in your new home.

Charleston
Virginia Beach
Most iconic local food item
Hot Dogs
She-Crab Soup
Most popular meat dish
Country Ham
Seafood Platter
Most popular street food item
Chili Dogs
Fish Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Burger
Smashed Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Bluegrass Kitchen
  • The Chop House
  • Tidewater Grill
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Virginia Beach offers a vibrant and diverse foodie scene, notably richer in seafood options. You can explore the freshest seafood dishes at popular local spots like the ViBe Creative District, where fish tacos are a must-try. The city stands out for being more vegan-friendly, with menus featuring items like smashed avocado toast at chic eateries. Food trucks are increasingly popular, offering diverse culinary pleasures, from American classics to global fare. Meanwhile, restaurants like Doc Ford's Bar capture the relaxed coastal vibe, providing a culinary experience that echoes the beach atmosphere.

Charleston vs. Virginia Beach Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding familiar flavors can help make your new surroundings feel like home. This restaurant comparison guide bridges Charleston and Virginia Beach , guiding you to discover your new favorite eateries through the familiar tastes of your current hometown.

CharlestonVirginia BeachWhat You'll Love
Black Sheep Burrito & BrewsGringo’s TaqueriaCraft brews meet creative tacos here.
Bridge Road BistroTerrapin RestaurantBoth offer upscale dining with local flavors.
Dem 2 Brothers and a GrillBeach Bully BBQCasual, authentic BBQ with a loyal following.
Noah’s Eclectic BistroSaffron Mediterranean CuisineUnique, creative dishes in an intimate setting.
Fazio’sIl Giardino RistoranteClassic Italian with a cozy ambiance.
Tidewater GrillWaterman’s Surfside GrilleIconic seafood right on the coast.
First WatchDoc Taylor’sBreakfast favorites with fresh twists.
Graffiti’sShoreBreak Pizza & TapHouseKnown for bold, vibrant culinary creations.
Laury’s RestaurantAldo’s RistoranteElegant dining in a waterfront setting.
Pies & PintsCogan’s PizzaImpressive craft beer selection with flavorful pies.

Explore the culinary landscape of Virginia Beach, starting with Gringo’s Taqueria, where you'll find an irresistible blend of artisan burritos and locally brewed beverages akin to Black Sheep Burrito & Brews in Charleston. For those who love upscale dining, Terrapin Restaurant will make you feel right at home with its locally inspired menu and attention to detail, reminiscent of Bridge Road Bistro. And when you crave the authentic, smoky essence of barbecue, Beach Bully BBQ delivers a genuine taste experience comparable to that of Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill. Taste the classic familiarity of Italian cuisine within the warm atmosphere of Il Giardino Ristorante, much like the beloved Fazio’s. Each local establishment not only mirrors its Charleston counterpart but also offers its own unique flair for an unforgettable dining experience.

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Ready to start your move?

Charleston vs. Virginia Beach Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. By understanding how Charleston, WV and Virginia Beach, VA compare in housing costs and lifestyle, you can make a more informed decision. This guide provides a detailed comparison to help you navigate these critical differences.

Charleston
Virginia Beach
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial
Coastal
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Fireplace, Porch
Beach Access, Open Floor Plans

When moving from Charleston to Virginia Beach, you'll notice a shift in housing styles and lifestyle options. Charleston, with its more traditional Colonial architecture, often features homes with charming fireplaces and porches. In contrast, Virginia Beach offers a coastal vibe with many listings highlighting open floor plans and proximity to the ocean. The beach city scores higher in bikeability due to its flat terrain and scenic routes, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The urban lifestyle rating is also higher, promising diverse dining and entertainment options that suit a more dynamic living experience.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, VA

1. Oceanfront : You’ll find many dog-friendly parks and a boardwalk that welcomes your furry friends for strolls and socializing.

2. Chic's Beach (Chesapeake Beach) : This area offers pet-friendly beaches and several dog parks, making it easy for your pets to enjoy outdoor activities.

3. Red Mill : A community with pet lovers in mind, you have convenient access to pet-friendly trails and nearby pet services.

Charleston vs. Virginia Beach Weather Considerations

When moving from Charleston, WV to Virginia Beach, VA , understanding the weather conditions in both areas is crucial in preparing for life in your new location. The following chart provides a comprehensive comparison to help you anticipate changes in climate experiences, ensuring you're ready for what both places have to offer.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F/65°F
88°F/70°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

43°F/26°F
50°F/32°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

45 inches
47 inches
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

24 inches
6 inches


Transitioning from Charleston to Virginia Beach brings notable differences in weather patterns. You'll experience warmer winter temperatures in Virginia Beach, enabling a more pleasant winter season. The significant increase in sunshine days should be a welcome change, though it also comes with a higher UV index. While both locations have high humidity, the coastal environment in Virginia Beach may seem more pronounced. It's important to note the increased risk of hurricanes along the coast compared to flooding in Charleston, which may influence how you prepare for storm seasons. Lastly, if you suffer from seasonal allergies, be prepared for different pollen types to affect you in Virginia Beach.

Ready to start your move?

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

If you're considering relocating, understanding the cost of living between your current location and your new destination is crucial. This analysis compares the financial landscape of Charleston, WV and Virginia Beach, VA to help you anticipate potential changes in your budget and make informed decisions.

Charleston
Virginia Beach
Avg. Household Income
$42,000
$81,634
Cost of Living Index
92.7
96.6
State Income Tax
6.5%
5.75%
Avg. Property Tax
0.6%
0.8%
Avg. Sales Tax
6%
6%
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Energy, Education
Military, Tourism, Education
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
High
Low
Homelessness
Moderate
Low

As you evaluate your move to Virginia Beach, VA, it's important to note the significant differences in average household income and cost of living. Virginia Beach offers nearly double the average household income compared to Charleston, reflecting its more affluent setting. However, this is balanced by a higher cost of living index, indicating that while earnings might be higher, expenses are also greater. The differences in taxation, such as the slightly lower state income tax in Virginia compared to West Virginia, might offer some financial relief. Additionally, while both cities maintain the same average sales tax, the industries driving their economies differ, with Virginia Beach benefiting from military and tourism, contributing to its economic health.

Charleston vs. Virginia Beach Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents to help you understand the new community you're transitioning into. Specifically, it focuses on a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Virginia Beach , giving you key insights into your current and future environment.

Charleston
Virginia Beach
Political Make-up
Moderately Conservative
Moderately Conservative
Local Politics
<a href="https://www.charlestonwv.gov/government/city-council">City Council</a> dominated by Republicans
City Council has mixed representation
Religion
Mostly Christian, diverse denominations
Primarily Christian, growing diversity

When moving from Charleston to Virginia Beach, you will find both cities share a conservative political inclination, though Charleston's government is more predominantly Republican. Virginia Beach presents a broader mix, evident in its city council's varied representation. Religion remains a significant part of both communities, with Christianity as the dominant faith. However, you may observe a slightly more diverse religious landscape in Virginia Beach due to its larger and more varied population. This diversity is reflected in numerous places of worship that cater to different denominations and faiths.

Charleston vs. Virginia Beach Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another often entails not only a change of scenery but also an adjustment to the local transportation scene. To help you navigate your transition, this comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Virginia Beach will provide insights into what to expect on your daily commute in both cities.

Charleston
Virginia Beach
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
27
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Unlikely
Possible

Adjustments to commuting in a new city will be necessary as you transition from Charleston to Virginia Beach. While Charleston generally offers shorter commute times, Virginia Beach could present more congestion depending on the season as beach tourism picks up. The transit system in Virginia Beach is notably more robust, with a higher availability of buses and local light rail through options like Hampton Roads Transit. This could afford you the freedom to navigate areas without a car, especially in popular regions like the Oceanfront and Town Center. However, when considering moving destinations outside the central hubs, you might still find having a car quite beneficial.

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