Best Phoenix to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Phoenix to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,162 mile move from Arizona to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Phoenix to Charleston moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Phoenix 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 Phoenix to Charleston Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.759.64Authorized For HHGContact
2New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.329.4Authorized For PropertyContact
3Creative Moving and Packing, LLC9.309.18Authorized For HHGContact
4Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHGContact
5Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Phoenix to Charleston

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,162 miles from Phoenix, AZ to Charleston, SC will cost on average $3,620 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Phoenix to Charleston move is roughly $8,738. 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$2,428300 ft³8.09
1 Bedroom$3,620450 ft³8.04
2 Bedrooms$5,995750 ft³7.99
3 Bedrooms$8,7381100 ft³7.94
4 Bedrooms$12,6301600 ft³7.89
5+ Bedrooms$14,1191800 ft³7.84
*Please note: These Arizona to South Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & 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 AZ to SC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Phoenix guide.

Compare the 5 Best Phoenix to Charleston Movers

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

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.75/10
based on 2,279+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 991+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo

Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.30/10
based on 4,091+ data points

4012 W Turney Ave

Phoenix, AZ, 85019

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This company's...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1877603 / 1173916

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Smooth Move Charleston Logo

Smooth Move Charleston

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 3,273+ 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
4
Ready Set Movers Logo

Ready Set Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 902+ 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
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.

Phoenix vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

You're bound to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety when moving to a new city. That's why we're here to help you get your bearings by drawing comparisons of the local neighborhoods between Phoenix, AZ & Charleston, SC . By identifying key similarities between neighborhoods, we'll ease your transition and help you settle in comfortably.

PhoenixCharlestonHow They're Similar
ArcadiaMount PleasantFamily-friendly, scenic views
Roosevelt RowFrench QuarterArts and culture hub
DowntownUpper King StreetVibrant nightlife
Central CityWest AshleyMixed-use, diverse community
Ahwatukee FoothillsDaniel IslandSuburban, outdoor activities
Biltmore AreaSouth of BroadUpscale, historic charm
North Mountain VillagePark CircleOutdoor parks, community feel
Paradise ValleyThe BatteryLuxurious living, affluent atmosphere
Deer ValleyJames IslandResidential, family-oriented
Moon ValleySullivan's IslandQuiet, natural surroundings

If you're fond of the vibrant arts scene at Roosevelt Row in Phoenix, you'll love the French Quarter in Charleston. With its plethora of art galleries, eateries, and historical architecture, you can immerse yourself in an atmosphere rich with creativity and history. Similarly, if you enjoy the diversity and dynamism of Central City, West Ashley offers a well-balanced blend of retail, dining, and green spaces. Families who enjoy outdoor activities in Ahwatukee Foothills will find kindred spirit on Daniel Island, where parks and leisure trails abound for recreation. Both communities host local events and farmers' markets that foster a strong sense of community. Meanwhile, those who appreciate the upscale refinement of the Biltmore Area can find similar historic elegance south of Broad, where majestic antebellum homes tell stories of Charleston's storied past.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to Charleston

When considering a move from Phoenix, AZ to Charleston, SC, it's essential to gain an honest understanding of the pros and cons . This guide provides a balanced look at what you may gain and lose, helping you balance aspects of life in Phoenix and Charleston .

CONs
PROs
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Intense summer heat
  • Limited beachfront access
  • Desert landscapes
  • Less rainfall
  • High UV index
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Moderate temperatures
  • Beautiful coastlines
  • Green scenery
  • More rain
  • Lower UV exposure
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Quiet evenings
  • Higher expenses
  • Limited hiking options
  • Historic infrastructure
  • Less cultural events
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Cost of living
  • Desert adventures
  • Modern amenities
  • Art scene

As you transition from Phoenix to Charleston, you'll find that the serene beaches of Charleston, like Folly Beach, contrast sharply with the rugged adventures of the Sonoran Desert. Charleston's more humid climate amplifies its lush greenery, a stark difference from Phoenix's arid vistas. You'll enjoy neighborhoods like West Ashley, boasting a unique blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. While Phoenix offers a robust nightlife, Charleston's subtle blend of quiet evenings can be experienced at places like City Night Market. Ultimately, exploring iconic sites like Fort Sumter or dining at popular spots in Downtown Charleston adds layers to your new adventure.

Phoenix vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is an essential aspect of local culture, influencing the lifestyle and experience of living in a new area. By exploring the local cuisine between Phoenix & Charleston , you can gain insights into the food scene and what to expect when moving to your new home.

PhoenixCharleston
Most iconic local food itemSonoran Hot DogShe-Crab Soup
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaShrimp and Grits
Most popular street food itemTacosFried Green Tomatoes
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastVegetable Couscous
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Charleston offers a delightful array of Southern cuisine with iconic dishes like She-Crab Soup and Shrimp and Grits, often found in restaurants in the charming French Quarter. For those keen on exploring popular local eateries, spots like FIG provide a perfect immersion into the city’s culinary culture. The emphasis on seafood in Charleston provides a fresh and savory alternative to Phoenix's robust Mexican flavors. While Charleston is known for its historical appeal and traditional Southern fare, its food scene is equally vibrant and evolving with establishments like Husk. If you are moving from Phoenix, expect a rich and varied food experience where history and creativity deliciously coexist.

Phoenix vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Your culinary journey from Phoenix to Charleston is about discovering new flavors and making current favorites feel like home. Use this restaurant comparison to find your favorite eateries in your new town, guided by your trusted spots in the other.

PhoenixCharlestonWhat You'll Love
Pizzeria BiancoMonzaA haven for artisanal pizza lovers
Little Miss BBQLewis BarbecueCelebrated for its authentic BBQ style
Binkley's RestaurantHuskOffers inventive Southern cuisine with local ingredients
Matt's Big BreakfastEarly Bird DinerKnown for hearty and classic breakfast dishes
The Breadfruit & Rum BarIsland BreezeCarries a similar Caribbean flair
Durant’sHall's ChophouseIconic for upscale steakhouse dining
La Santisima Gourmet Taco ShopMineroRenowned for its inventive take on Mexican cuisine
Chrysa Robertson's Rancho PinotThe Obstinate DaughterFocused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients
Taco GuildCantina 76Eclectic and inventive taco offerings
Postino ArcadiaBin 152A wine bar that matches the perfect blend of ambiance and selection

When tempted by the smoky delights of Little Miss BBQ, you'll find Lewis Barbecue in Charleston fulfills your cravings with a similar authenticity, elevating traditional techniques with top-quality meats. At Binkley's Restaurant, expect a journey of flavors that Husk mirrors with its commitment to serving innovative Southern dishes crafted from local ingredients. Dive into the vibrant Caribbean ambiance at The Breadfruit & Rum Bar, paralleled by Island Breeze’s dynamic dishes offering a satisfying escape to the islands. If a cozy spot and brunch are your style, Matt's Big Breakfast and its Charleston counterpart, Early Bird Diner, both excel in transforming simple, classic breakfast favorites into unforgettable morning feasts.

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Phoenix vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how your housing options compare between two unique cities like Phoenix and Charleston. This guide provides a clear overview to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonPhoenixCharleston
Typical Architecture StyleSouthwesternColonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingCentral Air, PoolsPorches, Mature Trees

Moving from Phoenix to Charleston requires a shift in your living experience. While Phoenix offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with its typical Southwestern-style homes, Charleston provides a charming and more historic environment featuring Colonial architecture, as seen in its scenic districts like Downtown Charleston. If walkability is a high priority, Charleston's infrastructure allows for a more pedestrian-friendly lifestyle, ideal for those who enjoy journeying on foot through its picturesque streets. In terms of real estate appeal, Charleston's listings often highlight the allure of porches and mature trees, contrasting with Phoenix's focus on central air conditioning and amenities like pools to combat the desert heat.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, SC

1. North Charleston : With its large number of parks and proximity to the North Charleston Riverfront Park, you'll find plenty of space for daily walks and outdoor adventures with your furry friend.

2. James Island : This neighborhood offers easy access to the James Island County Park, which features a dedicated dog park and trails for exploring nature with your pet.

3. West Ashley : Known for its pet-friendly community vibe, you can enjoy numerous walking trails and amenities at the West Ashley Greenway and nearby parks where pets are warmly welcomed.

Phoenix vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

When making the move from Phoenix, AZ to Charleston, SC , understanding the weather differences is key to a smooth transition. This comparison helps you prepare for new climatic conditions while adjusting to life in a different city.

Summer icon
106°F / 81°F

Phoenix, AZ

89°F / 74°F

Charleston, SC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F / 46°F

Phoenix, AZ

59°F / 38°F

Charleston, SC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
9.2

Phoenix, AZ

49.3

Charleston, SC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Phoenix, AZ

0.8

Charleston, SC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPhoenixCharleston
Air QualityModerate to UnhealthyGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersExtreme heat, dust stormsHurricanes, flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Phoenix to Charleston offers a shift from arid heat to a more humid climate. Phoenix is renowned for its abundance of sunshine, while Charleston’s weather is more varied with significantly higher humidity, meaning you'll likely encounter more rain throughout the year. This moisture-rich environment can also contribute to allergies predominantly driven by molds and pollen. Natural disaster risks differ too; moving to Charleston might mean preparing for hurricane season, unlike the dust storms you're familiar with in Phoenix. Such climate differences will influence not only your recreational activities but also day-to-day living challenges like air quality and UV exposure.

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

If you're moving from Phoenix, AZ to Charleston, SC , it's essential to grasp how the cost of living will differ between these two locations. Understanding these financial aspects can help you budget and plan accordingly.

ComparisonPhoenixCharleston
Avg. Household Income$68,435$74,139
Cost of Living Index100.798.3
State Income Tax2.59% - 4.50%0% - 7%
Avg. Property Tax0.66%0.51%
Avg. Sales Tax8.6%9%
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Retail, ConstructionTourism, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyModerateModerate
HomelessnessNoticeableModerate

When comparing Phoenix to Charleston, you'll find some differences in cost-related factors. While both cities have a moderate level of affluence and poverty, the cost of living index slightly favors Charleston, with a lower score indicating a lighter financial burden. However, you should prepare for a varied state income tax in both locations, with Charleston having a wider range. Despite Charleston's slightly higher sales tax rate, the difference is marginal. Industry-wise, Charleston's economy veers towards tourism, which might influence job opportunities compared to Phoenix's construction and retail-focused market.

Phoenix vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

The purpose of this comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents when moving from one city to another, focusing on Phoenix & Charleston politics .

PhoenixCharleston
Political Make-upMore liberalMore conservative
Local PoliticsVaried, more progressive policiesTraditional, with emphasis on local heritage
ReligionDiverse, with a strong presence of non-religious affiliationsPredominantly Christian

When transitioning from Phoenix to Charleston, you'll notice a distinct shift in the political landscape. Phoenix is generally more liberal, pushing forward progressive agendas, while Charleston tends to hold more conservative values and traditions. Religion in Phoenix spans a wide array of beliefs, including a significant portion of non-religious individuals due to its cultural diversity. In contrast, Charleston has a predominantly Christian community, which often plays a vital role in the city's social and community events. These aspects not only shape the community ethos but also influence everyday life in these urban environments.

Phoenix vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Thinking about life in a new city? One key factor to consider is how your daily commute may change. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Phoenix & Charleston , helping you better understand what your daily travel might look like.

ComparisonPhoenixCharleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2623
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?UnlikelyPossible

Adjusting to traffic conditions is crucial when relocating. In Phoenix, a bustling metropolis, you'll find the streets busier, with a higher traffic congestion score. In contrast, Charleston offers a more relaxed pace, potentially reducing your stress levels while driving. Keep in mind that public transit in Charleston may not be as developed as in Phoenix, making a car more necessary if you plan on exploring beyond the city center. However, if you choose to live downtown, you may find that walking or biking to nearby attractions offers a pleasant alternative to being stuck behind the wheel.

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