Best California to South Carolina Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from California to South Carolina and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,513 mile CA to SC move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 318 California to South Carolina 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in California compared to South Carolina. 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 California to South Carolina Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | 9.59 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Swamp Rabbit Moving | 9.34 | 9.45 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC | 9.33 | 9.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from California to South Carolina
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,513 miles from California to South Carolina will cost on average $3,918 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to SC move is roughly $9,468. 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 in California and dropoff in South Carolina 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 California to South Carolina movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,627 | 300 ft³ | 8.76 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,918 | 450 ft³ | 8.71 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,493 | 750 ft³ | 8.66 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,468 | 1100 ft³ | 8.61 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,692 | 1600 ft³ | 8.56 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,313 | 1800 ft³ | 8.51 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from South Carolina to California guide.
Popular California to South Carolina Moving Destinations
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular California to South Carolina Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best CA to SC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Chico, CA, 95973
About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3421940 / 1416634 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2024) |
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Swamp Rabbit Moving
2106 Airport Rd
Greer, SC, 29651
About Swamp Rabbit Moving
Swamp Rabbit Moving is a South Carolina business specializing in local and long-distance moves. From its location in Greer, this company...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Packing/Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3449704 / 1163908 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 300,000 (2023) |
Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC
178 Sago Palm Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC, 29579
About Luxury Movers Moving Company, LLC
Luxury Movers Moving Company is a Myrtle Beach-based moving company that serves all surrounding areas, including Horry, Georgetown, Marion, and Dillion...
Services
- Local Move
- Long-Distance Move
- Apartment Move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3288750 / 1041081 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from California to South Carolina
Moving from one state to another is a significant life event that warrants a thorough comparison of the pros and cons. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes associated with relocating from California to South Carolina. By examining the unique aspects of each state, we hope to give you a clearer picture of what to expect and help you make an informed decision.
California- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Wildfire risks
- Drought issues
South Carolina- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Lush green landscapes
- Abundant waterways
South Carolina- Smaller cities
- Less culinary diversity
- Fewer tech jobs
- Different natural beauty
California- Vibrant city life
- Diverse cuisine
- Tech job opportunities
- Breathtaking landscapes
When moving from California's bustling cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, you might find the pace of life in South Carolina's charming cities such as Charleston or Greenville refreshingly slower. While you might miss California's iconic Golden Gate Bridge or the sprawling views of Griffith Park, South Carolina offers its own picturesque beauty. The Palmetto State is home to lush parks, including the scenic Falls Park on the Reedy in Greenville. Food enthusiasts moving from California's diverse culinary scene will appreciate Charleston's booming food scene, known for its unique Lowcountry cuisine. The transition might come with some adjustment to smaller city lives, but South Carolina’s historic downtowns, like that of Beaufort, offer rich cultural experiences, showcasing beautiful antebellum architecture and hosting vibrant arts scenes. For ocean lovers, the move from California's famous beaches might seem daunting, but South Carolina’s coastline, featuring gems like Folly Beach and Hilton Head Island, offers beautiful alternatives to the Pacific shores. Explore Charleston, Falls Park on the Reedy, and Hilton Head Island could quickly become your new favorite spots.
California vs. South Carolina Food Guide
When relocating, immersing yourself into the local culture is vital, and what's more integral to culture than food? In this guide, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between California & South Carolina to help you grasp the culinary landscape of your new home. Whether you're craving fresh, innovative dishes or comforting, traditional meals, understanding the food scene is crucial.
| California | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip Steak | Pulled Pork BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Açaí Bowl | Collard Greens |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In California, the vibrant food scene is a testament to its diverse culture, with tacos from food trucks lining the streets of cities like Los Angeles and innovative vegan offerings in San Francisco. The iconic sourdough bread, a San Francisco staple, reflects the state's rich history. Meanwhile, moving to South Carolina offers a dive into deep-rooted culinary traditions. Shrimp and grits, a simple yet profound dish, showcases local flavors and ingredients, predominantly found in coastal towns like Charleston. Here, restaurants like Husk Charleston redefine Southern cuisine, while Home Team BBQ offers a contemporary take on the classic Carolina barbecue. The transition from California's health-conscious and eclectic food scene to South Carolina's hearty and traditional cuisine embodies the essence of moving between these two distinct landscapes.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. South Carolina Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing the real estate landscapes between your current and future home is crucial. Understanding how California and South Carolina stack up against each other in terms of housing can greatly inform your decision-making process. This comparison will elucidate differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle, amongst other factors.
| Comparison | California | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Spanish | Colonial, Antebellum |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, sustainable features | Historic details, large plots |
In dissecting these comparisons, it's evident that the real estate markets in California and South Carolina cater to vastly different lifestyles and budgets. California's steep median home prices reflect its bustling urban centers and desirable weather, often featuring homes with modern and sustainable designs. South Carolina, on the other hand, offers more affordable housing options with a focus on historic charm and larger plots of land. The lower cost of living in South Carolina could be particularly attractive for those seeking more space and a slower pace of life without compromising on the rich cultural and historical ethos the state offers. Architecture enthusiasts might be drawn to South Carolina’s iconic Colonial and Antebellum styles, while those preferring a more contemporary or Spanish influence might lean towards California. Each state presents unique opportunities and challenges for new residents, with these insights serving as a robust starting point for making your decision.
California vs. South Carolina Weather Considerations
When planning your move from California to South Carolina, understanding the weather differences between these states is crucial. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare better for the seasons ahead. We've compiled data in a straightforward chart, highlighting the main weather contrasts between California and South Carolina .
California
South Carolina
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
California
South Carolina
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
California
South Carolina
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
California
South Carolina
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | California | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Variable, often good | Generally good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 284 days | 216 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
California and South Carolina offer distinct weather patterns that could impact your lifestyle. California's weather is typically drier with more days of sunshine, ideal for those who love outdoor activities. In contrast, South Carolina experiences higher humidity and more rainfall, making it lush and green. It's also worth noting the difference in natural disasters, with California prone to earthquakes and wildfires, while South Carolina faces hurricanes and floods. This varying climate can influence everything from clothing choices to home maintenance, highlighting the importance of preparing for your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to South Carolina
When considering a move from one state to another, it's crucial to delve into how financial aspects will change. This comparison aims to outline the differences between California and South Carolina in terms of money and finance , helping you gauge what to expect and prepare for in your new home.
| Comparison | California | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,551 | $64,115 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 96.85 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3% | 0 - 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.82% | 7.46% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture | Manufacturing, Tourism, Agriculture |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
While California boasts a higher average household income compared to South Carolina, the cost of living and state income taxes significantly reduce disposable income. California's tech-driven economy contrasts with South Carolina's manufacturing and tourism focus, reflecting different job markets and opportunities. The lower cost of living in South Carolina, including lower property and sales taxes, could offer you a more affordable lifestyle compared to California. Considering these factors is key in managing expectations and financial planning for your move.
California vs. South Carolina Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between California & South Carolina is designed to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the community you’re moving into.
| California | South Carolina | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal, Democratic-leaning | Conservative, Republican-leaning |
| Local Politics | Highly engaged in environmental & social issues | Traditionally focused on fiscal conservatism & military |
| Religion | Diverse; less religious overall | Primarily Christian, with a strong evangelical presence |
When you move from California to South Carolina, you'll notice stark differences in political and religious landscapes. California's liberal, Democratic-leaning tendencies contrast sharply with South Carolina's conservative, Republican leanings. Local politics in California often revolve around environmental and social issues, reflecting the state's progressive ethos. In contrast, South Carolina residents tend to prioritize fiscal conservatism and have a strong military presence, reflecting traditional values. Moreover, religion plays a more central role in the daily life of South Carolinians, with Christianity, particularly evangelicalism, being predominant, unlike California's more diverse and less religious population. This shift can influence not just your social interactions but also local policies and community initiatives that affect your daily life.
Education Guide When Moving from California to South Carolina
Moving from California to South Carolina brings about many changes, including in educational opportunities. This comparison is designed to help you understand the differences between school options in California and South Carolina, enabling you to make informed decisions for your family's educational future.
| California | South Carolina |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of California Stanford University California State UniversityUniversity of South Carolina Clemson University College of Charleston | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Orion Alternative (Redwood City) Mill Valley Middle (Mill Valley) Waldorf School (San Francisco)Buist Academy (Charleston) Mount Pleasant Academy (Mount Pleasant) Clemson Elementary (Clemson) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Francisco Middle (San Francisco) Diablo View Middle (Clayton) Egan Junior High (Los Altos)Hand Middle (Columbia) Montessori School of Anderson (Anderson) Beck Academy (Greenville) | |
Top 3 High Schools Henry M. Gunn High (Palo Alto) Troy High (Fullerton) Lowell High (San Francisco)Academic Magnet High (North Charleston) South Carolina Governor's School (Greenville) Charleston County School of the Arts (North Charleston) | |
Top 3 private high schools The Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) The Bishop's School (La Jolla) The Harker School (San Jose)Porter-Gaud School (Charleston) Hammond School (Columbia) Christ Church Episcopal School (Greenville) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Athenian School (Danville) Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica) Chadwick School (Palos Verdes Peninsula)Hilton Head Preparatory School (Hilton Head Island) Ashley Hall (Charleston) Spartanburg Day School (Spartanburg) | |
Top 3 School Districts San Francisco Unified Los Angeles Unified Palo Alto UnifiedGreenville County Schools York County School District Charleston County School District | |
In comparing the educational landscapes of California and South Carolina, it's evident that each state offers a unique array of schools that cater to various needs and preferences. For example, the top colleges attended by seniors reflect the strong academic reputation of institutions in both states, with the University of California and Stanford highlighting California's educational excellence, and the University of South Carolina and Clemson University doing the same for South Carolina. The highly rated South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts & Humanities in Greenville offers a distinctive specialized education not found in many states. Similarly, the presence of schools like The Harvard-Westlake School in California underscores the availability of elite private school education. Every school mentioned offers different programs, environments, and opportunities, making it critical to consider your child's needs and aspirations when choosing the right educational path.
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