Best Long Beach to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Long Beach to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,560 mile move from California to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Long Beach 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 RL Relocation), 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 Long Beach 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.
Best Long Beach to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | RL Relocation | 9.44 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | The Student Movers | 8.42 | 8.8 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Long Beach to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,560 miles from Long Beach, CA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $3,958 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Long Beach to Charleston move is roughly $9,566. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,654 | 300 ft³ | 8.85 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,958 | 450 ft³ | 8.80 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,560 | 750 ft³ | 8.75 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,566 | 1100 ft³ | 8.70 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,834 | 1600 ft³ | 8.65 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,473 | 1800 ft³ | 8.60 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Long Beach guide.
Compare the 5 Best Long Beach to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
RL Relocation
Cornell Dr
Costa Mesa, CA, 92626
About RL Relocation
RL Relocation is a full-service moving company that has been in business for several years. Based in California, they offer local...
Services
- Whole Home Moves
- Local and Long Distance
- Packing and Organizing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2984580 / 15998 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 159,984 (2022) |
Smooth Move Charleston
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2357653 / 834668 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |
Ready Set Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2150739 / 756179 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
The Student Movers
21890 Beach Blvd
Huntington Beach, CA, 92648
About The Student Movers
With locations in Murrieta, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach, The Student Movers serves clients from California, offering local, intrastate, and interstate...
Services
- Full Service (I need a truck and people to help load it)
- Labor Only (I just need the people to help me)
- Home Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2769852 / 61421 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
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.
Long Beach vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Comparing local neighborhoods between Long Beach, CA & Charleston, SC will help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in one city with the closest similar neighborhood in the other city.
| Long Beach | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Belmont Shore | Sullivan's Island | Sandy beaches, vibrant surf culture |
| Downtown Long Beach | Downtown Charleston | Historic district, bustling nightlife |
| Naples | Kiawah Island | Waterfront living, serene canals |
| East Village Arts District | French Quarter | Art galleries, cultural hub |
| Bixby Knolls | West Ashley | Suburban vibe, community-oriented |
| Signal Hill | James Island | Elevated views, residential charm |
| Los Cerritos | Mount Pleasant | Residential elegance, family-friendly |
| Zaferia | Park Circle | Emerging scene, diverse community |
| Willmore | Ansonborough | Historic appeal, quaint streets |
| Lakewood Village | North Charleston | Diverse, suburban lifestyle |
If you enjoy the lively and eclectic vibe of Belmont Shore, filled with boutique shops and sandy beaches, you'll feel at home on Sullivan's Island, where the shores are lined with beach bars and surf shops. Downtown Long Beach's mix of historic sites and modern entertainment can be mirrored in Downtown Charleston, offering attractions like the South Carolina Aquarium and Charleston Music Hall alongside centuries-old architecture. For a taste of artistic flair, the East Village Arts District's vibrant gallery scene finds its Charleston counterpart in the French Quarter, renowned for its art walks and performances. If community-focused living is your priority, Bixby Knolls' strong neighborhood identity is comparable to West Ashley, where local festivals and farmers markets create a close-knit suburban atmosphere.
Things to Do in Charleston
Stroll the Historic Battery- Kayak on Kiawah Island
- Explore the Hunting Island State Park
- Visit the Patriots Point Museum
- Catch a show at Gaillard Center
- Shop at City Market
- Discover art at Gibbes Museum
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Long Beach to Charleston
When considering a relocation from vibrant Long Beach, CA to charming Charleston, SC, it's essential to understand both the benefits and tradeoffs involved. The following charts offer an honest insight into the unique pros and cons of such a move, helping you make a well-informed decision.
Long Beach, CA- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Smog and air quality
- Lack of southern charm
- Busy beaches
Charleston, SC- More affordable housing
- Quieter streets
- Cleaner air
- Historic charm
- Tranquil beaches
Charleston, SC- Less nightlife variety
- Fewer food options
- Higher humidity
- Less diversity
- Limited transit options
Long Beach, CA- Vibrant nightlife
- Eclectic food scene
- Cool coastal climate
- Diverse population
- Extensive public transport
Moving from Long Beach to Charleston offers a completely different lifestyle that can be refreshing yet challenging. While Long Beach's traffic and high cost of living can be overwhelming, Charleston offers quieter streets and more affordable housing, especially in areas like West Ashley. The pleasant neighborhoods such as Mount Pleasant provide a contrast to Long Beach's dense coastal urban life, and the historic charm is apparent in places like the Fort Sumter National Monument. While you might miss Long Beach's eclectic food scene and vibrant nightlife, Charleston’s famous restaurants like Halls Chophouse and cultural events at Charleston Music Hall offer their own unique flavors and experiences. Embracing Charleston’s local parks, like Folly Beach County Park, might make the adjustment easier, balancing the shift with its warmer southern climate and welcoming community atmosphere.
Long Beach vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and influences what it's like to live in an area. As you prepare to move, this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Long Beach & Charleston to better inform you about the food scene in your future home.
| Long Beach | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Barbecue Ribs | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Sushi | Collard Greens |
| 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 is famed for its Southern cuisine, and you'll find an abundance of iconic dishes that highlight the low-country flavors. If you find yourself in the historic downtown area, establishments like Husk offer a modern take on traditional dishes like shrimp and grits. Charleston's street food is unique, with boiled peanuts often sold at city events or roadside stalls. The beachside neighborhoods offer an array of seafood-focused menus that capture the essence of coastal living, and vegan-friendly options like collard greens are increasingly available in places like West Ashley. Expect a vibrant, albeit slightly less prolific, food truck scene compared to Long Beach, but it's growing as local entrepreneurs explore new culinary trends.
Long Beach vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food plays an essential role in making a new place feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you discover your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide. Compare Long Beach, CA and Charleston, SC dining hotspots for a seamless culinary transition.
| Long Beach | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Michael's on Naples | The Obstinate Daughter | Italian-inspired dishes with a coastal flair |
| Aquarium of the Pacific's Café Scuba | Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar | Dockside views with casual seafood dining |
| Roe. | Hank's Seafood Restaurant | Fresh seafood in a rustic setting |
| The Attic | 82 Queen | Southern comfort with a twist |
| Padre | Minero | Elevated Mexican cuisine |
| BO-beau Kitchen + Roof Tap | Meroir Shed | Rooftop vibes and gastro-pub fare |
| Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles | Page's Okra Grill | Hearty Southern classics |
| Amor Y Tacos | Southend Brewery & Smokehouse | Creative fusion eats |
| James Republic | Leon's Oyster Shop | Farm-to-table excellence |
| L'Opera Ristorante | Trattoria Lucca | Italian cuisines in an elegant setting |
For those who cherish Italian cuisine, a visit to The Obstinate Daughter in Charleston will remind you of Long Beach's beloved Michael's on Naples. Here, coastal influences meet Italian traditions on your plate. Seafood enthusiasts leaving behind Roe will find a similar haven at Hank's Seafood Restaurant, where a commitment to fresh and locally-sourced ingredients shines. And when you're craving some Southern comfort, 82 Queen offers a delightful twist on classic flavors that are reminiscent of The Attic, promising a true taste of hospitality and rich culinary heritage.
Ready to start your move?
Long Beach vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important considerations when moving. Understanding how Long Beach and Charleston compare in terms of key housing attributes can help you make informed decisions. This guide will compare aspects like costs, architectural styles, and urban lifestyle to aid your relocation planning.
| Comparison | Long Beach | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean views | Historic charm |
When it comes to housing costs, Long Beach is generally more expensive with higher median home prices and rent compared to Charleston. If you're drawn to unique architectural styles, you'll appreciate Long Beach's abundant Craftsman homes, while Charleston offers charming Colonial architecture. Walkability scores favor Long Beach, providing greater ease for those who prefer navigating the city on foot, whereas Charleston offers a slower-paced environment. To embrace an urban lifestyle with diverse entertainment, Long Beach might have the edge with its vibrant scene. However, if historic charm and classic Southern settings appeal to you, Charleston has much to offer.
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.
Long Beach vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you’re planning a move from Long Beach, CA to Charleston, SC , understanding the weather differences is essential. Familiarizing yourself with climate variations can help you in adapting to your new surroundings, preparing for seasonal changes, and knowing what to expect as you transition to living in a new area.
Long Beach, CA
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Long Beach, CA
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Long Beach, CA
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Long Beach, CA
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Long Beach | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When you move from Long Beach to Charleston, you’ll find that sunshine is less abundant in Charleston, as Long Beach enjoys significantly more sunny days each year. The humidity level in Charleston is notably higher, which can make summer temperatures feel even warmer compared to what you're used to in Long Beach. For those concerned about air quality, Charleston typically has good air quality, whereas Long Beach experiences moderate air pollution. Furthermore, potential natural disasters differ as well; while Long Beach has a risk of earthquakes, Charleston is more prone to hurricanes. This understanding will help you in preparing and adapting to these environmental changes.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Long Beach to Charleston
When relocating from Long Beach, CA to Charleston, SC , it's crucial to grasp how your financial landscape might change. This understanding helps in planning your budget and lifestyle adjustments as you adapt to a new cost of living and economic environment.
| Comparison | Long Beach | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $73,905 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 7.25% | 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.75% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.5% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Trade, Transport, Education | Healthcare, Tourism, Education |
| Affluence | Diverse | Modest |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Limited |
Understanding the financial differences between Long Beach and Charleston can significantly aid your transition. The overall cost of living in Long Beach is considerably higher than in Charleston, primarily due to housing costs. This might mean that your purchasing power could increase by moving to Charleston, even with a slightly lower average household income. Additionally, while state income taxes are somewhat similar, property taxes in Charleston are generally lower, which could result in long-term savings if you plan to buy a home. These financial nuances are crucial to consider for a smooth adjustment to your new environment.
Long Beach vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
As you plan your move from Long Beach, CA to Charleston, SC, it's beneficial to get a quick snapshot of the political and religious climate you’ll encounter. This is a comparison of the politics between Long Beach & Charleston , providing insight into how each city's residents might engage with community issues.
| Long Beach | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Progressive | Moderate |
| Local Politics | Long Beach City Council | Charleston City Council |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong secular community | Predominantly Christian |
When moving from Long Beach to Charleston, you'll find a notable shift in the political and religious landscape. Long Beach is known for its progressive values and strong secular community. In contrast, Charleston leans more moderate politically, with a significant Christian presence shaping its local culture. While Long Beach hosts a wide array of political views, Charleston's community centers more on traditional values, which are evident in local policies and communal events. Exploring Charleston's historic churches and religious festivals can provide insight into the city's cultural fabric.
Long Beach vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Whether you're considering a move or planning a visit, understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic conditions from Long Beach, CA to Charleston, SC is pivotal. Here's a helpful comparison of what driving and public transportation options you can expect in each city.
| Comparison | Long Beach | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
If you're used to the traffic in Long Beach, Charleston may offer a welcome change, with its lower congestion levels meaning less time spent in your vehicle. Public transportation in Long Beach is well developed, with systems like the Metro Blue Line providing efficient commuting options. In contrast, getting around Charleston often requires a car due to its more limited transit system. However, Charleston's charming downtown area offers a pedestrian-friendly experience, which could reduce reliance on vehicles for some activities. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your transportation habits smoothly after your move.
Additional Resources
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