Best Riverside to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Riverside to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,561 mile move from California to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Riverside 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 Pure Moving), 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 Riverside 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 Riverside to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Riverside to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,561 miles from Riverside, CA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $3,959 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Riverside to Charleston move is roughly $9,568. 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 | $3,959 | 450 ft³ | 8.80 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,561 | 750 ft³ | 8.75 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,568 | 1100 ft³ | 8.70 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,837 | 1600 ft³ | 8.65 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,476 | 1800 ft³ | 8.60 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Riverside guide.
Compare the 5 Best Riverside to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (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) |
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.
Riverside vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from one city to another, understanding the lay of the land can make all the difference. Here's a quick guide to help you compare the local neighborhoods between Riverside, CA & Charleston, SC , so you can get acquainted with your new surroundings using familiar areas as a baseline.
| Riverside | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Streets | Wagener Terrace | Historic charm, tree-lined streets |
| University Neighborhood | James Island | College town vibes, youthful energy |
| Arlington Heights | West Ashley | Suburban feel, family-friendly lifestyle |
| Canyon Crest | Daniel Island | Golf courses, upscale amenities |
| Mission Grove | Mt. Pleasant | Shopping centers, modern conveniences |
| Orangecrest | North Charleston | Growing community, active lifestyle |
| Victoria | French Quarter | Artsy vibe, indie shops |
| La Sierra | Goose Creek | Affordable housing, diverse community |
| Downtown Riverside | Downtown Charleston | Cultural hotspot, vibrant nightlife |
| Magnolia Center | East Cooper | Mixed-use development, lifestyle options |
Exploring the neighborhood parallels can lead to delightful discoveries tailored to your interests. If you're moving from the historic atmosphere of Riverside's Wood Streets, you'll feel at home in Wagener Terrace, with its charming, tree-lined streets. For those who appreciate the college-town buzz of Riverside's University Neighborhood, James Island matches with its youthful energy and vibrant community. Lovers of outdoor activities and upscale living in Canyon Crest will find a haven in Daniel Island, known for its prestigious golf courses and lush parks. If La Sierra's diverse community resonates, you might find familiarity in Goose Creek, where affordable housing and a welcoming environment await.
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 Riverside to Charleston
The purpose of this comparison is to present an honest reflection of what to expect when relocating from Riverside, CA to Charleston, SC . This guide showcases both the good and the bad of your potential new home so you can make an informed decision.
Riverside, CA- Heavy traffic
- Higher cost of living
- Limited green spaces
Charleston, SC- Less congestion
- More affordable housing
- Beautiful parks
Charleston, SC- Humidity
- Fewer options
- Quieter evenings
Riverside, CA- Sunny weather
- Diverse food scene
- Vibrant nightlife
When you move from Riverside, CA to Charleston, SC, you'll experience a change in scenery and lifestyle. Charleston boasts numerous parks like Marion Square, offering much-needed green spaces. Dining in Charleston might initially seem limited, but places like Magnolias will offer delightful culinary experiences. Traffic congestion in Riverside can be a daily hassle, while Charleston’s relatively smoother roads can provide a more peaceful commute. However, you may miss the lively nightlife of Riverside as Charleston offers quieter evenings, focusing instead on serene strolls along The Joe during baseball season.
Riverside vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and significantly influences what it's like to live in an area. We'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Riverside, CA & Charleston, SC to keep you better informed about the food scene where you're moving to.
| Riverside | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Date Shake | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Carnitas | Lowcountry Boil |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fried Okra |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Vegetable Tacos | Vegan 'She Crab' Soup |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you move to Charleston, you'll quickly discover its culinary charm. One iconic dish, Shrimp and Grits, is a must-try, often found in restaurants across neighborhoods like the Historic District. For a deeper dive into lowcountry cuisine, visit establishments such as Husk, located in a picturesque area. Charleston also offers an increasingly vegan-friendly scene, with innovative options like 'She Crab' Soup found at various eateries. In contrast, while Riverside boasts a vibrant food truck culture, Charleston leans heavier on its rich history, with a focus on tradition-infused dining experiences.
Riverside vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is essential in transforming an unfamiliar place into your beloved home. By exploring some of the top eateries in Riverside alongside comparable spots in Charleston , this restaurant comparison will guide you in discovering your new culinary favorites.
| Riverside | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mission Inn Restaurant | Halls Chophouse | Known for their traditional elegance and classic American cuisine. |
| The Salted Pig | Edmund's Oast | Both emphasize craft brews and inventive American fare. |
| Le Chat Noir | Chez Nous | Intimate settings with a focus on French-inspired dishes. |
| Mario's Place | Trattoria Lucca | Authentic Italian offerings with a modern touch. |
| Simple Simon's | Jack’s Cosmic Dogs | Eccentric vibes with comfort food classics. |
| Tio’s Tacos | Minero | Elevating Mexican street food to a fine art. |
| Café Sevilla | Tapas Bar & Restaurant | Authentic Spanish tapas with a flair for performance. |
| Duane's Prime Steaks & Seafood | Peninsula Grill | High-end dining with a focus on premium cuts and seafood. |
| Back to the Grind | The Daily | Celebrated for its specialty coffee and inviting atmosphere. |
| ProAbition | The Cocktail Club | Offers a similar speakeasy ambiance with a focus on craft cocktails. |
If it's a timeless dining experience you crave, Halls Chophouse in Charleston rivals the fine dining elegance of Riverside's Mission Inn Restaurant. For those who savor unique brews and dishes, Edmund's Oast mirrors Riverside's own The Salted Pig, offering creative twists on American classics. When your palette leans towards the continental allure of French cuisine, Charleston's Chez Nous provides an intimate setting akin to Riverside's Le Chat Noir. As you explore Charleston, these familiar flavors and experiences will surely make this new city feel more like home.
Ready to start your move?
Riverside vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how the housing landscape of Riverside, CA differs from Charleston, SC . This comparison ensures you are prepared for the specific challenges and perks each city offers.
| Comparison | Riverside | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Federal and Georgian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pools, Modern kitchens | Patios, Historic aspects |
When evaluating housing options, Riverside typically features Spanish Colonial architecture, providing a distinct charm compared to the Federal and Georgian styles common in Charleston. If walkability is a priority for you, Charleston's downtown, with its easy access to shops and restaurants, scores higher than Riverside. For individuals who prefer cycling, both cities offer moderate bikeability with Charleston slightly ahead, allowing for daily commutes or leisurely rides. Meanwhile, Riverside is known for its contemporary homes often boasting modern kitchens, whereas Charleston homes frequently emphasize historic aspects and mesmerizing charm, making each city's real estate listings a unique experience.
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.
Riverside vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When transitioning from Riverside, CA to Charleston, SC , understanding the climate differences is crucial for adjusting to your new environment. These charts offer insights into temperature variations, precipitation, air quality, and more, helping you prepare for life on the East Coast.
Riverside, CA
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Riverside, CA
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Riverside | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you prepare for your move, you’ll find that while Charleston offers more consistent humidity and greater annual rainfall than Riverside, it also presents a different set of natural challenges, like hurricanes. The air quality in Charleston is generally favorable, which contrasts with Riverside's often moderate air quality due to nearby wildfires. Additionally, while Riverside enjoys more sunny days per year, Charleston provides a mild winter experience. Adjusting to the shift in allergens will also be essential, as Charleston's coastal environment brings new pollen and mold considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Riverside to Charleston
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. Our comparison between Riverside, CA and Charleston, SC will help you assess key financial metrics for a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Riverside | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $76,558 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 112.5 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.81% | 0.51% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.75% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Retail | Tourism, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When relocating from Riverside to Charleston, you'll discover a relatively lower cost of living in Charleston, despite its higher average household income. The state income tax in South Carolina is nearly half that of California, which could lead to significant savings. However, Charleston's sales tax is slightly higher than Riverside's. The difference in property taxes might also be appealing if you're looking to buy a home, though industry opportunities vary, with tourism holding more weight in Charleston's economy. Understanding these nuances will allow you to make an informed decision about your financial future.
Riverside vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. By comparing the two cities, you can better understand the differences and similarities in politics between Riverside & Charleston .
| Riverside | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leaning Democrat | Moderate/Conservative |
| Local Politics | City Council influenced by progressive measures | Local government tends to focus on traditional values |
| Religion | Diverse religious communities with significant non-affiliation | Predominantly Christian |
When you move from Riverside to Charleston, you may notice a shift in the political climate. Riverside typically leans more Democratic, with a city council often influenced by progressive measures. In contrast, Charleston’s local government tends to emphasize traditional values, reflecting a more moderate to conservative political atmosphere. The religious landscape also varies. Riverside offers a diverse array of spiritual communities, with many residents not affiliated with any religion. Conversely, Charleston is predominantly Christian, which is reflected in the city's cultural landscape and community-focused events. As you explore your new home, you might find places like the eclectic local markets or churches embodying these values.
Riverside vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When planning your move from Riverside, CA to Charleston, SC, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic patterns is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Riverside & Charleston will shed light on what to expect on the roads and transit systems in both cities.
| Comparison | Riverside | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 31 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Unlikely | Possible |
In Riverside, reliance on a car is almost necessary due to lower public transit availability and higher traffic congestion, which has led to a notable average commute time of 31 minutes. The congestion can be attributed to the city's layout and limited public transport options. Conversely, in Charleston, not only is average commute time shorter at around 23 minutes, but the public transportation system is more robust, allowing for greater flexibility in commuting without a car. The difference in traffic conditions and transit options can significantly affect your daily routine, offering a more relaxed commuting experience in Charleston.
Additional Resources
Riverside Moving Services
Popular Riverside to South Carolina Routes
Popular Moving Resources
