Best San Diego to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,465 mile move from California to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 San Diego 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 The Rock Movers), 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 San Diego 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 San Diego to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,465 miles from San Diego, CA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $3,877 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Charleston move is roughly $9,368. 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 | $2,600 | 300 ft³ | 8.67 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,877 | 450 ft³ | 8.62 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,425 | 750 ft³ | 8.57 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,368 | 1100 ft³ | 8.52 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,546 | 1600 ft³ | 8.47 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,150 | 1800 ft³ | 8.42 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
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) |
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) |
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
13026 Stowe Dr A
Poway, CA, 92064
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 877737 / 383831 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,778 (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.
San Diego vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but comparing familiar neighborhoods can ease the transition. This guide highlights local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Charleston, SC to help you find your new home sweet home.
| San Diego | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Sullivan's Island | Beachfront living and affluence |
| Gaslamp Quarter | French Quarter | Vibrant nightlife and dining |
| North Park | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Hipster vibe and artistic flair |
| Pacific Beach | Folly Beach | Surf culture and youthful energy |
| Little Italy | KING Street | Buzzing with restaurants and boutique shops |
| Point Loma | West Ashley | Waterfront views and historic charm |
| Hillcrest | North Central | Diverse and LGBTQ-friendly community |
| Carmel Valley | Mount Pleasant | Family-oriented with good schools |
| Mission Hills | Harleston Village | Historic homes and peaceful streets |
| University City | Charleston Peninsula | Home to universities and young professionals |
If you adore La Jolla’s beautiful beaches and upscale amenities, then Sullivan's Island will capture your heart with its pristine sands and picturesque homes. Moving from the creative hub of North Park, you'll find a similar artistic spirit in Cannonborough/Elliotborough, where galleries and indie boutiques are plentiful. The vibrant nightlife of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter has its match in Charleston's French Quarter, where you can enjoy dining experiences that range from the chic at Husk to the laid-back at Poogan's Smokehouse. If Point Loma was your retreat for scenic views, the river and marsh views of West Ashley will resonate, offering a serene backdrop for your next chapter.
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 San Diego to Charleston
Moving from the vibrant Pacific coast of San Diego, CA, to the historical charm of Charleston, SC, presents a unique opportunity to weigh both the pros and cons of each location . This comparison offers an honest reflection of the attractions and challenges of making such a move, helping you make a more informed decision.
San Diego, CA- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Drier climate
- Lack of southern charm
Charleston, SC- More affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Lush greenery
- Rich history and culture
Charleston, SC- Humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Fewer international restaurants
- Hot summers
San Diego, CA- Beautiful beaches
- Abundant outdoor activities
- Diverse cuisine options
- Mild year-round weather
Your move from San Diego to Charleston introduces an array of differences in lifestyle and environment. While San Diego's beaches offer stunning Pacific views, Charleston's beaches like Folly Beach bring unique East Coast allure. The real charm of Charleston lies in its historic streets and neighborhoods, such as the iconic French Quarter and scenic Waterfront Park, teeming with vibrant southern hospitality. While San Diego boasts diverse food scenes, Charleston's Southern cuisine in spots like Husk offers rich, comforting flavors. However, stepping into a humid climate and hurricane season requires your acclimation.
San Diego vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and can significantly influence what it's like to live in a new area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Charleston so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| San Diego | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | California Burrito | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Vegan Barbecue Sandwich |
| 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 renowned for its Southern comfort food and seafood, with shrimp and grits being an iconic dish often found in the historic district or at popular establishments in the French Quarter. Hall's Chophouse, offering up some of the best steaks, is a must-visit for meat lovers. While food trucks might not be as prevalent as in San Diego, Charleston's culinary scene thrives with its high-end restaurants and local favorites such as Hank's Seafood. If you're vegan or vegetarian, rest assured Charleston offers a selection of vegan-friendly options, although it might not compare to San Diego's vegan haven found throughout neighborhoods like Ocean Beach.
San Diego vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is a fundamental part of feeling at home, and this restaurant comparison between San Diego and Charleston will help you discover your new favorite eateries, using your current hometown as a guide. Discover how tastes from coast to coast can bridge comfort and culinary excitement.
| San Diego | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Nine-Ten Restaurant & Bar | FIG | Renowned for its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. |
| George's at the Cove | Husk | Offers a modern and innovative take on Southern cuisine with a stunning view. |
| Taco Stand | Taco Boy | Celebrated for its casual, authentic Mexican street food experience. |
| Herb & Wood | Indaco | Known for its inventive, seasonal Italian offerings. |
| Phil's BBQ | Lewis Barbecue | Famous for offering mouth-watering barbecue in a casual setting. |
| The Crack Shack | Boxcar Betty’s | Specializing in gourmet chicken sandwiches that feel indulgent yet approachable. |
| In-N-Out Burger | Little Jack's Tavern | Delivers classic burger satisfaction with a local twist. |
| Juniper & Ivy | The Ordinary | Excelling in crafting contemporary Southern dishes with local seafood. |
| Point Loma Seafoods | Fleet Landing | Offers exceptional seafood with views that reflect its dockside origins. |
Charleston's dining scene echoes the rich diversity found within San Diego's celebrated spots. FIG in Charleston, akin to San Diego's Nine-Ten Restaurant & Bar, heightens your flavor experience with its dedication to locally-sourced fare. While Husk rivals George's at the Cove, integrating innovative techniques into Southern classics with panoramic views that enhance your meal's ambiance. As your taste buds embark on this new journey, you'll find comforting echoes of Point Loma Seafoods at Fleet Landing, where both locales offer seafood that honors the ocean's bounty with the beauty of a seafront view.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how San Diego and Charleston's housing markets compare in terms of cost, style, and urban lifestyle. This comparison will help you make informed decisions tailored to your living preferences.
| Comparison | San Diego | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Georgian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | <a href="https://www.sandiego.org">Proximity to beaches</a> | Historic charm |
Moving from San Diego to Charleston will introduce you to a different real estate landscape. While both cities exude charm, San Diego's Spanish Colonial architecture is quite distinct from the Georgian style prevalent in Charleston. The walkability of San Diego is a significant advantage for those who prefer urban living, though Charleston offers more bike-friendly routes, ideal for leisurely exploration of its historic areas. Furthermore, Charleston's real estate listings frequently emphasize historic charm, providing a unique cultural experience not as commonly found in San Diego.
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.
San Diego vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from San Diego to Charleston , understanding how the weather will differ is crucial for adapting to your new environment. Knowing differences such as temperature, humidity, and the likelihood of natural disasters can help you prepare for life in a different climate.
San Diego, CA
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Diego to Charleston will introduce you to a more humid environment, with Charleston having a higher annual humidity of 76% compared to San Diego's 68%. While both cities experience a similar UV Index of 6.9, Charleston has fewer sunny days, receiving significantly more annual rainfall at 48 inches versus San Diego's 10 inches. If you're sensitive to seasonal allergies, Charleston is noted for tree pollen, which may differ from San Diego's ragweed. Additionally, while earthquakes are a concern in San Diego, Charleston's natural disaster risks are more linked to hurricanes, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season, underscoring the importance of preparing for different types of weather events.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Charleston
If you're considering a move from San Diego to Charleston , understanding the differences in money and finance is crucial. This comparison helps highlight the distinctions in financial aspects between the two cities, so you can make informed decisions about your relocation.
| Comparison | San Diego | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Biotech, Tourism, Defense | Aerospace, Automotive, IT |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
Moving from San Diego to Charleston means encountering a significant change in the cost of living. While San Diego has a considerably higher cost of living index, Charleston offers a more economically accessible environment with lower housing expenses. You'll benefit from a reduced state income tax burden in Charleston, allowing you to have more disposable income. However, note that the sales tax is slightly higher in Charleston, which may impact your day-to-day purchases. Industries in Charleston also differ, offering new career opportunities for those exploring aerospace or IT sectors. Understanding these differences will help you make financially savvy decisions as you transition to your new home.
San Diego vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents with this comparison of the politics between San Diego & Charleston . Understand how the two cities differ politically and religiously to better prepare for your move.
| San Diego | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive city council | Conservative city council |
| Religion | Diverse, secular options | Predominantly Christian |
When moving from San Diego to Charleston, you might notice a shift in the political landscape. San Diego tends to lean Democratic, with a progressive city council that promotes diverse policies. On the other hand, Charleston often leans Republican, with a focus on more traditional values. The religious scene also differs; San Diego offers a variety of secular and diverse religious options, whereas Charleston is predominantly Christian. As you explore local communities, you can check out various local resources and establishments that align with your values and interests.
San Diego vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
If you're planning a move from sunny San Diego, CA to historic Charleston, SC, comparing the daily commute and transportation options can help you prepare for the transition. Understanding the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Charleston will give you insight into what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | San Diego | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible, but not ideal | Possible, but challenging |
Moving to Charleston means embracing shorter average commute times, which might be a pleasant change if you're used to the bustling streets of San Diego. While San Diego offers more extensive public transit options, Charleston's historical charm results in unique traffic patterns and fewer transit options. You might find that getting by without a car in Charleston poses more challenges, mainly because its transit network isn't as developed. However, the less congested streets can make for a less stressful commute overall.
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