Best San Jose to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Jose to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,867 mile move from California to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 San Jose 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 D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose 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 Jose to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC | 9.24 | 9.14 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Jose to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,867 miles from San Jose, CA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $4,219 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Charleston move is roughly $10,204. 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 | $2,828 | 300 ft³ | 9.43 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,219 | 450 ft³ | 9.38 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,995 | 750 ft³ | 9.33 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,204 | 1100 ft³ | 9.28 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,762 | 1600 ft³ | 9.23 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,517 | 1800 ft³ | 9.18 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to San Jose guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
San Carlos, CA, 94070
About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3184868 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (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) |
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.
San Jose vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when trying to find a familiar neighborhood. By using San Jose, CA & Charleston, SC , we'll help you compare and connect popular neighborhoods to ease your transition.
| San Jose | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | South of Broad | Historic charm, tree-lined streets |
| Downtown San Jose | Downtown Charleston | Vibrant nightlife, cultural hub |
| Alum Rock | West Ashley | Residential, family-oriented community |
| Japantown | Spring Street | Diverse, cultural flair |
| Rose Garden | Harleston Village | Gardens, cultural institutions |
| Silver Creek | Daniel Island | Upscale, golf courses |
| Evergreen | Mount Pleasant | Suburban lifestyle, family amenities |
| Berryessa | James Island | Outdoor activities, community parks |
| West San Jose | North Charleston | Retail, residential mix |
| Santana Row | King Street | Upscale shopping, dining |
If you adore the classic bungalows and tree-lined streets of Willow Glen, you'll find South of Broad in Charleston charming with its rich history and southern charm. For lovers of vibrant nightlife and cultural districts, Downtown San Jose's lively atmosphere is closely mirrored by Downtown Charleston, where you can explore its eclectic mix of restaurants such as Husk or attend performances at the Charleston Music Hall. For those who appreciate serene residential areas and family-friendly communities, Alum Rock's suburban feel is akin to West Ashley, which offers lovely parks like the sprawling Ashley River Park for outdoor enthusiasts.
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 Jose to Charleston
Considering a move from San Jose, CA to Charleston, SC? This comparison will help manage your expectations by providing an honest reflection of the city pros and cons for both San Jose and Charleston . Whether prioritizing climate, cost, or culture, see which city may hold the most promise for your future.
San Jose, CA- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Earthquake risk
- Lack of historical sites
- Tech industry dominance
Charleston, SC- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Hurricane preparation
- Rich in history
- Diverse economy
Charleston, SC- Fewer tech jobs
- Humidity
- Limited public transport
- Less diverse
- Fewer higher ed options
San Jose, CA- Job opportunities in tech
- Favorable climate
- Excellent public transport
- Cultural diversity
- Renowned universities
In San Jose, you're accustomed to the convenience of excellent public transportation and job opportunities in tech giants like Apple Park. Charleston counters with its vibrant history, with sites like Fort Sumter and the antebellum charm of Magnolia Plantation. While you're likely to miss San Jose's favorable climate, Charleston promises unique humidity that may be mitigated by enjoying waterfront strolls along Patriots Point. Embrace Charleston’s distinctive southern culture, accentuated with visits to the historic French Quarter and local eateries such as Halls Chophouse.
San Jose vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and influences what it's like to live in an area. We'll explore the local cuisine comparison between San Jose & Charleston so you can be better informed about the food scene where you're moving to.
| San Jose | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Burrito | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Taco | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | 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 introduces you to its culinary treasures with the historic neighborhood of downtown, hosting "The Ordinary" where seafood like shrimp and grits takes center stage. If vegan cuisine interests you, try traditional collard greens, often jazzed up at various spots throughout the city. Your exploration of southern delicacies extends further at "Husk" and "Home Team BBQ." Each neighborhood in Charleston offers distinct flavors and dining experiences awaiting your discovery.
San Jose vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Finding your favorite restaurants is vital for making a new place feel like home. This comparison of eateries in San Jose and Charleston will guide you in discovering new culinary gems by reflecting on your current hometown favorites.
| San Jose | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| La Foret | Fig | Comparable upscale dining with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients |
| Original Joe's | Jestine’s Kitchen | Iconic local fare with a classic diner atmosphere |
| Falafel Drive-In | Hummus Mediterranean Café | Casual spot serving fresh Mediterranean staples |
| San Pedro Square Market | Charleston City Market | Vibrant gathering place with diverse local eats |
| The Table | The Ordinary | Modern approach to American cuisine with a focus on seafood |
| Back A Yard Caribbean American Grill | Rodney Scott's BBQ | Relaxed atmosphere offering hearty, flavorful meals |
| Iguanas Burritozilla | Taco Boy | Laid-back spot with bold flavors and creative tacos |
| Sushi Kuni | O-Ku | Fresh, talent-driven sushi experience |
| Mozart's Bakery | Kaminsky's Dessert Café | Decadent sweets and pastries in a cozy setting |
| Dashi Sushi | Zen Asian Fusion | A fusion of Asian cuisines providing a diverse dining experience |
When you're seeking a posh dining experience, Fig in Charleston stands out as a parallel to San Jose's La Foret , offering a sophisticated menu crafted from fresh local products. If you're charmed by the traditional vibes of Original Joe's , you'll appreciate the Southern hospitality at Jestine's Kitchen , where classic dishes honor simplicity and charm. Meanwhile, for sushi lovers eyeing an artisanal sushi experience akin to Sushi Kuni , Charleston's O-Ku delivers meticulously crafted rolls accentuated by fresh seasonal ingredients. This restaurant comparison ensures that both high-end gastronomy and more casual fare like that of Falafel Drive-In and its Charleston counterpart, Hummus Mediterranean Café , are thoughtfully considered to make your transition smoother.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to know how San Jose and Charleston compare in terms of housing and urban lifestyle .
| Comparison | San Jose | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Contemporary | Colonial and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Modern kitchens, tech-friendly homes | Historical charm, spacious porches |
When considering a move, especially with factors as significant as real estate, understanding the differences between San Jose and Charleston is invaluable. San Jose offers a tech-centric lifestyle reflected in its housing market, with modern kitchens and homes designed to embrace technological conveniences. Meanwhile, Charleston presents a different allure with its historical architecture, often featuring colonial designs and Victorian elegance. Its median home price is significantly lower, making it a more budget-friendly choice. Although Charleston scores slightly higher in walkability and bikeability, both cities offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, each with its unique attributes.
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 Jose vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When considering a move from San Jose to Charleston , it's crucial to grasp how the weather differs between the two. This understanding will aid in acclimating to your new environment and preparing for what lies ahead in your relocation journey.
San Jose, CA
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 260 days | 209 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While San Jose boasts more sunshine, Charleston's higher humidity can offer a distinct change in comfort levels. Charleston experiences significantly more rainfall, contributing to its lush landscapes, compared to the drier conditions in San Jose. Understanding the potential for weather-related natural disasters, such as hurricanes in Charleston and earthquakes in San Jose, is vital for preparedness. Depending on the season, allergy triggers may vary, but being mindful of Charleston's tendency for higher pollen counts can help you adjust your healthcare routines accordingly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Charleston
Understanding how your finances will be impacted is crucial when considering a move from San Jose to Charleston . This comparison chart will highlight the differences in cost of living , taxes, and industry opportunities in both locations, so you can be prepared for what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | San Jose | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79% | 0.53% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.38% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Tourism, Military, Medical |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
In considering a move from San Jose, a city characterized by a high cost of living, to Charleston, you'll find notable differences in expenses. Despite the lower average household income in Charleston, the cost of living index is significantly less, potentially allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle. Taxation is another area of contrast, with San Jose having a higher state income tax compared to Charleston. Additionally, the industries might influence job opportunities. While San Jose thrives in technology and healthcare, Charleston's economy is more centered around tourism and military sectors, which may require new professional adjustments. By anticipating these differences, you can better manage your financial transition to Charleston.
San Jose vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Understanding these dynamics may help you feel more prepared as you transition to your new home. Here, you will see a comparison of the politics between San Jose & Charleston .
| San Jose | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly Democratic | Predominantly Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive urban policies | Conservative values |
| Religion | Religiously diverse, with significant non-religious population | Predominantly Christian |
As you move from San Jose to Charleston, you will encounter notable differences in local culture and community priorities. San Jose, known for its tech industry, generally leans towards progressive policies, fostering an environment that supports innovation and diversity. Conversely, Charleston, with its southern charm and historical backdrop, often emphasizes conservative values and traditions. Religion also plays a more significant role in Charleston's community life, reflected in a larger Christian population and numerous churches, such as the notable St. Michael's Church. Embracing these cultural differences can provide a richer moving experience.
San Jose vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When planning your move from San Jose, CA to Charleston, SC, understanding how your daily commute and transportation experience might change is essential. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Jose & Charleston will help you prepare for what lies ahead in your new city.
| Comparison | San Jose | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly | Unlikely |
In San Jose, you might be used to longer commute times, but the city offers a more comprehensive public transit system, such as the VTA light rail and buses. This can be a lifesaver, especially during peak traffic times when congestion hits a score of 7 out of 10. In contrast, Charleston tends to have lighter traffic, which can result in quicker commute times. However, the lack of an extensive public transit system makes owning a car more of a necessity. Without reliable public transit, living in Charleston means preparing for more driving, though it’s often offset by more scenic and less stressful travel routes.
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