Best Irvine to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Irvine to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,361 mile move from California to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Irvine 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 Terry Moving & Storage), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Irvine 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 Irvine to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | NorthStar Moving Company | 9.21 | 8.97 | 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 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Irvine to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,361 miles from Irvine, CA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,789 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Irvine to Charleston move is roughly $9,152. 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 | $2,541 | 300 ft³ | 8.47 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,789 | 450 ft³ | 8.42 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,278 | 750 ft³ | 8.37 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,152 | 1100 ft³ | 8.32 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,232 | 1600 ft³ | 8.27 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,796 | 1800 ft³ | 8.22 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Irvine guide.
Compare the 5 Best Irvine to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
NorthStar Moving Company
This listing has been claimed by NorthStar Moving Company633 W 5th St 26th floor
Los Angeles, CA, 90071
About NorthStar Moving Company
Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- International Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1836576 / 665757 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2023) |
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) |
Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
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.
Irvine vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but finding comparable neighborhoods helps ease the transition. Here, we'll explore the local neighborhoods between Irvine, CA & Charleston, WV , to help you familiarize yourself with your new home.
| Irvine | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Woodbridge | Kanawha City | Family-friendly amenities |
| University Park | South Hills | Academic community feel |
| Northwood | East End | Historic charm and greenery |
| Turtle Rock | Fort Hill | Scenic views and hiking |
| Westpark | West Side | Shopping and dining options |
| El Camino Real | Downtown Charleston | Urban vibe |
| Quail Hill | South Charleston | Suburban lifestyle |
| Portola Springs | Teays Valley | Growing community |
| Cypress Village | North Charleston | Family-oriented feel |
| Laguna Altura | Bridge Road | Exclusive living |
In Irvine, Woodbridge offers an idyllic family setting with its charming Woodbridge Lake, while Kanawha City in Charleston echoes this with Kanawha City Park, perfect for family outings. For those who value a strong academic atmosphere, University Park in Irvine is near the esteemed University of California, Irvine. This vibe is mirrored by South Hills in Charleston with its proximity to high-ranking schools. Turtle Rock's allure lies in its proximity to hiking spots like Bommer Canyon, similar to the scenic opportunities at Fort Hill. Finally, if modern conveniences and dining spots are essential, Westpark offers a bustling scene, as does West Side, known for its diverse Capitol Market.
Things to Do in Charleston
Explore the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences- Stroll through Capitol Market
- Hike in Kanawha State Forest
- Catch a show at Mountain Stage
- Shop at Charleston Town Center
- Learn at West Virginia State Museum
- Enjoy a meal at Bricks & Barrels
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Charleston
When considering relocating from Irvine, CA to Charleston, WV, it's vital to look at a balanced perspective to identify both the enticing benefits and the notable drawbacks. These charts offer an honest comparison between the two cities, showcasing different aspects of living in Irvine, CA and Charleston, WV .
Irvine, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Dense population
- Air pollution
Charleston, WV- Affordable housing
- Light traffic
- Small-town charm
- Fresh air
Charleston, WV- Limited job market
- Fewer educational options
- Less cultural variety
- Landlocked
Irvine, CA- Vibrant economy
- Excellent schools
- Diverse culture
- Close to beaches
Charleston offers a more relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs, providing an opportunity for financial relief if you're used to the expensive Irvine economy. However, you may notice a difference in job prospects, given Charleston's smaller market. If you enjoy cultural activities, you might miss Irvine’s diverse festivals and events. On the plus side, however, Charleston's local scene, including a visit to Capitol Market and an evening at The Clay Center, can offer quaint charm and close-knit community experiences.
Irvine vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture, reflecting the unique lifestyle of each area. This guide aims to provide a better understanding of what culinary experiences await you by offering a comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine & Charleston . By exploring these differences, you can gain insights into the local food scene in your new home.
| Irvine | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pho | Hot Dogs with Slaw |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fried Green Tomatoes |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Grilled Veggie 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Irvine is brimming with Asian influences like pho and an active vegan scene with options like acai bowls, Charleston offers traditional American flavors, such as their famous hot dogs topped with slaw. Charleston's culinary highlights include the Bluegrass Kitchen in the East End neighborhood, ideal for sampling local delights. While Irvine's fitness and health focus is evident in its cuisine, Charleston offers a more laid-back dining experience, with unique local eateries like Pies & Pints providing a different pace to the East Coast lifestyle. When exploring Charleston's food scene, make sure not to miss the classic fried green tomatoes from street vendors, a true local favorite.
Irvine vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential ingredient in making any place feel like home. This restaurant comparison will guide you in finding your new favorite eateries by using Irvine, CA as a reference for Charleston, WV .
| Irvine | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Andrei's | Laury's Restaurant | Offers a refined dining experience with an emphasis on fresh ingredients |
| Marche Moderne | Bridge Road Bistro | French-influenced dishes in a cozy bistro setting |
| Slapfish | Four Plates | Seafood dishes packed with flavor and fun dining vibes |
| 85°C Bakery Cafe | Rock City Cake Company | Trendy bakery packed with delicious confections |
| Puesto | MI Cocina De Amor | Known for vibrant Mexican fare that's always flavorful |
| Coconut's Fish Cafe | Fish Hawk Acres | Fresh, sustainable seafood presented with flair |
| North Italia | Vandalia Grille | Italian-inspired dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients |
| MOD Pizza | Husson's Pizza | Casual, create-your-own pizza experience |
| Habana | Bluegrass Kitchen | Creative fusion cuisine in a lively atmosphere |
| Tony's Deli | Swiftwater Cafe | Iconic deli-style sandwiches with a local twist |
For those passionate about Mexican cuisine, a visit to MI Cocina De Amor in Charleston promises to please your palate just like Puesto does in Irvine, offering vibrant and flavorful fare. Desserts lovers leaving Irvine's 85°C Bakery Cafe will find indulgence at Rock City Cake Company in Charleston, where an array of sweet treats and creative confections await. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the focus on fresh flavors at Four Plates in Charleston, reminiscent of the dining experience at Slapfish. Embark on your culinary journey by checking these local gems that mirror the tastes and atmospheres from home.
Ready to start your move?
Irvine 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 market in Irvine compares to Charleston . This comparison will guide you through the aspects of housing in these two cities, helping you make an informed decision for your relocation.
| Comparison | Irvine | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern/Contemporary | Colonial/Traditional |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Smart home features | Large porches |
When considering a move from Irvine to Charleston, you'd notice a stark contrast in real estate costs. In Irvine, you'll find modern homes with cutting-edge smart home features common in the listings, though these come with a hefty price tag of around $900,000. In Charleston, the median home price is much lower, often featuring charming Colonial or Traditional styles that frequently boast large porches, offering a distinctly different, more historical vibe. While Irvine might offer a slightly better walkability and bikeability, Charleston compensates with its unique, historical character and a more accessible real estate market.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, WV
1. South Hills: This neighborhood offers plenty of green spaces and parks like South Hills Park for your pets to enjoy and explore.
2. Kanawha City: Known for its friendly community and pet-friendly businesses such as the Pet Valu store, making it easy for you to find everything your pet needs.
3. East End: With amenities like the Kanawha County Public Library offering pet-friendly events, it's a vibrant area where both you and your pet can feel at home.
Irvine vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences between Irvine, CA and Charleston, WV is crucial as you prepare for the move. Adjusting to a new climate impacts your lifestyle and comfort, and this comparison will help you anticipate the changes you may experience.
Irvine, CA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Irvine, CA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Irvine | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Irvine to Charleston means experiencing more distinct seasonal changes. Expect colder winters and substantial snowfall in Charleston, a contrast from the mild climate of Irvine. Additionally, Charleston sees more rainfall and fewer sunny days, influencing outdoor activities. Be prepared for higher humidity levels in Charleston, which may impact your comfort and daily routines.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Irvine to Charleston
If you're moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will guide you in managing your finances as you transition from Irvine, CA to Charleston, WV .
| Comparison | Irvine | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $105,774 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77% | 0.59% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Healthcare, Education, Retail |
| Affluence | Affluent | Modest |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
Moving from Irvine to Charleston involves significant changes in financial dynamics. While Irvine's cost of living index is substantially higher, denoting a more expensive lifestyle, Charleston offers a more economical alternative. The average household income in Irvine is considerably higher than in Charleston, yet the lower cost of living and a reduced state income tax in Charleston could potentially balance the income discrepancy. Charleston's economic environment is characterized by a more modest affluence level and higher poverty, yet it also promises a lower property tax rate. These factors can significantly impact your financial planning, helping you make informed decisions about expenses and investments as you settle into Charleston's community.
Irvine vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
To provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, here's a comparison of the politics between Irvine & Charleston . Understanding these differences can help you adjust to your new community.
| Irvine | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Conservative |
| Local Politics | Dominated by Democratic leadership with an emphasis on local government initiatives. | Predominantly Republican leadership focusing on traditional values and concerns. |
| Religion | Religiously diverse with significant non-religious population | Christianity with a notable presence of Baptist congregations |
Moving from Irvine to Charleston, you'll likely notice a shift in political landscapes, as Irvine leans liberal while Charleston is more conservative. In Irvine, Democratic leadership encourages diverse local government initiatives aimed at societal inclusivity. Conversely, Charleston's local governance typically prioritizes traditional values, fostering a distinctly different community feel. Religious inclinations also vary, with Irvine boasting a wide range of beliefs versus Charleston's more homogenous Christian presence. Understanding these distinctions can enrich your experience and integration into your new surroundings.
Irvine vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences between driving and transit options in Irvine, CA and Charleston, WV can help you better anticipate your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Irvine & Charleston will equip you with the information needed to make informed decisions as you transition between these two cities.
| Comparison | Irvine | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, but not ideal | Unlikely |
When relocating from Irvine to Charleston, you'll notice a significant shift in traffic congestion and public transit availability. Irvine, with its dense network of bus routes and the Orange County Transportation Authority system, offers a robust public transit option, making it easier to navigate without a car. Conversely, Charleston's more limited transit system necessitates greater reliance on personal vehicles, underscoring the need for a car. Despite both cities having manageable average commute times, Irvine's higher congestion levels may extend travel durations during peak hours.
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