Best Los Angeles to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Los Angeles to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,364 mile move from California to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles to Charleston Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.45 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
3 | Prodigy Moving & Storage | 9.41 | 9.24 | Authorized For HHG | 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 |
Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,364 miles from Los Angeles, CA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,792 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to Charleston move is roughly $9,158. 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 | $2,543 | 300 ft³ | 8.48 |
1 Bedroom | $3,792 | 450 ft³ | 8.43 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,282 | 750 ft³ | 8.38 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,158 | 1100 ft³ | 8.33 |
4 Bedrooms | $13,241 | 1600 ft³ | 8.28 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,806 | 1800 ft³ | 8.23 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Los Angeles guide.
Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
Registered Drivers | 12 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |

Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (2023) |

Prodigy Moving & Storage
601 S Figueroa St
Los Angeles, CA, 90017
About Prodigy Moving & Storage
Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3983945 / 1492541
MC-430697 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (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) |

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.
Los Angeles vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating, understanding a new city can be overwhelming. This guide aims to ease your transition by comparing neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & Charleston, WV , using your current surroundings as a reference point.
Los Angeles | Charleston | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Silver Lake | East End | Trendy, artsy vibe |
Santa Monica | Kanawha City | Scenic riverside views |
Venice | Downtown Charleston | Cultural hub |
Beverly Hills | South Hills | Upscale residences |
Hollywood | The Flats | Vibrant entertainment scene |
Echo Park | Edgewood | Eclectic community spirit |
Downtown LA | Charleston's West Side | Business district |
Brentwood | Fort Hill | Quiet, family-friendly |
Westwood | University Heights | Academic atmosphere |
Pasadena | South Hills | Historical architecture |
If you're drawn to the vibrant energy and artistic flair of Los Angeles's Silver Lake, you'll find a kindred spirit in Charleston's East End, bustling with local art and creative venues. Those who cherish the stunning beach views and open spaces of Santa Monica might enjoy Kanawha City, where the Kanawha River offers scenic walkways and beautiful waterfront locales. For fans of Beverly Hills' lush, luxurious neighborhoods, the manicured lawns and stylish homes of South Hills provide a similar touch of elegance and exclusivity. Downtown Charleston's cultural attractions mirror the eclectic feel of Venice, with opportunities to explore local shops and enjoy community events. Dive into Charleston's historic and natural wonders for an enriching experience rooted in both nostalgia and new discoveries.

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 Los Angeles to Charleston
When contemplating a move from Los Angeles, CA to Charleston, WV , it's crucial to have an unbiased perspective to weigh the advantages and drawbacks. These charts provide a honest reflection to help you make an informed decision.
- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Pollution
- Overcrowded
- Affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Cleaner air
- Small-town charm
- Fewer job opportunities
- Limited entertainment
- Fewer restaurant options
- Less cultural diversity
- Thriving job market
- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cuisine
- Ample cultural events
As you transition from Los Angeles to Charleston, you'll discover a stark contrast in local experiences. Charleston's neighborhood parks, such as Kanawha State Forest, offer a serene escape, diverging from the bustling atmosphere of LA's iconic Griffith Park. Dining in Charleston introduces you to the cozy charm of local staples like Bluegrass Kitchen, providing a different, yet welcoming, culinary experience compared to the extensive variety found in LA's Grand Central Market. While the job prospects in Charleston might seem limited, the benefits of affordable living and less commuting stress can offer you a refreshed perspective on work-life balance.
Los Angeles vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and shapes what it's like to live in an area. In this comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & Charleston , you'll learn about the food scene in each place, preparing you for your move to Charleston, WV.
Los Angeles | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs |
Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Barbecued Ribs |
Most popular street food item | Food Trucks Tacos | Peppersoni Rolls |
Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowls | Grilled Vegetables with Polenta |
Top 3 iconic restaurants |
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Charleston has a distinct food culture that you will come to appreciate. While Los Angeles is a prominent center for food trucks, you'll find Charleston's own selection in neighborhoods such as East End and near the Capitol Market. At The Block, you can enjoy barbecued ribs, a local favorite. For healthier options, Bluegrass Kitchen in Elk City brings a progressive approach to Southern cuisine with vegan offerings like grilled vegetables with polenta. Exploring these locales will help you tap into the unique flavor layers Charleston has to offer.
Los Angeles vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
As you transition from Los Angeles, CA to Charleston, WV, discovering local restaurants is key to making each city feel like home . This comparison will guide you to your new favorite eateries by drawing parallels between Los Angeles culinary hotspots and their closest counterparts in Charleston .
Los Angeles | Charleston | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Guelaguetza | La Carreta | Offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine in a cozy setting |
Providence | Bridge Road Bistro | Known for fine dining with a locally-driven menu |
In-N-Out Burger | Skyline Drive-In | A local go-to for classic, crave-worthy burgers |
Grand Central Market | Capitol Market | A vibrant locale for diverse, fresh food offerings |
République | Alice's Restaurant | Combines chic interiors with creative dishes |
Salt's Cure | The Chop House | Specializes in high-quality, well-prepared meats |
Sugarfish | Sushi Garden | Delivers fresh sushi in an intimate atmosphere |
The Bazaar by José Andrés | South Hills Market & Café | Celebrated for innovative, modern American fare |
Pink's Hot Dogs | Hot Dog Hut | Serves up creatively topped franks beloved by locals |
Joan's on Third | Sarah's Bakery | Offers charming light bites and artisanal baked goods |
When it comes to high-end dining, Providence in Los Angeles captures the essence of fine dining through its sophisticated presentations and high-quality ingredients, much like Bridge Road Bistro in Charleston. If you're craving burgers, the iconic In-N-Out experience can find a local echo at Skyline Drive-In, where the focus on premium ingredients and straightforward deliciousness is shared. For sushi enthusiasts, the artful precision of Sugarfish in Los Angeles can be experienced at Sushi Garden through its commitment to serving the freshest fish in a serene environment. These Charleston locales offer a familiar sense of quality, creativity, and comfort, ensuring your culinary explorations remain as rich as ever.

Ready to start your move?
Los Angeles vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Relocating often brings a significant shift in living conditions, especially concerning housing options. Understanding how Los Angeles and Charleston compare gives you insight into architectural styles, pricing, and overall livability, empowering you to make an informed decision.
Comparison | Los Angeles | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Colonial Revival |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Rooftop Terraces, Open Floor Plans | Front Porches, Fireplaces |
When you move from Los Angeles to Charleston, you'll notice a sharp contrast in housing costs with Los Angeles's median home price being six times higher than in Charleston. While the West Coast offers a bustling, highly walkable environment with its vibrant urban lifestyle, Charleston provides a more relaxed pace, ideal for those seeking a quieter neighborhood atmosphere. Los Angeles living often includes trendy Spanish Colonial homes with rooftop terraces, while Charleston showcases its rich history through Colonial Revival architecture, featuring quaint front porches and fireplaces. Such differences highlight the diverse experiences these cities offer, helping you determine which environment suits your lifestyle preferences.

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.
Los Angeles vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Los Angeles to Charleston or vice versa, understanding how the weather compares will help you prepare for your new environment. Weather influences daily life, so knowing what to expect in terms of temperature, sunshine, and other factors can help you adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
Los Angeles, CA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Los Angeles, CA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Los Angeles, CA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Los Angeles, CA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Los Angeles | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Floods, Storms |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Los Angeles to Charleston involves adjusting to a different climate. In Los Angeles, mild winters mean you rarely deal with snow, but in Charleston, be ready for potentially over 30 inches of snowfall annually. Charleston has fewer sunny days, which might impact outdoor activities common in Los Angeles. Additionally, while both cities experience high humidity, Charleston's is slightly higher, adding a different dimension to the summer heat. You'll also find healthier air quality in Charleston, which might benefit those sensitive to pollution.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles 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. This chart offers insights into various money and finance topics you might encounter if you are relocating from Los Angeles, CA to Charleston, WV . Our goal is to help you make financially informed decisions.
Comparison | Los Angeles | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $70,372 | |
Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 92.7 |
State Income Tax | 13.3% | 6.5% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.75% | 0.57% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 9.5% | 6% |
Top 3 Industries | Entertainment, Technology, Trade | Energy, Healthcare, Education |
Affluence | High | Moderate |
Poverty | Moderate | High |
Homelessness | High | Low |
When moving from Los Angeles to Charleston, one of the most notable differences you'll encounter is the cost of living. Charleston offers a more affordable lifestyle with a significantly lower cost of living index compared to Los Angeles. Lower tax rates in West Virginia can also provide you with additional disposable income. If you're accustomed to the bustling entertainment and tech industries in Los Angeles, be prepared for a shift, as energy, healthcare, and education dominate Charleston's economic landscape. This change could open up new opportunities and offer a different pace of life, but it also might mean needing to adjust career ambitions or areas of employment focus.
Los Angeles vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The following comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents as you consider moving. Understanding the politics between Los Angeles & Charleston helps to gauge community environments and cultural dynamics.
Los Angeles | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal | Conservative |
Local Politics | Los Angeles City Government | Charleston City Government |
Religion | Diverse | Predominantly Christian |
When moving from Los Angeles to Charleston, you will notice a shift in political dynamics. Los Angeles, with its predominantly liberal populace, contrasts with Charleston's more conservative community. This shift could influence local policymaking and community activities. Additionally, religious practices and events may differ, with Charleston housing a primarily Christian demographic, compared to the diverse religious landscape of Los Angeles.
Los Angeles vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, this section provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Los Angeles & Charleston . Discover how your commuting experience may change as you transition from the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles to the charming city of Charleston.
Comparison | Los Angeles | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 45 | 20 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
When moving from Los Angeles to Charleston, you'll find a significant change in your commuting experience. Los Angeles, with its notorious traffic congestion, generally requires at least 45 minutes for a commute, often longer during peak hours. Charleston, however, offers a much more relaxed atmosphere with significantly less congestion and a shorter average commute of just 20 minutes. Public transit systems play a more pivotal role in Los Angeles, with relatively higher availability compared to Charleston, where most residents find that having a car is convenient but not entirely necessary. Embracing the slower pace in Charleston can also mean a more leisurely drive to work, or even the option to explore places like the charming [East End Historic District](https://www.eastendcharleston.com) without the usual Los Angeles traffic delays.



Additional Resources
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Popular Los Angeles to West Virginia Routes
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