Best Riverside to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Riverside to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,332 mile move from California to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 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 - $9,000 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 | 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 |
Cost to Move from Riverside to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,332 miles from Riverside, CA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,764 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Riverside to Charleston move is roughly $9,092. 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 | $2,525 | 300 ft³ | 8.42 |
1 Bedroom | $3,764 | 450 ft³ | 8.37 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,236 | 750 ft³ | 8.32 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,092 | 1100 ft³ | 8.27 |
4 Bedrooms | $13,144 | 1600 ft³ | 8.22 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,697 | 1800 ft³ | 8.17 |


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) |

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.
Riverside vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Comparing neighborhoods between Riverside, CA & Charleston, WV can help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in Riverside with the closest similar neighborhood in Charleston.
Riverside | Charleston | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
downtown riverside | East End | Vibrant cultural scene, galleries |
Arlington Heights | East End | Residential community |
La Sierra | South Hills | Suburban feel, close to parks |
Canyon Crest | South Hills | Golf courses, family-friendly |
Orangecrest | Kanawha City | Schools, suburban living |
Mission Grove | Fort Hill | Shopping and dining areas |
Victoria | South Hills | Historical charm, family-oriented |
Casa Blanca | West Side | Diverse, community-oriented |
Wood Streets | Edgewood | Historic homes, community events |
Eastside | Kanawha City | Culturally diverse, educational centers |
Exploring the neighborhoods of Riverside can set an exciting precedent for your new adventures in Charleston. If you enjoy the vibrant cultural scene and art galleries of Downtown Riverside, you'll find a lively counterpart in Charleston’s East End, which is dotted with similar artistic enclaves. For those used to the suburban feel and park proximity of La Sierra, South Hills in Charleston offers an equally appealing landscape with its backdrop of lush parks and greenery. Residents coming from the family-friendly Canyon Crest will appreciate South Hills' recreational options and golf courses, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Alternatively, if you’re fond of the educational and culturally diverse settings of Riverside's Eastside, you’ll feel right at home in Kanawha City with its dense educational community flanked by a similar cultural tapestry.

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 Riverside to Charleston
Moving can be a daunting endeavor, particularly when contrasting two distinct locales. This comparison will present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Riverside, CA to Charleston, WV . Understanding these differences will help you make a knowledgeable decision about your move.
- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Summer heat
- Affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Mild summers
- Fewer cultural events
- Limited restaurant choices
- Less green space
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Diverse dining options
- Numerous parks
Relocating from Riverside, CA, with its rich tapestry of cultural experiences and bustling Restaurant Row, to a quieter Charleston, WV, offers both challenges and opportunities. In Riverside, you might be used to visiting the scenic Mt. Rubidoux Park or dining at the diverse range of eateries at Riverwalk Dining. Charleston, however, provides a different charm with its affordability and less congested streets, perfect for leisurely strolls in parts of the city like Municipal Golf Course or a relaxed meal at a neighborhood favorite. Embrace a change of pace while discovering hidden gems like the Capitol Market and local dining spots.
Riverside vs. Charleston Food Guide
Comparing Riverside, CA to Charleston, WV local cuisine offers a glimpse into the culinary culture of each city. Food is an integral part of local culture and provides insight into what it's like to live there. This comparison will help you better understand the food scene where you are moving.
Riverside | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | California Burrito | Hot Dog |
Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Country Ham |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Pepperoni Roll |
Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Vegetable Soup |
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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Charleston, make time to explore distinct culinary highlights. You won't want to miss the famous pepperoni rolls, common at local bakeries such as Mountaineer Marketplace in bustling areas like the downtown district. For an iconic dining experience, Bluegrass Kitchen offers a taste of the local farm-to-table movement right in the heart of Charleston. While the city may not have as many food trucks as Riverside, the growing Tidewater Grill reflects the city's evolving and charming food scene. Embrace the cozy charm of vegetarian and traditional southern dishes, as you indulge in a new chapter of your culinary journey.
Riverside vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is an integral part of making any area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Riverside, CA and Charleston, WV will help you discover new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide.
Riverside | Charleston | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
The Salted Pig | Bluegrass Kitchen | Known for creative comfort food in a rustic-chic setting |
Mission Inn Restaurant | Bridge Road Bistro | Offers an exquisite dining experience with elegant decor |
Simple Simon's Bakery & Bistro | Swiftwater Café | Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on fresh ingredients |
Tio's Tacos | Tidewater Grill | Both have a coastal vibe with a focus on fresh seafood |
Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar | Mi Cocina de Amor | Features authentic Southwestern dishes with a fiery twist |
Café Sevilla | Bricks & Barrels | Shares a lively atmosphere with an emphasis on community dining |
Goodwin's Organic Foods & Drinks | Lola’s Pizza | Organic ingredients used in creative pizzas |
Mario's Place | Laury's Restaurant | Offers upscale Italian cuisine in an intimate setting |
The Tamale Factory | Gonzoburger | Known for local, inventive takes on classic dishes |
ProAbition Kitchen & Cocktails | The Red Carpet Lounge | Offers craft cocktails in a speakeasy-style setting |
As you explore Charleston, you'll discover that Bluegrass Kitchen captures much of the magic that makes Riverside's The Salted Pig beloved—a commitment to locally sourced ingredients and inventive dishes. For intimate and elegant dining experiences, Bridge Road Bistro echoes the sophistication of Riverside's Mission Inn Restaurant with its fine attention to detail and ambiance. If you enjoy a vibrant social dining spot, Bricks & Barrels offers a communal atmosphere akin to Café Sevilla's, complete with shared plates and engaging gatherings. These options in Charleston ensure you're never far from finding a meal that resonates with your culinary past.

Ready to start your move?
Riverside vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how Riverside and Charleston compare helps you make an informed decision. This guide highlights the differences in housing cost , style, and urban lifestyle , offering a comprehensive insight into both cities.
Comparison | Riverside | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Colonial Revival |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Swimming Pools | Large Gardens |
When you consider relocating, you'll find significant differences between Riverside and Charleston's housing market. Riverside offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with a Spanish Colonial architecture style, often featuring amenities like swimming pools. Although median home prices are higher in Riverside, the city's urban flair may appeal to those seeking a more dynamic living experience. On the other hand, Charleston boasts more affordable housing options, allowing you to enjoy properties with large gardens and a distinct Colonial Revival style. While Charleston might lack the same walkability and bikeability as Riverside, it offers a charming, more laid-back atmosphere ideal for those preferring a slower-paced lifestyle amid beautiful landscapes.

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.
Riverside vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, understanding how the weather differs between Riverside, CA and Charleston, WV helps in preparing for new experiences in daily life and adapting to climate changes in your new home.
Riverside, CA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Riverside, CA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Riverside | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Floods |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Riverside to Charleston means facing a different set of climatic challenges. In Charleston, snowfall is a significant part of the winter season, unlike Riverside where you may never see a flake of snow. Rainfall is also drastically higher in Charleston, with nearly four times the annual precipitation of Riverside, so investing in some reliable rain gear will be a wise decision. On sunny days, you will notice that the UV index is lower in Charleston, meaning less exposure to harmful rays compared to Riverside. Lastly, if you are sensitive to seasonal allergies, note that ragweed is more prevalent in Charleston, which is quite different from the pollen-dominated allergy season you may be used to in Riverside.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Riverside to Charleston
If you're moving from Riverside, CA to Charleston, WV , it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial aspects will compare to your current experience. This comparison will help you budget effectively and make informed financial decisions in your new home.
Comparison | Riverside | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $76,558 | |
Cost of Living Index | 112.5 | 92.7 |
State Income Tax | 9.3% | 6.5% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.79% | 0.59% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75% | 6.00% |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Energy, Healthcare, Education |
Affluence | Moderate | Modest |
Poverty | Manageable | Higher |
Homelessness | Noticeable | Limited |
When moving from Riverside to Charleston, one of the most noticeable differences is the cost of living, which is significantly lower in Charleston. This more affordable environment can provide financial relief despite a lower average household income. Property taxes and sales taxes are also moderately lower in Charleston, allowing you further savings. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your financial expectations and spending habits as you settle into your new locale. Moreover, while Riverside has a slightly higher affluence rate, Charleston offers more affordable living conditions, balancing the modest income levels there.
Riverside vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Riverside, CA, and Charleston, WV. This will help you understand the difference in political dynamics between Riverside & Charleston , and how it might affect your lifestyle as you move.
Riverside | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Mixed, Leaning Democratic | Lean Republican |
Local Politics | City of Riverside is known for progressive policies | City of Charleston often more conservative |
Religion | Diverse, with a strong representation of Christianity | Predominantly Christian |
Moving from Riverside to Charleston will likely expose you to a different political atmosphere. Riverside's mixed but Democratic-leaning political scene contrasts with Charleston's more Republican tendencies, which can affect local policies ranging from social issues to business regulations. Additionally, both cities have a strong Christian presence, but Charleston leans more towards uniformity in its religious makeup. This shift might influence the social and cultural activities available in the community, providing a unique atmosphere in each city.
Riverside vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, this guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Riverside & Charleston . It will help you gauge the differences in commuting experiences between both cities.
Comparison | Riverside | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 20 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
The driving experience in Riverside can be substantially different from that in Charleston. In Riverside, you'll find a more extensive public transit system, which is quite reliable if you prefer not to drive. Although traffic congestion can be a significant aspect of Riverside daily life, having a vehicle remains convenient due to the city's sprawling nature. Conversely, in Charleston, you might appreciate shorter commute times and less congestion, potentially making owning a car less necessary. Local amenities, such as restaurants or shops, are often within walking distance or a short drive. Exploring each city will give you a first-hand look and feel of these variances, helping you decide what suits your lifestyle best.



Additional Resources
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Popular Riverside to West Virginia Routes
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