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 2,549 mile move from California to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 San Jose 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 D&L 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 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 | 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 San Jose to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,549 miles from San Jose, CA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,949 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Charleston move is roughly $9,543. 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 | $2,648 | 300 ft³ | 8.83 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,949 | 450 ft³ | 8.78 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,544 | 750 ft³ | 8.73 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,543 | 1100 ft³ | 8.68 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,800 | 1600 ft³ | 8.63 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,435 | 1800 ft³ | 8.58 |
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) |
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.
San Jose vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Compare neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Charleston, WV to help you adapt to your new city by using familiar surroundings as your benchmark.
| San Jose | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | South Hills | Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets and close-knit community feel |
| Rose Garden | East End | Historic charm with beautiful homes and a love for gardens |
| Almaden Valley | South Hills | Similar suburban vibe with family-friendly amenities |
| Downtown San Jose | Downtown Charleston | Urban center with bustling dining and cultural scene |
| West San Jose | Kanawha City | Popular shopping and dining areas |
| Evergreen | South Charleston | Suburban lifestyle with parks and schools |
| Berryessa | Fort Hill | Residential area with scenic views |
| Santana Row | Capitol Market Area | Shopping and vibrant social scene |
| Japantown | Capitol Market Area | Cultural and culinary diversity |
| Cambrian Park | South Hills | Family-oriented community with local parks |
If you enjoy the quaint, leafy streets of Willow Glen, you'll find a similar charm in South Hills of Charleston, where friendly faces welcome you amidst serene surroundings. For those who are fans of the historic beauty the Rose Garden in San Jose offers, East End in Charleston brings forth that same appeal with its vintage homes and lush gardens. Downtown San Jose's dynamic blend of restaurants and cultural offerings can be mirrored in the vibrant atmosphere of Downtown Charleston, with its eclectic mix of eateries and entertainment venues. Stroll through Santana Row's chic boutiques, and you'll find a sense of familiarity at Charleston's Capitol Market Area, brimming with local vendors and culinary delights.
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 San Jose to Charleston
Relocating from San Jose, CA to Charleston, WV offers both challenges and opportunities. This comparison will give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes associated with moving from San Jose, CA to Charleston, WV . Understanding these dynamics is essential for anyone considering the move.
San Jose, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Urban sprawl
- Dense population
Charleston, WV- Lower living expenses
- Lighter traffic
- Compact city layout
- Less crowded
Charleston, WV- Fewer tech jobs
- Humidity
- Fewer restaurants
- Limited cultural venues
San Jose, CA- Tech job opportunities
- Mild weather
- Diverse dining scenes
- Rich cultural options
In Charleston, WV, you can explore the beautiful parks like Kanawha State Forest, offering rustic charm compared to the urban parks of San Jose. Dining out might be more limited than in San Jose, known for its diverse range of eateries, but you’ll find local gems like Fish Restaurant with their unique take on the Tri-State cuisine. Traffic in Charleston is significantly lighter, which gives you more time to explore historic areas such as Capitol Street. Though Charleston may not have the tech-heavy job market of San Jose, it offers a more laid-back lifestyle and a chance to enjoy a tight-knit community.
San Jose vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is not just sustenance but a vibrant reflection of local culture and lifestyle. Here, we'll embark on a flavorful journey to explore the culinary landscapes of San Jose and Charleston . This comparison aims to acquaint you with the distinctive food scene that awaits in your new home and offers a taste of local living.
| San Jose | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cioppino | Pepperoni Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Burrito | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Sushi | Fried Green Tomatoes |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Charleston's local food scene is characterized by classic comfort foods, with the pepperoni roll and fried chicken being central to its culinary identity. The West Side Market District is renowned for offering authentic pepperoni rolls, a must-visit for any newcomer. Dining hotspots like FIG provide a modern twist on Southern flavors, while Husk's inventive menus showcase contemporary dishes rooted in local tradition. Although Charleston has fewer food trucks than San Jose, the rich flavors and hearty meals available at its iconic restaurants more than satisfy a diverse range of palates. For vegan options, fried green tomatoes are widely celebrated for their flavor and accessibility, making them a delightful choice for plant-based diners.
San Jose vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Your journey from San Jose, CA to Charleston, WV is not just about relocating geographically; it's about finding a new sense of home. And because food plays such a crucial role in feeling at home, this guide will help you discover your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown of San Jose as a guide for Charleston's culinary scene.
| San Jose | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| La Foret | The Chop House | Upscale dining with a focus on exquisite cuisine |
| Falafel Drive-In | Tidewater Grill | Cult-favorite for local comfort foods |
| Original Joe’s | Swiftwater Cafe | Iconic American diner experience |
| Manresa Bread | Mea Cuppa Coffee Lounge | Perfect for artisanal breads and pastries |
| Psycho Donuts | Rock City Cake Company | Whimsical flavors for dessert aficionados |
| Izakaya Restaurant | Ramen House of Charleston | Authentic Asian flavors and ambiance |
| The Table | Mi Cocina de Amor | Community-centered, hearty meals |
| Back A Yard Caribbean Grill | Bahnhof WVrsthaus + Biergarten | Bold flavors and a laid-back vibe |
| The Farmers Union | Bridge Road Bistro | Farm-to-table freshness and seasonal menus |
| Good Karma Artisan Ales & Café | The Peddler | Innovative offerings in a casual setting |
From comfort foods to upscale dining, Charleston's culinary scene offers counterparts that capture the essence of what you love in San Jose. At The Chop House, fine dining becomes an elevated experience akin to San Jose's elegant La Foret. If grabbing a quick yet memorable bite is your style, Tidewater Grill steps up as a Charleston favorite, akin to San Jose’s beloved Falafel Drive-In for its lasting appeal and comforting menu. Meanwhile, dessert enthusiasts will find a haven at Rock City Cake Company, offering creative desserts with a flair that mirrors the quirky charm of Psycho Donuts. Exploring these alternatives ensures you're well-equipped to enjoy your new gastronomical home in Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the housing landscape in your destination city is crucial. This section offers a comparative look at the real estate market in San Jose, CA and Charleston, WV , aiding you in making an informed decision based on factors like costs and environmental qualities.
| Comparison | San Jose | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern Mediterranean | Colonial Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Tech-Ready Homes | Spacious Backyards |
Moving from San Jose to Charleston, you'll notice a dramatic difference in housing costs, with Charleston offering much more affordable options. Despite San Jose's high real estate prices, often over a million dollars, the city's walkability and modern amenities cater to a tech-focused lifestyle that many find appealing. On the other hand, Charleston offers charming Colonial Revival homes on spacious lots, perfect for those who value outdoor living and lower rents. While both cities offer distinct architectural styles, Charleston might appeal to you if you're looking for a more laid-back lifestyle with easy access to nearby parks and nature. Discover local gems like Charleston's Capitol Market to make you feel perfectly at home.
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.
San Jose vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, it’s important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. By examining the differences between San Jose and Charleston , you can better prepare for daily life, outdoor activities, and seasonal changes in your new environment.
San Jose, CA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Floods, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The differences in weather between San Jose and Charleston are pronounced, particularly in terms of humidity and precipitation. While San Jose experiences a relatively dry climate with minimal rainfall and virtually no snow, Charleston has a much wetter and colder climate, with significant snowfall in the winter. This change might require you to invest in different clothing and gear suitable for colder, wetter conditions. Additionally, increased humidity levels in Charleston can make summer days feel hotter and influence your overall comfort and home maintenance considerations. Understanding these variations will help you adapt smoothly to the weather in Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose 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 guide highlights vital
finance aspects between San Jose and Charleston , giving you insights into
the economic shifts you may experience.
| Comparison | San Jose | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 13.30% | 6.50% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79% | 0.59% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 6.00% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Education | Healthcare, Retail, Public Administration |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Prevalent | Less Common |
When moving from San Jose to Charleston, the most immediate financial shifts you'll notice are the cost of living and income levels.
San Jose, with its substantial technology sector, boasts a high average household income, but this comes with a significantly higher cost
of living. In contrast, Charleston offers a considerably lower cost of living which can ease your financial burden, even though
average incomes are notably less. Despite lower state income and sales taxes in Charleston, the shift from an affluent to a more
economically diverse region might necessitate adjustments to your budget and lifestyle.
San Jose vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Gain insights into the community you're joining by exploring a quick snapshot of local demographics. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between San Jose & Charleston and delves into the religious landscape, giving you an at-a-glance understanding of your new home.
| San Jose | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Primarily Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Conservative policies |
| Religion | Diverse beliefs | Predominantly Christian |
When moving from San Jose to Charleston, you may notice a shift in the political climate. San Jose, known for its progressive political environment, may contrast sharply with the more conservative leanings found in Charleston. This difference can be seen in local policies and initiatives in each city. Moreover, religious affiliations in Charleston tend to be more homogeneous, with Christianity playing a significant role in community life. Whereas San Jose offers a tapestry of religious beliefs, reflecting its cultural diversity. This understanding can help you better navigate the social dynamics of your new city.
San Jose vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another involves understanding the daily commute and traffic dynamics. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Jose & Charleston provides insights to help you adjust to your new environment.
| Comparison | San Jose | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 33 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
Adjusting to Charleston’s commute may offer you some relief if you are coming from the busier roads of San Jose. Traffic congestion is notably lower, which might make your drives more pleasant and less stressful. While San Jose boasts a robust public transit system, Charleston offers simpler alternatives that can let you get by without a car, making use of options such as the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA). The overall slower pace and lower congestion could mean you'll spend less time in transit and more time enjoying the local attractions and community.
Additional Resources
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Popular San Jose to West Virginia Routes
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