Best Washington DC to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 538 mile move from DC to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Washington DC 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Charleston Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington DC to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 538 miles from Washington DC, DC to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,903 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Charleston move is roughly $4,558. 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 | $1,281 | 300 ft³ | 4.27 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,903 | 450 ft³ | 4.23 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,140 | 750 ft³ | 4.19 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,558 | 1100 ft³ | 4.14 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,562 | 1600 ft³ | 4.10 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,306 | 1800 ft³ | 4.06 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
1250 9th st. nw
Washington DC, DC, 20011
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
Ap Pro Moving Llc
5021 Seminary Rd # 822
Alexandria, VA, 22311
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move to a new city can be daunting, but by comparing local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Charleston, SC , you can start to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. By using your current city as a baseline, you'll quickly feel right at home.
| Washington DC | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown | South of Broad | Historic charm, sophisticated atmosphere |
| Dupont Circle | French Quarter | Vibrant nightlife, cultural diversity |
| Capitol Hill | Harleston Village | Classic architecture, political hub |
| Adams Morgan | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Eclectic mix, artistic flair |
| Foggy Bottom | Radcliffeborough | University presence, historical sites |
| U Street Corridor | Upper King Street | Trendy shops, lively entertainment |
| Logan Circle | Ansonborough | Victorian homes, upscale feel |
| Columbia Heights | Westside | Diverse community, family-friendly |
| Shaw | Eastside | Hip atmosphere, bustling energy |
| Petworth | Wagener Terrace | Quiet, emerging hotspot |
If you're fond of the historic grandeur of Georgetown, with its cobblestone streets and refined shops, you'll likely adore South of Broad in Charleston for its antebellum homes and serene charm. For those who enjoy the cultural tapestry of Dupont Circle, filled with art galleries and worldwide cuisines, Charleston’s French Quarter offers a welcoming parallel, known for its vibrant arts scene and popular eateries like Husk Restaurant. Capitol Hill's Eastern Market, a lively community hub, has its match in Harleston Village, where market stalls and local produce are a staple of the neighborhood. Meanwhile, Adams Morgan's eclectic nightlife and music venues can be found in the artistic Cannonborough/Elliotborough area, a haven for creatives and food lovers alike, with spots similar to Leon's Oyster Shop.
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 Washington DC to Charleston
Considering a move from Washington DC, DC to Charleston, SC? This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation . By examining both the pros and cons in these two places, you'll get a balanced understanding of what to anticipate.
Washington DC, DC- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Harsh winters
- Crowded urban setting
Charleston, SC- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Mild winters
- Quieter lifestyle
Charleston, SC- Fewer cultural spots
- Smaller job market
- Limited transit options
- Limited nightlife
Washington DC, DC- Cultural landmarks
- Diverse job market
- Public transportation
- Entertainment options
As you consider your move, you'll find Charleston offers a significant reduction in the cost of living compared to Washington DC, and you'll appreciate the gentler pace, with less traffic and a quieter atmosphere, especially in areas like Mount Pleasant and West Ashley. However, be aware that Charleston's cultural scene, while charming, lacks the breadth of DC's landmarks like the Smithsonian or the National Gallery. The job market is more limited, and public transportation is not as extensive as the DC Metro system. Nonetheless, the multitude of parks, such as James Island County Park and restaurants like 82 Queen offer their own special allure.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of local culture, shaping everyday experiences and lifestyle. This comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Charleston will give you a taste of what's on the table and what living in these vibrant locations entails.
| Washington DC | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Burgers | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Benne Wafers |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Vegan Crab Cakes |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you prepare for the culinary shift from Washington DC to Charleston, you'll notice unique flavors and traditions defining each city’s food scene. While DC is famed for its Half-Smokes mainly served in lively locales like Ben's Chili Bowl, Charleston boasts Shrimp and Grits as a local staple, often savored in the charming French Quarter at restaurants like Husk. The roadside charms of DC's tacos face competition from Charleston's distinctive Benne Wafers, which are particularly popular at local markets and festivals. If you're vegan, you'll be delighted to find ample vegan options in both cities—Charleston's take on Vegan Crab Cakes is a hit, often found in new-age cafes in the Historic District.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is important for making an area home. This restaurant comparison will help someone find their new favorite eateries by using their current hometown as a guide, connecting the unique flavors of Washington DC with the culinary scene in Charleston, SC.
| Washington DC | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Dabney | FIG | Both showcase farm-to-table excellence. |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Jack's Cosmic Dogs | A beloved local joint known for its unique twist on hot dogs. |
| Rose's Luxury | Husk | Known for Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. |
| Old Ebbitt Grill | Hank's Seafood Restaurant | Both offer historic charm and seafood-focused menus. |
| Kinship | Charleston Grill | Both excel in offering a refined dining experience. |
| Little Serow | Xiao Bao Biscuit | Offers Southeast Asian flavors with a unique regional flair. |
| Le Diplomate | Chez Nous | Both provide a quaint and authentic French bistro experience. |
| Compass Rose | The Obstinate Daughter | Both embrace a globally inspired menu in a cozy setting. |
| Founding Farmers | Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar | Known for its focus on sustainability and local flavors. |
| Ambar | R. Kitchen | Both focus on shared plates and diverse flavor profiles. |
When you move to Charleston, discovering new local dining gems becomes a delightful journey. For lovers of farm-to-table cuisine, Charleston's FIG mirrors the ethos found at Washington DC's The Dabney, offering seasonal delicacies full of fresh ingredients. If you're missing the historic ambiance of Old Ebbitt Grill, you'll find a similar charm at Hank's Seafood Restaurant, where seafood is also the star of the show. Meanwhile, those enamored by the warm embrace of Le Diplomate's French bistro feel will fall in love with the quaint elegance at Charleston’s Chez Nous. These establishments provide not just meals but memorable dining experiences that will ease the transition to your new Southern home.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the housing options in both Washington DC and Charleston is crucial. This comparison aims to give you a quick but comprehensive overview of how these two cities stack up in terms of cost , architecture , and overall lifestyle . This can help you make an informed decision on where to call home.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal and Victorian | Colonial and Georgian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic homes, close to amenities | Beach proximity, spacious yards |
In Washington DC, the median home price leans higher, reflecting its status as a bustling metropolitan area. The architecture is distinguished by Federal and Victorian styles, contributing to the city’s rich historical charm. For those who value staying active without a car, Washington DC's high walkability and bikeability scores are major advantages. In contrast, Charleston offers a more affordable housing market, paired with beautiful Colonial and Georgian homes. While the city might not have the same level of urban lifestyle ratings, its proximity to the beach and spacious yards make it ideal for a more relaxed pace of life. Both cities offer unique lifestyle benefits, so consider what's most important to you when making this big decision.
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.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When moving from one location to another, it's essential to understand how the weather in Washington DC compares to Charleston, SC . This knowledge helps you prepare for the shift in climate patterns and adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
Washington DC, DC
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Flooding, tornadoes | Hurricanes, flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The difference in average winter temperatures between Washington DC and Charleston, SC, is significant, offering a milder winter in Charleston. This can be seen in the higher winter lows and the almost non-existent snowfall in Charleston, contrasted with DC’s chilly conditions. Additionally, Charleston's higher humidity and greater UV index might be an adjustment for you, indicating more intense summer heat and outdoor exposure. While both cities face natural threats, Charleston's hurricane risk adds a layer of preparedness that might be new for you.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Charleston
If you're considering a move from Washington DC to Charleston, SC , it's essential to compare key financial aspects that will impact your day-to-day life. Understanding differences in living costs, taxation, and economic opportunities helps to make informed decisions for a smoother transition to your new home.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 8.95% | 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56% | 0.51% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Law, Education | Aerospace, IT, Health |
| Affluence | Wealthy | Comfortable |
| Poverty | Present | Sparse |
| Homelessness | Visible | Minimal |
When relocating from Washington DC to Charleston, SC, you'll notice a significant difference in living expenses, with Charleston's cost of living index much lower. This shift can help you stretch your budget further, particularly if you maintain a similar income. While Washington DC's state income tax is higher, Charleston's sales tax is above average, which could impact incidental purchases. Moreover, as both cities thrive in distinct industries, your professional background may determine the economic opportunities available in your new home. Overall, Charleston presents a financially attractive option with a comfortable lifestyle.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Take a moment to explore a quick overview of the political and religious differences between Washington DC and Charleston. This comparison provides insights into the contrasting social landscapes of your current city and your new hometown, with a focus on the political and religious makeup of Washington DC & Charleston .
| Washington DC | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic-leaning | Moderate/Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Conservative policies |
| Religion | Religiously diverse | Predominantly Christian |
When moving from Washington DC to Charleston, it is intriguing to observe how local politics adapt to regional culture. Charleston, with its Southern charm, often exhibits more conservative and moderate viewpoints compared to the progressive stances typically found in DC. Furthermore, religious practices become a more noticeable aspect of life in Charleston, as it harbors a predominant Christian demographic. Understanding these nuances can enhance your transition by aligning expectations and embracing the unique characteristics of your new environment.
Washington DC vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Charleston . Understanding these differences helps you better anticipate what daily commuting might be like, whether you're driving or using public transit in your new city.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, easily | Not easily |
In Washington DC, you'll find a well-connected public transportation system with options like the Metro rail and bus services, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. The average commute time is longer, reflecting the city's high traffic congestion. In contrast, Charleston's reliance on personal vehicles is higher due to limited public transit options, but traffic congestion is significantly lower, offering a more relaxed driving experience. If you prefer biking or walking, DC provides greater opportunities given its urban infrastructure.
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