Best Jacksonville to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Jacksonville to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 238 mile move from Florida to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Jacksonville 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 Smooth Move Charleston), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Skinner Moving & Storage | 9.20 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | MoveBright Van Lines | 9.17 | 8.92 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Sunshine State Movers | 8.79 | 8.58 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Jacksonville to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 238 miles from Jacksonville, FL to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,686 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Jacksonville to Charleston move is roughly $4,028. 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 | $1,137 | 300 ft³ | 3.79 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,686 | 450 ft³ | 3.75 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,778 | 750 ft³ | 3.70 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,028 | 1100 ft³ | 3.66 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,791 | 1600 ft³ | 3.62 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,438 | 1800 ft³ | 3.58 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Jacksonville guide.
Compare the 5 Best Jacksonville to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Skinner Moving & Storage
3771 San Jose Pl Ste 23
Jacksonville, FL, 32257
About Skinner Moving & Storage
Skinner Moving & Storage is a family-owned and operated moving company based in the First Coast area. Their service offers include...
Services
- Local moving
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3693001 / 1289107 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,000 (2023) |
MoveBright Van Lines
11234 San Jose Blvd # 3
Jacksonville, FL, 32223
About MoveBright Van Lines
MoveBright Van Lines provides exceptional service to First Coast residents, delivering on-demand moves at the best prices in town. Located in...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3379394 / 1140514 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |
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) |
Sunshine State Movers
Lake Park, GA, 31636
About Sunshine State Movers
Sunshine State Movers is a professional moving company based in Baymeadows, Jacksonville, Florida, specializing in making moving easy and stress-free within...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4054744 / 1537260 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
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.
Jacksonville vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
This guide will help you familiarize yourself with the vibrant local neighborhoods by using what you know of Jacksonville, FL as a baseline. We're offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Jacksonville, FL & Charleston, SC to ease your transition and help you feel at home in no time.
| Jacksonville | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Riverside | West Ashley | Bohemian vibe, river views |
| San Marco | Charlestowne | Historic charm, artsy feel |
| Avondale | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Hip eateries, quaint boutiques |
| Beaches | Sullivan's Island | Coastal scenes, laid-back lifestyle |
| Springfield | North Central | Revitalizing area, diverse community |
| Mandarin | Johns Island | Family-friendly, leafy surroundings |
| Downtown Jacksonville | Downtown Charleston | Historic architecture, bustling city center |
| Baymeadows | West Ashley | Suburban feel, mixed-use developments |
| Southside | James Island | Suburban allure, close to beaches |
| St. Nicholas | Ansonborough | Quaint historic homes, centralized location |
For example, West Ashley in Charleston mirrors Riverside in Jacksonville with its bohemian atmosphere bolstered by scenic river views and eclectic local spots like Al di La restaurant. If you find solace in Jacksonville's historic San Marco and its artsy touch, you would soon appreciate Charlestowne's charming streets filled with rich history and art, and enjoy dining at the 82 Queen. Moreover, adventurous souls who adore Jacksonville's Beaches area will delight in the coastal scenes of Sullivan’s Island, where you can unwind at spots like Sandpiper Gallery. The bustling Downtown areas echo each other as well; Downtown Jacksonville offers a dynamic urban experience comparable to Charleston’s vibrant downtown, a hub of historic architecture and local businesses.
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 Jacksonville to Charleston
This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Jacksonville, FL to Charleston, SC. By exploring these cons of Jacksonville and the pros of Charleston , you will have a clearer view of what this move entails, helping you make an informed decision.
Jacksonville, FL- High summer humidity
- Higher crime rates
- Less historic charm
- Fewer waterfront parks
Charleston, SC- Milder summer climate
- Lower crime rates
- Rich historic sights
- Abundant waterfront parks
Charleston, SC- Higher housing costs
- Smaller city size
- Limited beach space
- Fewer dining choices
Jacksonville, FL- Lower housing costs
- Larger city area
- Expansive beaches
- Diverse dining options
Moving from Jacksonville, you might miss the expansive beaches like Jacksonville Beach with its broad, sandy expanses. However, Charleston offers a milder summer climate and the historic charm of areas like the French Quarter and The Battery. While Jacksonville does boast diverse dining options, Charleston's culinary scene, centered around King Street, is known for its quality southern cuisine and overall dining experience. Additionally, Charleston's waterfront parks, such as Waterfront Park, offer unparalleled scenic views compared to the fewer waterfront parks in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and significantly influences your living experience. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Jacksonville & Charleston , enabling you to make an informed decision about your new culinary environment.
| Jacksonville | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Mayport Shrimp | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Gator Tail | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Vegan Soul Food |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Charleston, you'll find yourself savoring She-Crab Soup, a cherished local delicacy. Explore the historic district of downtown Charleston for some of the best culinary experiences, with restaurants like Husk tantalizing your taste buds with refined Southern cuisine. The foodie scene in Charleston is vibrant and dynamic, often outperforming larger cities thanks to its unique flavors and culinary creativity. Although Jacksonville is also known for its seafood, with its iconic Mayport Shrimp dishes, it offers a more laid-back, casual food scene. Charleston's growing emphasis on health, vegan-friendly options, and organic foods will surely suit those with dietary preferences, especially in areas like Upper King Street, known for its trendy eateries.
Jacksonville vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Exploring your new city involves finding local culinary gems, as food is important for making Charleston home . This restaurant comparison will help you discover new favorite eateries by using your current Jacksonville hotspots as a guide.
| Jacksonville | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Orsay | Husk | Known for its innovative Southern cuisine, much like Orsay’s French-inspired dishes. |
| TacoLu | Minero | Offers a vibrant Mexican street food experience similar to TacoLu. |
| Maple Street Biscuit Company | Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit | Masters of the biscuit craft, offering delectable breakfast sandwiches. |
| Rue Saint Marc | Chez Nous | Both bring a Parisian feel with a curated, ever-changing menu. |
| Safe Harbor Seafood | The Ordinary | Celebrates local seafood with a focus on freshness and sustainability. |
| Black Sheep | Butcher & Bee | A similar hub for inventive and sustainable farm-to-table dining experiences. |
| Moon River Pizza | Pizzeria di Giovanni | Offers generously portioned, classic pizzas like Moon River. |
| Metro Diner | Page’s Okra Grill | Famed for hearty Southern comfort food that brings a sense of home. |
| V-Pizza | Mellow Mushroom | Delivers unique and flavorful wood-fired pies akin to V-Pizza’s offerings. |
| Town Hall | Parcel 32 | Both create dishes with local ingredients, offering a beautifully-prepared Southern and Lowcountry mix. |
Charleston offers culinary delights that can rival your Jacksonville favorites. At The Ordinary, you can indulge in delicacies from the sea, much like the fresh catches you're accustomed to at Safe Harbor Seafood. Lovers of innovative Southern cuisine will feel right at home at Husk, where a commitment to seasonal ingredients mirrors the philosophy of Orsay. If you crave comforting, homemade biscuits, make a beeline to Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit, as it captures the soul-warming breakfast vibe found at Maple Street Biscuit Company. Each of these choices not only offers familiarity but introduces you to Charleston’s unique culinary flair.
Ready to start your move?
Jacksonville vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Jacksonville and Charleston compare for making informed decisions. This comparison covers various aspects of housing including costs, architecture, and lifestyle metrics to better aid your relocation plans.
| Comparison | Jacksonville | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern Suburb | Historic Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large lots, Modern amenities | Historic charm, Waterfront views |
In Jacksonville, you'll often find housing prices to be more affordable compared to Charleston, making it a budget-friendly option for many. The architectural landscape in Jacksonville leans towards modern suburban styles with large lots and contemporary amenities. Conversely, Charleston offers a scenic blend of historic colonial architecture with many homes boasting waterfront views. If an engaging urban lifestyle is what you seek, Charleston might appeal more due to its higher walkability and bikeability scores, offering easier access to local attractions such as the Charleston City Market.
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.
Jacksonville vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Jacksonville to Charleston , understanding the weather variations is key to ensuring a smooth transition. Weather influences daily life, from wardrobe choices to recreational activities.
Jacksonville, FL
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Jacksonville, FL
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Jacksonville, FL
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Jacksonville, FL
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Jacksonville | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
You'll find that both Jacksonville and Charleston share similarities in terms of natural weather events, with hurricanes and floods being common. However, those relocating from Jacksonville may find Charleston's winters slightly cooler, while both places offer ample sunny days, though Jacksonville enjoys a few more. If you're sensitive to humidity, rest assured that the difference in average annual humidity is minimal. While pollen remains a prevalent allergen in both cities, Charleston also poses a challenge for ragweed allergy sufferers, particularly in the fall.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Jacksonville to Charleston
When you're considering a move from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you're accustomed to. This chart highlights key financial aspects between Jacksonville, FL and Charleston, SC to provide you with a comprehensive view of potential differences in your financial landscape.
| Comparison | Jacksonville | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,621 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.9 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.8% | 0.52% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Logistics, Healthcare | Military, Tourism, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Less noticeable |
Moving from Jacksonville to Charleston may present changes in your financial outflow. The cost of living index in Charleston is noticeably higher than in Jacksonville, indicating that everyday expenses might be greater. While both cities offer a zero percent state income tax, Charleston's property tax rate is slightly lower. Additionally, if you're working in industries such as military or tourism, the job market in Charleston may offer more opportunities, unlike Jacksonville, which leans toward logistics and finance. Considering these financial factors will help you better prepare for the transition.
Jacksonville vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a relocation, understanding the community dynamics can be crucial. Here is a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of both cities, providing you with insights into the politics between Jacksonville & Charleston so you can make an informed decision.
| Jacksonville | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate, leaning conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican majority in local government | Democratic majority in local government |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | More religiously diverse |
Moving to Charleston from Jacksonville means adapting to a different political climate. Jacksonville tends to lean conservative, reflected in its local government's Republican majority. In contrast, Charleston embraces a more liberal environment with a Democratic majority. This shift may influence not only the political landscape but also social interactions and policies in areas such as education and healthcare. Additionally, while Jacksonville is predominantly Christian, Charleston showcases a greater religious diversity, offering you a broader spectrum of faith-based communities to engage with in your new home city.
Jacksonville vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
The purpose of this guide is to help you compare the traffic and transportation options between Jacksonville & Charleston . By understanding the differences in daily commutes, congestion, and public transit availability, you can better plan your move from Jacksonville, FL to Charleston, SC.
| Comparison | Jacksonville | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but limited |
When moving from Jacksonville to Charleston, you might notice a difference in traffic congestion levels and commute times. While Jacksonville has a slightly higher congestion rate, making driving during peak hours a challenge, Charleston offers a relatively smoother commute. Although both cities have limited public transit systems, Charleston's network is rated slightly more accessible, making it possible to navigate certain areas without a car. However, owning a vehicle remains advantageous for convenience. Exploring local options like Jacksonville's JTA and the CARTA in Charleston can provide valuable alternatives to driving everywhere. Adjusting to the transportation dynamics in Charleston might require some initial adaptation, especially if you're accustomed to Jacksonville's layout.
Additional Resources
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Popular Jacksonville to South Carolina Routes
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