Best Orlando to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Orlando to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 378 mile move from Florida to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Orlando 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 Sebastian Moving and More), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Orlando 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 Orlando to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sebastian Moving and More | 9.71 | 9.69 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Orlando Express Movers Inc. | 8.92 | 9.28 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.68 | 8.24 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Orlando to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 378 miles from Orlando, FL to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,787 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Orlando to Charleston move is roughly $4,275. 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 | $1,204 | 300 ft³ | 4.01 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,787 | 450 ft³ | 3.97 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,947 | 750 ft³ | 3.93 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,275 | 1100 ft³ | 3.89 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,151 | 1600 ft³ | 3.84 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,843 | 1800 ft³ | 3.80 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Orlando guide.
Compare the 5 Best Orlando to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sebastian Moving and More
6375 N Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL, 32810
About Sebastian Moving and More
Sebastian Moving has over 15 years of experience in the moving business. It will provide shrink wrapping, packing, crating, loading, unloading,...
Services
- Full Service Moves in Orlando
- Air-Conditioned Storage
- Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1575104 / 583326 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 16 |
| Registered Drivers | 15 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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) |
Orlando Express Movers Inc.
3646 Old Winter Gdn
Orlando, FL, 32805
About Orlando Express Movers Inc.
Orlando Express Movers Inc. has been customizing full-service moves since 2008. This Orlando company emphasizes individual needs and unique moving packages...
Services
- Full-service residential moving
- Local and long-distance relocation
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2521724 / 875549 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 63 |
| Registered Drivers | 60 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 9,886,327 (2020) |
Two Men and a Truck
310 Anchor Rd
Casselberry, FL, 32707
About Two Men and a Truck
As a globally recognized moving company, Two Men and a Truck is one of the most successful franchises in the industry....
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2951563 / FF-19080
999453 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 20 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 452,400 (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.
Orlando vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, but by comparing neighborhoods between Orlando, FL & Charleston, SC , you can familiarize yourself with Charleston using Orlando as your guide. Discover the nuances between these communities and transition with confidence.
| Orlando | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Eola Heights | Historic Charleston | Quaint, historic vibe |
| Thornton Park | French Quarter | Vibrant, artsy atmosphere |
| Baldwin Park | Daniel Island | Family-friendly, planned community |
| Winter Park | Mount Pleasant | Upscale, charming shopping |
| Mills 50 | North Morrison (NoMo) | Eclectic, cultural diversity |
| College Park | West Ashley | Cozy, tree-lined streets |
| Downtown Orlando | Downtown Charleston | Bustling, urban core |
| Ivanhoe Village | Cannonborough-Elliotborough | Hip, indie shops |
| Audubon Park | Wagener Terrace | Community-focused, green spaces |
| Celebration | Shelmore Village | Master-planned, community-oriented |
For those transitioning from the artsy ambiance of Thornton Park, Charleston's French Quarter presents a similarly vibrant environment with its galleries, restaurants, and lively art scene. Enjoy compelling exhibits at the Take Space or relax by the waterfront with delicious cuisine at the Griffon Pub. In Baldwin Park, family-friendly amenities and community events flourish, a trait mirrored by Daniel Island, known for its beautiful parks such as Daniel Island Community Park. Downtown Orlando's lively urban beat finds its match in Downtown Charleston, brimming with historic charm and the vibrant energy of the Historic Charleston Foundation.
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 Orlando to Charleston
Moving from Orlando, FL to Charleston, SC presents a myriad of experiences, both challenging and rewarding. Our comparison will provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation , focusing on how Orlando contrasts with vibrant Charleston to help you make an informed decision.
Orlando, FL- Heavy traffic
- Tourist crowds
- Summer humidity
- Flat terrain
Charleston, SC- Less congestion
- More peaceful vibe
- Fresher sea breezes
- Scenic walking trails
Charleston, SC- Limited theme parks
- Fewer international cuisines
- Seasonal temperature dips
- Less transit coverage
Orlando, FL- World-class attractions
- Diverse dining options
- Year-round warmth
- Extensive public transit
Orlando's bustling scene can be overwhelming, especially if you're trying to navigate through tourist-heavy areas like International Drive. However, Charleston provides a calmer environment, with places like Waterfront Park offering a serene escape. While Orlando boasts diverse dining experiences at ICON Park, Charleston's local gems such as Hominy Grill bring southern flavors to life. Though both cities offer warmth, Charleston's milder climate can make a stroll down Folly Beach particularly enjoyable. Additionally, while Orlando has abundant public transport, Charleston offers picturesque walking experiences, perfect for exploring historic neighborhoods like Charleston Historic District.
Orlando vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and plays a significant role in how we experience a new city. This guide will provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Orlando & Charleston to help you become better acquainted with the food scene as you make your move from central Florida to South Carolina.
| Orlando | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cuban Sandwich | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Key Lime Chicken | Lowcountry Boil |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fried Green Tomatoes |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Vegan BBQ |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Charleston, the food scene is distinguished by its Southern charm, highlighted by the iconic shrimp and grits, which you can savor at places like Poogan's Porch in the historic district. If you're a fan of seafood, the Lowcountry Boil is a must-try, with establishments in Cannonborough-Elliottborough offering their unique takes. The city also boasts a vibrant vegan scene, reflected in its higher rating compared to Orlando, with restaurants in the East Side neighborhood offering enticing vegan BBQ options. Moreover, Charleston's commitment to preserving its culinary heritage while embracing new trends ensures that your culinary adventures here will be both rewarding and memorable.
Orlando vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Relocating to a new city can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding your favorite dining spots. By comparing the top restaurants in Orlando to their Charleston counterparts , you can easily discover places that might make you feel at home in your new surroundings.
| Orlando | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Victoria & Albert's | FIG | Offers a similar upscale dining experience with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients |
| The Ravenous Pig | Edmund's Oast | Known for inventive dishes and a robust craft beer selection |
| Prato | Indaco | Both serve rustic yet modern Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh pasta |
| 4 Rivers Smokehouse | Lewis Barbecue | Provides a similar authentic barbecue experience known for smoked meats |
| Se7en Bites | Callie's Hot Little Biscuit | Celebrated for delicious Southern breakfast and brunch staples |
| Domu | Co | Both offer innovative ramen and a selection of Asian-inspired small plates |
| Hillstone | Halls Chophouse | Renowned for its classic American fare with steakhouse vibes |
| Luma on Park | Husk | Widely praised for its commitment to Southern flavors with a modern twist |
| Enzo's on the Lake | Coda del Pesce | Delights patrons with a focus on Italian seafood offerings |
| Café Tu Tu Tango | Fleet Landing | Both bring vibrant energy with a diverse menu and unique setting |
When transitioning from Orlando to Charleston, you're likely to find comfort in the wide array of dining experiences available. For instance, if you loved the craft beer and inventive cuisine at The Ravenous Pig, you'll appreciate the culinary creativity and beer selection at Edmund's Oast in Charleston. Similarly, barbecue enthusiasts will find solace at Lewis Barbecue, which mirrors the high-quality smoked meats you savored at 4 Rivers Smokehouse. And for those cherished breakfasts or brunches, Callie's Hot Little Biscuit offers the kind of Southern comfort akin to Se7en Bites. These restaurants not only provide delicious food but also capture the spirit and hospitality that can help you feel at home in a new city.
Ready to start your move?
Orlando vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Orlando and Charleston compare when considering factors like cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Reviewing these elements helps you make informed decisions about your relocation.
| Comparison | Orlando | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Contemporary and Mediterranean | Colonial and Antebellum |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pools, patios, proximity to <a href="https://www.visitorlando.com">Orlando's Attractions</a> | Historic charm, extended porches, proximity to <a href="https://www.charlestoncvb.com">Charleston's Historic District</a> |
When comparing Orlando and Charleston, one major difference is the style of architecture you'll encounter. In Orlando, contemporary and Mediterranean styles dominate the market, contrasting sharply with Charleston's colonial and antebellum influences. While Orlando's proximity to attractions often translates into listings highlighting pools and patios for relaxation, Charleston boasts homes with historic charm and extended porches. Additionally, while neither city is renowned for walkability or bikeability, Orlando does offer slightly more in these aspects, which can be appealing if you prefer getting around on foot or bike.
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.
Orlando vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When relocating from Orlando, FL to Charleston, SC , understanding the differences in weather is crucial. Familiarizing yourself with the climate variations will help you prepare for the new environment and adjust your lifestyle accordingly. This comparison provides key insights to anticipate the changes and better plan your move.
Orlando, FL
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Orlando, FL
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Orlando, FL
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Orlando, FL
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Orlando | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Thunderstorms | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Orlando and Charleston experience high humidity levels, you'll find that Charleston's winters are significantly cooler. This means you may need to update your wardrobe for the chillier conditions. Moreover, both cities face potential hurricane threats, but Charleston also has flooding risks due to its coastal geography. When it comes to seasonal allergies, while both cities deal with pollen, residents in Charleston often contend with allergies from grass as well.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Orlando to Charleston
If you're considering a move, understanding the financial landscape between Orlando, FL and Charleston, SC is crucial. Comparing key economic factors helps you prepare for changes in your financial commitments and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Orlando | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $54,167 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.8 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.83% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.5% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Technology, Healthcare | Aerospace, Tourism, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Visible | Less Visible |
When considering a move from Orlando to Charleston, it's important to note the higher average household income in Charleston, which could contribute to a more comfortable lifestyle despite a higher cost of living index compared to Orlando. The two cities share a lack of state income tax, providing some financial relief. Charleston's property tax rate is notably lower, which might appeal to prospective homeowners. Additionally, with different top industries, your career prospects may vary, providing potential for new opportunities.
Orlando vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This brief comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in the areas you're considering. Compare the politics between Orlando & Charleston to get a better idea of your new community.
| Orlando | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mixed with a slight liberal leaning | Conservative majority |
| Local Politics | Democratic leadership | Republican leadership |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape | Predominantly Christian |
Moving from Orlando to Charleston, you'll notice a shift in the political landscape. Orlando tends to have a liberal leaning with Democratic leadership, while Charleston has a more conservative environment with Republican leadership, affecting local policies and governance. The religious environment also shifts somewhat; Orlando boasts a diverse religious landscape, which caters to a variety of beliefs and practices. In contrast, Charleston is predominantly Christian, reflected in the prevalence of churches like the historic First Scots Presbyterian Church. This difference in religious composition might impact your lifestyle, community activities, and the cultural events you'll encounter.
Orlando vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide aims to help you better understand the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Orlando & Charleston . By examining factors like commute times, congestion, and public transit availability, you can gain insights into what daily transit life might look like in your new city.
| Comparison | Orlando | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Very Challenging |
When transitioning from Orlando to Charleston, you might notice some differences in daily commuting. While Orlando's public transit system, such as the Lynx bus service, offers more options than Charleston's CARTA, both cities still require a car for most efficient transit. The commute times in Charleston are slightly shorter due to less congestion, making driving a bit more straightforward. However, the availability of bike-friendly areas in both cities is growing, offering alternative ways to manage your commute.
Additional Resources
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