Best St. Petersburg to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from St. Petersburg to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 460 mile move from Florida to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 St. Petersburg 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 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg 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 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Let's Get Moving | 9.14 | 9.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | 123 Moving Florida LLC | 9.13 | 9.31 | Authorized For Broker Property | Contact |
| 5 | 3 Men No Truck LLC | 8.90 | 8.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from St. Petersburg to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 460 miles from St. Petersburg, FL to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,847 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom St. Petersburg to Charleston move is roughly $4,420. 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 | $1,244 | 300 ft³ | 4.15 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,847 | 450 ft³ | 4.10 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,046 | 750 ft³ | 4.06 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,420 | 1100 ft³ | 4.02 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,361 | 1600 ft³ | 3.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,080 | 1800 ft³ | 3.93 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to St. Petersburg guide.
Compare the 5 Best St. Petersburg 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) |
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) |
Let's Get Moving
6599 Haines Rd N
St. Petersburg, FL, 33702
About Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida...
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2270761 / 775415 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,000 (2023) |
123 Moving Florida LLC
2452 Enterprise Rd # 2019
Clearwater, FL, 33763
About 123 Moving Florida LLC
123 Moving Florida LLC is a moving company based in Florida, providing a range of moving services at various prices. They...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Hourly moving
- Small moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3017738 / 32646 Authorized For Broker Property Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50 (2021) |
3 Men No Truck LLC
1143 Tangerine St
Clearwater, FL, 33755
About 3 Men No Truck LLC
3 Men No Truck LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Clearwater, serving St. Petersburg and surrounding areas...
Services
- Local moves in St.Petersburg
- Long distance moves
- Residential moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2113690 / FF-19726
812151 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 13 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 310,000 (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.
St. Petersburg vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Use this comparison to help familiarize yourself with an unknown city by relating it to your existing city. We’ll match popular neighborhoods in St. Petersburg, FL & Charleston, SC to guide you in exploring your new locale.
| St. Petersburg | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown St. Petersburg | Downtown Charleston | Vibrant nightlife and waterfront views |
| Old Northeast | South of Broad | Historic charm, tree-lined streets |
| Kenwood | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Artsy vibe, colorful houses |
| Snell Isle | Sullivan's Island | Upscale homes, coastal ambiance |
| Historic Roser Park | Harleston Village | Predominantly residential, historic character |
| Grand Central District | Upper King Street | Trendy bars, eclectic shops |
| Shore Acres | James Island | Family-friendly, water access |
| Driftwood | Isle of Palms | Peaceful, nature-focused lifestyle |
If the vibrant nightlife and waterfront views of Downtown St. Petersburg captivate you, Downtown Charleston offers a similar allure with bustling bars and picturesque harbor vistas. For those who cherish the historical charm and serene, tree-lined avenues of Old Northeast, South of Broad in Charleston delivers with its elegant 18th-century houses. Art enthusiasts will revel in the artsy vibe of Kenwood, mirrored by the bohemian atmosphere of Cannonborough/Elliotborough, where locally owned cafes and galleries abound. Should you favor the upscale coastal ambiance of Snell Isle, Sullivan's Island provides stunning beaches and luxurious residences. Experience more family-friendly adventures in Shore Acres, which has a counterpart in James Island, known for its parks and waterways. Whether dining at acclaimed eateries or enjoying neighborhood parks like Vinoy Park or Colonial Lake, each neighborhood offers unique yet familiar pleasures as you transition between these two charming coastal cities.
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 St. Petersburg to Charleston
In this comprehensive guide, explore an honest reflection of the relocation from St. Petersburg, FL to Charleston, SC, examining the pros and cons that might influence your decision. This comparison between St. Petersburg and Charleston will help you align your priorities and get a realistic outlook.
St. Petersburg, FL- Hurricane risk
- Heavy traffic
- High humidity
- Touristy areas
Charleston, SC- Lower hurricane frequency
- Lesser congestion
- Milder climate
- Historic charm
Charleston, SC- Limited cultural events
- Farther from coast
- Fewer dining options
- Quieter evenings
St. Petersburg, FL- Vibrant arts scene
- Beautiful beaches
- Excellent restaurants
- Active nightlife
When considering relocating to Charleston, you'll gain access to its enchanting historic streets and charming atmospheres like those found in . While you may miss the vibrant art festivals and diverse culinary experiences in the downtown areas of St. Petersburg, the quieter lifestyle in Charleston provides opportunities for leisurely strolls and exploring the picturesque parks and gardens. Plus, with a slightly milder climate, spending time outdoors becomes more enjoyable, offering a break from the hustle and bustle without sacrificing the coastal beauty.
St. Petersburg vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. In this section, we'll provide a comparison of the local cuisine between St. Petersburg & Charleston to help you become better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| St. Petersburg | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cuban Sandwich | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Grouper Sandwich | Lowcountry Boil |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Benne Wafers |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Beyond Burger |
| 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, you're likely to encounter the famous shrimp and grits in neighborhoods like the historic French Quarter, with restaurants such as Husk offering a twist on this classic dish. The city's health-minded culture reflects in its higher fitness and vegan-friendly scores, and you may discover local favorites like the "Lowcountry Boil" being served at spots like Poogan's Porch. While the food truck scene is more dominant in bustling urban centers like St. Petersburg's EDGE District, Charleston's charming blend of traditional Southern cuisine and trendy eateries ensures a delightful exploration of the local food culture.
St. Petersburg vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is an integral part of making a new place feel like home. This side-by-side restaurant comparison between St. Petersburg and Charleston will guide you in finding your new favorite eateries, using familiar favorites from your current hometown as a guide.
| St. Petersburg | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Locale Market | The Daily | Both offer curated gourmet local produce and meals |
| Red Mesa Cantina | Paco's Tacos | Known for vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine |
| The Mill | Husk | Celebrated for its innovative take on southern dishes |
| 4th Street Pizza | Sabatino's Pizza | Offers classic, hand-tossed pizzas with a local twist |
| Parkshore Grill | FIG | Exquisite fine dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients |
| Pass-a-Grille Restaurant | The Darling Oyster Bar | Known for its seafood-centric menu and charming setting |
| Mazzaro's Italian Market | Charleston's Caviar & Bananas | Gourmet market offering a wide variety of Italian delicacies |
| The Birch and Vine | Magnolias | Both offer a vibrant fusion of contemporary and classic southern flavors |
| Buya Ramen | 167 Raw | Famed for the fusion of fresh, bold, and sweeping flavors |
| TeBella Tea Company | Harney & Sons | Avid tea fans will appreciate the fine selection of blends and brews |
When seeking a high-end dining experience, The Mill in St. Petersburg and Husk in Charleston are ideal venues, offering innovative Southern dishes that highlight the best of local ingredients. For casual pizza nights, 4th Street Pizza and Sabatino's Pizza boast authentic, hand-tossed pies that a pizza enthusiast would savor. Seafood lovers staying close to the coast will relish the fresh, vibrant flavors at The Birch and Vine alongside Charleston's iconic Magnolias, each providing a delightful fusion of classic and contemporary Southern charm.
Ready to start your move?
St. Petersburg vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial aspects when relocating. Comparing housing in St. Petersburg, FL , and Charleston, SC helps you make an informed decision. Whether it's about affordability or design, understanding these differences is essential for your move.
| Comparison | St. Petersburg | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mid-Century Modern | Georgian and Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Beach Access, Waterfront Views | Historic Charm, Proximity to Downtown |
The housing market in St. Petersburg offers a more budget-friendly option compared to Charleston, where prices are relatively higher but come with historic charm. If you value bikeability, St. Petersburg does rate slightly better, though it's important to consider your commuting patterns and lifestyle needs. While both cities offer vibrant urban lifestyles, St. Petersburg's proximity to beaches makes it ideal for lovers of coastal adventures. In contrast, Charleston's unique Georgian and Colonial architecture might appeal more if historic ambiance is your preference. Delve into listings for each city to explore unique property features like waterfront views in St. Petersburg or the historic districts in Charleston.
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.
St. Petersburg vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, it's important to understand how the weather of your new home in Charleston compares to what you're accustomed to in St. Petersburg . A thorough comparison ensures you're prepared for the changes in climate and helps you adjust more seamlessly.
St. Petersburg, FL
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
St. Petersburg, FL
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
St. Petersburg, FL
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
St. Petersburg, FL
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | St. Petersburg | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Hurricanes & Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both St. Petersburg and Charleston experience relatively high humidity levels, Charleston tends to be slightly more humid. You might find Charleston's winter temperatures significantly cooler, which could require a wardrobe adjustment if you're used to the milder winters of St. Petersburg. Additionally, Charleston experiences more seasonal variation with a mix of hurricanes and potential flooding, unlike St. Petersburg's predominantly hurricane-focused risks. Allergy sufferers should take note: Charleston's allergen variety is broader, influenced by increased ragweed presence.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from St. Petersburg to Charleston
When you're considering a move from St. Petersburg, FL to Charleston, SC , understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison highlights key elements like income levels, taxes, and economic opportunities to help you make informed decisions about your relocation.
| Comparison | St. Petersburg | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,141 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.8 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 7 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.92 | 0.57 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 9 |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Finance, Healthcare | Tourism, Manufacturing, IT |
| Affluence | Modest | Growing |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Manageable | Rising |
While Charleston boasts higher average household incomes compared to St. Petersburg, its cost of living index also reflects this difference, indicating a more expensive overall lifestyle. State income taxes can have a significant impact on your finances, with Florida having none and South Carolina imposing a 7% rate. Both cities are heavily driven by tourism, but Charleston’s economy is diversifying into manufacturing and IT, offering distinct career opportunities. Taxes on property and sales further contribute to economic differences, so understanding these elements is essential for effective financial planning in your new city.
St. Petersburg vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Get an insightful overview of the political and religious atmosphere by comparing St. Petersburg and Charleston. This snapshot will help you understand the local dynamics as you prepare for your move.
| St. Petersburg | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate liberal | Moderate conservative |
| Local Politics | Active local engagement | Community-focused initiatives |
| Religion | Diverse, with notable secular influences | Predominantly Christian |
Moving from St. Petersburg to Charleston means transitioning from an area with a moderate liberal political leaning to one that leans moderately conservative. In St. Petersburg, you might notice active local engagement, with the community participating in various initiatives and city council activities. Conversely, Charleston offers a focus on community-driven projects that reflect its moderate conservative values. Religious dynamics also shift, as St. Petersburg showcases a diverse, secular influence, while Charleston's community is predominantly Christian, providing a rich tapestry of historic churches and religious landmarks.
St. Petersburg vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide aims to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between St. Petersburg & Charleston to assist you in planning your daily commute effectively.
| Comparison | St. Petersburg | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible | Challenging |
In St. Petersburg, the public transit system is robust, making it easier to manage without a car, particularly in urban areas. However, if you choose to drive, you might encounter moderate traffic, especially during rush hours. The average commute time in St. Petersburg is a bit longer compared to Charleston. In Charleston, although the commute time tends to be a bit shorter, public transit options are less comprehensive, making it more challenging to manage daily activities without a car. Exploring local areas of interest, like the scenic Charleston Waterfront Park, often requires personal transportation for convenience.
Additional Resources
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