Best Tampa to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tampa to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 439 mile move from Florida to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa 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 | Two Men and a Truck | 9.06 | 8.51 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Pride Moving | 8.50 | 9.11 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tampa to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 439 miles from Tampa, FL to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,831 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tampa to Charleston move is roughly $4,383. 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 | $1,234 | 300 ft³ | 4.11 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,831 | 450 ft³ | 4.07 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,020 | 750 ft³ | 4.03 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,383 | 1100 ft³ | 3.98 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,308 | 1600 ft³ | 3.94 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,019 | 1800 ft³ | 3.90 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Tampa guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tampa 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) |
Two Men and a Truck
2549 Seven Springs Blvd
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
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) |
Pride Moving
Tampa, FL
About Pride Moving
Pride Moving is a family-owned and operated moving company with over 20 years of experience, serving the Tampa Bay area and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Cross-Country Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1835336 / 665351 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 380,557 (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.
Tampa vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
If you’re considering relocating, understanding the local neighborhoods between Tampa, FL & Charleston, SC can make your transition smoother. This guide looks into the vibe and essence of popular neighborhoods in Tampa and compares them with similar areas in Charleston, to help you find new favorites in your new home.
| Tampa | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut Grove | West Ashley | Green spaces, suburban feel |
| Hyde Park | Historic Downtown | Charming with upscale dining |
| Ybor City | French Quarter | Historical and festive energy |
| SoHo | King Street | Vibrant nightlife and shopping |
| Seminole Heights | Park Circle | Trendy shops and local eateries |
| Channel District | Ansonborough | Waterfront activities and modern living |
| Riverside Heights | James Island | Scenic river views and parks |
| Davis Islands | Sullivan's Island | Relaxed beach vibes, family-friendly |
| Westshore | Mount Pleasant | Business district with suburban charm |
| North Tampa | North Charleston | Residential with diverse amenities |
Hyde Park in Tampa offers a delightful mix of history and modernity, much like Charleston's Historic Downtown, where cobblestone streets lead you to charming boutiques and upscale dining spots like Peninsula Grill. If you enjoy the lively energy of Ybor City, Charleston's French Quarter captivates with its historical allure and vibrant festivals, bringing history to life amidst art galleries and local eateries. For lovers of the outdoors, the serene Charleston Parks Conservancy on James Island offers the scenic beauty and tranquility akin to Riverside Heights. Each neighborhood promises unique attractions, ensuring you’ll find spots that resonate with your Tampa favorites.
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 Tampa to Charleston
When contemplating a move from Tampa, FL to Charleston, SC, it's important to analyze both the benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the pros and cons of relocating from Tampa, FL to Charleston, SC , highlighting key differences to assist in your decision-making process.
Tampa, FL- Hot, humid summers
- Hurricane threat
- Heavy traffic
- Urban sprawl
Charleston, SC- Milder climate
- Less hurricane exposure
- Quieter streets
- Historic charm
Charleston, SC- Fewer nearby beaches
- Less variety in food
- State income tax
Tampa, FL- Beach access
- Diverse dining scene
- No state income tax
In Tampa, you enjoy the vibrant nightlife and dining options of Ybor City and Hyde Park Village, which offer diverse cuisines and lively atmospheres. Charleston, however, provides a different kind of allure with its historic architecture and quaint neighborhood streets, such as those found in the French Quarter. Although Tampa boasts year-round beach weather, Charleston's milder summers might offer a refreshing change. For outdoor enthusiasts, the serene parks, like White Point Garden in Charleston, bring a peaceful escape, contrasting Tampa’s more bustling parks. Each location has its own unique charm, and your decision should be based on what lifestyle and amenities you prioritize.
Tampa vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and can profoundly influence your experience in a new city. We'll compare the local cuisine between Tampa & Charleston to better inform you about the food scene where you're moving to.
| Tampa | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cuban Sandwich | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Devil Crab | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Cheese Nachos | Lowcountry Boil |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegan Hoppin' John |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Charleston is renowned for its robust foodie scene, particularly rich in seafood, making it a dining destination for many. In neighborhoods like The French Quarter, you’ll find iconic dishes like shrimp and grits and lowcountry boil that truly embody the city’s coastal charm. Check out beloved eateries such as Husk or FIG to savor these classics. The city's culinary landscape is also praised for its increasing fitness-consciousness and vegan-friendly options, showcased in dishes like vegan hoppin' john, reflecting a health-oriented approach without sacrificing flavor.
Tampa vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is essential in making a place feel like home, and exploring local eateries can bring a new city to life. This restaurant comparison provides a roadmap for discovering your new favorite spots, thanks to a side-by-side guide between Tampa and Charleston dining experiences.
| Tampa | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bern's Steak House | Hall's Chophouse | Both offer classic steakhouse fare with a focus on quality cuts and fine dining atmosphere. |
| Columbia Restaurant | Gibbes Museum of Art Café | Incorporates a historic charm and regional dishes akin to Columbia's heritage. |
| Ulele | Husk | Celebrates Southern ingredients prepared in innovative ways. |
| The Refinery | FIG | Both focus on farm-to-table fresh offerings with a modern twist. |
| La Teresita | Carmen y Juan’s | Offers a similar casual atmosphere and authentic Latin flavors. |
| Oxford Exchange | The Daily | Both provide trendy brunch options in a stylish urban setting. |
| Datz | Poe's Tavern | Casual, eclectic fare ideal for foodies. |
| Al's Finger Licking Good BBQ | Swig & Swine | A match made for BBQ aficionados who appreciate robust, smoky flavors. |
| Rooster & the Till | Le Farfalle | Fine dining with a focus on creative dishes with international influences. |
| Armature Works | Charleston City Market | A lively food hall experience with a mix of vendors and eateries. |
Charleston's dining scene mirrors many of Tampa's culinary gems with its own blend of Southern hospitality and innovative cuisine. For steak enthusiasts, a visit to Hall's Chophouse offers the same attention to exquisite cuts and fine dining as Tampa's iconic Bern's Steak House. Those in search of farm-to-table goodness will feel right at home at FIG, where seasonal dishes and local produce echo The Refinery's dedication to freshness. If you’re a fan of casual Latin flavors, the vibrant ambiance of Carmen y Juan’s in Charleston will effortlessly capture the inviting essence offered by La Teresita. These parallels ensure that your culinary adventures in Charleston are filled with familiarity wrapped in a fresh, exciting package.
Ready to start your move?
Tampa vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial factors to consider during a move. Understanding how Tampa and Charleston differ in terms of housing costs , architecture , and walkability can significantly influence your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Tampa | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Revival | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pool, Balcony | Historical Features, Porch |
When considering a move, Charleston offers a more historical charm with its Colonial architecture, compared to Tampa's Spanish Revival style. Charleston's higher walkability score makes it more pedestrian-friendly, especially in areas like Downtown Charleston. However, Tampa provides a modest edge in bikeability, ideal for enjoying routes along Tampa Bay's biking trails. Additionally, Charleston tends to feature historical elements in its real estate listings, adding a unique, character-rich living experience.
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.
Tampa vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering relocating from Tampa, FL to Charleston, SC , understanding the differences in weather between these two locales is crucial. This comparison can help you prepare for changes in climate patterns and daily living conditions. Discover how aspects like temperature, humidity, and seasonal changes vary between these vibrant places.
Tampa, FL
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tampa, FL
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tampa, FL
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tampa, FL
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tampa | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Tampa to Charleston, expect a noticeable shift in winter temperatures; Charleston experiences a cooler winter compared to the mild winter in Tampa. Though both cities share similar levels of humidity, Charleston gets slightly more relief in the summer with cooler evenings. The UV index is also lower in Charleston, which may be beneficial if you're sensitive to strong sun exposure. While both cities face the threat of hurricanes, Charleston tends to have better air quality, providing a reprieve for those concerned about pollution.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tampa to Charleston
If you're moving from Tampa, FL to Charleston, SC , it's crucial to understand the financial differences that can impact your lifestyle. This includes variations in the cost of living, taxes, income levels, and economic opportunities, helping you to better prepare and plan for your new home.
| Comparison | Tampa | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $63,404 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.4 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.89% | 0.51% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Tourism, Healthcare | Tourism, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Average | Low |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Lower |
When moving from Tampa to Charleston, you'll notice differences in both average household incomes and the cost of living indices. Charleston's average income is slightly higher, which might offset its slightly higher cost of living index. Both cities enjoy the benefit of no state income tax, but sales tax is higher in Charleston at 9% compared to Tampa’s 7.5%. If you're a homeowner, you'll find Charleston offers a lower average property tax rate, which could lead to significant savings long-term. Understanding the key industries can also offer insight into job opportunities, with both cities sharing Tourism and Healthcare as major sectors.
Tampa vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, focusing on the distinct differences between the politics of Tampa & Charleston . Understanding these characteristics can help you adapt to your new community more smoothly.
| Tampa | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate to Liberal | Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive Local Initiatives | Traditional Policies |
| Religion | Diverse Religious Landscape | More Predominantly Christian |
Moving to Charleston from Tampa means experiencing a shift in political climates. While Tampa tends to lean moderately liberal with its progressive local initiatives, Charleston maintains a more conservative stance with traditional policies shaping local governance. In terms of religion, while you'll find a diverse religious landscape in Tampa, Charleston is characterized by a more predominantly Christian community. Understanding these differences not only prepares you for engaging with your new neighbors but can also enrich your experiences as you explore local cultural and community events. As you settle in, exploring establishments such as the Charleston Religious District can provide valuable insights into the local community's fabric and traditions.
Tampa vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When moving from Tampa, FL to Charleston, SC, it's important to gain a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tampa & Charleston . Understanding these differences can help you better anticipate what your daily commute and traffic experiences in your new city might be like.
| Comparison | Tampa | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Sometimes |
In Tampa, you'll notice a slightly longer average commute time of 28 minutes compared to Charleston, where commutes average about 22 minutes. Traffic congestion can be a bit heavier in Tampa due to its larger urban sprawl and higher population density. Although Tampa offers a reasonable public transit system, represented by a score of 6 out of 10, residents often find owning a car essential for their daily errands. In contrast, while Charleston has favorable public transit options like the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), certain areas still benefit from personal vehicle use. However, the more compact nature of Charleston means that you might only need a car occasionally, particularly when traveling outside the downtown core.
Additional Resources
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