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 869 mile move from Florida to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 16 Tampa 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 Ready Set Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 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 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Let's Get Moving | 9.13 | 9.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Two Men and a Truck | 9.06 | 8.51 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Pride Moving | 8.49 | 9.11 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tampa to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 869 miles from Tampa, FL to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,520 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tampa to Charleston move is roughly $6,051. 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 | $1,695 | 300 ft³ | 5.65 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,520 | 450 ft³ | 5.60 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,163 | 750 ft³ | 5.55 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,051 | 1100 ft³ | 5.50 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,721 | 1600 ft³ | 5.45 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,721 | 1800 ft³ | 5.40 |
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)
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) |
Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
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 moving from one city to another, using your existing city as a baseline can help you navigate the unknown. We’ll compare neighborhoods between Tampa, FL & Charleston, WV to help you find your new niche.
| Tampa | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Hyde Park | East End | Historical charm, boutique shopping |
| Ybor City | Downtown Charleston | Vibrant nightlife, cultural heritage |
| South Tampa | South Hills | Upscale residences, family-friendly areas |
| Seminole Heights | Kanawha City | Eclectic mix, thriving local businesses |
| Water Street | Capitol Market | Modern vibe, local vendors |
Hyde Park in Tampa, known for its historical charm and boutique shopping along Bayshore Boulevard, finds its match in Charleston's East End. The East End is a walker’s paradise where you can enjoy the charming streets and unique shops. If the bustling nightlife and cultural heritage of Ybor City appeal to you, Downtown Charleston offers a similarly lively scene with its plethora of bars and restaurants, not to mention its connection to Charleston's rich history. Families often gravitate towards South Tampa for its upscale residences and friendly neighborhoods, much like South Hills in Charleston, which offers a serene suburban atmosphere while still being close to top schools and parks. Whether you're drawn to the eclectic eateries in Seminole Heights or the vibrant vendors of Capitol Market, Kanawha City offers a diverse array of local businesses that mirror Tampa's sense of community.
Things to Do in Charleston
Explore the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences- Stroll through Capitol Market
- Hike in Kanawha State Forest
- Catch a show at Mountain Stage
- Shop at Charleston Town Center
- Learn at West Virginia State Museum
- Enjoy a meal at Bricks & Barrels
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tampa to Charleston
Moving from one city to another is a major decision with both challenges and rewards. This chart helps you weigh the cons of living in Tampa, FL, against the pros of Charleston, WV, and vice versa, for those contemplating relocation. Its purpose is to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this move.
Tampa, FL- Hurricane risk
- Heavy humidity
- Higher cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Tourist influx
Charleston, WV- Minimal severe weather
- Milder summers
- More affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Quieter community
Charleston, WV- No oceanfront
- Limited dining options
- Quieter evenings
- Fewer major events
- Regional airport
Tampa, FL- Beach access
- Diverse cuisine
- Vibrant nightlife
- Sports and events
- International airport
While moving to Charleston, WV, offers perks like a more relaxed pace and a lower cost of living, you might miss Tampa's vibrant amenities. In Charleston, you can enjoy charming neighborhood parks like Whyte Park and vibrant local eateries. However, you'll leave behind the diverse cuisine options you'd find in Tampa's Seminole Heights, with its eclectic restaurants. In return, Charleston promises milder summers, a serene community vibe, and cultural sites like the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences, compensating for fewer major sports events than Tampa's bustling schedule.
Tampa vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture, offering a glimpse into what it's like to live in an area. By exploring the local cuisine comparison between Tampa & Charleston , you'll be better informed about the delightful culinary experiences awaiting you in your new home.
| Tampa | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cuban Sandwich | Pepperoni Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Grouper Sandwich | Deer Stew |
| Most popular street food item | Empanadas | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Vegetable Soup |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you prepare to move to Charleston, WV, you'll discover that the city's food scene is steeped in tradition, with the pepperoni roll being a must-try. Don't miss exploring the culinary delights in the historic district, where places like Fleur de Cuisine serve dishes that reflect the city's rich cultural tapestry. While the abundance of food trucks may be lower compared to Tampa, delightful local eateries offer classic West Virginian fare with a modern twist. Neighborhoods like the East End host a burgeoning food scene with various choices ranging from gourmet to casual dining experiences. Additionally, health and fitness are steadily becoming a focus, with more restaurants offering vegan and vegetarian options to cater to your preferences.
Tampa vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding the perfect spot to enjoy a meal can make your new surroundings feel like home. This comparison between Tampa and Charleston serves as a guide to help you discover your new favorite eateries, drawing parallels to the familiar comforts of your current hometown.
| Tampa | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bern's Steak House | The Chop House | Known for its classic steakhouse experience |
| Ulele | Bluegrass Kitchen | Celebrated for farm-to-table dining and local ingredients |
| Columbia Restaurant | Laury's Restaurant | Offers a mix of tradition and upscale dining |
| Ella's Americana Folk Art Café | Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Features eclectic, laid-back atmospheres |
| Haven | Bricks & Barrels | Focuses on culinary creativity and a craft beer selection |
| Datz | First Watch | Offers a similar casual and hearty breakfast and lunch menu |
| Edison: Food+Drink Lab | Noah's Eclectic Bistro | Known for experimental and innovative cuisine |
| Oxford Exchange | Bridge Road Bistro | Provides elevated dining with a stylish atmosphere |
| Wright's Gourmet House | Soho's at Capitol Market | Offers a wide variety of gourmet sandwiches |
| Goody Goody Burgers | Recovery Sports Grill | Offers burgers in a relaxed, sports-centric setting |
With its long-standing tradition, Bern's Steak House in Tampa aligns closely with Charleston's The Chop House, renowned for exquisite cuts and an elegant dining experience. If you savor unique regional flavors, Ulele uses localized ingredients much like Bluegrass Kitchen does in West Virginia. For a more whimsical eating experience, Ella's Americana Folk Art Café and Black Sheep Burrito & Brews both offer eclectic menus in an inviting setting. When it comes to creative culinary adventures, Edison: Food+Drink Lab and Noah's Eclectic Bistro surprise with innovative dishes that expand your palate. These parallels ensure that while you may be getting acquainted with a new city, your taste buds will feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Tampa vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how the housing options of Tampa, FL, and Charleston, WV , compare. This guide will help you make an informed decision by examining various aspects of housing in these two locations.
| Comparison | Tampa | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish/Mediterranean | Colonial/Traditional |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pool, Proximity to Beach | Large Yard, Historic Charm |
Exploring the housing options in Tampa and Charleston reveals distinctive characteristics tied to their environments. Tampa's real estate listings often highlight features like a pool or proximity to beaches—amenities appealing to those who enjoy an active coastal lifestyle. In contrast, Charleston's listings bring attention to large yards and historic charm, offering a quieter life enveloped in tradition. If having access to outdoor and waterfront activities is crucial to you, you may find Tampa's accessible trails a perfect fit. However, if you prioritize tranquility and historic ambiance, the alluring West Virginia history surrounding Charleston might be your calling.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, WV
1. South Hills: This neighborhood offers plenty of green spaces and parks like South Hills Park for your pets to enjoy and explore.
2. Kanawha City: Known for its friendly community and pet-friendly businesses such as the Pet Valu store, making it easy for you to find everything your pet needs.
3. East End: With amenities like the Kanawha County Public Library offering pet-friendly events, it's a vibrant area where both you and your pet can feel at home.
Tampa vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When moving from Tampa, FL to Charleston, WV , understanding the weather differences is essential for planning. You must adapt to new climate conditions that affect daily life, from clothing choices to recreational activities.
Tampa, FL
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tampa, FL
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tampa, FL
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tampa, FL
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tampa | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition to Charleston, you'll encounter a notable drop in winter temperatures compared to Tampa. This change suggests the need for a warmer wardrobe to manage the colder climate. Charleston also experiences a significant amount of snowfall, unlike Tampa. Although the annual rainfall is relatively similar, Charleston's seasonal allergies, primarily ragweed, might present new challenges. Additionally, while Tampa experiences more than 240 sunny days annually, Charleston offers fewer sunny days, which may impact your outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tampa to Charleston
When relocating from Tampa, FL to Charleston, WV , understanding the financial landscape is essential. This comparison will help you grasp how costs and economic conditions differ between these cities, aiding your financial planning and adjustment.
| Comparison | Tampa | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $63,404 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.4 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 6.5 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.98 | 0.57 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 6.0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Finance, Tourism | Energy, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Prosperous | Modest |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Visible | Less Apparent |
While Tampa boasts a higher average household income, Charleston offers a more affordable cost of living, which might ease your transition financially. The absence of state income tax in Florida gives Tampa residents a slight edge, yet Charleston counters this by having a notably lower property tax rate. Additionally, Charleston's economy is steered by its energy and manufacturing sectors, contrasting with Tampa’s focus on healthcare and tourism, which may influence your professional opportunities. Understanding these dynamics will be vital for financial decisions and lifestyle adjustments as you settle into your new environment.
Tampa vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The following comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in Tampa, FL, and Charleston, WV . Understanding these differences can help you acclimate more smoothly to your new environment.
| Tampa | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leaning Democratic | Leaning Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive initiatives | Conservative approaches |
| Religion | Diverse religious practices | Predominantly Protestant |
As you transition from Tampa to Charleston, you'll notice that the shift in political climate might be one of your first observations. Tampa often leans more Democratic, reflected in its progressive policies and local governance. In contrast, Charleston tends to be more conservative, upholding traditional values in its community governance. The city also has a stronger focus on Protestant Christian practices compared to Tampa's diverse religious landscape. Understanding these cultural dynamics can offer insight into the community-driven initiatives you might encounter, and how local conversations about issues might differ. This awareness will help you engage more effectively with your new community.
Tampa vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, this guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tampa & Charleston . Whether you're considering relocation or just curious, these insights can help equip you with valuable information for navigating your new surroundings.
| Comparison | Tampa | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
The commute in Tampa tends to be longer and more congested compared to Charleston, making it crucial to plan your routes ahead, especially during rush hours. While both cities offer public transportation options, Tampa's system is slightly more robust due to its larger size. However, Charleston's smaller scale makes driving generally stress-free, and you may find that you can get by without a car, especially if you live close to the downtown area or near local amenities like the Capitol Market. Ultimately, your experience will depend heavily on your daily routines and living arrangements in each city.
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