Best Atlanta to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Atlanta to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 305 mile move from Georgia to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Atlanta 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 Atlanta Home Movers), 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 Atlanta 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 Atlanta to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Atlanta Home Movers | 9.42 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Midtown Moving | 9.26 | 9.5 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Wirks Moving and Storage | 8.98 | 8.75 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Atlanta to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 305 miles from Atlanta, GA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,735 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Atlanta to Charleston move is roughly $4,146. 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 | $1,169 | 300 ft³ | 3.90 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,735 | 450 ft³ | 3.85 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,859 | 750 ft³ | 3.81 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,146 | 1100 ft³ | 3.77 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,963 | 1600 ft³ | 3.73 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,632 | 1800 ft³ | 3.68 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Atlanta guide.
Compare the 5 Best Atlanta to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Atlanta Home Movers
3020 Canton Rd # 216
Marietta, GA, 30066
About Atlanta Home Movers
Founded in 2014, Atlanta Home Movers is a locally-owned moving company that provides services in and around Atlanta, including the communities...
Services
- Local Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3014107 / 1297339 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |
Midtown Moving
This listing has been claimed by Midtown Moving1830 Water Place #205
Atlanta, GA, 30339
About Midtown Moving
Midtown Moving & Storage is a fully licensed, bonded, and BBB-accredited moving company based in Atlanta, Georgia. With a strong focus...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing / Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3721565 / 1680118 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,000 (2024) |
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) |
Wirks Moving and Storage
1470 Field Park Cir NW
Marietta, GA, 30066
About Wirks Moving and Storage
There’s a reason Wirks Moving and Storage is a preferred mover for many real estate agencies. With over 12 years of...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1942465 / 699457 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 24 |
| Registered Drivers | 15 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 330,210 (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.
Atlanta vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, but comparing top neighborhoods from your current city to your new one can ease the transition. This guide will use Atlanta, GA & Charleston, SC as a baseline, comparing popular neighborhoods to help you familiarize yourself with your future home.
| Atlanta | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Buckhead | South of Broad | Affluent shopping and dining |
| Midtown | French Quarter | Vibrant arts and nightlife |
| Virginia-Highland | Cannonborough/Elliottborough | Trendy and eclectic |
| Inman Park | Harleston Village | Historic charm and parks |
| Old Fourth Ward | North Central | Historic sites and lively scene |
| Decatur | West Ashley | Family-friendly and community-driven |
| East Atlanta Village | James Island | Bohemian vibe and unique shops |
| Grant Park | Shem Creek | Scenic views and outdoor activities |
| Candler Park | Park Circle | Laid-back community feel and parks |
| Poncey-Highland | Upper King Street | Hip dining and entertainment |
Exploring the historic and artistic aspects of both cities will make for an exciting relocation journey. For example, if you're drawn to Atlanta’s Midtown for its lively arts scene and vibrant nightlife, you’ll find a similar atmosphere in Charleston’s French Quarter. You can explore galleries like the Gibbes Museum of Art and enjoy evening strolls amidst its historic charm. Similarly, Virginia-Highland’s eclectic nature can be mirrored in Charleston’s Cannonborough/Elliottborough, where you’ll also find trendy cafes and unique boutiques. If you adore strolling through parks and celebrating historic architecture in Inman Park, then Charleston’s Harleston Village, known for its beautiful homes and parks such as Cannon Park, will provide a similar sense of delight.
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 Atlanta to Charleston
Considering a move from Atlanta, GA to Charleston, SC requires an evaluation of pros and cons . This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision.
Atlanta, GA- Heavy traffic
- High cost of living
- Urban sprawl
- Intense summer heat
Charleston, SC- Less congestion
- Affordable housing
- Charming neighborhoods
- Cooler coastal breezes
Charleston, SC- Fewer job opportunities
- Fewer dining options
- Quieter nightlife
- Lack of major teams
Atlanta, GA- Diverse job market
- World-class restaurants
- Vibrant nightlife
- Sports teams
In Charleston, the charm of neighborhoods like Downtown Charleston brings a unique allure, contrasting with Atlanta's urban sprawl. The city's restaurants, from Husk to The Grocery, offer delightful dining experiences, albeit with fewer options compared to Atlanta's vast foodie scene. While Atlanta boasts energetic sports culture, you might find solace in Charleston's peaceful parks and coastal vistas. However, keep in mind the cooler breezes in Charleston might not replace Atlanta's diverse job market, so assessing career opportunities before relocating is crucial.
Atlanta vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture, offering a window into what it's like to live in an area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Atlanta & Charleston to better inform you about the food scene you'll encounter as you move.
| Atlanta | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Peach Cobbler | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Fried Green Tomatoes |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Burger | Vegan Crab Cakes |
| 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 moving to Charleston, you'll discover a city with a distinct southern charm and a unique culinary landscape. While you may miss Atlanta's food trucks, Charleston offers a vibrant foodie scene centered around its famous seafood dishes, such as the iconic Shrimp and Grits, which can be savored at Husk in the historic downtown district. The city also provides a variety of options for vegan enthusiasts, including innovative dishes like Vegan Crab Cakes. As for fine dining, don't miss exploring establishments like Magnolias and Hominy Grill, which encapsulate Charleston's culinary heritage.
Atlanta vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Making an area home is often all about the food, which is why we've created a restaurant comparison guide featuring eateries in both Atlanta and Charleston. Use this as your delicious roadmap to discover new favorite spots in Charleston by starting with what you already love in Atlanta.
| Atlanta | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bacchanalia | Husk | Excelling in innovative Southern cuisine |
| Home Grown | The Grocery | Farm-fresh plates with a focus on local produce |
| Staplehouse | FIG | Award-winning fine dining experience |
| Varasano's Pizzeria | DeSano Pizza Bakery | Known for Neapolitan-style pizzas |
| Mary Mac's Tea Room | Poogan's Porch | Iconic for Southern comfort food |
| Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q | Lewis Barbecue | Famous for hearty BBQ plates |
| Busy Bee Cafe | Bertha's Kitchen | Soulful dishes with authentic flavors |
| Ecco | Indaco | Offers rustic Italian fare in a chic setting |
| Sotto Sotto | The Macintosh | Similar creative, Italian-inspired dishes |
| Gunshow | Magnolia's | Combines traditional and modern Southern cooking |
Whether you're indulging in an elegant evening at Bacchanalia or savoring a casual meal at Home Grown, you'll find your match in Husk and The Grocery, where Southern flavors are elevated in equally welcoming environments. Pizza enthusiasts will appreciate the authentic taste of DeSano Pizza Bakery, mirroring the well-crafted pies you enjoy at Varasano's Pizzeria. For those craving iconic Southern fare, gathering at Mary Mac’s Tea Room is beautifully paralleled by the charming plates served at Poogan's Porch. Lastly, if you're drawn to inventive dining with a touch of rustic charm, The Macintosh offers a culinary experience reminiscent of Atlanta’s Sotto Sotto, providing not only great food but also a homely atmosphere as you settle into your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Atlanta vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Atlanta and Charleston compare in terms of housing . Analyzing factors like cost, architecture, and lifestyle can make your transition smoother and more informed.
| Comparison | Atlanta | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Contemporary | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to MARTA | Proximity to Beaches |
When considering a move to Charleston , you'll find a higher median home price compared to Atlanta , potentially reflecting its desirable coastal location. The typical Colonial architecture in Charleston gives it a distinct charm, contrasting with Atlanta's more Contemporary styles . For those valuing urban convenience, Atlanta's better walkability score of 6, combined with the extensive public transit option like MARTA, might appeal more. However, Charleston offers intriguing bikeability routes often leading to scenic views and historical sites that enhance the residential experience. While both cities offer vibrant lifestyles, the unique features such as proximity to beaches in Charleston or MARTA access in Atlanta could be deciding factors for your relocation.
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.
Atlanta vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When moving from Atlanta, GA to Charleston, SC , understanding how the weather will compare to what you're used to can help you prepare for life in your new city. These insights will guide you in adapting your lifestyle and expectations to the climatic changes between these regions.
Atlanta, GA
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Atlanta, GA
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Atlanta, GA
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Atlanta, GA
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Atlanta | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Atlanta and Charleston experience hot, humid summers, Charleston tends to have slightly cooler temperatures in the summer and milder winters compared to Atlanta. The humidity is noticeably higher in Charleston, which might make the heat feel more intense. For those moving from Atlanta, be prepared for the higher UV Index and the increased risk of hurricanes in Charleston, which contrasts with the occasional tornadoes you might be accustomed to. Additionally, while both cities are prone to pollen allergies, you may find the air quality in Charleston to be a bit better overall.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Atlanta to Charleston
If you're considering a move from Atlanta, GA to Charleston, SC , understanding the differences in the cost of living is crucial. This comparison will help you prepare financially for what to expect in your new city, focusing on factors such as average income, taxes , and living expenses .
| Comparison | Atlanta | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,107 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.6 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 5.75% | 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.07% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.9% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Logistics, Film, Finance | Aerospace, Information Technology, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When relocating, considering the contrasting tax structures between these cities is essential. Charleston has a notably lower property tax rate, potentially benefiting homeowners. However, South Carolina imposes a higher state income tax compared to Georgia. Additionally, while the cost of living indices are fairly similar, it's worth noting that Atlanta's logistical industry significantly boosts its economy, whereas Charleston's thriving tourism sector plays a vital role in its financial landscape.
Atlanta vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This section offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, focusing on a comparison of the politics between Atlanta & Charleston . Understand the local dynamics as you plan your move.
| Atlanta | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Moderately Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive city policies | Traditional governance approaches |
| Religion | Highly diverse religious mix | Predominantly Christian |
When moving to Charleston, you'll find a noticeable shift in political ideology. While Atlanta tends to lean heavily Democratic, particularly in its urban core, Charleston presents a more conservative outlook. This shift is often reflected in local governance, where Atlanta might champion progressive policy reforms, as witnessed with initiatives like the Office of Housing and Community Development, while Charleston maintains traditional approaches focused on heritage and preservation. On the religious spectrum, Atlanta's diverse array of faiths provides a stark contrast to the predominantly Christian demographic that shapes Charleston's cultural framework. Adapting to these differences can enrich your experience in Charleston—embracing its unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Atlanta vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To help Atlanta residents better understand what daily commutes and traffic would be like when moving to Charleston, we've put together a succinct comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Atlanta & Charleston .
| Comparison | Atlanta | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 35 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, in the downtown area |
When you move from Atlanta to Charleston, you'll likely notice a significant difference in traffic congestion and commute times. Atlanta, known for its heavy traffic, often sees congestion levels that might challenge your patience, making your daily transit more time-consuming. In contrast, Charleston offers relatively smoother traffic, especially outside peak hours, contributing to shorter commute times. While Atlanta provides slightly better public transit options, you might find certain areas in downtown Charleston easier to navigate without a car. Whatever your preference, your lifestyle will play a vital role in how you adapt to these transportation differences.
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