Best Indianapolis to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Indianapolis to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 728 mile move from Indiana to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Indianapolis 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 Smooth Move Charleston), 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.82 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | You Move Me Indianapolis | 8.75 | 8.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Indianapolis to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 728 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,400 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Charleston move is roughly $5,757. 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 | $1,615 | 300 ft³ | 5.38 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,400 | 450 ft³ | 5.33 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,963 | 750 ft³ | 5.28 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,757 | 1100 ft³ | 5.23 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,294 | 1600 ft³ | 5.18 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,241 | 1800 ft³ | 5.13 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Indianapolis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis 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) |
Bulldogs Moving Co.
Noblesville, IN, 46060
About Bulldogs Moving Co.
Bulldogs Moving Co., based in Lapel, Indiana, is a local moving company dedicated to providing high-quality services for residential and commercial...
Services
- Full-service Moves
- Packing / Unpacking
- Loading / Unloading
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3784131 / 1472268 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2021) |
Soft Touch Moving
5136b E 65th St
Indianapolis, IN, 46220
About Soft Touch Moving
Soft Touch Moving has more than 20 years in the moving and relocation industry. It has consistently provided quality full-service moving,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 707793 / 331362 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2023) |
You Move Me Indianapolis
Speedway, IN, 46224
About You Move Me Indianapolis
You Move Me Indianapolis is a professional moving company founded in September 2012 with the goal of revolutionizing the local moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Senior Moving
- Premium Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3821121 / 1382732 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (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.
Indianapolis vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Use this guide to easily compare local neighborhoods between Indianapolis, IN & Charleston, SC . By understanding how your familiar environment aligns with your new destination, you can better acclimate and find comfort in Charleston's vibrant neighborhoods by drawing parallels with where you currently live in Indianapolis.
| Indianapolis | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Broad Ripple | Avondale | Bohemian vibe, artsy community |
| Fountain Square | King Street | Hip, vibrant nightlife |
| Meridian-Kessler | South of Broad | Historic, charming architecture |
| Mass Ave | French Quarter | Art scene, bustling energy |
| Carmel | Mount Pleasant | Suburban, family-friendly |
| Lockerbie Square | Ansonborough | Quaint, historic appeal |
| Zionsville | Sullivan's Island | Quiet, small-town charm |
| Downtown Indianapolis | Charleston Historic District | Lively, cultural center |
| Irvington | West Ashley | Eclectic, community feel |
| Butler-Tarkington | Cannonborough/Elliottborough | University nearby, diverse |
If you're drawn to the artistic vibrancy of Broad Ripple, you'll love Avondale's bohemian vibe and thriving arts community. Discover hidden galleries and eclectic shops around every corner. For those who relish the lively nightlife of Fountain Square, King Street delivers with its array of trendy bars and live music venues. While Meridian-Kessler entices with its historic charm and beautiful homes, South of Broad offers similar allure with its cobblestone streets and pre-Civil War homes. Families relocating from the suburban comfort of Carmel will feel right at home in Mount Pleasant, known for its excellent schools and family-friendly parks like Mount Pleasant Recreation. Finally, if Downtown Indianapolis' cultural heart appeals to you, the Charleston Historic District promises to captivate with its rich history and renowned culinary scene, including celebrated restaurants like Husk.
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 Indianapolis to Charleston
When considering your relocation from Indianapolis, IN to Charleston, SC, it's important to assess both the advantages and drawbacks of this decision. These charts aim to provide an honest reflection of what you gain and relinquish in the process.
Indianapolis, IN- Harsh winters
- Fewer beaches
- Limited historic charm
- Fewer seafood options
- Flat landscape
Charleston, SC- Milder winters
- Beautiful beaches
- Rich in history
- Seafood cuisine
- Coastal views
Charleston, SC- Fewer tech jobs
- Higher hurricane risk
- Tourist traffic
- Limited sports teams
- Higher living costs
Indianapolis, IN- Robust job market
- Lower hurricane risk
- Less traffic congestion
- Colts sports culture
- Affordable cost of living
Charleston offers the allure of milder winters and stunning beaches like Folly Beach, perfect for embracing a more relaxed, coastal lifestyle. History enthusiasts will relish sites such as Fort Sumter and the charming streets of the French Quarter. On the culinary front, indulge in renowned seafood restaurants like Hank's Seafood. Though you might miss the robust job market of Indianapolis—highlighted by industries at 16 Tech—Charleston compensates with its unique charm and vibrant communities like Daniel Island and Charleston's art galleries.
Indianapolis vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and greatly influences lifestyle. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Charleston to help you better understand the food scene where you are considering relocating.
| Indianapolis | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Tenderloin Sandwich | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzels | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Burger | Quinoa Bowl |
| 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 famed for its seafood-centric cuisine, with Shrimp and Grits being a quintessential dish that you can savor in neighborhoods like the Historic District, especially at places like Husk. The city hosts an impressive array of restaurants, fostering a vibrant foodie scene with high ratings in health consciousness and vegan-friendly options. Visiting Hank's Seafood Restaurant not only gets you delicious local flavors, but it also immerses you in Charleston's renowned culinary atmosphere. Neighborhoods like French Quarter offer an opportunity to indulge in the local street food, featuring classics like boiled peanuts. While Charleston may not have as many food trucks as Indianapolis, its culinary heritage makes up for the lack with diverse restaurant offerings.
Indianapolis vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Finding a good restaurant is vital for making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Indianapolis and Charleston offers you a taste of new potential favorites by mirroring eateries you already cherish.
| Indianapolis | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| St. Elmo Steak House | Halls Chophouse | Known for its legendary steaks |
| The Eagle | Poe's Tavern | Casual atmosphere with comfort food |
| Bluebeard | FIG | Similar focus on fresh, local ingredients |
| Milktooth | Millers All Day | Celebrated for innovative brunches |
| Shapiro's Delicatessen | Brown Dog Deli | Iconic and historic deli experiences |
| Rook | Xiao Bao Biscuit | Inventive Asian fusion flavors |
| Workingman's Friend | Grill 225 | Famed for its burgers and casual charm |
| Livery | Minero | Offers a modern twist on Mexican cuisine |
| Patachou on the Park | The Daily | A breakfast and coffee haven |
| Napolese Pizzeria | Monza | Known for artisan pizzas |
For steak enthusiasts, Halls Chophouse in Charleston mirrors the legendary vibe of Indianapolis's St. Elmo Steak House, offering premium cuts celebrated by locals and visitors alike. If brunch is your craving, Millers All Day captures the innovative brunch essence found at Milktooth. Meanwhile, FIG brings a similar dedication to fresh, local ingredients as seen at Bluebeard. For those seeking comfort, Poe's Tavern creates an enticing atmosphere akin to The Eagle, with beloved comfort dishes you can enjoy in a laid-back setting. Each of these Charleston venues offers a familiar taste while introducing you to the unique flavors of your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Indianapolis vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most critical factors during a move. Knowing how Indianapolis and Charleston compare will help you make an informed decision. This comparison looks at a variety of factors to ensure a comprehensive understanding of your potential new home.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Yards, Patios | Historic Character, Water Views |
When deciding between Indianapolis and Charleston, one key factor to consider is home style and lifestyle preference. In Indianapolis, homes often feature Colonial Revival architecture and you may find listings emphasizing spacious yards and patios. On the other hand, if the charm of Federal-style homes that emphasize history and water views speak to you, Charleston might have a stronger appeal. You’ll also notice that Charleston offers higher walkability with its dense, historic downtown districts, making it easier to enjoy on foot. Meanwhile, Indianapolis, with its relatively lower cost of living, provides spacious living environments and might offer more bang for your buck.
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.
Indianapolis vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the weather differences you'll experience. Comparing Indianapolis and Charleston helps you prepare for the changes in temperature, humidity, and other climatic factors, ensuring a smoother transition to your new environment.
Indianapolis, IN
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Indianapolis, IN
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Indianapolis to Charleston means saying goodbye to harsh winters and significant snowfall, as Charleston enjoys much milder winter temperatures. However, the warmer climate also comes with increased humidity and a higher UV index, requiring more sun protection. Charleston's weather also features more sunny days, making outdoor activities more frequent throughout the year. While Indianapolis faces tornado threats, Charleston is more susceptible to hurricanes, necessitating different preparations for natural disasters. Understanding these regional weather variations can significantly impact your daily life, from the clothes you wear to the activities you plan.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indianapolis to Charleston
If you're planning to move from Indianapolis to Charleston , understanding the financial differences can be crucial. This comparison highlights the cost of living , taxes , and local economic characteristics to help you make informed decisions about your relocation.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,479 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.2 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 3.23% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.87% | 0.55% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Logistics | Tourism, Aeronautics, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
When relocating from Indianapolis to Charleston, several financial factors are worth considering. The cost of living index is notably higher in Charleston, which might affect your budget and lifestyle. Despite the higher living costs, Charleston offers a state income tax benefit of 0%, a stark contrast to Indianapolis's 3.23%. Charleston's economic landscape is also diverse, with booming industries like tourism, aeronautics, and technology. These economic opportunities might provide career advantages if you're aligned with those sectors.
Indianapolis vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This section offers a comparison of the politics between Indianapolis & Charleston , providing a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Understanding these differences can give you insights into the community dynamics you’ll encounter in Charleston.
| Indianapolis | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate | Conservative |
| Local Politics | Balanced policies | Traditionally Republican |
| Religion | Christian, diverse denominations | Christian, strong Baptist influence |
As you transition from Indianapolis to Charleston, you'll notice a shift in political and religious landscapes. Indianapolis boasts a moderate political climate, offering a mix of policies that cater to various views. In contrast, Charleston leans more conservative, with traditionally Republican influences guiding local policies. Religiously, both cities are rooted in Christianity, but Charleston has a notable [Baptist influence](https://www.visit-historic-charleston.com/charleston-churches.html). Understanding these nuances can help ease your transition and offer opportunities to engage with community events that resonate with your values.
Indianapolis vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Indianapolis to Charleston involves navigating not just a change in scenery but also a shift in how you get around. Understanding the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Charleston is crucial for a smooth transition into your daily life, whether it involves commuting to work or exploring your new city.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | No |
When comparing public transit options, Indianapolis offers limited access, so relying on a car is typically necessary. Charleston provides a slightly better public transit system, but navigating without a car can still be challenging, especially if you plan on heading to the beach. The traffic itself can be slightly more congested in Charleston, potentially due to its alluring historic sites and popular eateries such as Husk. Despite this, the average commute time remains nearly identical, giving you more time to enjoy the charming locales you'll find in both cities.
Additional Resources
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