Best Lexington to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Lexington to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 542 mile move from Kentucky to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 16 Lexington 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Lexington 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 Lexington 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 | From Here to There | 9.14 | 8.82 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving | 8.76 | 9.14 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Kentuckiana Moving, LLC | 8.64 | 9.1 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Lexington to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 542 miles from Lexington, KY to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,242 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lexington to Charleston move is roughly $5,371. 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 | $1,510 | 300 ft³ | 5.03 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,242 | 450 ft³ | 4.98 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,699 | 750 ft³ | 4.93 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,371 | 1100 ft³ | 4.88 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,732 | 1600 ft³ | 4.83 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,609 | 1800 ft³ | 4.78 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Lexington guide.
Compare the 5 Best Lexington 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) |
From Here to There
Lexington, KY, 40507
About From Here to There
From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive...
Services
- Residential Move
- Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
- Commercial/Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3481118 / 1254688 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,500 (2022) |
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving
1861 Williamson Ct
Louisville, KY, 40223
About Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving
Your one-stop-shop moving company in Louisville, Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving serves local Kentucky and Southern Indiana residents and businesses with...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1834511 / 1460292 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2022) |
Kentuckiana Moving, LLC
This listing has been claimed by Kentuckiana Moving, LLC147 West Main Street
New Albany, IN, 47140
About Kentuckiana Moving, LLC
With headquarters in New Albany, Kentuckiana Moving serves customers in Louisville and across Southern Indiana. Offering short and long-distance and cross-country...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Home Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2933318 / 1080511 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2018) |
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.
Lexington vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
When comparing the local neighborhoods between Lexington, KY & Charleston, SC , you can better familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. Explore how popular neighborhoods in Lexington find their closest matches in Charleston's unique landscape.
| Lexington | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Chevy Chase | Harleston Village | Quaint streets, historic vibe |
| Beaumont | West Ashley | Suburban feel, family-friendly |
| Downtown | French Quarter | Urban experience, art scene |
| Garden Springs | Mount Pleasant | Community-oriented, green spaces |
| Southland | James Island | Eclectic, diverse community |
| North Limestone | North Charleston | Revitalized, vibrant arts |
| Kenwick | Old Village | Historic, charming homes |
| Landsdowne-Merrick | Daniel Island | Planned communities, parks |
| Chilesburg | Goose Creek | Residential, peaceful living |
| Stonewall | Isle of Palms | Seaside atmosphere, luxury living |
If you find solace in the quaint streets and historic vibe of Chevy Chase, you'll enjoy the similar charm in Harleston Village in Charleston, where history and quaintness meet at every corner. For those who appreciate the suburban feel of Beaumont, West Ashley provides a family-friendly alternative with sprawling neighborhoods and ample green spaces like West Ashley Park. In the heart of urban excitement, Lexington's Downtown has its Charleston counterpart in the French Quarter, known for its vibrant art scene and sights like the Charleston Museum, offering a seamless blend of culture and experience for city dwellers. If the community-oriented environment of Garden Springs appeals to you, Mount Pleasant offers similar green spaces and neighborhood-oriented living, with attractions like Mount Pleasant Towne Centre.
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 Lexington to Charleston
If you're considering a move from Lexington to Charleston, examining the pros and cons of living in both Lexington, KY and Charleston, SC can help you make an informed decision. This guide offers an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, allowing you to weigh your options carefully.
Lexington, KY- Harsher winters
- Limited coastal access
- Less seafood variety
- Fewer cultural events
- Limited historical sites
Charleston, SC- Milder winters
- Close to beaches
- Abundant seafood
- Rich in festivals
- Historical landmarks
Charleston, SC- Higher humidity levels
- Costlier housing market
- Busier tourist crowd
- Might feel overcrowded
- Lack of bourbon culture
Lexington, KY- Horse country charm
- Lower cost of living
- Familiar, smaller town feel
- Strong local community
- Great bourbon tours
Moving to Charleston from Lexington means trading in Kentucky's horse country charm for coastal beauty and historic sights. Lexington's famed Keeneland Race Course and Bourbon Trail offer unique local experiences that might be missed. Still, Charleston's renowned [King Street](Charleston City Market) bustling with boutiques and the savory seafood at [Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar](Fleet Landing) provide their own allure. While Charleston's vibrant festivals such as Spoleto Festival USA and access to stunning beaches might entice, be prepared for the tourists crowds, especially around popular areas like [Historic Downtown](Historic Downtown). Ultimately, this relocation offers a cultural exchange between a strong community feel in Lexington to the lively, festive spirit of Charleston.
Lexington vs. Charleston Food Guide
The local cuisine is a key component of the cultural tapestry unique to any region, significantly shaping your experience of living there. In this section, we compare the local cuisine between Lexington & Charleston , offering insights into the culinary highlights you can expect when moving to your new home.
| Lexington | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Burgoo | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Hot Brown | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Kentucky Bourbon Balls | Hushpuppies |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ Slider | Vegetarian Gumbo |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Charleston offers you the chance to explore diverse neighborhoods that serve up iconic local foods. In areas like Upper King Street, you'll find establishments such as Husk and The Ordinary that capture the essence of Charleston’s culinary scene. If seafood is what you're after, you'll be spoiled for choice with delicious and creatively prepared dishes like Shrimp and Grits and She-Crab Soup. The vibrant vegan scene also offers delightful options such as Vegetarian Gumbo, providing plenty of fantastic dining experiences for plant-based food enthusiasts.
Lexington vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Lexington and Charleston will guide you in discovering your new favorite eateries, using your current hometown as a reference. Whether you're a fan of high-end dining or cozy casual spots, find a taste of familiarity along your journey.
| Lexington | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Coles 735 Main | Charleston Grill | For a refined dining experience |
| Windy Corner Market | Poogan's Porch | Homestyle Southern dishes |
| Dudley's on Short | Husk | Contemporary Southern cuisine |
| Blue Door Smokehouse | Lewis Barbecue | Authentic, slow-smoked barbecue |
| Minton's at 760 | Early Bird Diner | Southern comfort food with a twist |
| Alfalfa's | Millers All Day | Wholesome, farm-to-table options |
| Smithtown Seafood | The Fleet Landing Restaurant | Fresh seafood with coastal views |
| Pies & Pints | Crust Wood Fired Pizza | Handcrafted pizzas |
| Ramsey's Diner | Page's Okra Grill | Classic American diner vibes |
| County Club | Butcher & Bee | Inventive dishes with local ingredients |
Embarking on a culinary exploration in Charleston, you'll find that Southern charm and flavors overlap beautifully with those you know from Lexington. For a refined dining experience, Charleston Grill mirrors the sophistication of Coles 735 Main, offering elegantly crafted dishes. If you cherish homestyle Southern cooking, dining at Poogan's Porch will remind you of the comforts found at Windy Corner Market, rich with tradition and taste. Barbecue enthusiasts will appreciate the authentic, slow-smoked offerings at Lewis Barbecue, providing a meaty counterpart reminiscent of Lexington's beloved Blue Door Smokehouse. As you familiarize yourself with Charleston's dining scene, nuances of familiarity will guide your discoveries, ensuring each new bite feels a bit like home.
Ready to start your move?
Lexington vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Lexington and Charleston compare in terms of housing cost , style , and convenience to ensure a smooth transition during your relocation.
| Comparison | Lexington | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Backyard, Suburban feel | Historic charm, Waterfront views |
Charleston and Lexington offer diverse housing experiences that cater to different preferences. While Lexington is often affordable with a median home price of $230,000, Charleston's historic charm commands a higher value. If you're drawn to architectural styles, Lexington's colonial and Charleston's Victorian buildings provide unique backdrops for everyday life. For those seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle, you'll find Charleston’s eight out of ten urban lifestyle score appealing. Between daily conveniences and aesthetic preferences, both cities have distinct offerings in their real estate markets.
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.
Lexington vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Lexington to Charleston , understanding how the weather will differ is essential for planning your new life. The change in climate can impact everything from your daily activities to your overall comfort in your new home.
Lexington, KY
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Lexington, KY
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Lexington, KY
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Lexington, KY
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Lexington | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Lexington to Charleston means experiencing more sunshine and warmer temperatures, especially during winter. The humidity is slightly higher in Charleston, which can make summer heat feel more intense. While Lexington faces the occasional tornado, Charleston's coastal position makes it more susceptible to hurricanes. The air quality in Charleston is generally moderate compared to Lexington's consistently good air. Additionally, if you're sensitive to allergens, be prepared for the higher pollen levels in Charleston's environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Lexington to Charleston
If you're contemplating a move from Lexington, KY to Charleston, SC , it's crucial to evaluate how the cost of living and overall financial aspects will differ from what you're accustomed to. Understanding these differences helps ensure a smoother transition to your new home and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Lexington | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,942 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.8 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 5.00% | 0.00% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.84% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.00% | 9.00% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Hospitality, Aerospace, IT |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Manageable | Noticeable |
When moving from Lexington to Charleston, you'll notice a difference in state income tax, as South Carolina offers a significant benefit with no state income tax, compared to Kentucky's 5%. However, Charleston's higher cost of living index suggests expenses may be slightly greater in everyday life. While both cities reduce burdens through relatively low property taxes, Charleston's economy presents unique opportunities through a vibrant hospitality and aerospace sector, contrasting with Lexington's strong education and healthcare industries. Despite these financial elements, understanding the nuances of each city's community dynamics can offer deeper insights into the economic landscapes you'll experience daily.
Lexington vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics between Lexington & Charleston, providing a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Understanding these aspects can help you anticipate cultural dynamics and get acquainted with local customs in your new home.
| Lexington | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Republican |
| Local Politics | Moderate policies with a focus on education | Conservative policies with a focus on tourism |
| Religion | Primarily Christian with diverse denominations | Strong Christian influence with Baptist dominance |
As you make your move from Lexington to Charleston, understanding the political and religious landscapes can be quite beneficial. Lexington tends to lean Democratic, characterized by moderate policies often emphasizing education and community development. In contrast, Charleston has a more conservative slant, with local politics often shaped by the tourism industry, a key economic driver in the area. Religion in both cities is predominantly Christian, but Charleston holds a stronger Baptist presence compared to the various Christian denominations in Lexington. This knowledge could help you to better engage with local communities, such as joining a local congregation or participating in civic events.
Lexington vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Comparing the traffic and transportation options between Lexington & Charleston can help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in each city. Discover how each city handles congestion, the role of public transit, and whether you can manage without a car.
| Comparison | Lexington | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Possibly |
Moving from Lexington to Charleston may surprise you with its differing traffic dynamics and transportation options. While both cities have fairly comparable average commute times, Charleston experiences slightly more traffic congestion than Lexington. In terms of public transit, Charleston offers better availability, potentially making it easier for you to rely on local bus routes if you prefer to get by without a car. This difference could be particularly noticeable if you're planning to settle in central areas like downtown Charleston. Ultimately, you might find that the need for a car is less pressing in Charleston compared to Lexington, depending on your location and lifestyle preferences.
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