Best Louisville to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Louisville to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 617 mile move from Kentucky to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Louisville 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 Louisville 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.

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Best Louisville to Charleston Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHGContact
2Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
3UNITS of Kentucky8.939.13ActiveContact
4Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving8.769.14Authorized For HHGContact
5Kentuckiana Moving, LLC8.649.1Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Louisville to Charleston

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 617 miles from Louisville, KY to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,306 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Louisville to Charleston move is roughly $5,527. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,552300 ft³5.17
1 Bedroom$2,306450 ft³5.12
2 Bedrooms$3,806750 ft³5.07
3 Bedrooms$5,5271100 ft³5.02
4 Bedrooms$7,9591600 ft³4.97
5+ Bedrooms$8,8641800 ft³4.92
*Please note: These Kentucky to South Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Kentucky & South Carolina. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed KY to SC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Louisville guide.

Compare the 5 Best Louisville to Charleston Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Smooth Move Charleston Logo

Smooth Move Charleston

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2357653 / 834668

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Ready Set Movers Logo

Ready Set Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 902+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2150739 / 756179

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
UNITS of Kentucky Logo

UNITS of Kentucky

Superb8.93/10
based on 186+ data points

1841 Taylor Ave Building # 32

Louisville, KY, 40213

About UNITS of Kentucky

UNITS of Kentucky is a locally-owned and operated moving and portable storage company founded in 2004. The company offers convenient moving...

Services

  • Storage
  • Moving
  • Moving & Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 2/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

439414 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving Logo

Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving

Superb8.76/10
based on 1,707+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1834511 / 1460292

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Kentuckiana Moving, LLC Logo

Kentuckiana Moving, LLC

Fabulous
claimed company icon
8.64/10
based on 4,220+ data points

147 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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 3/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2933318 / 1080511

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2018)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Louisville vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, understanding neighborhood similarities makes the transition smoother. This guide uses a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Louisville, KY & Charleston, SC , comparing popular areas to help you feel right at home in your new surroundings.

LouisvilleCharlestonHow They're Similar
Old LouisvilleHistoric DistrictRich architectural history
NuLuCannonborough/ElliotboroughArtsy, trendy vibe
The HighlandsKing StreetVibrant nightlife and dining
CliftonWest AshleyEclectic mix of shops and homes
Crescent HillMount PleasantQuaint with community feel
JeffersontownNorth CharlestonSuburban, family-oriented
ButchertownEastsideEmerging with industrial charm
AnchorageDaniel IslandScenic and affluent
Lake ForestSummervilleTranquil suburban life

Exploring Louisville's Highlands is a must if you enjoy a lively nightlife scene. Known for its vast array of dining options, King Street in Charleston mirrors this vibrance with local hotspots like Charleston Restaurant Association. Meanwhile, the artsy district of NuLu offers eclectic galleries akin to Cannonborough/Elliotborough’s lively art scene, perfect for exploring contemporary creativity. If you're drawn to picturesque historic charm, both Old Louisville and the Historic District in Charleston boast stunning architecture that captures past eras. Each neighborhood also provides distinctive local parks, such as Cherokee Park in Louisville and Waterfront Park in Charleston, offering serene greenery amidst an urban setting.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Louisville to Charleston

Transitioning from Louisville, KY to Charleston, SC involves weighing various realities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving between Louisville, KY and Charleston, SC to help make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Louisville, KY iconLouisville, KY
  • Cold winters
  • Fewer beach options
  • Limited seafood options
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Warmer climate
  • Coastal living
  • Seafood haven
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Fewer cultural festivals
  • Higher living expenses
  • Heavy tourist influx
Louisville, KY iconLouisville, KY
  • Thriving arts scene
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Diverse culinary landscape

Living in Louisville offers the charm of a thriving arts scene, with venues like the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts providing a cultural feast. You'll find affordable lifestyle benefits, which might be harder to sustain in Charleston with its higher living costs. But the trade-off includes the allure of Charleston’s coastal life, featuring renowned spots such as Folly Beach and a plethora of seafood restaurants like Hank's Seafood Restaurant, which make it a haven for seafood lovers. Although Charleston can become congested with tourists, its neighborhoods, like the historic Historic District, offer charming views and a memorable Southern experience.

Louisville vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is an integral part of the local culture and greatly influences what it's like to live in an area. Here, we compare the local cuisine between Louisville & Charleston to better inform you about the food scene you may be moving to.

LouisvilleCharleston
Most iconic local food itemHot BrownShrimp and Grits
Most popular meat dishBurgooLowcountry Boil
Most popular street food itemBBQ Pork SlidersFried Oyster Po' Boys
Most popular vegan foodGrilled Vegetable Po' BoyVegan Crab Cakes
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Seviche
  • Miller's Fancy
  • Jack Fry's
  • Husk
  • Fig
  • Lewis Barbecue
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 make your way to Charleston, prepare to indulge in its rich culinary heritage. The city is renowned for its Shrimp and Grits, a staple you can taste in its true form at Husk in the charming historic district. Street food enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of food trucks, which offer diverse options like the popular Fried Oyster Po' Boys. For those living a vegan lifestyle, Charleston is home to innovative dishes like Vegan Crab Cakes, available at several eateries around the city. Meanwhile, Charleston also shows a strong commitment to health with a fitness/health score of 8, meaning you'll find plenty of healthy options at local restaurants.

Louisville vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Finding the right restaurants can make a new place feel like home. In this comparison, Louisville 's top eateries are lined up with comparable spots in Charleston to guide you in discovering new favorites. Whether you're craving high-end cuisine or casual comfort, this guide brings beloved tastes from your current hometown to your new city.

LouisvilleCharlestonWhat You'll Love
Jack Fry'sHuskOffers Southern ingredients with an upscale twist
Proof on MainThe OrdinaryBoth provide a blend of contemporary art and culinary excellence
HarvestFigFarm-to-table focus with an emphasis on local produce
HammerheadsPearlz Oyster BarCasual vibes with a tantalizing seafood menu
610 MagnoliaMcCrady'sFine dining experience with seasonal tasting menus
Garage BarThe GriffonRelaxed atmosphere with a robust selection of craft beers
SevicheCafé FramboiseCelebrates bold flavors and culinary artistry
Pizza LupoCoastal CrustBoth highlight a dedication to mastery in pizza making
The Silver DollarPoe’s TavernUnique decor and a distinctive approach to American dining
Highlands Tap RoomThe Tattooed MooseKnown for the lively atmosphere and pub-style offerings

When looking to indulge in the finest Southern cuisine, Husk in Charleston mirrors Louisville's beloved Jack Fry's with its upscale Southern dishes and historic charm. If you appreciate a refined farm-to-table experience, Fig can easily fill the spot of Harvest, bringing you closer to the region's freshest ingredients. Likewise, seafood aficionados will find comfort at Pearlz Oyster Bar, echoing the eclectic, mouth-watering offerings found at Louisville's Hammerheads. Dive into the conviviality of Garage Bar by taking a seat at Charleston's The Griffon, where craft beers and laid-back vibes create the perfect backdrop.

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Louisville vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding real estate differences is crucial when moving. Here's a comparison of Louisville, KY and Charleston, SC to help you make informed decisions about housing costs, styles , and lifestyle .

ComparisonLouisvilleCharleston
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and ColonialHistoric and Coastal
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingPatio, Brick ExteriorPorch, Fireplace

The architectural charm of Charleston's historic and coastal style often commands a higher median home price compared to Louisville's Victorian and Colonial homes. While Charleston offers a more walkable environment, with scenic views of the Battery, Louisville provides a balance between urban and suburban living, evident in areas like the Highlands. If you prefer biking, Charleston features a more manageable network of bike paths, especially around the Downtown area. Rental prices are higher in Charleston, reflecting the city's popularity as a tourist destination, but both cities offer unique advantages depending on your lifestyle preferences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Louisville vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

Understanding the weather differences between Louisville, KY and Charleston, SC can help you prepare for your move. While both cities offer distinct climates, comparing weather patterns highlights what you might need to adjust to – from clothing to lifestyle changes. Use this comparative guide to familiarize yourself with their weather characteristics.

Summer icon
89°F/69°F

Louisville, KY

90°F/72°F

Charleston, SC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
43°F/27°F

Louisville, KY

60°F/40°F

Charleston, SC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
46

Louisville, KY

51

Charleston, SC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
12

Louisville, KY

0.2

Charleston, SC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLouisvilleCharleston
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoesHurricanes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Louisville to Charleston, expect milder winters in Charleston with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing. Summers in both cities are similar in heat, but Charleston's coastal position slightly increases humidity levels. Louisville residents accustomed to four seasons might notice Charleston's propensity towards more stable, warm weather patterns. If you're prone to allergies in Louisville, it's worth considering that Charleston's primary allergens are different, focusing more on tree pollen and mold. Additionally, while tornadoes are a concern in Louisville, Charleston residents need to be aware of the hurricane season and its implications.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Louisville to Charleston

If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This guide will help you navigate the financial differences when relocating from Louisville, KY to Charleston, SC .

ComparisonLouisvilleCharleston
Avg. Household Income$57,182$74,139
Cost of Living Index87.798.3
State Income Tax5%7%
Avg. Property Tax0.93%0.57%
Avg. Sales Tax6%9%
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Manufacturing, ShippingTourism, Aerospace, IT
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessSomewhat prevalentLess prevalent

Relocating to Charleston means adjusting to a higher cost of living compared to Louisville. The average household income is higher in Charleston, which may help offset some expenses like the greater state income and sales taxes. You'll also find that property taxes are lower in Charleston, a potential benefit if homeownership is in your plans. The industries driving each city’s economy are quite different; Charleston's economy leans heavily on tourism and aerospace, offering distinct employment opportunities from Louisville's healthcare and manufacturing sectors.

Louisville vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in these cities. This comparison of the politics between Louisville & Charleston offers you a glance at how these elements shape daily life in both places, from local decisions to cultural dynamics.

LouisvilleCharleston
Political Make-upLiberal-leaningModerate-leaning
Local PoliticsCity Council trends progressiveCity Council favors centrist policies
ReligionMajority Christian with diverse presenceHeavily Christian with historical ties

When moving from Louisville to Charleston, you'll notice that while both cities have a notable Christian presence, Charleston's religious landscape is richly woven into its historical fabric. This underpins many of the city's traditions and community events. Politically, Charleston leans more moderate, hosting a mix of centrist voices in its city council and local government. This mixture can create a balanced approach to governance, unlike Louisville's current progressive trends. These differences can be enlightening, offering you new perspectives in community dynamics and decision-making processes.

Louisville vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, here is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Louisville & Charleston . This will provide insights on factors like commute times, congestion, and public transit options to help in your move.

ComparisonLouisvilleCharleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

When transitioning to Charleston, you'll notice that the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Louisville, although both cities have comparable traffic congestion levels. Charleston offers a more robust public transit system, scoring higher in availability, which can be advantageous if you prefer using buses or trains. Furthermore, you might find it feasible to live without a car in Charleston, thanks to its well-connected public transportation options. Exploring your new city might be easier as you can rely on public transit more than you could in Louisville.

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