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 177 mile move from Kentucky to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 11 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 Ready Set Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 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.

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Best Lexington to Charleston Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
2From Here to There9.148.82Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving8.769.14Authorized For HHGContact
4Kentuckiana Moving, LLC8.649.1Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Central Van Lines8.168.11Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Lexington to Charleston

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 177 miles from Lexington, KY to Charleston, WV will cost on average $1,932 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lexington to Charleston move is roughly $4,612. 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$1,303300 ft³4.34
1 Bedroom$1,932450 ft³4.29
2 Bedrooms$3,182750 ft³4.24
3 Bedrooms$4,6121100 ft³4.19
4 Bedrooms$6,6281600 ft³4.14
5+ Bedrooms$7,3671800 ft³4.09
*Please note: These Kentucky to West Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Kentucky & West Virginia. 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 WV mover.
Kentucky iconArrow iconWest Virginia icon
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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)

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
1
From Here to There Logo

From Here to There

Exceptional9.14/10
based on 715+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3481118 / 1254688

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,500 (2022)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
Central Van Lines Logo

Central Van Lines

Very Good8.16/10
based on 347+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1243887 / 11266

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans44
Registered Drivers35
Total Annual Miles Moved487,000 (2019)
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.

Lexington vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

Moving cities can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when navigating unfamiliar areas. Our guide aims to help you make sense of the transition by comparing the neighborhoods in Lexington, KY & Charleston, WV . By using familiar Lexington neighborhoods as a baseline, you'll better understand Charleston's local landscape.

LexingtonCharlestonHow They're Similar
Chevy ChaseKanawha CityVibrant dining and shopping
BeaumontSouth HillsFamily-friendly, good schools
DowntownEast EndHistoric and cultural hub
HamburgBig ChimneyRetail and commerce center
KenwickEdgewoodQuirky charm, friendly community
MeadowthorpeNorth CharlestonSuburban feel, close to downtown
SouthlandSouth ParkLively with local boutiques
Pine MeadowsIndian VillageQuiet with green spaces
GardensideSt. AlbansPeaceful with community parks
Masterson StationCross LanesExpansive parks and recreation

If you're enchanted by the lively dining scene in Lexington's Chevy Chase, Charleston's Kanawha City offers a similar charm with its vibrant shops and eateries. Meanwhile, those residing in Beaumont for its family-friendly atmosphere might find a perfect match in South Hills, celebrated for its strong community ties and reputable schools. Downtown Lexington's energy, filled with culture and historic sights, finds its counterpart in the East End of Charleston, a focal point of arts and history. For those who adore Lexington’s Hamburg district for shopping and entertainment, Big Chimney offers a bustling retail experience, perfect for shopping enthusiasts.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Lexington to Charleston

Making the move from Lexington, KY to Charleston, WV involves considering various factors that may impact your lifestyle and well-being. This chart comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and the bad of this relocation, highlighting areas where Charleston stands out against Lexington and vice versa.

CONs
PROs
Lexington, KY iconLexington, KY
  • Traffic congestion
  • Higher living costs
  • Limited green spaces
  • Urban sprawl
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Less crowded roads
  • Affordable housing
  • Ample parks
  • Compact city layout
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Fewer dining options
  • Quieter evenings
  • Less equine focus
  • Smaller job market
Lexington, KY iconLexington, KY
  • Vibrant food scene
  • Active nightlife
  • Rich horse culture
  • More job opportunities

While each city has its unique appeal, Charleston offers a refreshing counterbalance to some of Lexington's drawbacks. The neighborhoods around Charleston, such as Coonskin Park, provide lush greenery and outdoor spaces perfect for relaxation and activities—something not as easily found in more densely-packed Lexington. For those who enjoy dining out, Lexington's [Vibrant food scene](https://www.visitlex.com/restaurants/) may be missed, though you can still explore local favorites like Dem 2 Brothers & A Grill in Charleston for authentic eats. Moreover, the transition to a calmer nightlife might be a welcome change if you're seeking tranquility over hustle and bustle. Each location brings its own brand of charm and opportunity, making your future in Charleston a cozy yet adventurous prospect.

Lexington vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is an intrinsic part of local culture and greatly influences what it's like to live in a particular area. In this section, we'll compare the local cuisine between Lexington & Charleston so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.

LexingtonCharleston
Most iconic local food itemHot BrownPepperoni Roll
Most popular meat dishFried ChickenChicken Fried Steak
Most popular street food itemBourbon BallsSlaw Dogs
Most popular vegan foodVegan BBQ SandwichStuffed Peppers
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Coles 735 Main
  • Lockbox at 21c
  • Postmasters' Pub
  • Bluegrass Kitchen
  • Local Bites
  • Bridge Road Bistro
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Charleston, the Pepperoni Roll remains a culinary staple, often found in the bustling Capitol Market located downtown. This area also features vendors serving up other local favorites like the Slaw Dogs, providing a convenient way for you to sample Charleston’s take on street food. For those who prefer vegan options, the cozy neighborhood of South Hills hosts eateries specializing in dishes like stuffed peppers, showcasing a growing trend towards plant-based meals. While the abundance of food trucks in Charleston may not rival that of Lexington’s diverse options, neighborhoods like East End offer occasional food truck rallies that highlight local flavors. Whether you’re a foodie or someone with a preference for healthy or vegan options, Charleston holds its own charm with a more intimate yet welcoming dining scene.

Lexington vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Exploring new culinary landscapes can help you feel at home in your new area . By comparing familiar dining spots between Lexington and Charleston , you may discover your next favorite eatery that mirrors the tastes and experiences you love. This guide aims to align your food-loving journey with recognizable flavors and vibes as you transition to a new city.

LexingtonCharlestonWhat You'll Love
Jeff Ruby's SteakhouseSixpence PubClassic steakhouse vibes with a modern twist
LockboxAnthony's on the RiverArtful cuisine in an upscale setting
Mayan CafeBricks & BarrelsFusion dining with local ingredients
Ramsey's DinerBluegrass KitchenHomestyle cooking with a creative flair
Goodfellas PizzeriaPies & PintsNeapolitan-style pizza with craft brews
Josie'sCafe AppalachiaFamily-friendly spot with breakfast favorites
Table Three TenLeon's on the LeveeCreative small plates and cocktails
Carson'sNoah's Modern on CapitalModern American fare in an elegant space
Tolly-HoFireside GrilleBurgers and comfort food with a local twist
Dudley's on ShortSouth Hills Market & CafeFarm-to-table elegance

When you're craving the richness of a hearty steak, Sixpence Pub in Charleston offers a modern take that's reminiscent of the distinguished flavors at Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse in Lexington. For those who embrace the fusion of diverse tastes, the playful culinary artistry at Bricks & Barrels will remind you of the innovative dishes at Mayan Cafe, both committed to using local ingredients whenever possible. Don't miss Pies & Pints, which pairs exquisite Neapolitan-style pizzas with a fine assortment of local craft brews, capturing the essence of casual dining that Goodfellas Pizzeria is renowned for in your former hometown.

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Lexington vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor in a relocation, helping you make informed decisions about your new living environment. This comparison highlights housing differences between Lexington and Charleston , focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects.

ComparisonLexingtonCharleston
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalVictorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen Floor PlansFireplaces

When moving to Charleston, you will find housing costs generally more affordable compared to Lexington, with a notably lower median home price and rental costs. However, Lexington offers a more modern urban lifestyle with popular features like open floor plans, as opposed to Charleston’s historical charm accentuated by Victorian architecture and cozy fireplaces. While the bikeability in both cities is fairly similar, Charleston edges out a bit in walkability, making it a slightly more pedestrian-friendly city. Exploring local real estate in both cities can offer insights into their unique lifestyle offerings. Checking out local resources, such as the Lexington Visitors Center or the Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau, can provide additional community insights and help gauge the feel of each location.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Lexington vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

When planning a move, it's essential to understand how the weather in Lexington, KY compares to Charleston, WV . This information is *crucial* as weather affects lifestyle, activities, and even health. Being informed helps you set proper expectations and prepare for the climate changes.

Summer icon
86/66

Lexington, KY

84/64

Charleston, WV

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
43/28

Lexington, KY

42/26

Charleston, WV

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
46

Lexington, KY

45

Charleston, WV

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
10

Lexington, KY

18

Charleston, WV

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLexingtonCharleston
Air QualityGoodGood
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsFloods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

As you dive deeper into the climate differences, you'll find Charleston experiences fewer sunny days compared to Lexington, which might require some adjustment if sunlight impacts your mood or daily activities. The two cities have similar average temperatures in both summer and winter, but Charleston gets more snowfall, which can affect transportation and daily life in the colder months. If allergies are an issue, both cities present challenges with pollen, albeit from slightly different sources. Understanding these nuances will aid you in adapting smoothly to Charleston's environment.

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

If you're planning to move from Lexington, KY to Charleston, WV , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial factors will differ. This comparison will help you better anticipate and prepare for the changes you may encounter in your new city.

ComparisonLexingtonCharleston
Avg. Household Income$60,942
Cost of Living Index92.892.7
State Income Tax5.06.5
Avg. Property Tax0.830.59
Avg. Sales Tax6.06.5
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, ManufacturingEnergy, Health Services, Retail
AffluenceModerateModest
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessMinimalNoticeable

When considering a move from Lexington to Charleston, the cost of living index could be a significant factor for you as it is noticeably lower in Charleston, suggesting overall cheaper living expenses. However, be ready for slightly higher state income and sales taxes in Charleston than Lexington. While Lexington boasts a higher average household income, property tax rates are lower in Charleston, which could offer some reprieve in terms of real estate expenses. It's also important to recognize the differences in industry focus between the two cities, as this might impact job opportunities depending on your field. Knowing these factors, you'll be in a better position to plan your budget and career path accordingly.

Lexington vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

To help you better understand your upcoming move, we've provided a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape of your current city compared to your new home. This comparison of the politics between Lexington & Charleston will offer insights that can aid you in adapting to your new environment.

LexingtonCharleston
Political Make-upLargely DemocraticMore Republican-leaning
Local PoliticsProgressive policies are popular and often enacted at the city level.Local government focuses on traditional values and community initiatives.
ReligionDiverse religious representation with a significant presence of different denominationsDominantly Christian, with many community activities centered around the church

When moving from Lexington to Charleston, you may notice a shift in the political atmosphere. Lexington, known for its progressive stance, often supports Democratic candidates, which can be seen in local government policies. On the other hand, Charleston leans more Republican, reflecting a preference for maintaining traditional values. This difference is mirrored in community involvement as well. While Lexington's diversity is highlighted in its religious makeup, Charleston's community life often revolves around Christian congregations, providing an opportunity for active engagement in local events and activities.

Lexington vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding daily commute and traffic patterns is vital when moving to a new city. This guide offers a clear comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Lexington & Charleston to aid in your transition and daily planning. Whether you’re considering public transport or driving, this insight will help ease your adjustment.

ComparisonLexingtonCharleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2015
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?PossibleDifficult

When considering your options between Lexington and Charleston, the average commute time plays a crucial role. Lexington, with a slightly longer commute, may require more patience during peak hours. On the brighter side, the city’s public transit, provided by Lextran, might serve as a feasible alternative for those residing close to transit lines. In contrast, Charleston presents less traffic congestion, contributing to shorter commute times, but a reliance on a personal vehicle is more pronounced here. Although KRT provides public transportation, its limited reach could be a challenge if you prefer living car-free.

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