Best New Orleans to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from New Orleans to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 938 mile move from Louisiana to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 7 New Orleans to Charleston moving companies and more than 15,000 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in New Orleans 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 New Orleans to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Bart's Office Inc. | 6.99 | 2.12 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Two Men and a Truck | 6.87 | 6.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Northshore Moving Company | 5.28 | 7.29 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from New Orleans to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 938 miles from New Orleans, LA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,579 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom New Orleans to Charleston move is roughly $6,194. 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 | $1,734 | 300 ft³ | 5.78 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,579 | 450 ft³ | 5.73 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,261 | 750 ft³ | 5.68 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,194 | 1100 ft³ | 5.63 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,929 | 1600 ft³ | 5.58 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,956 | 1800 ft³ | 5.53 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to New Orleans guide.
Compare the 5 Best New Orleans to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Central Van Lines
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
Bart's Office Inc.
2838 Elysian Fields Ave
New Orleans, LA, 70122
About Bart's Office Inc.
Bart's Office, founded in 1978, stands out in the New Orleans, Louisiana, area as a moving company that specializes in commercial...
Services
- Full service commercial relocation
- Installation/reconfiguration of cubical office space
- Restaurant & Apartment appliance installation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2118069 / 739860 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
5029 Bloomfield St
New Orleans, LA, 70121
About Two Men and a Truck
In just over 35 years of operation, Two Men and A Truck has come from humble beginnings to becoming one of...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2147737 / 746991 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 2,300,000 (2022) |
Northshore Moving Company
1615 Poydras St Suite 900
New Orleans, LA, 70112
About Northshore Moving Company
With roots in Hammond, Louisiana, Northshore Moving Company has made its mark over the past 12 years by providing top-notch moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- White Glove Delivery
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2034397 / 714199 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (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.
New Orleans vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Whether you're moving for work, family, or new experiences, understanding your new city is crucial. By comparing local neighborhoods between New Orleans, LA & Charleston, WV , we help you find familiarity and comfort amidst the unknowns of transition.
| New Orleans | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | East End | Historic charm, vibrant nightlife |
| Garden District | South Hills | Upscale housing, lush gardens |
| Marigny | Kanawha City | Artistic community, cultural vibe |
| Bywater | West Side | Bohemian spirit, eclectic shops |
| Uptown | Fort Hill | Tree-lined streets, residential appeal |
| Mid-City | North Charleston | Diverse, family-friendly |
| Lakeview | Edgewood | Suburban feel, community-focused |
| Central Business District | Downtown Charleston | Business hub, lively atmosphere |
| Lower Garden District | South Ruffner | Historic homes, quiet residential |
| Treme | Capitol Market | Rich history, cultural hub |
If the vibrant energy and historic streets of the French Quarter captivate you, then the East End in Charleston will feel like home with its blend of classic architecture and lively nightlife. Garden District aficionados will find South Hills resonates with its upscale homes nestled amongst lush landscapes, offering a similar dose of charm and tranquility. In Marigny, the artistic allure is unforgettable, paralleled by Kanawha City's thriving creative community and cultural vibrancy. For those who cherish the bohemian atmosphere of Bywater, Charleston’s West Side boasts eclectic shops and a unique spirit waiting to be explored. As you settle into Mid-City’s diverse, family-friendly vibes, the welcoming arms of North Charleston open up with communal festivals and local eateries like Local Café.
Things to Do in Charleston
Explore the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences- Stroll through Capitol Market
- Hike in Kanawha State Forest
- Catch a show at Mountain Stage
- Shop at Charleston Town Center
- Learn at West Virginia State Museum
- Enjoy a meal at Bricks & Barrels
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from New Orleans to Charleston
Making the move from a vibrant city like New Orleans, LA to the scenic charm of Charleston, WV involves evaluating the pros and cons of relocating from New Orleans, LA to Charleston, WV. Such comparisons offer an honest reflection on what you might miss and what new perks you'll enjoy.
New Orleans, LA- Summer heat
- Hurricane risk
- Traffic congestion
- High living costs
Charleston, WV- Cooler temperatures
- Safe from hurricanes
- Lighter traffic
- Affordable housing
Charleston, WV- Limited nightlife
- Less diverse
- Fewer dining options
- Fewer festivals
New Orleans, LA- Rich nightlife
- Cultural diversity
- Gourmet food scene
- Mardi Gras celebrations
Relocating from New Orleans to Charleston has its set of contrasts. While New Orleans is famous for dynamic events like Mardi Gras and is a food lover's paradise with [Café du Monde](Café du Monde) offering iconic beignets, in Charleston, you can enjoy quieter showcases of local heritage at [Capitol Market](Capitol Market). For lovers of the outdoors, Charleston provides a refreshing change with its nearby [Haddad Riverfront Park](Haddad Riverfront Park), offering serene views and less hustle compared to New Orleans' lively [Audubon Park](Audubon Park). Adapting to Charleston's climate can be a welcome reprieve from New Orleans' summer heat, offering a more consistent seasonal experience.
New Orleans vs. Charleston Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between New Orleans & Charleston is key to understanding the cultural and societal flavors of each city. The diverse food scene is integral to a city’s lifestyle and this guide aims to acquaint you with the local gastronomic delights as you transition between these vibrant locations.
| New Orleans | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Gumbo | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular meat dish | Jambalaya | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Po' boy | Barbecue |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu Jambalaya | Vegan Chili |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While New Orleans offers a rich culinary landscape filled with iconic dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, you'll find Charleston's food scene more hearty and centered around comfort foods like hot dogs and fried chicken. As you move to Charleston, explore the vibrant neighborhood of East End, known for its local restaurants, including the well-loved Brickhouse Bar & Grill serving classic West Virginian BBQ. Although the abundance of food trucks is less than in New Orleans, Charleston boasts unique establishments offering creative takes on local favorites. As a new resident, delve into the local choices and experience the blend of traditional Southern charm with emerging vegan-friendly options.
New Orleans vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is essential in making a city feel like home. Our restaurant comparison between New Orleans and Charleston enables you to discover new favorite dining spots by drawing from your cherished experiences in New Orleans.
| New Orleans | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commander’s Palace | Leon's | Southern culinary tradition with an upscale twist |
| Dooky Chase's Restaurant | Bluegrass Kitchen | Cherished for its regional classics and vibrant atmosphere |
| Napoleon House | Sohos | Historic charm and iconic cocktails |
| Cochon | 1010 Bridge | A playground for pork enthusiasts |
| Jacques-Imo's Café | Pies & Pints | Eclectic flavors in a laid-back setting |
| Willie Mae’s Scotch House | Marshall Café | Renowned for its fried chicken artistry |
| Galatoire's | The Charleston | French elegance meets Southern hospitality |
| Brigtsen's Restaurant | Tricky Fish | Farm-to-table approach with heartfelt dishes |
| Peche Seafood Grill | Sam’s Southeast | Coastal delights amidst rustic decor |
| Sucre | Sugar Pie Bakery | Sweet treats crafted to perfection |
As you make the transition from New Orleans to Charleston, you can indulge in similar culinary experiences that capture the soul of both cities. For those who cherish the fine dining brilliance of Commander's Palace, a visit to Leon's offers exquisite Southern dishes with a sophisticated touch, perfectly mirroring Charleston's charm. If you're a fan of flavorful, eclectic dining from Jacques-Imo's Café, you'll feel right at home at Pies & Pints, where the combination of creative toppings and a vibrant ambiance makes every meal memorable. And when seafood cravings call, head to Sam’s Southeast, where you’ll discover the fresh, coastal flavors that echo the offerings of Peche Seafood Grill from your New Orleans days.
Ready to start your move?
New Orleans vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how housing in New Orleans and Charleston compares. This comparison will help you anticipate costs, architectural styles, and the overall quality of life associated with each city.
| Comparison | New Orleans | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Cottage, French Quarter | Colonial Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Cypress flooring, High ceilings | Fireplaces, Hardwood floors |
When you consider relocating, New Orleans offers a unique blend of historical architecture like its iconic cottages and French Quarter homes, compared to Charleston's more traditional Colonial Revival style. New Orleans prides itself on vibrant neighborhoods that are highly walkable, with a score of 9, making it very suitable for those who enjoy exploring local attractions on foot. Despite a higher median home price, the cost aligns with its bustling urban lifestyle. Charleston, though less walkable, compensates with lower housing costs, offering value for those seeking affordable real estate in a more serene setting, perhaps with charming Charleston harborside views and abundant communal fireplaces.
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.
New Orleans vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When planning a move from New Orleans to Charleston , understanding how the weather varies is essential. It helps you prepare for climate changes, from humidity levels to seasonal temperature shifts and natural disasters .
New Orleans, LA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
New Orleans, LA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
New Orleans, LA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
New Orleans, LA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | New Orleans | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from New Orleans to Charleston, expect significant differences in climate. While New Orleans tends to be hot and humid, with mild winters and a high chance of hurricanes, Charleston offers distinct seasonal changes with cooler winters and occasional snow. You'll also notice fewer sunny days in Charleston, which might require a shift in how you spend your leisure time. If you suffer from allergies, it's key to note that both cities have pollen as a common allergen, but ragweed is more prevalent in Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New Orleans to Charleston
When relocating from one city to another, it is crucial to understand how key financial aspects will differ. This comparison aims to highlight the financial factors you'll encounter when moving from New Orleans, LA to Charleston, WV . By examining elements such as income, taxes, and cost of living, you can better prepare for the financial transition .
| Comparison | New Orleans | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $46,942 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 96 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 6% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.8% | 0.6% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.45% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Energy, Trade | Energy, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lower |
When considering a move from New Orleans to Charleston, it becomes evident that Charlestown offers a lower cost of living than what you might be accustomed to. While the average household income in Charleston is slightly higher, the cost of living index reflects that daily expenses, like groceries and housing, could be more affordable. The state income tax in Charleston is marginally greater, but lower sales tax rates can help mitigate some of the impacts on your purchasing power. Furthermore, if you're employed or considering employment opportunities, the top industries vary; Charleston is driven by sectors such as healthcare and education, unlike New Orleans where tourism and trade play a key role.
New Orleans vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
When relocating from one city to another, understanding the resident demographics is key to a smooth transition. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents by examining the politics between New Orleans & Charleston .
| New Orleans | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly Liberal | Generally Conservative |
| Local Politics | Active Democratic Party presence | Strong Republican Party influence |
| Religion | Catholicism and various Protestant communities | Baptist and other Protestant faiths |
As you consider your move, you'll notice distinct differences in political and religious landscapes. New Orleans leans liberal, with its vibrant culture reflected in its diverse political engagement. This synergizes with the city's strong Democratic presence. On the other hand, Charleston offers a conservative environment, influenced by its active Republican community, where religious life is deeply embedded, predominantly within Baptist and Protestant circles. Understanding these cultural and political climates can help you anticipate and embrace your new community dynamics.
New Orleans vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
The purpose of this guide is to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic conditions you might encounter in New Orleans & Charleston . By comparing the transportation options and traffic conditions, you can prepare for your move and adjust to the new environment with ease.
| Comparison | New Orleans | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 18 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
When moving from New Orleans to Charleston, you'll find that the daily commute in Charleston is generally shorter, averaging just 18 minutes compared to New Orleans' 26 minutes. Charleston presents less traffic congestion, scoring a 3 out of 10, allowing for a smoother drive. However, public transit is less accessible in Charleston, so if you relied on the robust system in New Orleans, you might find this aspect challenging. Unlike New Orleans, where you can often get by without a car, Charleston does require one for most daily needs due to limited public transportation options. Therefore, ensure you plan accordingly to accommodate these differences.
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