Best Boston to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Boston to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 757 mile move from Massachusetts to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 53 Boston 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 Stairhopper 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 Boston 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 Boston to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | 9.55 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boston to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 757 miles from Boston, MA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,425 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Charleston move is roughly $5,818. 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 | $1,632 | 300 ft³ | 5.44 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,425 | 450 ft³ | 5.39 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,004 | 750 ft³ | 5.34 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,818 | 1100 ft³ | 5.29 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,382 | 1600 ft³ | 5.24 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,340 | 1800 ft³ | 5.19 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
Intelligent labor & Moving
18 Beck Rd
Arlington, MA, 2476
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2065664 / 725481 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 43,583 (2023) |
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) |
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.
Boston vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, but understanding the local scene can ease the transition. This comparison between Boston, MA & Charleston, WV neighborhoods will help you familiarize yourself with your new environment by using Boston as a baseline.
| Boston | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Beacon Hill | East End | Historic charm, cobblestone streets |
| Back Bay | Kanawha City | Retail presence, brownstone appeal |
| South End | South Hills | Diverse culture, trendy spots |
| North End | Elk City | Rich in history, Italian influence |
| Jamaica Plain | East End | Green spaces, artistic vibe |
| Fenway-Kenmore | Downtown Charleston | Sports, entertainment hub |
| Charlestown | West Side | Historic sites, strong sense of community |
| Seaport District | Capitol Market Area | Waterfront views, lively markets |
| Allston | West Side | Student-friendly, vibrant nightlife |
| Brighton | North Charleston | Suburban feel, local events |
As you transition from Boston to Charleston, WV, you'll find comparable neighborhoods that capture the essence of your favorite Boston areas. If you're fond of Beacon Hill's historic charm, you might enjoy East End's cobblestone streets, offering a similarly quaint and picturesque atmosphere. For those who thrive in the vibrant cultural scene of the South End, South Hills provides trendy spots infused with diverse cultural influences. Meanwhile, sports enthusiasts and entertainment seekers who love Fenway-Kenmore will find the bustling energy of Downtown Charleston to be reminiscent of Boston's iconic neighborhood. Discover Kanawha City for Back Bay lovers eager to explore retail hubs nestled among timeless architectural beauty.
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 Boston to Charleston
In considering a move from one city to another, it's vital to evaluate both the positives and negatives thoroughly. This chart aims to provide an honest reflection of the contrasts between living in Boston, MA and Charleston, WV . By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision about your relocation.
Boston, MA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Harsh winter weather
Charleston, WV- Affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Mild winters
Charleston, WV- Fewer cultural events
- Limited job market
- Car-dependent city
Boston, MA- Rich cultural scene
- Job opportunities
- Public transportation
While moving from Boston to Charleston, you'll find that the reduced cost of living can provide you with more disposable income for leisure and activities. Although Charleston offers fewer cultural events compared to Boston, its charm lies in its local gems, like the scenic Columbia Pond and the calm trails of Kanawha State Forest. Dining spots like 1010 Bridge serve up delightful meals, bringing a taste of local cuisine. While job opportunities might not be as robust, the tight-knit community spirit in neighborhoods such as East End and Elk City can lead to a rewarding living experience.
Boston vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and reflects the spirit of a region. To fully grasp the essence of your new home, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Charleston . This will help you transition smoothly into the food scene you’ll experience after moving.
| Boston | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Pepperoni Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | New England Clam Chowder | Mountain State BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Fenway Frank | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Stir Fry | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants |
|
|
| 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 will introduce you to unique experiences such as the pepperoni roll, a staple in local bakeries and eateries like The Bluegrass Kitchen. While the food truck scene might not be as bustling as in Boston, a visit to Capitol Street during the summer months will still offer a variety of mobile dining options. For a taste of local BBQ ribs, head over to the East End where you'll find authentic smoky flavors that capture the essence of West Virginia's culinary heart.
Boston vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is a vital part of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using Boston as a guide in your move to Charleston, WV .
| Boston | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Oleana | The Bridge Road Bistro | Known for sophisticated Mediterranean dishes |
| Neptune Oyster | Aquarium Restaurant | Offers fresh seafood and local dishes |
| Giulia | Fazio's | Italian cuisine with a focus on handmade pasta |
| Myers + Chang | China Gourmet | Asian fusion with a creative flair |
| Row 34 | The Olive Tree | Seafood with an emphasis on quality and presentation |
| Craigie on Main | South Hills Market and Café | Seasonal menu with innovative dishes |
| Tasting Counter | Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Modern culinary creations with a relaxed atmosphere |
| Flour Bakery + Cafe | Sugar Pie Bakery | Cozy bakery known for its fresh pastries and homemade treats |
| Fenway Park Sausage Guy | Husson's Pizza | A beloved local spot for quick, satisfying bites |
| Regina Pizzeria | Pies & Pints | Celebrated for its stone hearth-baked pizzas and craft beer |
Diving into Charleston's culinary scene, you'll find that while The Bridge Road Bistro mirrors Oleana's sophistication with its Mediterranean offerings, the heartiness of classic Italian cuisine is echoed beautifully at Fazio's, similar to Boston's Giulia. Seafood lovers may draw a parallel between Aquarium Restaurant and Neptune Oyster, each place highlighting fresh local catches. Meanwhile, for those craving top-notch Asian fusion, China Gourmet stands as a creative counterpart to Myers + Chang. Whether you’re in the mood for pastries, pizzas, or seasonal specialties, you'll find Charleston’s offerings reflect the same attention to quality and innovation as your favorite Boston spots.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Boston, MA and Charleston, WV compare in terms of housing characteristics . This comparison aims to highlight the most significant differences and similarities to help make your relocation decision easier.
| Comparison | Boston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to public transit, historical charm | Spacious yards, proximity to <a href="https://www.charlestonwv.gov/">local parks</a> |
Housing in Boston is characterized by higher property prices, driven by its dense urban environment and historical significance. The city's architecture is notably colonial, reflecting its rich history. In contrast, Charleston boasts more affordable housing, with Victorian-style homes being prominent, adding a unique charm to the local neighborhoods. Walking and biking levels are notably higher in Boston, aided by its urban layout and established infrastructure, whereas Charleston's spacious yards reflect its more suburban lifestyle. Additionally, Boston properties often highlight access to public transit and the city's deep historic roots, while Charleston homes emphasize spacious outdoor areas and proximity to local parks for leisure and recreation.
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.
Boston vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Boston, MA to Charleston, WV , understanding the differences in weather can help you prepare for the change in environment. This comparison provides insights into how the climate you have come to expect will compare to your new home, ensuring a smooth transition between these distinct locations.
Boston, MA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Nor'easters | Floods, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Boston and Charleston have four distinct seasons, Charleston's winter temperatures are milder, providing a less harsh cold season than Boston. You can expect slightly more days of sunshine in Charleston, which can brighten your mood and encourage outdoor activities year-round. Though both areas experience specific natural disasters, Charleston is more prone to floods and tornadoes, whereas Boston deals with hurricanes and nor'easters. Awareness of such conditions will help you prepare effectively for your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Charleston
If you're contemplating a move from Boston, MA to Charleston, WV , it's crucial to understand the financial implications . These two cities differ significantly in terms of cost of living , income , and taxation , which can greatly impact your lifestyle and financial planning.
| Comparison | Boston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 5.00% | 6.50% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.17% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25% | 6.00% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Education, Healthcare | Healthcare, Retail, Education |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Prevalent | Low |
When relocating from Boston to Charleston, one of the most immediate benefits is the lower cost of living. While Boston has a high cost of living index at 152, Charleston is considerably more affordable at an index of 82. The average household income in Boston may be higher, but lower taxes in West Virginia, such as property taxes at just 0.57%, help offset income differences. Additionally, with Charleston’s top industries focusing more on healthcare and retail, rather than finance and education, your job prospects and career growth may take a different trajectory compared to Boston.
Boston vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of Boston, MA, and Charleston, WV. You'll learn about the comparison of the politics between Boston & Charleston , including insights into local politics and religious influences in each city.
| Boston | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly liberal | Mostly conservative |
| Local Politics | Democratic stronghold Influential organizations such as the Massachusetts Democratic Party | Republican leaning Active community groups like WV Republican Party |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic population | Predominantly Christian, Protestant majority |
When moving from Boston to Charleston, you will experience a shift from a predominantly liberal political environment to a more conservative one. Boston's local politics are deeply Democratic, with significant influence from organizations like the Massachusetts Democratic Party. Meanwhile, Charleston's political landscape leans Republican with active engagement from groups such as the WV Republican Party. The religious landscape also differs, with Boston showcasing more diversity in religious affiliations, including a notable Catholic community, whereas Charleston has a predominantly Protestant Christian population. Exploring these differences can provide valuable context as you settle into the cultural fabric of Charleston.
Boston vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Charleston to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in each city. Whether you're accustomed to urban congestion or looking for a lower-paced environment, these insights will help you adjust to your new surroundings.
| Comparison | Boston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
In Boston, you can enjoy efficient public transportation provided by the MBTA, making it possible to live without a car, especially in urban areas. In contrast, Charleston offers a more relaxed driving atmosphere with minimal traffic, although public transit options are limited. For example, while the commute time in Charleston is less, having a car is almost essential to navigate areas where public transit doesn't reach. This difference highlights the diverse lifestyle adjustments you might encounter when moving from a bustling metropolis to a quieter city.
Additional Resources
Boston Moving Services
Popular Boston to West Virginia Routes
Popular Moving Resources
