Best Baltimore to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Baltimore to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 582 mile move from Maryland to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Baltimore 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 Bookstore 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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Treasure Moving Company | 9.39 | 9.41 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Johnson Piano Moving | 9.38 | 9.44 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Baltimore to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 582 miles from Baltimore, MD to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,935 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Baltimore to Charleston move is roughly $4,636. 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 | $1,303 | 300 ft³ | 4.34 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,935 | 450 ft³ | 4.30 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,193 | 750 ft³ | 4.26 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,636 | 1100 ft³ | 4.21 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,675 | 1600 ft³ | 4.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,433 | 1800 ft³ | 4.13 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Baltimore guide.
Compare the 5 Best Baltimore to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Treasure Moving Company
11140 Rockville Pike # 300
Rockville, MD, 20852
About Treasure Moving Company
Carrying all of your worldly possessions to a new location is no small feat. Throw in the fact that you’re probably...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Residential Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2431129 / 847222 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2021) |
Johnson Piano Moving
14300 Cherry Lane Ct
Laurel, MD, 20707
About Johnson Piano Moving
Johnson Piano Moving is a specialist piano moving company based in Laurel, Maryland that has been operating since 1978. Over its...
Services
- Local & Long-Distance Piano Movers
- Piano Moving Local & Long-Distance
- Climate-Controlled Piano Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1849560 / 667776 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,000 (2022) |
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) |
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.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, but understanding your new locale is easier when using familiar preferences. This guide draws comparisons between local neighborhoods in Baltimore, MD & Charleston, SC , helping you transition seamlessly from a known environment to your new city.
| Baltimore | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Fells Point | French Quarter | Vibrant nightlife with cobblestone streets |
| Federal Hill | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Young crowd, trendy bars |
| Canton | West Ashley | Waterfront views and casual dining |
| Mount Vernon | Harleston Village | History and cultural attractions |
| Inner Harbor | Downtown Charleston | Tourist hub with waterfront attractions |
| Hampden | North Central | Quirky shops and local charm |
| Locust Point | Riverland Terrace | Family-friendly with open spaces |
| Patterson Park | Hampton Park Terrace | Beautiful parks and community events |
| Charles Village | Radcliffeborough | College atmosphere and cultural diversity |
| Roland Park | South Windermere | Leafy streets and suburban feel |
For those who adore Fells Point's lively setting with cobblestone streets and vibrant nightlife, Charleston's French Quarter offers a similar ambiance, perfect for evening strolls at the waterfront. If you're captivated by the historic rowhouses and bustling bars of Federal Hill, Cannonborough/Elliotborough echoes this youthful energy with its trendy eateries and local breweries such as Edmund's Oast. Meanwhile, Mount Vernon's intricate blend of history and art, featuring attractions like the Walters Art Museum, finds its Charleston counterpart in Harleston Village. Here you'll be drawn to sites like the Gibbes Museum of Art. Families will appreciate Locust Point's community spirit and parks, mirrored by Riverland Terrace, where lush gardens and playgrounds such as Gadsdenboro Park encourage outdoor activities for everyone.
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 Baltimore to Charleston
Moving from one city to another brings a mix of positive and negative experiences ; this is especially true when transitioning from Baltimore, MD, to Charleston, SC . Our charts aim to provide an honest reflection of these attributes to aid your decision-making process.
Baltimore, MD- High crime rate
- Traffic congestion
- Industrial scenery
- Harsh winters
- Limited parking
Charleston, SC- Safer neighborhoods
- Smoother commuting
- Scenic coastline
- Milder winters
- Ample parking spaces
Charleston, SC- Fewer galleries
- Less variety
- Limited transit options
- No major league teams
- Fewer historic sites
Baltimore, MD- Vibrant arts scene
- Diverse dining
- Extensive public transit
- Professional sports teams
- Historic landmarks
While you'll miss Baltimore's vibrant arts scene and diverse dining options , Charleston welcomes you with its own style of Southern hospitality. In neighborhoods like Hampton Park, you can find beauty all around, from the historic oaks to the Rose Pavilion. You might also enjoy the less hectic traffic, allowing for easier exploration of areas such as Shem Creek Park, where waterfront dining offers both local seafood and spectacular sunset views. Although the public transit system might not be as extensive as Baltimore's, the walkable streets of Charleston and the picturesque waterfront make getting around a pleasure rather than a chore.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and can provide a deep understanding of life in a particular area. Comparing the local cuisine between Baltimore & Charleston helps you better understand the food scene in your new home. Whether you are transitioning to Charleston, SC from Baltimore, MD, this culinary comparison will prepare you for what to expect in your dining experiences.
| Baltimore | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Crab Cakes | Shrimp & Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Pit Beef | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Sausages | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Crab Cakes | Sweet Potato Pancakes |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Baltimore to Charleston, you'll discover a shift in culinary offerings distinctive to these regions. While Baltimore's seafood culture is dominated by the rich and savory taste of crab cakes, Charleston offers a Lowcountry flair with its iconic shrimp and grits. Upon arrival in Charleston, the historic neighborhood of French Quarter will greet you with treasure troves of southern cuisine including renowned spots like Husk, known for its innovative take on traditional Southern dishes. As a new resident, discovering the abundance of local flavors and experiencing the dynamic foodie scene, rated 9 out of 10, will be an exciting adventure in your journey to explore what Charleston has to offer.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is an integral part of making an area feel like home. This comparison of Baltimore and Charleston restaurants will guide you in finding your new favorite eateries by using their similar beloved establishments as reference points.
| Baltimore | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston | Husk | Recognized for its modern Southern cuisine, similar ambiance |
| Woodberry Kitchen | FIG | Both champion farm-to-table dining with locally sourced ingredients |
| Faidley's Seafood | Hank's Seafood Restaurant | Celebrated for fresh seafood options in iconic settings |
| Thames Street Oyster House | The Ordinary | Offers exquisite oyster selections and seafood experience |
| The Food Market | The Obstinate Daughter | Known for their creative and diverse menu offerings |
| Clavel | Basic Kitchen | Both celebrate a fresh, vibrant menu with innovative twists |
| Ekiben | Xiao Bao Biscuit | Asian fusion delights with a unique local flair |
| Sotto Sopra | Trattoria Lucca | Offers authentic Italian dining experiences |
| La Scala | Ristorante Lidi | Known for their Italian cuisine in cozy atmospheres |
| Miss Shirley's Café | Early Bird Diner | Popular for hearty brunches and comfort food |
As you transition from Baltimore to Charleston, you'll discover familiar comfort in the culinary parallels between these vibrant cities. At Husk, you'll experience a nod to Southern tradition akin to Charleston, with thoughtfully composed dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Seafood aficionados will feel at home at Hank's Seafood Restaurant, where the fresh catch mirrors the iconic offerings of Faidley's Seafood in Baltimore. And for those with a passion for Asian fusion, Xiao Bao Biscuit provides an adventurous dining experience reminiscent of Ekiben, complete with innovative flavors and a community-centered approach. Each of these destinations offers a taste of Baltimore's beloved dining culture, reimagined through the lens of Charleston's vibrant culinary scene.
Ready to start your move?
Baltimore vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to know how Baltimore and Charleston compare when considering a relocation. Housing factors such as cost, style, and walkability can significantly influence your experience in a new city.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Rowhouses | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Renovated kitchen, urban views | Historic charm, porches |
Moving from Baltimore to Charleston presents an interesting shift in both housing costs and architecture. While Charleston offers an abundance of charming Colonial-style homes, Baltimore's classic rowhouses are often less expensive. You'll find Charleston to be a city steeped in history, evident in its architecture and the popular historic landmarks that residents enjoy. In terms of urban lifestyle, both cities offer vibrant opportunities, though Baltimore may have a slight edge with its bustling inner-harbor area. On the other hand, Charleston might appeal more if you are keen on picturesque neighborhoods and outdoor living spaces.
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.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Baltimore, MD to Charleston, SC , it’s essential to understand the weather differences you'll experience. This comparison will help you anticipate the changes and adjust accordingly to your new environment, ensuring a smooth transition and aiding in planning activities and wardrobe adjustments.
Baltimore, MD
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Baltimore, MD
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Baltimore, MD
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Baltimore, MD
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Baltimore | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Flash Floods | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Baltimore to Charleston, you’ll notice a significant change in winter temperatures, with Charleston offering milder winters that are less prone to snowfall. Charleston experiences more sunshine overall, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. On the downside, the humidity in Charleston is notably higher, which can make summer days feel more oppressive. Additionally, while Baltimore deals with flash floods, Charleston's coastal location makes it susceptible to hurricanes, demanding a different kind of preparation and awareness. You'll find that air quality tends to be better in Charleston, which can be a relief for those who are sensitive to air pollutants.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Baltimore to Charleston
Understanding the financial landscape when moving from Baltimore, MD to Charleston, SC is crucial to managing your budget effectively. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in cost of living and adjust your financial plans accordingly.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $54,652 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 119.4 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.75% | 0.00% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.12% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Biotechnology, Finance, Healthcare | Tourism, Tech, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
When moving from Baltimore to Charleston, you'll notice significant differences in economic aspects that can impact your lifestyle and financial planning. While Charleston's cost of living is slightly higher, you'll benefit from the absence of state income tax, which can offer you substantial savings. Property taxes are also lower in Charleston, contributing to a more favorable environment for homeowners. Conversely, Charleston has a higher sales tax, which might affect your overall spending patterns. The regions differ in their industry emphases, with Charleston's economy buoyed by tourism and technology, providing diverse job opportunities.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this brief comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This is a comparison of the politics between Baltimore & Charleston .
| Baltimore | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Moderate |
| Local Politics | Democrat majority | Republican influence |
| Religion | Diverse religions with a significant Catholic population | Predominantly Protestant |
When moving from Baltimore to Charleston, you'll find a shift in both political and religious landscapes. Baltimore, with its stronger liberal-leaning tendencies, is characterized by a predominance of Democratic leadership, reflecting the city's diverse urban environment. Charleston, in contrast, offers a more moderate political atmosphere with a notable Republican presence, suggestive of its Southern heritage. In terms of religion, while Baltimore hosts a variety of religious beliefs with a considerable Catholic community, Charleston's religious identity is largely rooted in Protestant traditions, which can be seen in its many historic churches, like St. Michael's Church.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
If you're planning a move from Baltimore, MD to Charleston, SC, understanding the differences in daily commuting and traffic conditions can help ease the transition. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Baltimore & Charleston will provide insights on average commute times, congestion levels, and the necessity of owning a car in each city.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
In Baltimore, the availability of public transportation, thanks to services like the MTA Maryland, provides a viable alternative to driving, allowing you to easily explore the city without owning a car. On the other hand, Charleston's limited public transit options mean that having a car is more essential for navigating the area. Although Charleston enjoys less congestion than Baltimore, you'll still find a bit of traffic during peak hours. So, if you prefer the flexibility of driving without the hustle of heavy traffic, Charleston might offer a more relaxed commuting experience.
Additional Resources
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Popular Baltimore to South Carolina Routes
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