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 366 mile move from Maryland to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 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 - $5,000 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 | 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 Baltimore to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 366 miles from Baltimore, MD to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,092 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Baltimore to Charleston move is roughly $5,005. 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 | $1,410 | 300 ft³ | 4.70 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,092 | 450 ft³ | 4.65 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,450 | 750 ft³ | 4.60 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,005 | 1100 ft³ | 4.55 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,200 | 1600 ft³ | 4.50 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,010 | 1800 ft³ | 4.45 |
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) |
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.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
The goal of this guide is to help you navigate an unfamiliar city by comparing neighborhoods between Baltimore, MD & Charleston, WV . By mapping similar areas, you can find comfort in recognizing familiar characteristics and amenities of your new home.
| Baltimore | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Fells Point | Capitol Market | Vibrant food scene |
| Canton | South Hills | Young professionals, trendy |
| Mount Vernon | East End | Arts and culture |
| Federal Hill | Kanawha City | Nightlife and dining |
| Hampden | Elk City | Quirky, eclectic vibe |
| Inner Harbor | Magic Island | Waterfront recreation |
| Roland Park | South Ruffner | Historical charm |
| Locust Point | North Charleston | Community feel |
| Harbor East | Downtown Charleston | Shopping and dining |
| Charles Village | Edgewood | University atmosphere |
If you're drawn to Fells Point's lively atmosphere, you'll enjoy the vibrant food scene at Charleston's Capitol Market, where local vendors coincide with charming eateries. Canton is ideal for young professionals, with its trendsetting buzz mirrored by [South Hills](https://southhillsshop.com/), a residential area thrumming with chic spots. History enthusiasts enamored by Roland Park's classic architecture will find a similar allure in South Ruffner, rich with historical homes and tree-lined streets. For those who appreciate waterfront activities, a move from Baltimore's Inner Harbor to Charleston's Magic Island offers a smooth transition to community events and scenic views. Whether it's arts, dining, or tranquility you seek, each Charleston neighborhood mirrors Baltimore's finest facets.
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 Baltimore to Charleston
This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Baltimore, MD to Charleston, WV . By outlining both pros and cons, you can make a well-informed decision on your transition.
Baltimore, MD- High crime rates
- Heavy traffic
- High cost of living
- Overcrowded
Charleston, WV- Lower crime rates
- Lighter traffic
- More affordable living
- Quieter lifestyle
Charleston, WV- Fewer cultural events
- Limited public transit
- Fewer dining choices
- More remote location
Baltimore, MD- Vibrant cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Diverse dining options
- Proximity to major cities
In Charleston, WV, you’re likely to enjoy a quieter lifestyle surrounded by nature, with access to neighborhood parks like Cato Park. However, you'll find fewer diverse dining options compared to Baltimore's bustling food scene featuring spots like Thames Street Oyster House. Traffic in Charleston is generally lighter, reducing your travel hassles significantly. Yet, if you're someone who thrives on cultural events, you might miss Baltimore's vibrant offerings, including venues such as Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Finally, while Charleston doesn't have the same proximity to other major cities as Baltimore, it offers a unique charm with its tight-knit community and scenic views.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture, shaping your experiences and lifestyle in any area. In this guide, we'll explore how the culinary scenes differ by conducting a comparison of the local cuisine between Baltimore & Charleston , giving you insights into what flavors and experiences await in your new home.
| Baltimore | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Crab Cakes | Pepperoni Rolls |
| Most popular meat dish | Pit Beef | Venison |
| Most popular street food item | Chicken Box | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Mac and Cheese | Stuffed Mushrooms |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Charleston offers a charming culinary scene where you can savor local delights, such as pepperoni rolls. To experience traditional flavors, visit the vibrant downtown area, home to the Capitol Market, where you'll find a variety of fresh, local produce and specialty items. The local dining landscape may not have as many food trucks as Baltimore, but Charleston embraces southern hospitality through unique and flavorful local dishes. Without the same density of vegan offerings as Baltimore, it compensates with creative vegetarian dishes at places like the Bluegrass Kitchen. Exploring Charleston’s restaurant scene is sure to provide a warm welcome, offering both hearty meals and a touch of traditional West Virginia comfort food.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is a fundamental part of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Baltimore and Charleston will guide you in finding new favorite eateries by using experiences from your current hometown as a reference point.
| Baltimore | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Woodberry Kitchen | 1010 Bridge | Emphasizes locally sourced ingredients |
| Thames Street Oyster House | Bluegrass Kitchen | Focuses on fresh, local options |
| Fork and Wrench | Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Quirky atmosphere with eclectic menu |
| Ekiben | China Bistro | Inventive Asian street food vibe |
| Clavel | Los Agaves | Authentic tacos and vibrant atmosphere |
| The Helmand | Sitar of India | Offers rich, aromatic flavors |
| The Food Market | Bricks & Barrels | Casual dining with creative twists |
| Peter's Inn | Bistro 244 | A cozy spot with a seasonally inspired menu |
| Di Pasquale's | Joe's Drive-In Pizza | Classic Italian favorites loved by locals |
| Bmore Licks | Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream | Local favorite for sweet treats |
For lovers of local ingredients, Woodberry Kitchen in Baltimore pairs well with Charleston’s 1010 Bridge. Both establishments emphasize fresh, locally sourced goods and offer a farm-to-table experience that delights the palate. When it comes to savoring the sea, Thames Street Oyster House finds its counterpart in Charleston's Bluegrass Kitchen, where you can enjoy sustainable, local fare. If your taste runs toward inventive and lively atmospheres, an evening at Ekiben will remind you of the dynamic experience found at Charleston’s China Bistro, offering thrilling Asian-inspired street dishes.
Ready to start your move?
Baltimore vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. Understanding the Baltimore and Charleston housing landscape helps make informed decisions. Comparing cost , style , and lifestyle aspects can greatly influence your choice of new home.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Baltimore Rowhouse | Colonial Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most Popular Items in Listings | Brick Exteriors, Patios | Large Yards, Fireplaces |
When weighing your move from Baltimore to Charleston, you’ll find significant differences in housing costs and architectural styles. In Baltimore, the prevalence of iconic Rowhouses creates a vibrant urban atmosphere, which is reflected in its higher walkability score. Conversely, Charleston provides more affordable housing and a quieter suburban feel, emphasized by the popular Colonial Revival style. Each city's unique features cater to different lifestyle preferences, whether you’re seeking the bustling energy of Baltimore's streets or Charleston's relaxed charm with spacious yards and cozy 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.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When considering a move from one location to another, understanding how the weather in Baltimore, MD compares with Charleston, WV can make a significant impact on your decision-making process. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of the climatic differences you'll experience, helping you prepare better for your new environment.
Baltimore, MD
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Baltimore, MD
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Baltimore, MD
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Baltimore, MD
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Baltimore | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition to Charleston from Baltimore, you'll notice a few key differences in the climate. Summers in Charleston are slightly cooler, providing some relief from Baltimore's heat. However, you might miss the sunny days as Charleston offers fewer days of sunshine annually. Humidity is generally higher in Charleston, which might make you feel slightly warmer during the humid summer days. On a positive note, Charleston has better air quality, which may benefit your respiratory health, especially if you're sensitive to seasonal allergies like mold, which are more prevalent there.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Baltimore to Charleston
If you're considering a move from Baltimore, MD to Charleston, WV , understanding the financial differences is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge how the cost of living in these two cities may impact your finances, assisting you in planning effectively for your new lifestyle.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $54,652 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 119.4 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 5.75% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.10% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Technology | Energy, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Varied | Modest |
| Poverty | Moderate | Notable |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lower |
When moving from Baltimore to Charleston, you'll experience a noticeable difference in the cost of living. Charleston's cost of living index is significantly lower than Baltimore's, potentially allowing you to stretch your dollar further. Despite Baltimore's higher average household income, Charleston offers lower property taxes, which can alleviate financial pressures for homeowners. However, the higher state income tax in Charleston might offset some savings for employed individuals. It’s also worth considering the local industry landscape; Charleston’s economy is more centered around energy compared to Baltimore’s broader focus on healthcare and technology.
Baltimore vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Baltimore, MD to Charleston, WV involves understanding the demographic shifts, including a comparison of the politics between Baltimore & Charleston . This overview offers a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of these cities' residents.
| Baltimore | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Mostly Republican |
| Local Politics | Baltimore City Hall | Charleston Mayor's Office |
| Religion | Diverse religious practices | Predominantly Christian |
When relocating from Baltimore to Charleston, you might notice a shift in political tendencies. While Baltimore is known for its strong Democratic presence, Charleston leans more towards Republican values, which can influence both local policy and community initiatives. The religious landscapes of these cities also differ: Baltimore offers a wide variety of religious practices that reflect its diverse population, whereas Charleston tends to have a more homogenous, Christian-centric religious community. Understanding these dynamics can help you acclimate to your new environment and engage with local cultures.
Baltimore 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 Baltimore & Charleston . By highlighting key differences, you can make informed decisions about your transportation needs after moving.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 17 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, but a car is recommended for convenience | No, a car is much more necessary |
One of the key differences between Baltimore and Charleston is the availability of public transportation. In Baltimore, you'll find a myriad of options like the Maryland Transit Administration that includes light rail, buses, and subway. This makes it feasible to live without a car, although having one can be more convenient. On the other hand, Charleston's public transit options are limited, making a car almost essential for daily commuting. Traffic congestion is also notably less in Charleston, making your drive smoother and more predictable compared to the busier roads of Baltimore. Ultimately, adjusting to Charleston may involve embracing more self-reliant forms of transportation.
Additional Resources
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