Best Detroit to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 824 mile move from Michigan to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Detroit 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 Smooth Move Charleston), 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 Detroit 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 Detroit to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.46 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Balance Detroit | 8.43 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | High Quality Moving Company | 8.23 | 8.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 824 miles from Detroit, MI to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,482 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Charleston move is roughly $5,957. 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 | $1,670 | 300 ft³ | 5.57 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,482 | 450 ft³ | 5.52 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,099 | 750 ft³ | 5.47 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,957 | 1100 ft³ | 5.42 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,585 | 1600 ft³ | 5.37 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,568 | 1800 ft³ | 5.32 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
11850 E Jefferson
Detroit, MI, 48214
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
Livonia, MI, 48150
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |
High Quality Moving Company
32401 W 8 Mile Rd
Livonia, MI, 48152
About High Quality Moving Company
High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3435629 / 1178011 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 80,000 (2024) |
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.
Detroit vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, but by comparing neighborhoods, you can find familiar comforts. Our guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Charleston, SC to help you navigate your new surroundings with ease.
| Detroit | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Corktown | French Quarter | Historic charm, trendy spots |
| Midtown | Upper King | Vibrant arts and dining scene |
| Indian Village | South of Broad | Elegant homes, historic appeal |
| Greektown | Harleston Village | Lively, eclectic atmosphere |
| Rosedale Park | West Ashley | Residential, family-friendly vibe |
| Palmer Woods | Hampton Park Terrace | Grand homes, leafy streets |
| Brush Park | Cannonborough | New development, urban feel |
| Boston Edison | Wagener Terrace | Vintage charm, community feel |
| Cass Corridor | NoMo | Hip, cultural district |
| Woodbridge | James Island | Laid-back, suburban feel |
If you enjoy the vibrant arts and dining scene in Midtown Detroit, you'll feel right at home in Upper King, Charleston. Walk down King Street to try renowned eateries like Hall's Chophouse and explore contemporary art galleries. For those drawn to historic architecture and elegant homes, Indian Village compares well with South of Broad. There, you can take a stroll amidst timeless structures while visiting the Charleston Museum. If Greektown's lively and eclectic atmosphere speaks to you, Harleston Village is where you'll find a vibrant mix of culture and nightlife, along with cozy coffee shops and the beautiful White Point Garden. Whether it's Detroit's Corktown or Charleston's French Quarter, both offer a blend of history and modernity waiting to be explored.
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 Detroit to Charleston
Considering a move from Detroit to Charleston involves weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both cities. This comparison provides an honest reflection to help you understand the good and bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Charleston, SC .
Detroit, MI- Harsh winters
- High crime rate
- Urban congestion
- Economic struggles
Charleston, SC- Mild climate
- Safer communities
- Coastal ambiance
- Thriving job market
Charleston, SC- Higher living costs
- Humidity issues
- Hurricane risk
- Fewer public transit options
Detroit, MI- Vibrant culture
- Rich history
- Renowned arts scene
- Music festivals
Exploring relocation to Charleston offers new horizons and a different pace of life. The milder climate allows savoring the charm of places like Charleston City Market and strolling through Fort Moultrie without the need to endure freezing winters. Charleston boasts a thriving culinary scene, with restaurants such as Husk offering a taste of Southern comfort. Neighborhoods like Sullivan's Island provide both scenic views and a community atmosphere. Meanwhile, while Detroit's music festivals like Movement bring dynamic energy, in Charleston, you'll trade the vibrant Detroit streets for coastal charm, albeit with added humidity and a different size of city bustle.
Detroit vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and deeply influences what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll compare the local cuisine between Detroit & Charleston so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Detroit | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Detroit-style pizza | Shrimp and grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit Coney Dog | She-crab soup |
| Most popular street food item | Gyros | Po'boy |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan chili | Vegan BBQ |
| 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 you make the move to Charleston, you'll notice a vibrant mix of Southern flavors and coastal influences shining through in popular dishes like shrimp and grits, which are prevalent in neighborhoods such as the French Quarter. Iconic restaurants such as Husk and Poogan's Porch not only offer classic Lowcountry dishes but also a modern twist on Southern cuisine. While Charleston rates slightly higher in foodies' appeal and vegan friendliness, Detroit offers a strong food truck scene, providing diverse street eats like the local favorite gyros. As you explore the culinary landscape in Charleston, be sure to sample some vegan BBQ, often found in trendy districts like Upper King.
Detroit vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is a vital part of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Detroit and Charleston will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Detroit | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Husk | Offers a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients |
| Joe Muer Seafood | Fleet Landing | Known for exceptional seafood and waterfront views |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Jack's Cosmic Dogs | Features iconic hot dog styles with a unique twist |
| Slows Bar BQ | Lewis Barbecue | Expertly smoked meats with a robust Southern flair |
| Buddy's Pizza | EVO Pizzeria | Famous for artisanal pizzas with fresh, handcrafted toppings |
| Wright & Company | The Ordinary | Tapas-style dining with a focus on seafood and craft cocktails |
| Grey Ghost | Halls Chophouse | Known for masterfully prepared steaks and a lively atmosphere |
| Detroit Vegan Soul | Basic Kitchen | Offers a fresh take on plant-based dishes with a Southern touch |
| Astro Coffee | The Daily | Popular for its specialty coffees and neighborhood vibes |
| Gold Cash Gold | FIG | Blends Southern cuisine with a high-end dining experience |
As you navigate your new culinary landscape in Charleston, certain places will remind you of cherished Detroit favorites. For seafood enthusiasts, Fleet Landing offers remarkable seafood and waterfront views comparable to those from Joe Muer Seafood back in Detroit. Meanwhile, if your heart is set on unique hot dogs, a visit to Jack's Cosmic Dogs will bring a delightful nostalgia reminiscent of Lafayette Coney Island's iconic style. And for those who love artisanal pizzas, EVO Pizzeria boasts a selection of hand-crafted pies with fresh toppings that will make any Detroit-style pizza aficionado feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how the housing markets of Detroit and Charleston align, addressing differences in cost, style, and lifestyle elements that could impact your decision.
| Comparison | Detroit | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Charleston Single House |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Basements, Garages | Piazzas, Historic Finishes |
Diving deeper into the architecture, Detroit homes often reflect Colonial Revival styles, commonly incorporating features such as basements and garages. In contrast, Charleston's signature Charleston Single House style is notable for its distinctive piazzas and historic finishes. Regarding cost, Charleston's real estate market tends to be pricier, and its homes often list at higher values than those in Detroit. However, Charleston's higher scores in walkability and urban lifestyle may compensate for its steeper costs, appealing to those seeking a vibrant community experience. Institutions like the Detroit City Government and Charleston City Government offer resources for potential movers.
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.
Detroit vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Detroit to Charleston , understanding how the weather contrasts between these two locations can help you prepare for the change in climate and daily living conditions. By comparing average temperatures, sunshine days, and other factors, you can better anticipate adjustments in your new environment.
Detroit, MI
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Detroit’s cold, snowy winters to Charleston's milder climate will be a significant shift. You’ll enjoy more sunshine each year and can expect fewer snow days; however, be prepared for more rainfall and potential hurricane threats. The average annual UV Index is higher in Charleston, so outdoor activities require extra sun protection. While Detroit's moderate air quality is manageable, Charleston boasts even better air quality, which might be favorable for those with respiratory concerns.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Charleston
If you're considering a move from Detroit, MI to Charleston, SC , understanding how the cost of living compares between these two cities can help you budget and plan accordingly. This comparison provides valuable insights into financial differences such as income, taxes, and industry landscapes.
| Comparison | Detroit | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.83% | 0.51% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Tourism, Healthcare, Aerospace |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When moving from Detroit to Charleston, you'll notice a substantial difference in the average household income, which is significantly higher in Charleston. While the cost of living is also greater there, South Carolina's lack of state income tax can offer some financial relief compared to Michigan's 4.25% rate. Additionally, Charleston's economy is thriving with industries such as tourism and aerospace, contrasting with Detroit's traditional automotive and technology sectors. These factors contribute to Charleston's overall higher affluence and lower poverty and homelessness rates compared to Detroit.
Detroit vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. This comparison of the politics between Detroit & Charleston will help you understand the differences in community dynamics before making your move.
| Detroit | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Republican |
| Local Politics | Urban-focused policies | Suburban and rural-focused policies |
| Religion | Diverse religious backgrounds | More predominately Christian |
When moving from Detroit to Charleston, you may notice a shift in the local political landscape. Detroit's urban setting leans toward more Democratic policies, reflecting a diverse city population and community needs. In contrast, Charleston reflects its suburban and sometimes rural settings with a Republican tilt, influencing local governance priorities. Additionally, while Detroit offers a rich tapestry of religious backgrounds, Charleston tends to emphasize a more predominantly Christian community, deeply rooted in its southern traditions. This insight offers you a clearer perspective of the societal norms and practices in your new city.
Detroit vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, here's a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Charleston . This overview will provide insights to help you plan your day-to-day travels effectively.
| Comparison | Detroit | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Very Challenging |
Navigating through Detroit often means dealing with higher traffic congestion compared to Charleston, as reflected in the congestion scores. Despite slightly better public transit options in Detroit, having a car can be essential in both cities given their layout and public transportation limitations. You'll find that Charleston offers a marginally shorter commute time, potentially allowing for more leisure or personal time each day. Still, each city offers a unique commute landscape that might involve adjusting your expectations if you're moving from one to the other.
Additional Resources
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