Best Raleigh to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 278 mile move from North Carolina to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Raleigh 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | 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 Raleigh to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 278 miles from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,715 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Charleston move is roughly $4,099. 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 | $1,156 | 300 ft³ | 3.85 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,715 | 450 ft³ | 3.81 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,826 | 750 ft³ | 3.77 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,099 | 1100 ft³ | 3.73 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,894 | 1600 ft³ | 3.68 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,554 | 1800 ft³ | 3.64 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |
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.
Raleigh vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, but comparing neighborhoods between familiar and new locations can ease the transition. This guide highlights the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Charleston, SC , helping you find your place in a new city by finding its closest comparison to your old neighborhood.
| Raleigh | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North Hills | Mount Pleasant | Retail and dining hub |
| Glenwood South | King Street | Vibrant nightlife and entertainment |
| Five Points | West Ashley | Eclectic mix of homes and local shops |
| Cameron Village | The Market at Oakland | Shopping and community feel |
| Oakwood | South of Broad | Historic homes and picturesque streets |
| Boylan Heights | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Artistic community vibe |
| Hayes Barton | Old Village | Colonial charm with modern amenities |
| Brier Creek | Daniel Island | Suburban feel with business centers |
| Mordecai | Wagener Terrace | Proximity to downtown attractions |
| South Park | James Island | Family-friendly with parks and schools |
For those who enjoy the social pulse of North Hills in Raleigh, you'll feel right at home in Mount Pleasant, where a similar array of upscale shops and eateries cater to a lively crowd. Meanwhile, if cultural festivals and vintage shops are your scene, Raleigh's Glenwood South finds its counterpart in King Street, known for its dynamic nightlife and diverse dining options. Fans of Raleigh's historic Oakwood will appreciate the grandeur of Charleston's South of Broad, where cobblestone streets and antique architecture tell tales of the past. Each neighborhood offers a unique experience, ensuring you connect with your new home while enjoying elements of what you loved before.
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 Raleigh to Charleston
Considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC? This guide provides an honest reflection of the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision about transitioning from Raleigh to Charleston . Explore the nuances of both areas as you weigh your decision.
Raleigh, NC- High property taxes
- Traffic congestion
- Lack of coastal access
- Colder winters
- Limited seaside restaurants
Charleston, SC- Lower property taxes
- More relaxed pace
- Beach proximity
- Mild winters
- Abundant seafood eateries
Charleston, SC- Fewer tech opportunities
- Fewer college options
- Less diverse music events
- Fewer urban parks
- Less diversity
Raleigh, NC- Tech industry jobs
- Top-rated universities
- Thriving music scene
- Multiple city parks
- Diverse cultures
In Raleigh, you have access to a vibrant tech industry, thanks to big names in the Research Triangle, and esteemed institutions like North Carolina State University. The city's music scene boasts venues like The Lincoln Theatre. Charleston, on the other hand, may offer a slower pace and coastal living with places like Folly Beach just a short drive away. One standout feature of Charleston is its seafood culture, with numerous eateries such as Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar satisfying any seafood cravings. As you compare the two cities, consider your lifestyle preferences and how they align with the amenities each location offers.
Raleigh vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and greatly influences what it's like to live in an area. With this in mind, we'll explore the local cuisine comparison between Raleigh & Charleston to provide you with a better understanding of the food scene in the area you're moving to.
| Raleigh | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl | Vegan Crab Cakes |
| 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 is known for its unique offerings like shrimp and grits, especially found in the bustling historic district. If you're exploring the Charleston food scene, don't miss out on the delightful vegan crab cakes, popular in areas like Harleston Village. The city's seafood-rich cuisine is aptly represented by gems like Hank's Seafood Restaurant and Husk, tucked away in neighborhoods brimming with charm and hospitality. Charleston showcases a vibrant foodie scene that embraces both its rich history and innovative flavors, making your culinary adventure an engaging experience.
Raleigh vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Finding your favorite places to eat is crucial when moving to a new city. This restaurant comparison between Raleigh and Charleston will guide you to discover eateries that make Charleston feel like home, using your favorite spots in Raleigh as a reference.
| Raleigh | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Poole's Diner | Husk | Known for its modern takes on Southern classics, similar to Poole's inventive dishes |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Boxcar Betty's | Offers creatively prepared chicken dishes with a focus on quality and flavor |
| Crawford and Son | FIG | Both focus on seasonal ingredients and offer exquisite dining experiences |
| Bida Manda | R. Kitchen | Explores bold flavors and offers a unique dining format |
| Stanbury | The Ordinary | A place where fresh, locally-sourced ingredients shine in every dish |
| Soo Cafe | Bon Banh Mi | Casual spot known for its fusion flavors reminiscent of Soo Cafe's offerings |
| Hayes Barton Cafe | Fuel | Offers nostalgic American comfort food in a casual setting |
| Sitti | Leyla Fine Lebanese Cuisine | Provides excellent Middle Eastern dishes just like Sitti |
| Caffe Luna | Trattoria Lucca | Delightful Italian cuisine with the charm and warmth you love at Caffe Luna |
| Brewery Bhavana | Edmund's Oast | Combines craft brewing with a creative menu reminiscent of Brewery Bhavana |
As you explore Charleston, you’ll find that places like Husk offer a modern twist on Southern classics much like Raleigh’s well-loved Poole's Diner. For fans of delicious fried chicken and creative sides, Boxcar Betty's mirrors the enticing flavors and comforting atmosphere found at Beasley's Chicken + Honey. Should you crave the laid-back vibe of fresh ingredients crafted into unexpected dishes, The Ordinary provides a delightful culinary experience that resonates with Stanbury’s ethos. Similarly, if Middle Eastern flavors captivate your palate, Leyla Fine Lebanese Cuisine will make you feel right at home just as Sitti does in Raleigh. Each establishment in Charleston carefully mirrors a Raleigh favorite, ensuring your transition is both flavorful and satisfying.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, housing is a crucial factor. Whether you're transitioning from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC or vice versa, you need to understand how these cities compare in terms of cost, style, and lifestyle options. Analyzing these aspects helps make an informed decision, ensuring your new home meets your needs and preferences.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Georgian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Smart homes, suburban yards | Historic charm, water views |
In moving from Raleigh to Charleston, you might find Charleston's slightly higher median home prices and rental rates noteworthy, reflecting its appeal and coastal allure. The architecture in Charleston often highlights Georgian designs, with historic charm noted in many real estate listings. Meanwhile, Raleigh's emphasis on suburban features like smart homes offers a different lifestyle. Exploring the higher walkability and bikeability scores in Charleston could be appealing if you prefer an urban lifestyle with more outdoor activities. Both cities offer unique living environments, but Charleston's essence may cater more to those desiring a closer connection to history and water.
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.
Raleigh vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC , understanding the weather differences can help you prepare for changes you'll experience. Reviewing differences in temperature , humidity , and other factors ensures you're not caught off guard.
Raleigh, NC
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | 213 days | 230 days |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Raleigh to Charleston, anticipate slightly warmer temperatures year-round, with summer highs potentially reaching above 90°F. The humidity level in Charleston is higher, which can intensify the heat's impact compared to Raleigh. You'll also experience more days of sunshine annually in Charleston, which may influence your weekly routines. While Raleigh sees occasional snowfall, it's rare in Charleston, providing nearly a snow-free winter. Adjusting to a wetter climate is important too, as Charleston receives more annual rainfall than Raleigh.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Charleston
If you're moving from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC , it's crucial to understand the financial differences you'll encounter. This comparison will help you make informed decisions by highlighting the contrasts in the cost of living and overall economic climate between the two cities.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 7 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.84 | 0.50 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 9 |
| Top 3 Industries | Tech, Education, Healthcare | Tourism, Healthcare, Finance |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
In moving from Raleigh to Charleston, you'll find significant differences in economic dynamics. While Raleigh offers a higher average household income and a cost of living index indicating slightly more affordability, Charleston's renowned tourism sector contributes to a distinct economic atmosphere, albeit with a higher cost of living. Though Charleston's sales tax is higher, you might benefit from its lower property tax rates. Sectors like tourism and finance are particularly thriving in Charleston, contrasting with Raleigh's strengths in tech and education, giving you a different professional landscape to explore.
Raleigh vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Raleigh and Charleston . Understanding these aspects can help you adjust to local norms and cultures as you transition between the two cities.
| Raleigh | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate to liberal | Conservative leaning |
| Local Politics | City Council prioritizes tech and education | Focuses on tourism and historic preservation |
| Religion | Diverse with various denominations | Strong Christian influence |
When moving from Raleigh to Charleston, you may notice a shift in political and cultural priorities. Raleigh's moderate to liberal stance reflects its role as a tech and education hub, where innovation and research shape many local policies. On the flip side, Charleston leans more conservative, with significant focus on tourism and preserving its historical charm. Religious affiliations also shift, as Charleston tends to have a stronger Christian influence compared to the diverse religious landscape of Raleigh.
Raleigh vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the nuances of city commuting is crucial for anyone planning a move. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Charleston to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 27 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly | Not Easily |
Your commuting experience in Charleston may be a bit different from Raleigh. While the average commute time only varies slightly, Charleston tends to rank higher in terms of traffic congestion. If you're accustomed to the robust public transit options in Raleigh, you might find Charleston's system a bit limited as it scores lower for availability. While Raleigh offers more opportunities to rely on public transit, getting around Charleston without a car can be challenging, although enjoying its scenic routes or exploring local spots like historical sites might offer some solace from the drive.
Additional Resources
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Popular Raleigh to South Carolina Routes
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