Best Durham to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Durham to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 291 mile move from North Carolina to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Durham 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 $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham 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 Durham 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 | 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 Durham to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 291 miles from Durham, NC to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,029 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Charleston move is roughly $4,849. 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 | $1,367 | 300 ft³ | 4.56 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,029 | 450 ft³ | 4.51 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,344 | 750 ft³ | 4.46 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,849 | 1100 ft³ | 4.41 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,973 | 1600 ft³ | 4.36 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,755 | 1800 ft³ | 4.31 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Durham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Durham 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) |
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.
Durham vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
We aim to help you compare local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Charleston, WV . By drawing parallels between popular areas in each city, you'll familiarize yourself with your new surroundings using a familiar baseline from your current home.
| Durham | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity Park | East End | Similar historic architecture |
| American Village | Kanawha City | Family-friendly amenities |
| Old West Durham | South Hills | Vibrant local dining scene |
| Woodcroft | South Hills | Green spaces with trails |
| Southpoint | Cross Lanes | Retail and entertainment hub |
| Walltown | Edgewood | Culture and community feel |
| Forest Hills | South Hills | Scenic views and quiet streets |
| Duke Park | East End | Parks and historic charm |
| Burch Avenue | Elk City | Trendy cafes and boutiques |
| Brightleaf | Capitol Market Area | Bustling nightlife and food |
If you enjoy the historic charm of Durham's Trinity Park, you'll find a similar vibe in the East End neighborhood of Charleston, WV. With its tree-lined streets and charming architecture, East End invites you to explore its heritage. For those fond of Durham's Old West Durham dining scene, South Hills in Charleston entices with restaurants like Jesse’s Café, offering diverse culinary experiences. For shopping aficionados, Durham's Southpoint and Charleston's Cross Lanes both provide a plethora of retail and entertainment options to satisfy your urban cravings. For a quieter setting with beautiful green spaces, you'll find that Durham's Woodcroft and Charleston's South Hills both offer trails and parks perfect for leisurely walks and outdoor activities, such as the scenic Kanawha State Forest.
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 Durham to Charleston
Moving can be complex, and understanding the pros and cons of relocating from Durham, NC to Charleston, WV is crucial. With an aim to provide an honest reflection of this transition , the following comparison illuminates both the attractive and less appealing aspects of this move.
Durham, NC- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Urban sprawl
Charleston, WV- Affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Close-knit community
Charleston, WV- Fewer restaurant choices
- Limited entertainment options
- Higher unemployment rate
Durham, NC- Diverse dining scene
- Vibrant nightlife
- Job opportunities
Relocating from Durham offers you the opportunity to enjoy Charleston's cost-effective housing market, ideal for settling down without straining your finances. Though you might miss Durham's vibrant nightlife, with establishments like Motorco Music Hall and Bull City Burger & Brewery, Charleston’s natural beauty and local attractions such as Capitol Market and Kanawha County Public Library provide charming alternatives. While the job market in Charleston may be challenging, the pleasure of strolling through serene parks like Coonskin Park and enjoying community-driven events at Live on the Levee can greatly enhance your quality of life.
Durham vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is a cornerstone of local culture, offering insights into the lifestyle of any region. This section provides a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Charleston , helping you better understand the culinary landscape in your new home.
| Durham | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue | Pepperoni Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Whole Hog BBQ | Ramp and Sausage |
| Most popular street food item | Chicken and Waffles | Hot Dogs with Slaw |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Barbecue | Stuffed Portobello |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you move to Charleston, WV, you’ll find that the local food culture is both unique and comforting. While Durham is famous for its barbecue, Charleston offers its own twist with pepperoni rolls found in establishments around the Kanawha City neighborhood. If you're into trying street food, be sure to explore Charleston’s local specialty of hot dogs with slaw at places like the well-loved Blue Smoke Salsa. Also, look out for the burgeoning café scene that adds a lively element to the food culture in Charleston. Though the city’s vegan options might not be as vast as Durham’s, you’ll find delightful dishes like stuffed portobello in health-conscious cafes around downtown. This culinary transition offers a new and different flavor palette to explore and enjoy.
Durham vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is essential for making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using Durham, NC's culinary landscape as a guide to discover exciting options in Charleston, WV .
| Durham | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mateo | Bricks & Barrels | Both offer a blend of upscale dining with a casual atmosphere featuring shared plates. |
| Saltbox Seafood Joint | Bluegrass Kitchen | Focus on locally-sourced ingredients and seafood specialties. |
| Foster's Market | Soho’s at Capitol Market | Casual spots known for fresh, seasonal offerings and cafe-style dining. |
| Dame's Chicken & Waffles | Bridge Road Bistro | Comfort food with a gourmet twist, perfect for a hearty meal. |
| Vin Rouge | Leon's | Both deliver a classic French bistro experience. |
| Monuts | Sugar Pie Bakery & Cafe | Ideal for pastry aficionados, offering fresh goods in a lively setting. |
| Guglhupf Bakery, Café & Biergarten | Meadowlark Restaurant | Featuring similar rustic charm and European-inspired menus. |
| Heavenly Buffaloes | Pairings | Wing enthusiasts will find comparable flavorful options and vibrant atmosphere. |
| Piedmont | 1010 Bridge | Share a focus on modern American cuisine with locally-inspired flavors. |
| The Durham | The Market at Malden | Both create a unique dining environment mixing style and substance. |
As you transition from Durham to Charleston, you'll find the culinary scene offers delightful discoveries with familiar charm. Experience the exquisite small-plate offerings of Mateo mirrored at Bricks & Barrels, where the fusion of sophisticated flavors and relaxed ambiance makes every dining moment special. Seafood lovers will appreciate how Bluegrass Kitchen captures the fresh essence of Durham’s beloved Saltbox Seafood Joint, fostering a strong connection through locally-sourced seafood delicacies. Similarly, when you're in the mood for comforting Southern-style dishes, Bridge Road Bistro provides an inviting ambiance akin to Dame's Chicken & Waffles, ensuring you satisfy your cravings with rich, soulful offerings.
Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Durham, NC and Charleston, WV compare in terms of housing options, costs, and livability, ensuring you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Durham | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Parks, Schools, Public Transit | Mountains, Historic District, River |
While moving from Durham to Charleston might offer you a significant reduction in housing costs, especially when comparing the median home prices, it's essential to consider other aspects such as walkability and lifestyle. Durham's urban atmosphere is rated slightly higher, offering more access to public transit and leisure activities, while Charleston boasts a charming historic district. In Charleston, you might find attractions like the stunning Victorian architecture highlighted in many real estate listings. Depending on lifestyle preferences, the distinct architectural styles and community features of these cities could deeply influence your decision.
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.
Durham vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Durham, NC to Charleston, WV , understanding the weather differences can help you prepare for the lifestyle adjustment. This comparison highlights key weather factors to anticipate, aiding in a smooth transition between these two distinct climates.
Durham, NC
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Durham | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Relocating from Durham to Charleston may present a few surprises in adapting to the local climate. While summers remain warm in both cities, you might discover more comfortable evenings in Charleston with its slightly lower summer lows. Winters, however, are noticeably cooler, with Charleston experiencing significant snowfall compared to Durham's modest amount. If sunshine is important to you, be prepared for fewer sunny days in Charleston. Additionally, while Durham is susceptible to hurricanes, Charleston’s risk leans more toward flooding, calling for specific weather preparedness. Understanding these differences can help you better appreciate your new hometown's unique weather patterns.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Charleston
If you're moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This comparison highlights differences in financial aspects between Durham, NC and Charleston, WV , helping you make informed decisions about budgeting and lifestyle changes.
| Comparison | Durham | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86% | 0.59% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Research, Healthcare, Technology | Energy, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Prosperous | Modest |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | Low | Noticeable |
Relocating from Durham to Charleston involves adapting to a different financial landscape. The average household income is notably higher in Durham, which may impact your purchasing power upon moving. Despite lower incomes, the cost of living in Charleston is also lower, which might balance out certain expenses. Property taxes in Charleston are significantly lower, potentially offering savings for homeowners. However, Charleston's state income tax is higher, which may affect your net income. Understandably, different economic dynamics surround the job market, with Charleston leaning towards energy sectors while Durham excels in research and technology.
Durham vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider relocating, it's essential to understand the community makeup of your current and future home. This comparison of the politics between Durham & Charleston offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents.
| Durham | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | More liberal | More conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Traditional policies |
| Religion | Diverse | Predominantly Christian |
Moving from Durham to Charleston means adapting to a shift in political climate. Durham is known for its liberal tendencies, supporting progressive policies in local governance. Charleston, on the other hand, leans more conservative, with traditional values taking precedence. The religious culture also transitions from the diverse array in Durham to a predominantly Christian community in Charleston. This diversity in backgrounds and beliefs may influence how you engage with local businesses, such as the locally-loved Charleston area establishments.
Durham vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Charleston to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic situation are like in each city.
| Comparison | Durham | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 17 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible but not ideal | Possible but challenging |
In Durham, you'll find a relatively well-developed public transit system, with options like the [GoDurham](GoDurham) bus service, making it somewhat feasible to navigate the city without a car. However, the average commute time of 24 minutes and moderate traffic congestion can still make driving preferable. On the other hand, Charleston, with its lower traffic congestion and average commute time, can make daily drives less stressful. However, the public transit options aren't as robust as in Durham, meaning having a car could offer you more flexibility and convenience in Charleston, especially when traveling outside city limits.
Additional Resources
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Popular Durham to West Virginia Routes
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