Best Cincinnati to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Cincinnati to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 621 mile move from Ohio to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Cincinnati 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 Sebastian Moving SW Ohio), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati to Charleston Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sebastian Moving SW Ohio | 9.25 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Robinson Relocations | 9.23 | 9.42 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.18 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Cincinnati to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 621 miles from Cincinnati, OH to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,309 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cincinnati to Charleston move is roughly $5,535. 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 | $1,555 | 300 ft³ | 5.18 |
1 Bedroom | $2,309 | 450 ft³ | 5.13 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,811 | 750 ft³ | 5.08 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,535 | 1100 ft³ | 5.03 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,971 | 1600 ft³ | 4.98 |
5+ Bedrooms | $8,877 | 1800 ft³ | 4.93 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Cincinnati guide.
Compare the 5 Best Cincinnati to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sebastian Moving SW Ohio
8672 US-22
Sabina, OH, 45169
About Sebastian Moving SW Ohio
Let the experts at Sebastian Moving SW Ohio take care of your next home or office move. This top-rated moving company...
Services
- Full Service Moves in South West Ohio
- Packing and Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3491560 / 1243683 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |

Robinson Relocations

6320 Madison Rd
Cincinnati, OH, 45227
About Robinson Relocations
Robinson Relocations is a professional moving company providing services in Cincinnati, OH, and Tampa, FL, with a priority to exceed clients'...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3320340 / 1056379 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (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) |

Manifest Shipping Llc
501 Southwick Pl
Trenton, OH, 45067
About Manifest Shipping Llc
Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3050908 / 49758 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 46,740 (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.
Cincinnati vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Our comparison aims to help you familiarize with an unknown city using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods between Cincinnati, OH & Charleston, SC to find similarities that make your transition seamless.
Cincinnati | Charleston | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Over-the-Rhine | French Quarter | Vibrant arts & culture scene |
Mount Adams | Charleston Historic District | Panoramic city views |
Hyde Park | South of Broad | Upscale residential area |
Oakley | West Ashley | Emerging, family-friendly vibe |
Columbia-Tusculum | Ansonborough | Victorian-era homes & history |
Northside | James Island | Eclectic, diverse communities |
Clifton | Harleston Village | College town atmosphere |
Indian Hill | Sullivan's Island | Affluent, secluded estates |
East Walnut Hills | Wagener Terrace | Historic mansions, local charm |
North Avondale | Cannonborough-Elliottborough | Urban renewal projects |
If you enjoy the vibrant arts and culture of Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine, you will appreciate Charleston's French Quarter with its rich art galleries and theaters. Moving from Hyde Park to South of Broad, you'll find a similarity in the upscale residential settings brimming with boutique shops and charming cafes. For families, Oakley and West Ashley provide a welcoming and community-oriented environment with plenty of green spaces, making them ideal for outdoor adventures. Both Columbia-Tusculum and Ansonborough neighborhoods boast a deep historical legacy reflected in their Victorian-era architecture, offering a delightful ambiance for history enthusiasts.

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 Cincinnati to Charleston
Planning a move from Cincinnati, OH to Charleston, SC? This guide offers an honest reflection of both the pros and cons of this relocation. By comparing these elements, you can make a well-informed decision on whether the vibrancy of Charleston will complement your lifestyle better than the familiar comfort of Cincinnati.
- Harsh winters
- Limited beach access
- Urban sprawl
- High pollen count
- Midwest cuisine
- Milder climate
- Close to beaches
- Charming historic district
- Sea breezes
- Seafood and Southern food
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer cultural events
- Service-based economy
- Limited sports options
- Smaller urban parks
- Affordable living
- Rich arts scene
- Diverse economy
- Sports enthusiasm
- Nearby nature parks
Relocating to Charleston offers the allure of its charming historic district, with landmarks like the beautiful Fort Sumter and scenic waterfront views. You’ll enjoy exploring King Street, known for its vibrant shopping and eclectic dining scene, featuring renowned spots such as Husk Charleston. Moreover, the proximity to beaches like Folly Beach provides a perfect getaway for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. On the other hand, Cincinnati offers a robust arts scene with venues such as the esteemed Cincinnati Art Museum, and a more affordable cost of living. It's important to consider these aspects, weighing the mild climate and the culture of Charleston against Cincinnati’s affordability and diverse economy as you make your decision.
Cincinnati vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and a window into what it's like to reside in a particular area. In this section, we'll compare the local cuisine between Cincinnati & Charleston to better inform you about the culinary scene you're moving to.
Cincinnati | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Skyline Chili | Shrimp and Grits |
Most popular meat dish | Goetta | She-Crab Soup |
Most popular street food item | Coney Dogs | Fried Green Tomatoes |
Most popular vegan food | Beyond Burger | Quinoa Salad |
Top 3 iconic restaurants |
|
|
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, prepare to be immersed in a food scene that places a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and Southern charm. Neighborhoods such as downtown Charleston offer a vibrant culinary experience, hosting restaurants like FIG where you can savor iconic dishes like shrimp and grits. The city's foodie scene is dynamic, with a focus on sustainability and local ingredients. While not as abundant as in Cincinnati, the food trucks you encounter offer a unique taste of Charleston's diverse flavors. Vegan options, like quinoa salad, are readily available, adding to the city's reputation as a foodie hub.
Cincinnati vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Cincinnati, OH to Charleston, SC, discovering your new favorite places to eat is crucial. This restaurant comparison will guide you in finding culinary favorites, helping you feel at home in your new city of Charleston .
Cincinnati | Charleston | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Boca | FIG | Both offer high-end, seasonal fare with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. |
The Eagle | Poogan's Porch | Both serve up Southern comfort food with a warm, welcoming vibe. |
Sotto | Indaco | Each delights with authentic Italian cuisine in a stylish setting. |
Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse | Halls Chophouse | Known for premium steaks and exceptional dining experiences. |
Taft's Ale House | Palmetto Brewing Co. | Both are great for craft beer enthusiasts looking for distinctive brews and atmosphere. |
Sleepy Bee Cafe | Butcher & Bee | Known for their emphasis on sustainability and farm-fresh ingredients. |
Graeter's Ice Cream | Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream & Sandwich Cafe | Both offer beloved, classic ice cream options. |
Montgomery Inn | Swig & Swine | A haven for BBQ lovers, much like Cincinnati's rib-famous eatery. |
Eli's BBQ | Lewis Barbecue | Both establishments are revered for their smoked meats and laid-back atmosphere. |
Arnold's Bar and Grill | The Gin Joint | Offers classic cocktails in a cozy, historic setting. |
At FIG in Charleston, you'll savor the dynamic flavors of locally sourced ingredients in a manner similar to the revered dining experience at Boca in Cincinnati. If authentic Italian offerings are what you crave, Indaco in Charleston matches the elegance and flavor profile of Sotto. When it's time for barbecue, Swig & Swine brings a smokehouse charm that rivals Montgomery Inn, making it a must-visit for any BBQ aficionado. Each of these Charleston venues has harnessed the essence of their Cincinnati counterparts, offering you familiar yet exciting culinary adventures.

Ready to start your move?
Cincinnati vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial aspects when moving from Cincinnati to Charleston . Understanding the differences in housing can assist you in making an informed decision. Let’s delve into how these two cities compare in terms of cost, style, and lifestyle.
Comparison | Cincinnati | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Colonial, Georgian |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood Floors, Lawson Living | Wraparound Porches, <a href="https://charlestonrealestate.com/">Charleston Real Estate</a> |
When contemplating a move to Charleston, expect a notable jump in the median home price , nearly doubling Cincinnati’s. This coastal city prides itself on unique Colonial and Georgian architecture , a stark contrast to Cincinnati's Victorian and Craftsman homes. Though Cincinnati boasts higher walkability, Charleston compensates with diverse bike paths ideal for those embracing an active lifestyle. Urban living in Cincinnati may offer more vibrancy, but Charleston's allure lies in its charming, historic districts and serene coastal environment.

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.
Cincinnati vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When moving from Cincinnati to Charleston , understanding the differences in weather is essential for adjusting to your new environment. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in temperature, humidity, and other climate factors, ensuring a smoother transition.
Cincinnati, OH
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Cincinnati, OH
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Cincinnati, OH
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Cincinnati, OH
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Cincinnati | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Hurricanes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating to Charleston from Cincinnati, you'll notice a significantly milder winter climate. Charleston's winter temperatures tend to be much warmer, reducing the need for heavy winter gear. In contrast, summers are a bit warmer and more humid, which might take some getting used to if you're accustomed to Cincinnati's cooler evenings. Charleston also experiences more sunny days annually, brightening your time outdoors. However, Charleston's moderate air quality and increased UV index mean precautions like sunscreen are advisable. Notably, while Cincinnati is more prone to tornadoes, Charleston's location makes it susceptible to hurricanes, necessitating awareness and preparation during hurricane season.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cincinnati to Charleston
If you're considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications and how the cost of living in Cincinnati compares to Charleston . This comparison helps you prepare for changes in income , taxes , and expenses associated with such a move.
Comparison | Cincinnati | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $42,733 | $74,139 |
Cost of Living Index | 93.8 | 98.3 |
State Income Tax | 3.5% | 0% |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.57% | 0.51% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.0% | 9.0% |
Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Finance | Aerospace, Tourism, Health Care |
Affluence | Average | Growing |
Poverty | Moderate | Low |
Homelessness | Concerning | Stable |
While Cincinnati offers a lower cost of living, dynamic financial sectors, and higher average property taxes, Charleston balances these with no state income tax and higher average household income, appealing to many financially-conscious individuals. Charleston's property tax rates are notably lower, which can provide some relief in housing expenses. On the other hand, the sales tax in Charleston is higher than Cincinnati's, which could affect your day-to-day purchases. Exploring these contrasts helps you not only anticipate your financial landscape but also uncover potential advantages of your new location.
Cincinnati vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insight into how these aspects differ between these two cities. This is a comparison of the politics between Cincinnati & Charleston , helping you understand the communities.
Cincinnati | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Democratic-leaning | Republican-leaning |
Local Politics | Progressive policies on social issues | Conservative policies with a focus on tradition |
Religion | Diverse religious communities | Christianity is predominant |
When moving from Cincinnati to Charleston, you'll notice shifts in both political and religious culture. Cincinnati tends to lean more Democratic, with its progressive stance on social issues, which might be apparent through local establishments and initiatives. On the contrary, Charleston often has a more traditional Republican-leaning political climate, which influences local policies. Understanding these dynamics will help you integrate into Charleston's community, where Christianity plays a significant role in daily life and local traditions.
Cincinnati vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic conditions can heavily influence your decision when moving. This comparison aids in navigating the differences in traffic and transportation options between Cincinnati & Charleston , ensuring a smooth transition to life in a new city.
Comparison | Cincinnati | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 26 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Possible | Challenging |
Commuting in Cincinnati might feel more manageable with a decent public transportation system, boasting an availability score of 7 out of 10. Although the average commute time is slightly shorter compared to Charleston, public transit can frequently connect you to popular destinations like downtown or University of Cincinnati. In Charleston, despite less severe congestion, getting by without a car may prove more troublesome due to its lower public transportation rating. You may find driving necessary to access various landmarks, including the historic downtown area.



Additional Resources
Cincinnati Moving Services
Popular Cincinnati to South Carolina Routes
Popular Moving Resources