Best Columbus to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Columbus to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 632 mile move from Ohio to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), 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 Columbus 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 Columbus to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.56 | 9.71 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.19 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Integrity Moving and Storage | 8.98 | 9.31 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Columbus to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 632 miles from Columbus, OH to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,319 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Columbus to Charleston move is roughly $5,558. 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 | $1,561 | 300 ft³ | 5.20 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,319 | 450 ft³ | 5.15 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,827 | 750 ft³ | 5.10 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,558 | 1100 ft³ | 5.05 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,004 | 1600 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,915 | 1800 ft³ | 4.95 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Columbus guide.
Compare the 5 Best Columbus to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Blue Men Moving LLC
10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW
Pickerington, OH, 43147
About Blue Men Moving LLC
With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3544037 / 1184394 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,500 (2022) |
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) |
Integrity Moving and Storage
2050 Corvair Blvd Unit 1
Columbus, OH, 43207
About Integrity Moving and Storage
With over three decades of expertise and a small-town customer-first approach, Integrity Moving and Storage offers exceptional service in Central Ohio....
Services
- Long-Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1343775 / 517527 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (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.
Columbus vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
To help acquaint yourself with Charleston, SC , we'll draw parallels between neighborhoods to give you a familiar starting point. By seeing how popular areas in Columbus, OH compare, you'll quickly find your footing in your new city.
| Columbus | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| German Village | French Quarter | Historic charm with cobblestone streets |
| Short North Arts District | Upper King Street | Vibrant arts and nightlife scene |
| Dublin | Mount Pleasant | Upscale living with family-oriented amenities |
| Clintonville | James Island | Eclectic mix of shops and community feel |
| Victorian Village | South of Broad | Iconic architecture with historic significance |
| Italian Village | Cannonborough-Elliotborough | Mix of tradition and modernity |
| Upper Arlington | West Ashley | Suburban comfort with urban conveniences |
| Grandview Heights | Downtown Charleston | Urban atmosphere with diverse dining |
| New Albany | Sullivan's Island | Exclusive community with beach proximity |
| Harrison West | Harleston Village | Quaint area with rich history |
The cobblestone streets of the French Quarter in Charleston might remind you of German Village, offering a similar historic charm with its beautifully preserved architecture. If you're captivated by the vibrant life in Columbus’s Short North Arts District, Charleston’s Upper King Street will not disappoint, with its unique local [art galleries](https://charlestonartsalliance.org) and a bustling nightlife. Meanwhile, parks like Clintonville’s Whetstone Park, known for its beautiful rose gardens, have a counterpart in Charleston’s James Island County Park, which offers stunning trails and beachfront picnic areas for a day outdoors. For those who enjoyed the upscale blend of suburban comfort and urban access in Upper Arlington, West Ashley provides a similar lifestyle with its mix of shopping, eateries, and close proximity to the downtown area.
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 Columbus to Charleston
Making the decision to move from one city to another involves weighing both the good and the bad attributes of each location. This guide offers a neutral examination of the pros and cons of moving from Columbus, OH to Charleston, SC to help you make an informed choice.
Columbus, OH- Colder winters
- Less coastal recreation
- Higher crime rates
- Fewer historic sites
Charleston, SC- Milder winters
- Beach accessibility
- Lower crime rates
- Rich in history
Charleston, SC- Fewer job options
- Smaller arts community
- Limited cuisines
- Fewer sports events
Columbus, OH- More job opportunities
- Vibrant arts scene
- Diverse food culture
- Major sports teams
While Columbus offers a lively arts scene and boasts major sports teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets, Charleston provides a different kind of charm with its milder winters and rich history. Explore historic landmarks such as the Fort Sumter while enjoying the coastal experience that Charleston offers. The local dining scene also comes alive with Southern staples at renowned establishments like Husk. However, job seekers may find fewer options in Charleston compared to the booming market in Columbus. Additionally, while the arts and cuisine are more limited, the city's quieter atmosphere and beautiful parks like James Island County Park offer plenty of outdoor relaxation. Consider what aspects matter most to you as both cities have unique offerings.
Columbus vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and daily living. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the local cuisine between Columbus and Charleston , helping you better understand the food scene as you plan your move to Charleston.
| Columbus | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pierogi | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Sausage Sandwich | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Street Tacos | Biscuits |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Pizza | Vegan Soul Food |
| 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 boasts a vibrant food scene, with places like Husk and Magnolias being landmarks of Southern cuisine that you can't miss. If you're keen on experiencing the most iconic local dish, shrimp and grits, head to the downtown area where local favorites frequently serve it up with variations. For those following a vegan diet, Charleston's choice of vegan soul food is sure to offer a taste of Southern comfort, while North Charleston hosts several food trucks where you can enjoy classic Lowcountry biscuits followed by a leisurely stroll along Park Circle. The city's focus on fitness and health is evident in the plethora of health-conscious restaurant options and menus featuring fresh, farm-to-table options.
Columbus vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Exploring local cuisine is crucial in crafting a sense of belonging when relocating. By comparing the top restaurants from Columbus to their closest comparable spots in Charleston , you can discover your new favorite eateries while making the charming city of Charleston, SC, feel like home.
| Columbus | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Northstar Café | Butcher & Bee | Modern approach to wholesome organic dishes |
| The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro | Husk | Emphasis on upscale Southern dining and local ingredients |
| Hot Chicken Takeover | Leon’s Oyster Shop | Casual spot with standout specialties |
| Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams | Sugar Bakeshop | Pioneers in creative and unique sweet treats |
| Thurman Café | Big Gun Burger Shop & Bar | Known for hearty, iconic burgers |
| Alana's Food & Wine | FIG | Fine dining with an evolving seasonal menu |
| Lola’s Asian Cuisine | Xiao Bao Biscuit | Celebration of bold Asian flavors |
| Ray Ray’s Hog Pit | Home Team BBQ | Casual atmosphere with renowned barbecues |
| Katalina's Café | Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit | Offers breakfast delights with local flair |
| Brassica | Darling Oyster Bar | Fresh, vibrant Mediterranean-inspired fare with a focus on seafood |
For those transitioning from Columbus to Charleston, culinary exploration can ease the move. At Butcher & Bee, the vibrant flavors and organic offerings are reminiscent of Columbus' beloved Northstar Café, providing a familiar, yet new dining experience. If indulging in elaborate and refined Southern flavors is your dining delight, Husk in Charleston shares a culinary ethos with The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro by emphasizing high-quality local ingredients in an upscale setting. The melting pot of flavors found at Xiao Bao Biscuit captures the essence of Asian culinary finesse akin to Lola’s Asian Cuisine in Columbus. As you explore these dining establishments, you'll find that Charleston's rich gastronomic scene welcomes you with open arms and new delicious adventures just waiting to be savored.
Ready to start your move?
Columbus vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how properties in Columbus compare with Charleston . This analysis will help you make informed decisions by highlighting the cost , architecture , and lifestyle options each city offers.
| Comparison | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listings | Backyard, Basement | Porches, Historic |
When considering a move to either Columbus or Charleston, the stark difference in housing costs is evident. Charleston tends to have a higher median home price, partly due to its colonial architecture and charming historic districts. If biking to local hotspots like Columbus Zoo or The Battery in Charleston is in your plans, you’ll find Columbus slightly better suited for cyclists. Both cities offer a vibrant urban lifestyle, but in Columbus, spacious backyards and basements are frequently mentioned, whereas in Charleston, the emphasis is often on scenic porches and historic charm.
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.
Columbus vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering moving from Columbus, OH to Charleston, SC , understanding the weather differences is crucial for adapting to your new environment.
Columbus, OH
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Rare tornadoes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
You'll find that Charleston's warmer winters provide a milder climate compared to the chilly winters in Columbus. If you enjoy more sunny days, you'll appreciate Charleston’s advantage with over 200 days of sunshine a year. However, Charleston's coastal location means it’s more susceptible to hurricanes, a significant contrast to the less frequent tornadoes in Columbus. The absence of snowfall in Charleston might be a relief for those who dread shoveling snow, but keep in mind the higher humidity and UV index you'll encounter in the South.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Charleston
When you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will help you gauge the financial landscape of Columbus, OH and Charleston, SC , allowing for better budgeting and planning.
| Comparison | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.8 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.6 | 0.5 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 9.0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Technology | Hospitality, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Increasing |
| Poverty | Moderate | Visible |
| Homelessness | Managed | Concerning |
When assessing your move, take note that Charleston, SC offers higher average household income opportunities than Columbus, OH, but this comes with a higher cost of living index. The lack of state income tax in Charleston may be an attractive feature, potentially enhancing your disposable income. However, keep an eye on the higher sales tax rates in Charleston, which might impact everyday purchases. Industry-wise, Charleston offers a vibrant hospitality sector, which might be ideal if you are seeking opportunities in that field, whereas Columbus offers a diverse palette ranging from education to technology. Understanding these nuances can greatly aid in planning your financial future in your new city.
Columbus vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The comparison aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. By analyzing these differences, you can better understand the cultural mindset before moving. This is a comparison of the politics between Columbus & Charleston , giving you insight into your future community.
| Columbus | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mainly Democratic | Primarily Republican |
| Local Politics | Columbus City Council | Charleston City Government |
| Religion | Diverse religious practices | More traditional affiliations, primarily Christian |
When moving from Columbus to Charleston, you'll notice a distinct shift in political climate. Columbus is known for its Democratic leanings, a contrast to Charleston's more conservative, Republican tendencies. In terms of local governance, both cities have well-established local governments; however, their policies may vary considerably. Additionally, while Columbus offers a wide array of religious practices, Charleston tends to have a stronger presence of traditional Christian affiliations, reflecting its rich history and cultural roots.
Columbus vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the traffic and transportation options between Columbus & Charleston can make your transition smoother by offering insights into the daily commute and traffic dynamics, so you can better navigate your new city. This comparison will help you anticipate the differences and ease into your new routine.
| Comparison | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly | Unlikely |
When moving from Columbus to Charleston, you might notice a slight reduction in average commute times, although Columbus already boasts a reasonably efficient commute compared to many U.S. cities. Traffic congestion in Charleston tends to be a little less severe, which could lead to a more pleasant driving experience. However, the public transit system in Columbus is generally more robust, offering more extensive and accessible options. This can affect your need for a car; in Columbus, you might manage without one, but in Charleston, it's unlikely you'll have the same ease of movement. Consider transit options like local buses such as the COTA in Columbus or the CARTA in Charleston to make informed decisions about how you'll get around.
Additional Resources
Columbus Moving Services
Popular Columbus to South Carolina Routes
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