Best Cincinnati to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Cincinnati to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 205 mile move from Ohio to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 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 - $4,500 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.

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Best Cincinnati to Charleston Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Sebastian Moving SW Ohio9.259.56Authorized For HHGContact
2Robinson Relocations9.239.42Authorized For HHGContact
3Manifest Shipping Llc9.189.35Authorized For HHGContact
4Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
5Central Van Lines8.168.11Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Cincinnati to Charleston

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 205 miles from Cincinnati, OH to Charleston, WV will cost on average $1,956 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cincinnati to Charleston move is roughly $4,670. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,319300 ft³4.40
1 Bedroom$1,956450 ft³4.35
2 Bedrooms$3,222750 ft³4.30
3 Bedrooms$4,6701100 ft³4.25
4 Bedrooms$6,7131600 ft³4.20
5+ Bedrooms$7,4621800 ft³4.15
*Please note: These Ohio to West Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Ohio & West Virginia. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed OH to WV mover.
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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 Logo

Sebastian Moving SW Ohio

Exceptional9.25/10
based on 593+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3491560 / 1243683

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Robinson Relocations Logo

Robinson Relocations

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.23/10
based on 854+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3320340 / 1056379

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Manifest Shipping Llc Logo

Manifest Shipping Llc

Exceptional9.18/10
based on 452+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3050908 / 49758

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved46,740 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Ready Set Movers Logo

Ready Set Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 902+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2150739 / 756179

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Central Van Lines Logo

Central Van Lines

Very Good8.16/10
based on 347+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1243887 / 11266

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans44
Registered Drivers35
Total Annual Miles Moved487,000 (2019)
View Full Review
5
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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

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, but a helpful approach is to use your current city as a baseline. By understanding the similarities between neighborhoods in Cincinnati, OH & Charleston, WV , you can better familiarize yourself with your new home.

CincinnatiCharlestonHow They're Similar
Over-the-RhineEast EndHistoric charm with vibrant art and culture
Hyde ParkSouth HillsUpscale homes with boutique shopping and dining
OakleyKanawha CityFamily-friendly with parks and casual eateries
Mount AdamsSouth CharlestonHilly terrain with scenic views and nightlife
CliftonWest SideCollege-friendly ambiance with eclectic dining
NorthsideCapital Market AreaBohemian flair and a thriving local art scene
Blue AshTeays ValleyFamily suburb with parks and schools
Columbia-TusculumEdgewoodHistoric homes and wooded areas
NorwoodNorth CharlestonWorking-class with community spirit
Walnut HillsDowntown CharlestonUrban living with historic architecture

If you're a fan of the vibrant art scene in Over-the-Rhine, you'll likely enjoy the East End of Charleston, known for its vibrant art walks and cultural festivals. Hyde Park's combination of upscale charm and boutique stores finds a parallel in South Hills, where you can explore local favorite Brick & Barrel. For those who appreciate the family-friendly environment and parks of Oakley, Kanawha City will offer a similar atmosphere, offering spots like Daniel Boone Park for outdoor enjoyment.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Cincinnati to Charleston

In this honest reflection, explore the pros and cons of relocating from Cincinnati, OH to Charleston, WV . This comparison helps you understand the unique aspects of each city so you can anticipate changes and appreciate the nuances.

CONs
PROs
Cincinnati, OH iconCincinnati, OH
  • Heavy Traffic
  • Expensive Living
  • High Humidity
  • Dense Urban Areas
  • Limited Mountain Views
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Lighter Traffic
  • Affordable Housing
  • Milder Summers
  • Scenic Natural Areas
  • Stunning Mountain Views
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Fewer Sports Events
  • Fewer Restaurant Choices
  • Quieter Nightlife
  • Less Public Transport
  • Fewer Festivals
Cincinnati, OH iconCincinnati, OH
  • Major League Sports
  • Diverse Cuisine Options
  • Vibrant Nightlife
  • Robust Public Transport
  • Cultural Festivals

Moving from Cincinnati to Charleston invites a shift towards a more scenic, less congested lifestyle. While Cincinnati offers bustling urban districts like Over-the-Rhine and recreational options such as Smale Riverfront Park, Charleston provides the tranquility and beauty of places like Camp Creek State Park and the charm of Capitol Market. The absence of Cincinnati's major league sports doesn't overshadow Charleston's rich culture, exemplified in venues like the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences. Despite having fewer restaurant choices, Charleston boasts a growing culinary scene with beloved spots like The Black Sheep. With less humidity and ample outdoor opportunities, this move offers a refreshing change of pace.

Cincinnati vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is an essential part of local culture and provides a window into what it’s like to live in an area. Here, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Cincinnati & Charleston , so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.

CincinnatiCharleston
Most iconic local food itemCincinnati ChiliPepperoni Roll
Most popular meat dishGoettaCountry Ham
Most popular street food itemConey DogHot Dog
Most popular vegan foodStuffed Grape LeavesVegetable Stir Fry
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Sotto
  • Montgomery Inn
  • Skyline Chili
  • Bluegrass Kitchen
  • Tidewater Grill
  • 1010 Bridge
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 explore Charleston's food scene, you'll find the iconic pepperoni rolls practically ubiquitous in local bakeries and eateries, such as those in the bustling Capitol Market area. For a taste of something more upscale, be sure to visit Bluegrass Kitchen, where you can enjoy a wide range of delicious dishes highlighting local produce. The abundance of food trucks in Charleston, particularly around downtown, offers quick and diverse meal options, perfect for when you're on the go. While Cincinnati’s foodie scene might seem more extensive, Charleston has its own charm and continually growing dining offerings, providing a unique culinary experience for newcomers.

Cincinnati vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Navigating to a new city can be made easier by familiarizing yourself with local dining hotspots. Exploring Cincinnati favorites and finding their parallels in Charleston creates a culinary bridge to your new home, helping you discover where your next beloved restaurant might be.

CincinnatiCharlestonWhat You'll Love
BocaThe Chop HouseA fine-dining experience with exquisite steak and seafood dishes.
SottoPaterno's at the ParkOffers authentic Italian flavors with a contemporary twist.
Eli's BBQDem 2 Brothers & a GrillFamous for its southern-style barbeque and soul food vibe.
The EagleBluegrass KitchenCelebrated for its hearty southern fare and relaxed atmosphere.
Jeff Ruby's SteakhouseLaury's RestaurantKnown for its luxurious atmosphere and premium steak offerings.
SalazarBridge Road BistroA destination for upscale bistro dishes with a farm-to-table philosophy.
Arnold's Bar & GrillSam's Uptown CafeCharleston's beloved local institution with a lively bar scene.
The PrecinctThe Grill at ParkersburgA premier location for steak lovers with award-winning cuts.
A Tavola PizzaLola's PizzaKnown for its wood-fired pizzas that rival Cincinnati's artisanal pie scene.
Graeter's Ice CreamEllen's Homemade Ice CreamA sweet escape offering hand-crafted frozen treats.

Transitioning from gastronomic adventures in Cincinnati to Charleston ensures that your taste buds will remain delighted. For example, when you're craving authentic Italian cuisine, Paterno's at the Park in Charleston delivers the same passion and creative dishes as Cincinnati's renowned Sotto. If you're a fan of southern BBQ, Dem 2 Brothers & a Grill is your go-to place, echoing the soul and flavor found at Eli's BBQ. The refined dining experience and impeccable service that define establishments like Boca are mirrored at Charleston's The Chop House, where steak and seafood aficionados are equally at home.

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Cincinnati vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, real estate is one of the most significant factors to evaluate. It's important to understand how Cincinnati and Charleston contrast in terms of costs, architecture, and lifestyle so you can make an informed decision about your new home.

ComparisonCincinnatiCharleston
Typical Architecture StyleArt DecoVictorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingsParks, River viewsHistorical Homes, Proximity to Shops

In terms of affordability, Charleston offers more budget-friendly housing options, with both median home prices and monthly rent significantly lower compared to Cincinnati. If you're enthusiastic about history and architecture, Charleston’s prevalent Victorian style might enchant you; however, Cincinnati's Art Deco charm shouldn't be underestimated. While Cincinnati scores higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, Charleston attracts with its historical homes and scenic views that are often highlighted in real estate listings. Whether you enjoy biking or appreciate proximity to amenities, each city's unique attributes can cater to different lifestyle preferences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Cincinnati vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

If you’re moving from one city to another, it’s crucial to get familiar with how the weather will compare to what you are used to. For those making the transition from Cincinnati to Charleston , understanding the local climate differences can help you prepare for new environmental conditions and adapt smoothly to life in your new surroundings.

Summer icon
86/66

Cincinnati, OH

85/63

Charleston, WV

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
41/24

Cincinnati, OH

44/26

Charleston, WV

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44

Cincinnati, OH

45

Charleston, WV

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Cincinnati, OH

27

Charleston, WV

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCincinnatiCharleston
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersFloodingFlooding, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Cincinnati to Charleston, you'll find subtle but noteworthy differences in climate. Charleston experiences slightly milder winters, with slightly higher winter highs, providing a more comfortable season for those averse to the cold. The area also enjoys more days of sunshine annually, making it a great choice for sun enthusiasts. Although both cities experience similar annual rainfall, Charleston residents can expect a moderate increase in snowfall. Additionally, the air quality in Charleston is generally better than in Cincinnati, which could be a boon for those sensitive to air pollutants. Do keep in mind that Charleston sees a few more natural disasters like tornadoes, necessitating appropriate preparations.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cincinnati to Charleston

When you're making a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in cost of living and financial aspects is crucial. This comparison will highlight the variance in key financial topics between Cincinnati, OH and Charleston, WV to better equip you for your transition.

ComparisonCincinnatiCharleston
Avg. Household Income$42,733
Cost of Living Index93.892.7
State Income Tax3.99%6.5%
Avg. Property Tax1.58%0.55%
Avg. Sales Tax7%6%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Healthcare, EducationGovernment, Healthcare, Retail
AffluenceSignificantModest
PovertyModerateHigher
HomelessnessNoticeableMinimal

Moving from Cincinnati to Charleston may result in financial adjustments given the differences in state taxes and costs of living. While the average household income in Cincinnati is higher, Charleston offers a more affordable cost of living index. However, the state income tax in West Virginia is considerably higher than in Ohio, which could affect your net earnings. Property taxes in Charleston are much lower, presenting a potential benefit for homeowners. Understanding these factors can help you better manage your finances during your move.

Cincinnati vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

This quick snapshot provides an informative comparison of the politics between Cincinnati & Charleston . It examines the political and religious makeup of their residents to help you better understand the new environment you are moving to without getting mired in details.

CincinnatiCharleston
Political Make-upPredominantly DemocraticMore mixed, leaning Republican
Local PoliticsUrban progressive initiativesFocus on economic growth
ReligionDiverse religious representationPredominantly Christian

As you relocate from Cincinnati to Charleston, expect to experience a shift in local political dynamics. Cincinnati, with its urban progressive initiatives, fosters an environment that prioritizes social programs and innovation. Conversely, Charleston leans more towards economic growth, offering opportunities to engage with local businesses and industries. For instance, you might take an interest in the Charleston Area Alliance, which plays a key role in regional economic development. Additionally, if religion is a significant aspect of your life, be prepared to see a higher representation of Christian congregations in Charleston, offering new opportunities for community involvement.

Cincinnati vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, we are offering a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Cincinnati & Charleston . This guide will highlight key differences to assist you in planning your move effectively.

ComparisonCincinnatiCharleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2520
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?PossibleChallenging

When comparing your potential commute in Cincinnati to Charleston, you'll notice some significant differences. Cincinnati generally has a higher level of traffic congestion, partly due to its larger population and more extensive metro area. Public transit options, like the Metro bus service, are relatively robust in Cincinnati, offering more connectivity across the city. On the other hand, Charleston provides a less congested, less hectic driving experience, albeit with fewer public transit options. This might necessitate owning a car for greater convenience in Charleston, as it can be challenging to navigate the area solely relying on public transportation.

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