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 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.

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 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.18 | 9.35 | 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 |
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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,319 | 300 ft³ | 4.40 |
1 Bedroom | $1,956 | 450 ft³ | 4.35 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,222 | 750 ft³ | 4.30 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,670 | 1100 ft³ | 4.25 |
4 Bedrooms | $6,713 | 1600 ft³ | 4.20 |
5+ Bedrooms | $7,462 | 1800 ft³ | 4.15 |


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) |

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) |

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.
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.
Cincinnati | Charleston | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Over-the-Rhine | East End | Historic charm with vibrant art and culture |
Hyde Park | South Hills | Upscale homes with boutique shopping and dining |
Oakley | Kanawha City | Family-friendly with parks and casual eateries |
Mount Adams | South Charleston | Hilly terrain with scenic views and nightlife |
Clifton | West Side | College-friendly ambiance with eclectic dining |
Northside | Capital Market Area | Bohemian flair and a thriving local art scene |
Blue Ash | Teays Valley | Family suburb with parks and schools |
Columbia-Tusculum | Edgewood | Historic homes and wooded areas |
Norwood | North Charleston | Working-class with community spirit |
Walnut Hills | Downtown Charleston | Urban 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.

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 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.
- Heavy Traffic
- Expensive Living
- High Humidity
- Dense Urban Areas
- Limited Mountain Views
- Lighter Traffic
- Affordable Housing
- Milder Summers
- Scenic Natural Areas
- Stunning Mountain Views
- Fewer Sports Events
- Fewer Restaurant Choices
- Quieter Nightlife
- Less Public Transport
- Fewer Festivals
- 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.
Cincinnati | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Cincinnati Chili | Pepperoni Roll |
Most popular meat dish | Goetta | Country Ham |
Most popular street food item | Coney Dog | Hot Dog |
Most popular vegan food | Stuffed Grape Leaves | Vegetable Stir Fry |
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 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.
Cincinnati | Charleston | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Boca | The Chop House | A fine-dining experience with exquisite steak and seafood dishes. |
Sotto | Paterno's at the Park | Offers authentic Italian flavors with a contemporary twist. |
Eli's BBQ | Dem 2 Brothers & a Grill | Famous for its southern-style barbeque and soul food vibe. |
The Eagle | Bluegrass Kitchen | Celebrated for its hearty southern fare and relaxed atmosphere. |
Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse | Laury's Restaurant | Known for its luxurious atmosphere and premium steak offerings. |
Salazar | Bridge Road Bistro | A destination for upscale bistro dishes with a farm-to-table philosophy. |
Arnold's Bar & Grill | Sam's Uptown Cafe | Charleston's beloved local institution with a lively bar scene. |
The Precinct | The Grill at Parkersburg | A premier location for steak lovers with award-winning cuts. |
A Tavola Pizza | Lola's Pizza | Known for its wood-fired pizzas that rival Cincinnati's artisanal pie scene. |
Graeter's Ice Cream | Ellen's Homemade Ice Cream | A 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.

Ready to start your move?
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.
Comparison | Cincinnati | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Art Deco | Victorian |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listings | Parks, River views | Historical 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 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.
Cincinnati, OH
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Cincinnati, OH
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Cincinnati, OH
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Cincinnati, OH
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Cincinnati | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Flooding | Flooding, 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
Comparison | Cincinnati | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $42,733 | |
Cost of Living Index | 93.8 | 92.7 |
State Income Tax | 3.99% | 6.5% |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.58% | 0.55% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 6% |
Top 3 Industries | Finance, Healthcare, Education | Government, Healthcare, Retail |
Affluence | Significant | Modest |
Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
Homelessness | Noticeable | Minimal |
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.
Cincinnati | Charleston | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Predominantly Democratic | More mixed, leaning Republican |
Local Politics | Urban progressive initiatives | Focus on economic growth |
Religion | Diverse religious representation | Predominantly 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.
Comparison | Cincinnati | Charleston |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 20 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | Possible | Challenging |
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.



Additional Resources
Cincinnati Moving Services
Popular Cincinnati to West Virginia Routes
Popular Moving Resources