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 163 mile move from Ohio to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), 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 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 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.18 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Moyer's Movers | 8.93 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Columbus to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 163 miles from Columbus, OH to Charleston, WV will cost on average $1,920 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Columbus to Charleston move is roughly $4,583. 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 | $1,295 | 300 ft³ | 4.32 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,920 | 450 ft³ | 4.27 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,162 | 750 ft³ | 4.22 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,583 | 1100 ft³ | 4.17 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,586 | 1600 ft³ | 4.12 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,319 | 1800 ft³ | 4.07 |
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) |
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) |
Moyer's Movers
Newark, OH, 43055
About Moyer's Movers
Moyer’s Movers has been moving families and businesses across Ohio since 2004. This locally owned company can handle all types of...
Services
- Residential and commercial moving
- Long-distance moves across Ohio
- Full pack and unpack services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2523566 / 885535 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 58,800 (2023) |
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.
Columbus vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but comparing familiar areas can ease the transition. By exploring Columbus, OH & Charleston, WV neighborhoods, you'll find your home away from home.
| Columbus | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| German Village | East End | Historic charm, brick streets |
| Short North | Capitol Market | Artsy vibe, lively shops |
| Clintonville | South Hills | Family-friendly, spacious parks |
| Olde Towne East | Kanawha City | Eclectic mix, diverse community |
| Victorian Village | Edgewood | Historic homes, tree-lined streets |
| Italian Village | Glenwood | Trendy, vibrant neighborhood |
| Dublin | Kanawha City | Suburban feel, thriving community |
| Worthington | South Charleston | Quiet, small-town charm |
| Grandview Heights | West Side | Cozy, friendly atmosphere |
| Arena District | Downtown | Sports events, entertainment hub |
Dive into the historic essence of German Village with its cobblestone roads by visiting the East End in Charleston, where similar brick streets and vintage architecture create a quaint yet vibrant atmosphere. If you are drawn to the artsy scene of the Short North, Capitol Market will satiate your creative cravings, offering local artistry and eateries nestled in a community market setting. Clintonville's expansive parks, ideal for outdoor activities, find their match in South Hills, where you can explore scenic trails and family-friendly recreational spaces. Each neighborhood has its unique charm waiting for you to discover, so take time to experience them fully while settling into your new home.
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 Columbus to Charleston
Considering a move from Columbus, OH to Charleston, WV involves weighing various factors. This guide presents an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Columbus, OH to Charleston, WV . These charts aim to help you make an informed decision by comparing your potential new life in Charleston against your current one in Columbus.
Columbus, OH- Heavy traffic
- Higher cost of living
- Urban sprawl
- Limited mountain access
- Fast-paced lifestyle
Charleston, WV- Lighter congestion
- More affordable living
- Quieter atmosphere
- Close to mountains
- Slower pace of life
Charleston, WV- Smaller art community
- Fewer restaurants
- Limited sports venues
- Fewer job options
- Fewer parks
Columbus, OH- Vibrant arts scene
- Diverse dining options
- Major sports events
- Ample job opportunities
- Extensive park systems
Moving from Columbus to Charleston promises a change in environment and lifestyle. In Charleston, you'll find the nearby [Kanawha State Forest](Kanawha State Forest) to be an excellent place for outdoor activities, offering a contrast to the more urban outdoor experiences like [Schiller Park](Schiller Park) in Columbus. Dining out may present fewer choices, but local favorites such as [Tidewater Grill](Tidewater Grill) will still offer delightful experiences. While Columbus boasts a more extensive arts scene with venues like the [Wexner Center for the Arts](Wexner Center for the Arts), Charleston provides a cozier community vibe you might appreciate. Overall, the move represents a shift from a bustling city life to a more tranquil setting.
Columbus vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. Understanding the culinary scene can be both exciting and revealing. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Columbus & Charleston , so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Columbus | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Buckeye candy | Peanut butter buckeye |
| Most popular meat dish | Columbus-style pizza | Hot dogs with slaw |
| Most popular street food item | Street tacos | Pepperoni rolls |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Buddha bowl | Vegan chili |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Charleston, you'll find a burgeoning food scene that is fond of its local staples, like the iconic pepperoni rolls, especially popular at downtown street fairs. Blue Smoke Salsa can be found in the vibrant East End district, offering a taste of local flair. While Columbus boasts an impressive food truck culture, Charleston's smaller scene provides a more intimate food truck experience that reflects the city's charm. If you're seeking vegan options, the vegan chili at Pies & Pints in the Capitol Market area is a must-try. Both cities offer a unique taste of regional specialties that are integral to their cultural fabric.
Columbus vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential part of transforming a new city into a home. This comparison of top restaurants in Columbus and Charleston, WV will help you find your new favorite eateries using your current hometown as a familiar guide.
| Columbus | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Ellens Homemade Ice Cream | Known for its creative flavors and local ingredients |
| Northstar Café | Bluegrass Kitchen | Focuses on organic and locally-sourced dishes |
| The Refectory | Soho's | Sophisticated dining experience with European influences |
| Ray Ray's Hog Pit | Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill | Both love their BBQ with a passion for smoked flavors |
| Brassica | Pies & Pints | Offers crafted, flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired snacks alongside unique pizzas |
| Lindey's | Bridge Road Bistro | Similar upscale dining experience combining elegance and comfort |
| Schmidt's Sausage Haus | Swiftwater Cafe | Both serve hearty, homestyle meals with a local touch |
| The Pearl | Laury's Restaurant | Upscale, fresh seafood specializes in atmosphere and elegant touches |
| Hot Chicken Takeover | Tidewater Grill | Specializes in hot, savory platters with rich flavor profiles |
| Stauf's Coffee Roasters | Mespresso | Local coffee spot known for quality roasts and cozy vibe |
When moving from Columbus to Charleston, you'll discover a shared passion for creative and locally-sourced dishes at spots like Bluegrass Kitchen, reminiscent of Northstar Café's organic approach. If BBQ is a staple, you'll find a familiar flavor haven in Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill, where the taste of smoked meats aligns beautifully with Columbus's Ray Ray’s Hog Pit. For a sweet indulgence, Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream offers creatively-flavored scoops similar to the beloved creations at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. These comparisons highlight each city’s culinary gems, making the transition between the two feel like a flavorful journey rather than a daunting change.
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 housing in Columbus and Charleston compares, from cost and typical architecture to walkability and urban lifestyle. This comparison provides essential insights for anyone considering a move between these two cities.
| Comparison | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Colonial and Classic |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to parks, public transport | Historic charm, large lots |
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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.
Columbus vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering moving from Columbus, OH to Charleston, WV , understanding the weather differences is essential to help you prepare and adjust. This comparison highlights the key aspects of climate you need to know for a smooth transition.
Columbus, OH
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you move to Charleston, you'll notice slightly milder winters with higher low temperatures compared to Columbus, offering a bit less of the biting cold. The additional days of sunshine in Charleston may prove delightful, especially in the spring and autumn, encouraging more outdoor activities. Although annual rainfall is higher in Charleston, snowfall is marginally less, which might appeal to those who prefer rain over snow. It’s beneficial to be aware of the potential for flooding in Charleston, contrasting with Columbus's tornado threats, ensuring you're prepared for the different nature of weather alerts.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Charleston
If you're relocating from Columbus, OH to Charleston, WV , it's crucial to grasp the money and finance differences between these cities. Understanding these differences will help you budget and adjust elegantly to your new environment.
| Comparison | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 3.465% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.57% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5% | 6.0% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Government, Finance | Healthcare, Retail, Government |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | Manageable | Noticeable |
Moving from Columbus to Charleston, you might experience a shift in overall economic landscape. Columbus generally has a higher household income, but you'll notice that Charleston offers a more favorable cost of living index. While state income tax in Charleston is notably higher, property tax rates are considerably lower compared to Columbus. It's also important to observe that while Columbus thrives in industries like education and finance, Charleston has a significant employment base in healthcare and retail. This difference could influence your career opportunities and financial planning.
Columbus vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. By taking a closer look at these differences, you can gain insight into how similar or different the community dynamics are between the two cities, focusing on the politics between Columbus & Charleston .
| Columbus | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly liberal | Predominantly conservative |
| Local Politics | Democrat-led city council | Republican-led city government |
| Religion | Diverse religious representation | High percentage of Protestants |
Moving from Columbus to Charleston means transitioning from a city that's predominantly liberal to one with a conservative orientation. Columbus has a Democrat-led city council, which often translates to progressive policies and initiatives. On the other hand, Charleston's government is largely Republican, reflecting the more traditional values held by its residents. Religiously, Columbus offers a more diverse representation with a variety of faiths practiced, compared to Charleston where Protestant Christianity is the dominant faith. This shift might impact your daily life, from the political conversations you engage in to the community events you attend.
Columbus vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
If you're planning a move from Columbus, OH to Charleston, WV, understanding the traffic and transportation options between Columbus & Charleston can help you better anticipate what your daily commute might look like. This comparison aims to shed light on key differences, making your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Columbus | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 17 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
When comparing the transportation dynamics between Columbus and Charleston, you'll notice some distinct differences. Columbus tends to have higher traffic congestion, reflected in its average commute time of about 24 minutes, which is considerably longer than in Charleston. Although the public transit system in Columbus is more developed, those moving to Charleston will appreciate the ease of getting around with less dependence on a car. Charleston's lower congestion score also means a more relaxed pace, simplifying daily commutes considerably. Exploring these aspects thoroughly will surely help you adapt smoothly to your new home.
Additional Resources
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