Best Portland to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,580 mile move from Oregon to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Portland 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 Northwest Grace Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland 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 Portland to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.28 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Comfortable Moving | 9.15 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,580 miles from Portland, OR to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,975 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Charleston move is roughly $9,607. 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 | $2,665 | 300 ft³ | 8.88 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,975 | 450 ft³ | 8.83 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,588 | 750 ft³ | 8.78 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,607 | 1100 ft³ | 8.73 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,894 | 1600 ft³ | 8.68 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,541 | 1800 ft³ | 8.63 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (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) |
Comfortable Moving
3305 Main St # 023
Vancouver, WA, 98663
About Comfortable Moving
Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3236736 / 1015844 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2020) |
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.
Portland vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from one city to another, familiarity is key. By comparing popular neighborhoods, you'll gain a sense of what to expect between Portland, OR & Charleston, WV . This guide helps find your new home in a city you're just getting to know.
| Portland | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | Downtown Charleston | Vibrant arts scene |
| Alberta Arts District | East End | Creative community vibe |
| Nob Hill | South Hills | Stylish, historic charm |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Kanawha City | Family-friendly atmosphere |
| Hawthorne | North Charleston | Eclectic and diverse |
| Division-Clinton | South Charleston | Local shops and eateries |
| Northwest District | Edgewood | Diverse dining options |
| Goose Hollow | East End Historic District | Architectural appeal |
| Richmond | Woodland Acres | Quiet and residential |
| Belmont | Carriage Trail | Scenic and close-knit community |
Portland's Pearl District, known for its lively arts scene, can find its twin in Charleston's Downtown Charleston, where galleries and vibrant murals abound, offering an urban playground for art lovers. If you're drawn to the eclectic charm of Portland's Hawthorne area, North Charleston presents a similar diversity and local flair with its range of unique shopping options and international eateries. For family-friendly vibes akin to Sellwood-Moreland, Kanawha City provides ample recreation opportunities, including well-maintained parks and nearby educational facilities. With its sophisticated history, Nob Hill's match, South Hills, offers you stylish homes and lush, tree-lined streets that enhance its timeless appeal.
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 Portland to Charleston
The purpose of this comparison is to provide an honest reflection of the move from Portland, OR to Charleston, WV , highlighting both the benefits and drawbacks in order to make an informed decision.
Portland, OR- Cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Rainy weather
- High rental prices
Charleston, WV- Lower expenses
- Lighter traffic
- More sunny days
- Affordable housing
Charleston, WV- Limited cuisine options
- More traditional values
- Limited mass transit
Portland, OR- Diverse food scene
- Progressive culture
- Excellent public transport
While Portland is renowned for its diverse food scene, with countless restaurants to delight your taste buds, Charleston offers its own charm with local favorites like the Capitol Market's fresh produce. However, you might find fewer cuisine options compared to Portland. Moving to Charleston can mean a significant reduction in living costs, with the average rent being much lower than in Portland. You'll enjoy more sunny days than the frequent rains typical to Portland, allowing for a delightful stroll in places like North Charleston Wannamaker County Park. While Charleston might lack the robust public transportation system of Portland, it compensates with picturesque views and vibrant community events such as the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta.
Portland vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. By exploring the culinary landscapes, you'll get a better understanding of your new home's character. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland, OR & Charleston, WV to help you become better informed about the food scene where you're relocating.
| Portland | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Voodoo Doughnut | Pepperoni Rolls |
| Most popular meat dish | Salt & Straw Ice Cream's Bone Marrow | West Virginia Hot Dogs |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Grilled Cheese Sandwiches |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Charleston's culinary delights such as the beloved pepperoni rolls can be savored in various neighborhoods, with local favorite spots like Blossom Dairy and Bluegrass Kitchen offering a taste of the region's specialties. In contrast, while Portland dazzles with its thriving network of food trucks and eclectic dining such as Pok Pok in the Southeast neighborhood, Charleston remains more traditional. However, Charleston's Pies & Pints showcases its evolving food scene, indicating potential growth in foodie culture. Though not as vegan-oriented as Portland, Charleston's places like Bluegrass Kitchen make sure to offer vegan-friendly options, highlighting a growing awareness of diverse dietary choices.
Portland vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite eateries is essential to making Charleston, WV feel like your home. This restaurant comparison offers a guided journey from the diverse culinary scene of Portland, OR so you can easily discover local spots that match your taste and style.
| Portland | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Laury's Restaurant | Both offer high-end, French-inspired fine dining experiences |
| Tasty n Alder | The Chop House | Share a similar upscale American fare with a focus on steaks and brunch |
| Nong’s Khao Man Gai | Thailand Thai Cuisine | Offers authentic, affordable Thai dishes, akin to Portland's favorite chicken rice |
| Pok Pok | Sitar of India | Both provide vibrant, spice-filled Asian dishes with a local twist |
| Screen Door | Bluegrass Kitchen | Known for their Southern comfort food, mirroring the hearty offerings of Portland's gem |
| Stumptown Coffee Roasters | Meagan's Coffee Lounge | A trendy spot for artisanal coffee lovers, similar in atmosphere and quality |
| Voodoo Doughnut | Peace, Love and Little Donuts | Offers innovative, quirky doughnut creations that echo Voodoo's playful spirit |
| Bamboo Sushi | Sushi Garden | Both ensure sustainable practices and a fresh, authentic sushi experience |
| Salt & Straw | Ellen's Homemade Ice Cream | Famous for creative flavors in a friendly, local setting |
| Lardo | Dem 2 Brothers & a Grill | Both are renowned for hearty, flavor-packed sandwiches |
When making the leap to Charleston, you'll find a comforting continuity in culinary quality and creativity. At Laury's Restaurant, indulge in exquisite, detail-oriented French cuisine reminiscent of the famed Le Pigeon in Portland. For those lazy brunch Sundays, The Chop House offers an unrivaled steak and breakfast experience that mirrors the eclectic vibe of Tasty n Alder. And let the quirky flair of Peace, Love and Little Donuts brighten your mornings, much like the iconic doughnuts of Voodoo Doughnut once did. Each place, though uniquely local, shares a culinary philosophy with its Portland counterpart, ensuring that your move is seamless and delicious.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Portland and Charleston compare can help you make informed decisions. Explore key housing factors to consider in each city through the detailed chart below.
| Comparison | Portland | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Near parks, restaurants | Historic charm, large lots |
When comparing housing costs, Portland's real estate market is notably more expensive than Charleston's, reflecting its larger urban setting and coastal location. If you prefer a vibrant and walkable city life, Portland could be more appealing, offering a higher urban lifestyle score, supported by widespread biking infrastructure. On the other hand, Charleston offers a more laid-back pace with historic colonial architecture and the charm of spacious properties. While Charleston's walkability is lower, the city's rich history is often encapsulated in its real estate offerings, making for distinctive properties that reflect the local culture. As you explore these aspects, consider visiting local attractions like Portland's parks and restaurants or Charleston's historic sites to enhance your living experience.
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.
Portland vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Portland, OR to Charleston, WV , understanding the differences in weather can help you prepare for the transition. Such knowledge will enable you to adjust your lifestyle preferences accordingly, ensuring a smooth adaptation to your new surroundings.
Portland, OR
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Floods, Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When you move from Portland to Charleston, you'll notice slightly more sunshine in Charleston, which can brighten up your days despite the increased rainfall and snowfall. The shift from tree pollen allergies in Portland to grass pollen in Charleston also signifies an adjustment to different allergens. Humidity levels are comparable, though Charleston is slightly higher, which might affect how you perceive warmth. Additionally, you’ll experience different natural threats as Charleston is prone to floods and storms, compared to Portland's earthquakes and wildfires. This adjustment in climate might take some getting used to, but it offers a unique change of scenery and lifestyle.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Charleston
If you're planning a move from Portland, OR to Charleston, WV, understanding the cost of living and financial landscape is key. This comparison will give you insight into how your financial life may change as you move between these cities, detailing aspects like income , tax rates , and more.
| Comparison | Portland | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.07% | 0.59% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0% | 6.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tech, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Energy, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Low |
| Poverty | Notable | Significant |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When considering a move to Charleston, WV, you're likely to notice a significant drop in the overall cost of living compared to Portland, OR. While Portland boasts a more vibrant job market with high average household incomes, Charleston offers the benefit of much lower property taxes, which can be a relief for homeowners. Additionally, Charleston's energy industry offers unique employment opportunities that differ from Portland's tech focus. Switching locations also means adapting to different sales tax realities; Portland has none, while Charleston's sits at 6.5%, impacting your day-to-day purchases. Understanding these financial dynamics can help you make informed decisions about your move.
Portland vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This brief comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. By contrasting the politics between Portland, OR and Charleston, WV , you can gain insight into how these cities differ in terms of political leanings and religious prevalence.
| Portland | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly liberal | More conservative |
| Local Politics | Emphasis on environmental policies | Focus on coal industry and economic revitalization |
| Religion | Less religious affiliation | Higher Christian presence |
When moving from Portland to Charleston, you may notice a shift from a predominantly liberal to a more conservative community. While Portland has a strong focus on environmental sustainability, Charleston places a higher emphasis on revitalizing its coal-dependent economy. Furthermore, Charleston exhibits a stronger Christian religious presence compared to the more secular atmosphere of Portland. This change might be apparent in community events and local practices, providing a unique environment that highlights the cultural and historical background of Charleston.
Portland vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic nuances is crucial when moving to a new city. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Charleston to help you prepare for the transition and navigate your new home with ease.
| Comparison | Portland | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 18 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
The vibrant city of Portland boasts a well-integrated public transit system, making it feasible to live without a car. The TriMet network is comprehensive, supporting the city's high score in public transit availability. In contrast, Charleston has a smaller public transit system which might not cover all your daily transit needs. In Charleston, traffic congestion is notably lower, resulting in quicker commutes. While Portland's traffic can be more cumbersome, it’s balanced by the diverse transit options available, offering you flexibility in navigating the city.
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