Best Philadelphia to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Philadelphia to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 681 mile move from Pennsylvania to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Philadelphia 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 EverSafe Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.50 | 9.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pineapple Movers | 9.43 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | banning moving | 9.20 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Philadelphia to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 681 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,006 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Charleston move is roughly $4,811. 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 | $1,350 | 300 ft³ | 4.50 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,006 | 450 ft³ | 4.46 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,312 | 750 ft³ | 4.42 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,811 | 1100 ft³ | 4.37 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,929 | 1600 ft³ | 4.33 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,719 | 1800 ft³ | 4.29 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Philadelphia guide.
Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
EverSafe Moving Co.
8701 Torresdale Ave
Philadelphia, PA, 19136
About EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261303 / 771755 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2021) |
Pineapple Movers
Collingswood, NJ, 08108
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3579435 / 1208543 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (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) |
banning moving
2224 Apple Way
Bensalem, PA, 19020
About banning moving
Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers, the...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3350149 / 1070919 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,675 (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) |
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.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Use this guide to explore and compare neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Charleston, SC , helping you familiarize yourself with Charleston by drawing parallels to the neighborhoods you already know in Philadelphia.
| Philadelphia | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rittenhouse Square | South of Broad | Historic charm and exclusivity |
| Fishtown | North Morrison | Eclectic vibe and trendy spots |
| Old City | French Quarter | Rich in history and culture |
| University City | West Ashley | Educational and vibrant atmosphere |
| Chestnut Hill | Mt. Pleasant | Leafy suburbs and family-friendly |
| Society Hill | Ansonborough | Colonial elegance and prestige |
| Passyunk Square | Johns Island | Local dining and community feel |
| Logan Square | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Central location, cultural hubs |
| Queen Village | The Battery | Close-knit community and waterfront |
| Fairmount | James Island | Suburban feel with parks and nature |
If you love the art-infused energy of Fishtown, you'll find a similarly vibrant scene in North Morrison, complete with trendy cafes like The Ordinary and eclectic boutiques. Rittenhouse Square, with its chic restaurants such as Parc and lively city vibes, finds its Charleston counterpart in South of Broad, where historical mansions line the picturesque roads. For those who appreciate the historic atmosphere of Old City, you'll find the French Quarter in Charleston offers a deep cultural experience with landmarks like the Charleston Museum. If the intellectual buzz and academic presence of University City appeal to you, West Ashley may capture your interest with its educational atmosphere and community gatherings at places like Charleston Library Society.
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 Philadelphia to Charleston
Contemplating a move from bustling Philadelphia, PA to charming Charleston, SC requires an honest reflection of the good and bad that such a relocation entails. Comparing the pros and cons will help you weigh your options carefully and make an informed decision.
Philadelphia, PA- High cost of living
- Cold winters
- Heavy traffic
- Dense population
- Limited beach access
Charleston, SC- More affordable housing
- Mild winters
- Less congestion
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Proximity to beaches
Charleston, SC- Fewer historical landmarks
- Smaller arts community
- Limited public transport
- Fewer international cuisines
- Narrower job market
Philadelphia, PA- Rich cultural history
- Vibrant arts scene
- Extensive public transit
- Diverse dining options
- Numerous job opportunities
Moving from Philadelphia to Charleston comes with its perks and challenges. In Charleston, you’ll find beautiful neighborhoods like Mount Pleasant and Historic Downtown ready to greet you with their Southern charm and proximity to stunning beaches such as Folly Beach. While you might miss the robust public transport you have in Philly, Charleston compensates with a more relaxed pace and a wealth of open-air activities. Be sure to explore the unique flavors of low-country cuisine at popular spots like Husk and stroll through the lush greenery of Hampton Park.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture, offering insights into what it's like to live in an area. With a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Charleston , you can better understand the food scene you are moving to and appreciate the diverse culinary offerings of both cities.
| Philadelphia | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheesesteak | Shrimp and grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Pork Sandwich | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzels | Benne Wafers |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Cheesesteak | Hoppin' John |
| 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 delightful blend of southern charm and coastal flavors. The city’s iconic shrimp and grits are a must-try, particularly in the historic neighborhoods like the French Quarter where Husk serves a modern take on this classic dish. If you're vegan, Hoppin' John, a dish rich in history, can be found at hotspots around the city. While Charleston may not have as many food trucks as Philadelphia, it compensates with a rich food scene bursting with innovative culinary experiences. For a taste of contemporary Southern cuisine, Magnolias is worth a visit, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional dishes.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Embracing the culinary scene is an essential step in making a new city feel like home. This side-by-side comparison of current Philadelphia dining favorites and their closest equivalents in Charleston will help you find new go-to eateries as you transition from one city to another.
| Philadelphia | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Vetri Cucina | FIG | Both offer exquisite Italian cuisines with a focus on seasonal ingredients |
| John's Roast Pork | Poe's Tavern | Known for hearty sandwiches just like John's iconic roast pork |
| Zahav | Husk | Both feature unique spins on traditional dishes using local produce |
| Suraya | Malagon | Offers a similar immersive dining experience with Mediterranean flavors |
| Federal Donuts | Glazed Gourmet Doughnuts | Creative doughnut selections that delight the palate |
| Parc | 39 Rue de Jean | Both capture the essence of classic French brasseries |
| El Vez | Taco Boy | Celebrates vibrant and flavorful Mexican cuisine |
| Reading Terminal Market | Charleston City Market | Offers a lively market atmosphere with diverse local eats |
| Pat's King of Steaks | Charlie's Grocery | Famed for its local, beloved sandwiches inspired by traditional recipes |
| Amada | Barsa | Both provide an authentic tapas experience with a contemporary twist |
When you crave a taste of Italian excellence, dive into the offerings of FIG, where the precision of culinary artistry parallels that of Philly's famed Vetri Cucina. If you find joy in bustling markets, Charleston City Market welcomes you with a lively atmosphere reminiscent of Reading Terminal Market, filled with unique cuisines and local crafts. For those nights when Mexican flavors are calling, Taco Boy hits all the right notes with its vibrant menu, much like El Vez in Philadelphia. As you settle into Charleston, these remarkable dining venues will help you savor familiar tastes while exploring new culinary adventures.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
When relocating, understanding the differences between cities can significantly impact your decision. Real estate , especially housing, is a key factor when comparing Philadelphia, PA to Charleston, SC . This guide provides a clear comparison to aid in your move.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Rowhouse | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors | Porches |
When considering a move from Philadelphia to Charleston, it's important to note the difference in housing styles and prices. Philadelphia's renowned rowhouses offer a more compact living experience, while in Charleston, the colonial architecture often provides expansive porches, fostering a closer connection to the outdoors. Although the cost of living is slightly higher in Charleston with a median home price of $350,000, this city’s charm and historical allure can be quite appealing. Furthermore, Philadelphia's higher walkability score of 8 out of 10 might appeal to those who enjoy urban exploration by foot, whereas Charleston’s southern charm is often best experienced through leisurely strolls and scenic drives, offering its own unique appeal.
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.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences between Philadelphia and Charleston can help you prepare for your move. You'll want to know how temperatures fluctuate and what natural phenomena you can expect. This comparison helps make your transition smoother by highlighting the key weather factors that differ between these two cities .
Philadelphia, PA
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snow, Thunderstorms | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving to Charleston from Philadelphia means adapting to a warmer climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Charleston has a relatively high humidity level at 74%, which may require you to take extra care in summer for hydration and comfort compared to Philadelphia's moderate humidity. You might appreciate the increased sunshine days in Charleston, enabling more outdoor activities throughout the year. However, be prepared for potential weather challenges such as hurricanes and flooding, which are more common in Charleston than Philadelphia. The significantly lower snowfall in Charleston could be a pleasant change if you're looking to escape harsh winter conditions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Charleston
If you're considering a move from Philadelphia to Charleston , it's crucial to understand the financial differences between the two cities. This comparison will help you get a clearer picture of your potential new cost of living and adjust your budget accordingly.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.35 | 0.51 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 9 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Technology | Healthcare, Hospitality, Military |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
Moving from Philadelphia to Charleston involves a shift in financial dynamics. Despite Charleston's higher cost of living index, the benefit of no state income tax could be significant for your budget. Additionally, the average household income in Charleston surpasses that of Philadelphia, potentially providing a more comfortable lifestyle. Meanwhile, lower property taxes in Charleston may also offset some of the higher costs associated with its living expenses. These factors combined make Charleston an attractive city for economic relocation.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. The comparison of the politics between Philadelphia & Charleston aims to give you insights before your move.
| Philadelphia | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Conservative-leaning |
| Local Politics | Dominated by Democratic policies | Predominantly Republican |
| Religion | Diverse religious practices | Strong Protestant presence |
As you prepare to transition from Philadelphia to Charleston, understanding the local political ambiance can help you settle in better. Philadelphia tends to have more liberal viewpoints and policies driven by the Democratic party, which might influence how city services and community programs operate. On the other hand, Charleston, with its conservative leaning, reflects a different set of values and priorities which may impact everything from local education policies to public services. If religion is an important aspect of your life, you'll notice that Charleston has a stronger Protestant presence, offering numerous community churches and gatherings to join. This variety in community dynamics can be both an exciting and enlightening aspect of your move.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options can help you prep for your move from Philadelphia to Charleston. Whether you’re accustomed to the bustling streets of Philadelphia or exploring the charm of Charleston, this guide compares traffic and transportation options between Philadelphia & Charleston .
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible | Challenging |
Charleston offers a more leisurely commute and less congestion compared to Philadelphia, allowing you to enjoy a relatively brisk drive. While Philadelphia's robust public transit system, such as the SEPTA, provides a viable alternative to driving, Charleston's public transit options are more limited, making a personal vehicle quite handy. If you're considering going carless in Charleston, you could face some challenges navigating daily needs, while in Philadelphia, it's more feasible thanks to widespread public transportation and ride-sharing options.
Additional Resources
Philadelphia Moving Services
Popular Philadelphia to South Carolina Routes
Popular Moving Resources
