Best Pittsburgh to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 656 mile move from Pennsylvania to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Charleston Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pittsburgh Moving9.629.51Authorized For HHGContact
2Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHGContact
3Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
4Meta Movers9.119.43Authorized For HHGContact
5Two Men and a Truck8.808.2Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Pittsburgh to Charleston

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 656 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $1,988 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to Charleston move is roughly $4,767. 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$1,338300 ft³4.46
1 Bedroom$1,988450 ft³4.42
2 Bedrooms$3,282750 ft³4.38
3 Bedrooms$4,7671100 ft³4.33
4 Bedrooms$6,8651600 ft³4.29
5+ Bedrooms$7,6471800 ft³4.25
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to South Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & South Carolina. 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 PA to SC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Pittsburgh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh to Charleston Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Pittsburgh Moving Logo

Pittsburgh Moving

Exceptional9.62/10
based on 1,264+ data points

5746 Pierce St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15232

About Pittsburgh Moving

Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...

Services

  • Local move in Pittsburgh
  • Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
  • Residential move

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3901080 / 1437162

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Smooth Move Charleston Logo

Smooth Move Charleston

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2357653 / 834668

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
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
3
Meta Movers Logo

Meta Movers

Exceptional9.11/10
based on 336+ data points

13 Holt St

Pittsburgh, PA, 15203

About Meta Movers

Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...

Services

  • Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
  • Long distance residential and commercial moves
  • Loading or unloading your truck or pod

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3295834 / 1044452

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Superb8.80/10
based on 2,807+ data points

3555 Valley Dr

Pittsburgh, PA, 15234

About Two Men and a Truck

With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Junk Removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1321899 / 509618

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers15
Total Annual Miles Moved260,000 (2022)
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.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

Moving between cities can be daunting, but understanding local neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. By using your current knowledge of Pittsburgh, PA & Charleston, SC , this guide helps you find the best areas comparable to what you're accustomed to.

PittsburghCharlestonHow They're Similar
ShadysideSouth of BroadUpscale, historic charm
LawrencevilleHarleston VillageTrendy, vibrant arts scene
OaklandHampton Park TerraceCollege town energy
Strip DistrictFrench QuarterBustling market atmosphere
North ShoreMazyck-WraggboroughRiverfront activities
BloomfieldWagener TerraceCommunity spirit, local dining
Mount WashingtonJames IslandScenic views, outdoor activities
Squirrel HillWest AshleyFamily-friendly, suburban feel
East LibertyCannonborough-ElliottboroughBohemian mix of culture
South Side FlatsNorth CentralNightlife, youthful vibe

Charleston's South of Broad mirrors the upscale elegance of Shadyside with its historic homes and high-end boutique shopping. Both neighborhoods offer an enriching experience where tradition meets modernity. Meanwhile, if you appreciate the artistic flair of Lawrenceville, then Harleston Village with its trendy galleries and creative spaces will make you feel right at home. For those who thrive in college town environments, Oakland's lively atmosphere is paralleled by the collegiate energy of Hampton Park Terrace, where you can enjoy events at Hampton Park and connect with the local student community. Each neighborhood brings its unique charm to the table, ensuring your transition is filled with exciting discoveries.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston

Exploring a potential move from Pittsburgh, PA to Charleston, SC requires an objective assessment of both benefits and drawbacks. Our analysis provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad , highlighting what you may gain or miss when relocating from Pittsburgh to Charleston .

CONs
PROs
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Harsh winters
  • Traffic congestion
  • Limited beaches
  • Rust belt perception
  • High cost of sports tickets
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Mild winters
  • Less traffic
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Southern charm
  • Affordable local events
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Fewer museums
  • Smaller sports scene
  • Hot, humid summers
  • Less tech prominence
  • Less known food scene
Pittsburgh, PA iconPittsburgh, PA
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Strong sports fanbase
  • Diverse seasons
  • Tech industry presence
  • Famous cuisine

Moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston presents a shift in lifestyle and environment. In Charleston, you'll find relief from Pittsburgh's harsh winters as it offers mild seasonal changes, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round. The beaches, such as those on Folly Beach, provide tranquil escapes which might be missed in Pittsburgh. However, if you're a lover of cultural events and the bustling activity of city life, you might find Charleston quieter, with fewer museums than the expansive offerings in Pittsburgh, such as the Carnegie Museums. For sports enthusiasts, the energetic Pittsburgh fanbase cheering for the Steelers stands in stark contrast to the smaller sports scene in Charleston. Despite these differences, Charleston's southern charm and vibrant neighborhoods, like Downtown Charleston, offer a unique lifestyle pivot filled with their own attractions and local events.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is a crucial aspect of local culture and gives a real taste of what it's like to live in a particular area. Whether you're a resident or planning a move, understanding the culinary landscape can enrich your experience. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh & Charleston , helping you anticipate the food scene awaiting you in your new home.

PittsburghCharleston
Most iconic local food itemPierogiesShrimp and Grits
Most popular meat dishPrimanti Brothers SandwichShe Crab Soup
Most popular street food itemHaluškyFried Chicken
Most popular vegan foodChickpea SaladVegan BBQ
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)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While both Pittsburgh and Charleston have vibrant food scenes, they offer distinct experiences that reflect their unique cultural landscapes. In Charleston, you can find iconic dishes like Shrimp and Grits and She Crab Soup, especially in neighborhoods like the historic French Quarter, where establishments such as Husk excel at serving southern classics. Food trucks are a delightful discovery in both cities, but Charleston edges out with its slightly more abundant food truck scene. For vegan enthusiasts, Charleston also has a slight edge. Though Pittsburgh offers dishes like Chickpea Salad, Charleston's Vegan BBQ is a highlight in neighborhoods like North Morrison Drive. With both cities having a strong foodie culture, you're in for a treat in either destination!

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Food is an essential part of making any place feel like home. By comparing the best restaurants in Pittsburgh with their Charleston equivalents , you can seamlessly find your new favorite eateries and embrace the local dining scene through familiar culinary experiences.

PittsburghCharlestonWhat You'll Love
Primanti Bros.Boxcar Betty'sKnown for hearty sandwiches that capture local flair.
Sienna on the SquareHalls ChophouseOffers a similar high-end dining experience with regional specialities.
SpoonThe OrdinaryCelebrates seafood and innovative dishes in an upscale setting.
Pork & BeansLewis BarbecueA hub for BBQ lovers craving authentic flavors.
Condado TacosTaco BoyWhere fresh ingredients and vibrant atmospheres meet in perfect harmony.
AptekaGnome CaféVegan delights in a laid-back café setting.
The Church Brew WorksRevelry BrewingOffers craft brews and an equally captivating venue.
KayaFleet LandingCoastal cuisine with an artistic twist.
or, The WhaleHuskEmbraces local ingredients with an innovative culinary approach.
Point Brugge Café39 Rue de JeanA delightful bistro offering a European-inspired menu.

Diving into the vibrant food scene, both Pittsburgh and Charleston boast unique offerings that delight gastronomes. At The Ordinary and Spoon, expect to find a menu rich with seafood options, encapsulating the essence of coastal dining through fresh and inventive dishes. For sandwich enthusiasts, a visit to Primanti Bros. will remind you of home when indulging in the unique offerings at Boxcar Betty's, where creativity meets local flavor. Meanwhile, the art of barbeque is fully realized at both Pork & Beans and Lewis Barbecue, where you’ll savor perfectly smoked meats reminiscent of backyard gatherings. These establishments reflect the distinct cultural charm of their respective cities, ensuring you continue on a flavorful culinary journey as you move from one to the other.

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Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how Pittsburgh and Charleston compare regarding housing. This guide will help you evaluate key factors for both cities, enabling a more informed decision for your relocation.

ComparisonPittsburghCharleston
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman and VictorianColonial and Georgian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingParks and Waterfront ViewsHistoric Sites and Beaches

When considering a move, factors like cost and lifestyle can significantly impact your decision. In Pittsburgh, the relatively lower median home price and rent make it a more affordable option compared to Charleston. The city is known for its Craftsman and Victorian architecture, providing a charming backdrop for your daily life. Walking through neighborhoods is particularly enjoyable, with a high walkability score due to its accessible layout. Meanwhile, Charleston offers the allure of Colonial and Georgian styles, which are often highlighted in listings for their historical appeal. While housing costs are higher, the proximity to beaches and historic sites adds unique value. Make sure to explore neighborhoods like East Liberty in Pittsburgh or West Ashley in Charleston to get a true feel for each city's living experience.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

Understanding the weather differences between Pittsburgh and Charleston is crucial when planning a move. Comparing temperature variations, precipitation, sunshine, and other climate factors can help you prepare for the environmental changes you will encounter.

Summer icon
82/62

Pittsburgh, PA

89/75

Charleston, SC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36/20

Pittsburgh, PA

59/38

Charleston, SC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Pittsburgh, PA

44

Charleston, SC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
44

Pittsburgh, PA

0.1

Charleston, SC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPittsburghCharleston
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersFloodingHurricanes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston will introduce you to a significantly milder winter climate, with Charleston's average winter temperatures much higher and nearly negligible snowfall. Charleston generally experiences more sunshine and higher humidity levels, which can affect comfort, especially during summer. While Pittsburgh is prone to flooding, Charleston faces hurricane risks, impacting how you might prepare for weather events. Increased UV exposure in Charleston suggests prioritizing skin protection. Anticipate different allergens such as grass and mold in Charleston compared to ragweed and tree pollen in Pittsburgh.

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

If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This chart provides a financial overview highlighting the key economic differences between Pittsburgh and Charleston to help you plan your move effectively.

ComparisonPittsburghCharleston
Avg. Household Income$57,821$74,139
Cost of Living Index91.598.3
State Income Tax3.07%0%
Avg. Property Tax2.02%0.51%
Avg. Sales Tax7%9%
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Education, ManufacturingHospitality, Aerospace, Automotive
AffluenceModerateAffluent
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessLowModerate

When considering a move from Pittsburgh to Charleston, it's crucial to take into account the differences in income and tax structures. Charleston boasts no state income tax, allowing you to keep more of your paycheck, unlike Pittsburgh, which has a 3.07% tax rate. Although Charleston has a higher cost of living index, it also offers higher average household incomes, potentially balancing out the increased expenses. Additionally, property taxes in Charleston are significantly lower than in Pittsburgh, which might make investing in real estate more attractive. You’ll also notice a shift in dominant industries, which could impact job opportunities depending on your field. Understanding these financial nuances can help you make a more informed decision about your relocation.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

This quick, at-a-glance snapshot offers insights into the political and religious leanings of residents, allowing for a clearer understanding of community dynamics. Here you'll see a comparison of the politics between Pittsburgh & Charleston , highlighting differences that may be significant to your move.

PittsburghCharleston
Political Make-upLiberalConservative
Local PoliticsCity CouncilTown Meetings
ReligionVariedPredominantly Christian

Moving from Pittsburgh to Charleston may present you with some interesting shifts in community atmosphere. Pittsburgh tends to lean more liberal, with a diverse political conversation often found in its city council. In contrast, Charleston typically has a more conservative vibe. If you attend local town meetings in Charleston, you may notice more traditional stances being expressed. Additionally, the religious landscape in Charleston is predominantly Christian, which might influence local cultural events and community gatherings. This shift could offer a different backdrop to your social engagements compared to the varied religious makeup of Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another involves more than just changing your address; it requires an understanding of your new environment. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Charleston will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like, aiding in a smoother transition to your new home.

ComparisonPittsburghCharleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2724
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?PossiblyDifficult

In Pittsburgh, the availability of public transit, such as buses and light rail through Port Authority of Allegheny County, makes it easier to rely less on a personal vehicle. Meanwhile, Charleston offers less public transit availability, prompting many residents to depend more on cars. The traffic congestion in Pittsburgh can pose more challenges during peak hours, whereas Charleston's relatively lower congestion makes for a less stressful commute. However, the trade-off includes shorter average commute times in Charleston, potentially reflecting a more relaxed pace of life.

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