Best Philadelphia to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Philadelphia to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 467 mile move from Pennsylvania to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Philadelphia to Charleston moving companies and more than 15,000 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 | 9.44 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | banning moving | 9.20 | 9.47 | 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 |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Philadelphia to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 467 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,178 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Charleston move is roughly $5,215. 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 | $1,467 | 300 ft³ | 4.89 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,178 | 450 ft³ | 4.84 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,593 | 750 ft³ | 4.79 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,215 | 1100 ft³ | 4.74 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,505 | 1600 ft³ | 4.69 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,353 | 1800 ft³ | 4.64 |
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) |
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) |
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.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
If you're considering a move from one city to another, understanding the neighborhoods can provide a sense of familiarity in unfamiliar surroundings. This guide provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Charleston, WV , helping you transition smoothly by discovering areas similar to those you know and love.
| Philadelphia | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Fishtown | East End | Creative arts scene |
| Rittenhouse Square | Downtown Charleston | Bustling business district |
| Old City | Historic Charleston | Rich in history and culture |
| University City | Kanawha City | Educational institutions |
| Chestnut Hill | South Hills | Green spaces and suburban feel |
| South Street | Capitol Market | Vibrant marketplace atmosphere |
| Manayunk | Bridge Road | Cafes and trendy shops |
| Bella Vista | Elk City | Diverse food scene |
| Logan Square | West Side | Cultural institutions |
| Society Hill | Oakwood | Historic homes and architecture |
As you move from Philadelphia to Charleston, you’ll find certain neighborhoods resonate with familiar vibes. For example, if you enjoy the artsy vibe of Fishtown, you'll appreciate the East End with its vibrant community arts scene. Lovers of Rittenhouse Square’s bustling energy will feel at home in Downtown Charleston, with its exciting business and social life, complete with local restaurants and retail shops like Capitol Market. Those who cherish the academic atmosphere of University City will find similar educational resources in Kanawha City, home to various schools and close to both the Kanawha River and local parks. Chestnut Hill’s suburban tranquility and expansive green spaces mirror South Hills, where the blend of natural beauty and suburban charm creates a peaceful retreat within reach of city life.
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 Philadelphia to Charleston
When contemplating a move from Philadelphia to Charleston , it's vital to examine both sides of the coin. Our charts aim to provide an honest reflection on the good and bad aspects of this relocation, helping you better prepare for your new chapter.
Philadelphia, PA- Crowded streets
- High cost of living
- Long commutes
- Noisy neighborhoods
Charleston, WV- Less traffic congestion
- More affordable housing
- Shorter travel times
- Quieter communities
Charleston, WV- Less cultural variety
- Limited public transport
- Less historic landmarks
- Quieter nightlife scene
Philadelphia, PA- Cultural diversity
- Extensive public transport
- Rich history
- Exciting nightlife
Charleston offers a more relaxed lifestyle with its quieter neighborhoods and reasonable cost of living, making it an attractive option for those weary of Philadelphia's hustle. You can delight in the scenic views of Canaan Valley State Park and enjoy local eateries such as Bluegrass Kitchen. While you might miss the diversity and vibrancy of South Street in Philadelphia, the warmth and charm of places like Capitol Market in Charleston create their own kind of magic. Although public transport options are fewer, the joy of a picturesque drive along the Kanawha River can outweigh the absence of a subway commute.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Philadelphia and Charleston is essential for understanding the diverse food culture you'll encounter. Exploring local foods not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers insight into the area's traditions and lifestyle.
| Philadelphia | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheesesteak | Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Pork Sandwich | Country Ham |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzels | Sausage Rolls |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Cheesesteak | Stuffed Peppers |
| 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 embraces its Southern culinary roots, and you can find local favorites like the Hot Dog and Country Ham in neighborhoods such as the East End. City eateries, including Station Kitchen and Bar, offer dishes that reflect the traditional flavors of the region while incorporating modern twists. Although Charleston's food truck scene isn't as bustling as Philadelphia's, the options available cater to both classic and adventurous palates. The vegan scene is emerging, with spots like Blissful Bowl offering creative plant-based dishes for a health-conscious crowd.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food plays an essential role in transforming a new place into your home, and this restaurant comparison aims to help you navigate the culinary landscape of Philadelphia and Charleston . By exploring top dining destinations in both cities, you might discover your new favorite eateries using the culinary gems of your current hometown as a guide.
| Philadelphia | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zahav | Bluegrass Kitchen | This spot offers an inspired menu with a focus on locally sourced, creative dishes. |
| Vernick Food & Drink | Sophia's | Dine here for a modern take on classic dishes in a cozy setting. |
| Reading Terminal Market | Capitol Market | A bustling indoor market providing a variety of local vendors and fresh produce. |
| John's Roast Pork | Tidewater Grill | Known for its standout sandwiches and fulfilling comfort foods. |
| Parc Restaurant | Bridge Road Bistro | Offers a relaxed atmosphere with a menu that balances sophistication with approachability. |
| Vetri Cucina | Laury's | Known for its intimate dining experience and exceptional Italian cuisine. |
| Talula's Garden | Modern Homestead | Features farm-to-table dishes emphasizing seasonal and fresh ingredients. |
| Honey's Sit 'n Eat | Tricky Fish | Perfect for those who enjoy hearty breakfasts and comfort foods. |
| Federal Donuts | Hidden Trails Coffeehouse | Offers delightful breakfast pastries and a warm community atmosphere. |
| The Love | South Hills Market & Café | Both places emphasize approachable fine dining with a charming ambiance. |
While living in Philadelphia, you might have indulged in the beloved Israeli-inspired dishes at Zahav, and moving to Charleston, you'll find a similar experience with unique spins at Bluegrass Kitchen. Known for its iconic sandwiches, John's Roast Pork has a Charleston counterpart in Tidewater Grill, which offers hearty comfort foods set to satisfy any sandwich craving. When longing for the hustle and bustle of Reading Terminal Market, look no further than Capitol Market, which brings a vibrant selection of local vendors and fresh goods to explore. Each of these Charleston establishments offers a taste of home while introducing exciting new flavors to indulge in your culinary journey.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how Philadelphia and Charleston compare, ensuring you make an informed decision on housing options, cost, and lifestyle differences.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal, Colonial | Victorian, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Parking, Proximity to <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com">Center City</a>, Historic Charm | Mountain Views, Large Backyards, Proximity to <a href="https://charlestonwv.com">Downtown</a> |
When comparing housing between the two cities, Philadelphia offers a distinct urban lifestyle with a higher median home price and rent, reflecting its bustling city atmosphere. Large segments of Philadelphia boast Federal and Colonial architecture, enhancing its historic appeal. Charleston, with its more affordable housing, offers Victorian and Craftsman style homes, often highlighting mountain views and spacious backyards. The walkability and bikeability scores reinforce the urban advantages of Philadelphia, while Charleston provides a quieter, more laid-back environment with opportunities to explore its natural surroundings. Understanding these differences helps to choose a city that best suits your 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.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Philadelphia to Charleston , understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial. This comparison will help you be better prepared for the changes in climate that you might experience in your new home. It's essential to adjust to new weather patterns for your comfort and planning.
Philadelphia, PA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Severe Thunderstorms | Floods, Severe Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Philadelphia to Charleston, you'll notice subtle differences in the seasonal weather patterns. Charleston experiences slightly cooler summer temperatures compared to Philadelphia, making the summer heat a bit more bearable. However, the humidity is generally higher in Charleston, which can make the air feel thicker. In terms of natural phenomena, both cities face severe thunderstorms, but Charleston is more prone to flooding. Moreover, residents in Charleston may find spring allergies from tree pollen a bit more challenging. Be prepared for slightly more rainfall annually in Charleston, which contributes to its lush landscapes.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Charleston
If you're moving from Philadelphia to Charleston , understanding how money and financial factors compare is crucial for your financial planning. This comparison will help you anticipate the changes in living expenses and adapt to your new lifestyle.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.35% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Healthcare, Education, Energy |
| Affluence | Moderate | Modest |
| Poverty | Significant | Noticeable |
| Homelessness | Visible | Less pronounced |
When moving from Philadelphia to Charleston, you can expect a noticeable decrease in the cost of living, as reflected by the lower Cost of Living Index. While Philadelphia has a higher average household income, Charleston's property tax is considerably lower, providing some relief in home ownership costs. Despite the higher state income tax in West Virginia, residing in Charleston often means a reduction in overall expenses. Furthermore, switching environments offers a shift in dominant industries, with Charleston heavily relying on healthcare and energy compared to Philadelphia's strong presence in finance.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The following comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, focusing on the politics between Philadelphia & Charleston . This is essential to understand how the cultural and civic environments might differ as you relocate.
| Philadelphia | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Primarily Republican |
| Local Politics | Diverse political representation at City Council | Traditional values with emphasis on community |
| Religion | Varied religious demographic | Majority Christian, with various denominations |
When moving from Philadelphia to Charleston, you'll notice a shift in both political and religious landscapes. Philadelphia tends to lean more Democratic, evident in its diverse array of representatives at the local city council. In contrast, Charleston's political environment is more traditional, often reflecting Republican values that prioritize community-oriented policies. Additionally, while Philadelphia boasts a broad spectrum of religious beliefs, Charleston has a strong Christian presence that influences its culture and community events, from church gatherings to local festivals. Understanding these differences can help ease your transition and acclimate you to Charleston's unique social fabric.
Philadelphia vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, here is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Philadelphia & Charleston . This will assist in making an informed decision about moving from one city to another, highlighting key differences in commuting experiences.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
Philadelphia offers a robust public transit system, making it relatively easy to navigate the city without a car; however, the bustling city life results in higher traffic congestion, often increasing commute times. In contrast, Charleston's lower traffic congestion reflects its smaller size and pace, contributing to a slightly faster commute. While public transit options in Charleston are less abundant, the lighter traffic means that owning a car may not be necessary for daily commuting. This difference highlights a potential trade-off between convenience and speed of commute, depending on your transportation preferences.
Additional Resources
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