Best Charleston to Phoenix Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Phoenix and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,162 mile move from South Carolina to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Charleston to Phoenix 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Phoenix. 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 Charleston to Phoenix Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.32 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.15 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Phoenix
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,162 miles from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ will cost on average $3,620 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Phoenix move is roughly $8,738. 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 | $2,428 | 300 ft³ | 8.09 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,620 | 450 ft³ | 8.04 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,995 | 750 ft³ | 7.99 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,738 | 1100 ft³ | 7.94 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,630 | 1600 ft³ | 7.89 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,119 | 1800 ft³ | 7.84 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Phoenix Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sterling Interstate LLC
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCPhoenix, AZ, 85022
About Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2022) |
New Beginnings Moving Solutions
6757 W Charter Oak Rd
Peoria, AZ, 85381
About New Beginnings Moving Solutions
New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |
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) |
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) |
Armstrong Relocation
7167 Cross County Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29418
About Armstrong Relocation
Established in 1957, Armstrong Relocation has long been a stalwart of the moving industry. Although based in Memphis, Tennessee, the company...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Employee Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3528195 / 1173611 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
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.
Charleston vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another offers new experiences but can feel daunting. By comparing local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Phoenix, AZ , you can quickly familiarize yourself with what your new home has to offer, using your current city as a familiar baseline.
| Charleston | Phoenix | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Downtown Phoenix – vibrant art and dining scenes | Downtown Phoenix – vibrant art and dining scenes |
| South of Broad | Arcadia – historic charm with upscale homes | Arcadia – historic charm with upscale homes |
| Wagener Terrace | Arcadia Lite – young professionals with local eateries | Arcadia Lite – young professionals with local eateries |
| Harleston Village | Roosevelt Row – cultural hubs with galleries | Roosevelt Row – cultural hubs with galleries |
| Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Coronado – eclectic vibe with vintage architecture | Coronado – eclectic vibe with vintage architecture |
| West Ashley | Ahwatukee – residential with green spaces | Ahwatukee – residential with green spaces |
| James Island | Paradise Valley – scenic views with outdoor activities | Paradise Valley – scenic views with outdoor activities |
| Sullivan's Island | Tempe Beach Park – water activities and beach vibe | Tempe Beach Park – water activities and beach vibe |
| Daniel Island | Chandler – family-oriented with suburban amenities | Chandler – family-oriented with suburban amenities |
If you're drawn to the bustling art scene and historic charm of the French Quarter, you'll likely enjoy Downtown Phoenix's vibrant array of art galleries and top-rated dining experiences. In Charleston's South of Broad, its iconic antebellum homes and coastal beauty find their match in Arcadia, where historic residences meet with citrus-lined streets. For those who love the local eateries and hip atmosphere of Wagener Terrace, Arcadia Lite offers an equally appealing landscape of trendy spots such as La Grande Orange Grocery & Pizzeria. Meanwhile, if your heart belongs to the eclectic neighborhood of Cannonborough/Elliotborough, with its unique boutiques and culinary outposts, you'll appreciate the vintage architecture and neighborhood pride of Phoenix's Coronado, which boasts popular spots like The Coronado.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Phoenix
Considering a move from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ is a major life decision that involves weighing both positive and negative factors. Our goal is to provide an honest reflection of the Pros and Cons of relocating from Charleston to Phoenix , ensuring you have a balanced perspective.
Charleston, SC- Humidity
- Hurricane risk
- High pollen count
- Limited diversity
Phoenix, AZ- Dry climate
- Low disaster occurrence
- Better air quality
- Rich cultural scene
Phoenix, AZ- No beach access
- Less historic feel
- Cold desert nights
- Modern style dominate
Charleston, SC- Beautiful beaches
- Southern charm
- Mild winters
- Historic architecture
Moving from Charleston to Phoenix offers a change in climate and lifestyle that might suit those who favor a drier environment and a bustling urban vibe. If you're tired of Charleston's high humidity and frequent hurricane threats, Phoenix offers a desert climate with low disaster risks, which could make [Papago Park](Papago Park) and hiking trails your new weekend adventures. Phoenix's rich cultural scene replaces coastal charm with vibrant nightlife and cultural hubs like the [Phoenix Art Museum](Phoenix Art Museum). However, the loss of beach days in Charleston might require a transition to enjoying the stunning desert landscapes and ageless vistas of places like [Camelback Mountain](Camelback Mountain). Embrace this new chapter with an open mind, as both cities boast unique attractions and lifestyles!
Charleston vs. Phoenix Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and offers a taste of what it's like to live in an area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Phoenix to better inform you about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Charleston | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp & Grits | Sonoran Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Boiled Peanuts | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ | Vegan Tacos |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Phoenix offers a diverse culinary scene that you'll find vibrant and full of flavor. Areas like Downtown Phoenix and Roosevelt Row are teeming with food trucks offering everything from tacos to gourmet desserts. For a taste of traditional Arizona cuisine, visit Pizzeria Bianco for its famed wood-fired pizzas. If vegan options are your preference, neighborhoods like Tempe are bustling with innovative restaurants that serve vegan tacos reflecting the local taste. The abundance of food trucks and the eagerness of local chefs to embrace food trends make Phoenix's dynamic food scene an exciting adventure as you settle in.
Charleston vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison
Relocating from Charleston to Phoenix doesn't just mean finding a new place to live but also discovering your new favorite eateries. This guide helps you feel at home by matching some of your favorite spots in Charleston with similar vibes in Phoenix , easing your culinary transition.
| Charleston | Phoenix | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Tavern & Table | Postino Central | Combines delicious bites with a cozy atmosphere |
| Husk | FnB | Showcases seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients |
| Poe's Tavern | Rehab Burger Therapy | Offers a wide variety of unique, gourmet burgers |
| Magnolias | Binkley's Restaurant | High-end experience with an emphasis on Southern flavors |
| Fleet Landing | Salt Cellar | Seafood-centric menu with waterfront views |
| Lewis Barbecue | Little Miss BBQ | Authentically smoked meats and backyard vibes |
| Callie's Hot Little Biscuit | Oven+Vine | Fresh breads with a unique twist |
| Butcher & Bee | Pane Bianco | Focus on fresh ingredients and inventive sandwiches |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | New Asian Bar & Restaurant | Innovative takes on Asian cuisine |
| Leon's Oyster Shop | Buck & Rider | Oysters and other seafood with a relaxed, casual vibe |
Diving deeper into what makes these restaurants comparable, you'll find that both Husk in Charleston and FnB in Phoenix focus intensely on local produce and seasonal flavors, ensuring each visit offers something fresh and unexpected. When you're craving burgers with an imaginative twist, Poe's Tavern and Rehab Burger Therapy elevate the experience with their diverse menus. On seafood nights, Fleet Landing and Salt Cellar promise waterfront dining infused with local coastal charm, making seafood feel both fresh and familiar. Additionally, BBQ aficionados will find solace in the richly smoked offerings of Lewis Barbecue and Little Miss BBQ, both renowned for their authentic and savory meats that truly capture the essence of Southern hospitality.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how Charleston and Phoenix compare in terms of housing. This comparison will guide you to make an informed decision about your new home.
| Comparison | Charleston | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Victorian | Southwestern and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | <a href="https://www.charlestoncvb.com/">Historic charm, proximity to beaches</a> | <a href="https://www.visitphoenix.com/">Outdoor amenities, modern appliances</a> |
Both Charleston and Phoenix offer unique architectural experiences, with Charleston renowned for its Colonial and Victorian styles and Phoenix favoring Southwestern and Ranch designs. Walkability is somewhat comparable, although Charleston slightly edges Phoenix. However, if bikeability is crucial, you might find Phoenix offers slightly better infrastructure for biking enthusiasts. Additionally, the urban lifestyle is more pronounced in Phoenix, with its focus on modern amenities and proximity to recreational areas. With Charleston's historic charm, you enjoy more than just living space but an entire cultural heritage, easily accessible via local tours and scenic drives.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ
1. Midtown Phoenix: Known for its walkable streets and numerous pet-friendly patios, your furry friends will love the welcoming atmosphere and Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub for a bite where pets are happily seen on the patio.
2. Arcadia: This neighborhood is a paradise for pets with spacious backyards and close proximity to Camelback Mountain for adventurous walks and hikes, making it perfect for active dogs.
3. Roosevelt Row: This artsy district not only welcomes pets in many galleries and cafes but also hosts pet-centric events like the annual Phoestivus market, making it an incredibly fun and engaging community for pet lovers.
Charleston vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ , it's important to understand how the weather will differ between the two. This comparison will help you prepare for the changes in climate that you'll experience after the move.
Charleston, SC
Phoenix, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Phoenix, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Droughts/Heat |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Charleston to Phoenix, you'll notice a significant change in humidity levels, as Charleston's moist air is replaced by Phoenix's dry desert climate. The number of sunny days in Phoenix vastly outnumbers those in Charleston, which might encourage more outdoor activities. While Charleston experiences high rainfall and occasional hurricanes, Phoenix is characterized by its low precipitation and frequent droughts, requiring adjustments in water usage. Additionally, the higher average UV index in Phoenix means taking extra precautions to protect your skin is necessary.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Phoenix
When you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ , understanding the financial differences is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge how your lifestyle might need to adjust and what financial expectations you should have.
| Comparison | Charleston | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $68,435 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 100.7 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 2.59% - 4.50% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.51% | 0.61% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 8.6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Tech | Tech, Real Estate, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Diverse |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
A move to Phoenix from Charleston may initially bring you slightly lower average household income but also lower living costs. The cost of living in Phoenix is more affordable, mainly due to lesser housing expenses despite a similar state income tax range. Sales tax is slightly higher in Charleston, although property tax is higher in Phoenix. Understanding these differences can aid in financial planning, especially since industry focuses differ, with Phoenix offering opportunities in real estate and manufacturing compared to Charleston's tourism-centric economy.
Charleston vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison
Looking for a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents? This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Phoenix , allowing you to understand how the two cities differ in their political leanings and religious landscapes.
| Charleston | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate to liberal | Conservative to moderate |
| Local Politics | Democrat-leaning | Republican-leaning |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse religious beliefs |
When moving to Phoenix from Charleston, you'll notice distinct differences in local governance and community beliefs. Charleston's politics tend to lean more Democrat, a perspective that influences city policies and local governance, as seen in institutions like the Charleston City Council. By contrast, Phoenix typically votes Republican, resulting in different political priorities. On the religious front, while Charleston has a strong Christian presence, Phoenix boasts a more eclectic mix of beliefs, offering a tapestry of spiritual and religious diversity. This can be seen in various neighborhoods, where you'll find vibrant communities supporting diverse religious frameworks.
Charleston vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Charleston, SC to Phoenix, AZ, it's essential to understand the daily commute and traffic differences to adapt smoothly. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Phoenix helps you navigate and plan better for your new daily routine in each city.
| Comparison | Charleston | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 27 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Possibly |
In Charleston, the relatively lower traffic congestion means that even with limited public transit, getting around might be easier than you'd expect. However, owning a car remains almost essential due to the area's layout and limited transit options. In Phoenix, the public transit system is more robust, featuring options like the Valley Metro light rail. This development allows for more flexibility, potentially enabling you to navigate the city without a car, though it's often more convenient to have one. The slightly higher traffic congestion in Phoenix compared to Charleston reflects its larger size and population, requiring you to plan your commute to avoid peak traffic hours.
Additional Resources
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