Best Charleston to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,595 mile move from South Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Charleston to Irvine 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 Terry Moving & Storage), 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 Charleston compared to Irvine. 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 Irvine Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | 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 Irvine
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,595 miles from Charleston, SC to Irvine, CA will cost on average $3,988 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Irvine move is roughly $9,638. 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 | $2,674 | 300 ft³ | 8.91 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,988 | 450 ft³ | 8.86 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,609 | 750 ft³ | 8.81 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,638 | 1100 ft³ | 8.76 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,940 | 1600 ft³ | 8.71 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,592 | 1800 ft³ | 8.66 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Irvine Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (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) |
Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |
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. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison
This guide is designed to help you navigate your relocation journey by comparing the local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Irvine, CA . By drawing parallels to familiar areas, you'll gain a better understanding of your new environment.
| Charleston | Irvine | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Charleston | Woodbury | Vibrant art and dining scene |
| Mount Pleasant | Northwood Pointe | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| West Ashley | University Park | Convenient location and green spaces |
| North Charleston | Oak Creek | Diverse community and local amenities |
| James Island | Quail Hill | Proximity to nature and peaceful vibe |
| Sullivans Island | Turtle Rock | Coastal atmosphere and leisure activities |
| Folly Beach | Laguna Altura | Beachy, laid-back lifestyle |
| Isle of Palms | Great Park Neighborhoods | Resort-style amenities |
| Hanahan | El Camino Real | Tranquility and local charm |
| Johns Island | Portola Springs | Scenic and community-oriented |
If you're fond of the dynamic art and dining experience in Downtown Charleston, you'll find Woodbury in Irvine equally captivating, offering an eclectic mix of culture and cuisine. Meanwhile, the suburban charm and family-oriented environment of Mount Pleasant mirror the lifestyle in Northwood Pointe, where parks like Northwood Park serve as local community hubs. For those who enjoy proximity to natural settings akin to James Island, you will appreciate Quail Hill's serene trails and open spaces, perfect for exploring and relaxing. Sullivans Island’s coastal vibe and recreational offerings find their counterpart in Turtle Rock, where you can enjoy leisure activities amid scenic surroundings. Explore these neighborhoods to uncover local jewels, like hidden dining spots and parks, that will make Irvine feel like home.
Things to Do in Irvine
Hike at Irvine Regional Park- Explore the Orange County Great Park
- Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
- Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
- Study at Irvine Public Libraries
- Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
- Relax at Newport Beach
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Irvine
When considering a move from Charleston, SC to Irvine, CA, it's essential to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating, allowing residents to make informed decisions about the transition between the coastal charm of Charleston and the vibrant opportunities in Irvine .
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Limited tech jobs
- Traffic congestion
Irvine, CA- Milder climate
- Low natural disaster risk
- Thriving tech industry
- Efficient public transport
Irvine, CA- Modern architecture
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer historic sites
- Expensive dining
Charleston, SC- Historic charm
- Beach proximity
- Rich history
- Southern cuisine
Charleston offers a unique blend of historic charm and Southern hospitality, with famous sites like the Battery and Gibbes Museum of Art. You'll find a vibrant dining scene with beloved restaurants such as Halls Chophouse. However, Irvine shines in its tech job market, with plenty of opportunities in the area. Explore the beautiful Northwood Community Park or experience diverse dining options in the buzzing Irvine Spectrum Center. While Irvine's modern architecture stands in stark contrast to Charleston's historic allure, the warmer climate and lower natural disaster risk are significant advantages.
Charleston vs. Irvine Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, you'll discover how culinary experiences differ between your current location and future home. Here's a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Irvine , helping you better understand the food scene as you prepare to move.
| Charleston | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Bubble Tea |
| Most popular meat dish | She-Crab Soup | Dim Sum |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Green Tomatoes | Bulgogi Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Okra Gumbo | Vegan Ramen |
| 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 Irvine, you'll find a vibrant culinary scene, with places like Taco María and Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine located in well-known neighborhoods such as University Town Center and Irvine Spectrum. While Charleston is renowned for its classic Southern charms like She-Crab Soup in the historic downtown area, Irvine offers a modern twist with a diverse range of Asian-infused eateries. Whether you are a fan of street food, with Irvine's variety of Bulgogi Burritos, or a vegan seeking delightful dishes at local hotspots, this Californian city caters to an array of food preferences. Be prepared to embrace a more health-conscious landscape, with numerous plant-based options and active lifestyles encouraged throughout the area.
Charleston vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite restaurants in Charleston, SC and Irvine, CA helps make an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will guide you from your beloved Charleston eateries to comparable spots in Irvine.
| Charleston | Irvine | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | North Italia | Known for emphasizing local ingredients and innovative takes on classic dishes. |
| FIG | A&J Restaurant | Offers a menu rich in culinary creativity, focusing on seasonal offerings. |
| Lewis Barbecue | Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill | Renowned for its tender, wood-smoked meats. |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | LMF (Little Middle Fish) | Praised for fresh seafood and hearty oyster offerings. |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Baekjeong Korean BBQ House | Celebrated for its fusion of Asian flavors and vibrant atmosphere. |
| Hominy Grill | Champagne French Bakery Café | Specializes in comforting dishes with a touch of Southern flair. |
| Magnolia’s | Andrei's Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails | Offers an upscale dining experience with a commitment to fresh ingredients. |
| Poe’s Tavern | The Cut | Known for its handcrafted burgers and laid-back vibe. |
| Fleet Landing | Shuck Oyster Bar | Highlights coastal flavors and a scenic waterfront location. |
| Obstinate Daughter | Il Fornaio | Famed for its Italian-inspired dishes and charming, rustic setting. |
When craving barbecue after your move, Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill in Irvine echoes the tender, smoked meats from Charleston's beloved Lewis Barbecue, offering its own unique smoky blend. Seafood enthusiasts will find a familiar haven at LMF (Little Middle Fish), capturing the freshness and bold flavors reminiscent of Leon’s Oyster Shop. If you love the creative Asian influences at Xiao Bao Biscuit, Baekjeong Korean BBQ House will captivate you with its vibrant fusion menus and eclectic atmosphere, guaranteeing each meal is an adventure. With these delicious parallels, your culinary exploration in Irvine will feel comfortably familiar yet excitingly new.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to compare housing in Charleston and Irvine to understand cost, architecture, and lifestyle differences.
| Comparison | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Georgian | Modern Mediterranean |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic charm, proximity to beaches | Proximity to <a href="https://www.destinationirvine.com/">Irvine Spectrum Center</a>, modern amenities |
While Irvine tends to have significantly higher housing prices, it offers a more modern architectural style and amenities that complement its urban lifestyle. The median home price in Irvine is roughly double that of Charleston, reflecting its status as a hub for technological and business growth. Although both cities offer unique living experiences, Irvine is particularly attractive for those seeking a suburban feel with excellent commercial facilities, such as the Irvine Spectrum Center. Meanwhile, Charleston's historical charm and proximity to beaches offer a distinct appeal to those who value tradition and natural beauty.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.
2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.
3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.
Charleston vs. Irvine Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. This comparison between Charleston, SC and Irvine, CA will help you prepare for the differences in weather patterns, including temperature, humidity, and other climatic conditions.
Charleston, SC
Irvine, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Irvine, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Irvine, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Irvine, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Charleston to Irvine, you'll find that the number of sunny days significantly increases, offering more opportunities for outdoor activities. While Charleston's summers are hotter and more humid, Irvine offers a milder summer climate, making it more comfortable for those unaccustomed to high humidity. Notably, Charleston faces the threat of hurricanes, whereas in Irvine, you should be aware of potential earthquakes. Air quality is generally better in Irvine, which might be a welcome relief for individuals sensitive to airborne pollutants. Additionally, those with allergies should note the change from pollen in Charleston to grass as a main allergen in Irvine.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Irvine
When moving from Charleston, SC to Irvine, CA , it’s crucial to understand how the cost of living will differ so you can properly plan your finances. This comparison will highlight key economic factors that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $105,774 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.5% | 0.77% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 7.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Technology, Finance, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
As you prepare for a move to Irvine, you'll notice a significant increase in the average household income compared to Charleston, which may reflect the higher cost of living. In Irvine, the cost of living index is notably higher, and the state income tax is one of the highest in the nation. However, Irvine offers opportunities in highly lucrative industries such as technology, which could provide a substantial income boost to offset these costs. Despite the higher affluence in Irvine, homelessness is more noticeable, reflecting the economic pressure of the area.
Charleston vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. By comparing the politics of Charleston & Irvine , you'll gain insights into how these communities differ and what to expect during your move.
| Charleston | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate, leaning conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Conservative leadership | Progressive policies |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse religious landscape |
As you transition to Irvine, you'll notice a shift in the political atmosphere, reflecting a more liberal stance compared to Charleston's moderate conservative leanings. The local politics in Irvine support progressive policies, which might be evident in city initiatives and community programs. In terms of religious practices, while Charleston is predominantly Christian, Irvine's religious landscape is notably diverse, with a mix of churches, temples, and mosques enriching the community fabric.
Charleston vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To help you understand the differences between traffic and transportation options in Charleston & Irvine , this comparison provides insights into what your daily commute might look like as you transition between these two cities.
| Comparison | Charleston | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Possibly |
In Charleston, you might notice the laid-back nature of the city is reflected in its traffic congestion levels, typically lower than in Irvine. Although public transportation options in Charleston aren't as robust, relying on a car is usually necessary. In contrast, Irvine offers slightly better public transit, with buses operated by the OCTA making it feasible for some residents to manage without a personal vehicle. However, the bus network might not cover all of Irvine's sprawling neighborhoods, so you should plan your routes ahead of time. As you plan your move, finding ways to navigate through Irvine's busier traffic, perhaps utilizing local carpool lanes or cycling paths, could help make your transition smoother.
Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
