Best Charleston to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,625 mile move from South Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Charleston to Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), 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 Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.45 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | 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 Los Angeles
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,625 miles from Charleston, SC to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $4,014 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Los Angeles move is roughly $9,701. 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 | $2,691 | 300 ft³ | 8.97 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,014 | 450 ft³ | 8.92 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,652 | 750 ft³ | 8.87 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,701 | 1100 ft³ | 8.82 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,030 | 1600 ft³ | 8.77 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,694 | 1800 ft³ | 8.72 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (2023) |
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. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
When moving to a new city, finding the right neighborhood can be daunting. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Los Angeles, CA , you can get a feel for what areas might suit your lifestyle.
| Charleston | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Charleston | Downtown LA | Urban vibe, cultural spots |
| Mount Pleasant | Santa Monica | Coastal living, family-friendly |
| West Ashley | Westwood | Residential, great schools |
| North Charleston | Echo Park | Mixed-use, diverse community |
| Summerville | Glendale | Quiet suburbs, family-oriented |
| James Island | Venice | Beachside, artsy vibe |
| Kiawah Island | Malibu | Exclusive, stunning beaches |
| Sullivan's Island | Manhattan Beach | Beach town, relaxed atmosphere |
| Daniel Island | Century City | Planned, upscale living |
| Folly Beach | Hermosa Beach | Laid-back, surf culture |
If you enjoy the coastal charm of Mount Pleasant, LA’s Santa Monica might strike a chord with its beachside living and robust family-centric amenities. Both areas boast a vibrant culinary scene; while Mount Pleasant offers local Southern favorites, Santa Monica is home to iconic spots like Santa Monica Place. For those drawn to Sullivan's Island's laid-back atmosphere, Manhattan Beach provides that same relaxed coastal town feel. And if your heart is set on the exclusivity of Kiawah Island, you’ll find Malibu’s luxurious beachside lifestyle with renowned spots like Surfrider Beach equally alluring.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Los Angeles
Moving from Charleston, SC to Los Angeles, CA involves a balanced consideration of both the challenges and advantages unique to each city. The following charts offer a clear and honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation to help you make an informed decision.
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Limited public transport
- Fewer entertainment options
Los Angeles, CA- Mild climate
- Low natural disaster risk
- Extensive public transit
- Vibrant nightlife
Los Angeles, CA- Busy city pace
- Higher cost of living
- Anonymous urban feel
- Traffic congestion
Charleston, SC- Historic charm
- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit community
- Beautiful beaches
In Los Angeles, you'll find a distinct shift from Charleston's quaint, historic charm to a bustling metropolis teeming with rich cultural activities and sunny benefits. For instance, while Charleston offers beautiful beaches and a close-knit community, Los Angeles gifts its residents with iconic locations such as Culver City and the expansive Griffith Park, both providing endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment. Despite the higher cost of living in LA, the city's public transportation options, such as the Metro Rail, could offer you the convenience Charleston's limited services cannot. Additionally, the diverse culinary scene in Los Angeles, from eateries in Downtown LA to the trendy cafes in Hollywood, is bound to elevate your dining experiences, offering something far beyond the local cuisine of Charleston.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and an essential aspect of experiencing life in a new city. In this section, we'll compare the local cuisine between Charleston & Los Angeles , offering insights that will better inform you about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Charleston | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | She-Crab Soup | Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Shrimp & Grits | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Boiled Peanuts | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Veggie Rice Bowl | Avocado Toast |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you explore Los Angeles, you'll find tacos as iconic as Charleston's She-Crab Soup, with places like Golden Boy Tacos serving fantastic street tacos. Renowned neighborhoods like Koreatown offer a variety of Korean BBQ spots. If you have a penchant for plant-based cuisine, the abundance of vegan eateries in Silver Lake and Echo Park will surely delight you. The famous food truck culture provides even more opportunities to explore diverse culinary offerings on streets at any time of the day. Whether you are in the mood for a fitness-conscious meal or a late-night street food adventure, Los Angeles will keep your taste buds excited.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Food is a crucial factor in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help someone find their new favorite eateries by using their current hometown as a guide between Charleston and Los Angeles .
| Charleston | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston Grill | Providence | Known for its sophisticated take on New American cuisine |
| Husk | Republik | Both celebrate the essence of Southern ingredients in innovative ways |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Night + Market | Enticing diners with bold Asian flavors |
| FIG | Gjelina | Focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a changing menu |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | Connie & Ted’s | Unites seafood enthusiasts with exceptional oyster selections |
| Hominy Grill | Pann’s | Classic American comfort food with a touch of soul |
| Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit | Joan's on Third | Famous for its artisan biscuits and casual delights |
| Magnolias | Hatchet Hall | Both are beacons of Southern dining excellence |
| Poe’s Tavern | Father’s Office | Renowned for their gourmet burgers and eclectic atmosphere |
| Butcher & Bee | Sqirl | Creative dining with a farm-to-table ethos |
For those who treasure locally-inspired fine cuisine, a meal at Providence in Los Angeles may remind you of Charleston Grill, where you can indulge in elegantly prepared dishes showcasing seasonal ingredients. Seafood lovers will find solace at Connie & Ted’s, which offers a vast selection of oysters akin to the beloved Leon’s Oyster Shop in Charleston. If casual, yet refined, Southern dining is what you seek, head to Hatchet Hall, where the Southern charm of Magnolias is echoed through its balanced and rich flavors. Each of these culinary gems offers a taste of familiarity in their new surroundings, ensuring that your transition is as flavorful as your Charleston dining adventures.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how Charleston, SC and Los Angeles, CA compare .
| Comparison | Charleston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic charm | Proximity to entertainment |
The housing market in Charleston is characterized by a rich tapestry of Colonial architecture , with homes often exuding historic charm. On the other hand, Los Angeles showcases a diverse range of styles with Spanish Revival being particularly prominent, adding an artistic flair to the neighborhoods. If you're seeking walkability, Los Angeles outshines Charleston, boasting a score of 8, especially in bustling areas like Downtown LA. Additionally, the urban lifestyle in Los Angeles is more pronounced, with a significant emphasis on proximity to entertainment venues like the Hollywood Bowl, making it a coveted locale.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
If you're considering relocating from Charleston, SC to Los Angeles, CA , understanding the weather differences is essential to acclimate successfully. This guide will offer a comparative overview, providing insights into climatic patterns you may encounter in your new home, from sunshine levels to rainfall and more.
Charleston, SC
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The shift from Charleston's humid subtropical climate to Los Angeles' Mediterranean atmosphere will be notable. In L.A., you can expect significantly more sunny days, which may benefit your lifestyle if you enjoy outdoor activities. While Charleston is prone to hurricanes, Los Angeles residents need to prepare for the possibility of earthquakes and wildfires. The humidity in Charleston often leads to more palpable heat during summer, while in Los Angeles, the lower humidity and cooler ocean breeze make the temperature feel more comfortable. Despite the dramatic decrease in rainfall, you should remain alert for air quality fluctuations due to smog, especially during the wildfire season.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Los Angeles
When moving from Charleston to Los Angeles , understanding how financial factors and the cost of living differ is crucial in planning your new life. This comparison will help you anticipate and manage the financial changes you may encounter.
| Comparison | Charleston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $70,372 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 9.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 9.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Tourism, IT | Entertainment, Tech, Trade |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Transitioning from Charleston to Los Angeles involves adapting to a higher cost of living, with Los Angeles scoring 149 compared to Charleston’s 116 on the Cost of Living Index. Expect to face a more significant state income tax burden, currently 9.3% in California compared to South Carolina’s 7%. While both states have close sales tax rates, Los Angeles has considerably higher property taxes and is known for its diverse economy led by the entertainment and tech industries. Understanding these variations will help you plan your finances better and adjust to your new environment.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this comparison is to offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This analysis provides insights into the comparison of the politics between Charleston & Los Angeles , highlighting the unique characteristics of each city's population.
| Charleston | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Charleston is known for its conservative policies. Visit the Charleston City Government for more information. | Los Angeles leans towards progressive politics. Explore more at the Los Angeles City Government. |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse |
Moving from Charleston to Los Angeles presents an opportunity to experience a stark contrast in political landscapes. Charleston, with its conservative leanings, often focuses on traditional values and policies. This contrasts sharply with Los Angeles, where progressive and liberal ideas dominate the political scene. Additionally, religious diversity is more pronounced in Los Angeles, offering a melting pot of beliefs compared to Charleston’s predominantly Christian audience. Adapting to these cultural differences can provide enriching experiences that broaden your perspectives.
Charleston vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
The purpose of this comparison is to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic dynamics between Charleston & Los Angeles . By examining key differences, you'll gain insights into what to expect and how to navigate your new environment effectively.
| Comparison | Charleston | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 45 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Los Angeles is notorious for heavy traffic congestion, scoring an 8 out of 10, it compensates with a more extensive public transit system. You may find opportunities to explore the city using buses and the metro, which contrasts with Charleston's limited options. In Charleston, a car is more of a necessity due to less developed public transportation. Average commute times also highlight these differences, with Charleston offering a relatively quick commute of 22 minutes compared to Los Angeles' lengthier 45 minutes. Ultimately, adapting to life in Los Angeles will involve more consideration of timing and transportation mode.
Additional Resources
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