Best Charleston to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,906 mile move from South Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 16 Charleston to San Francisco 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to San Francisco. 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 San Francisco Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For 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 San Francisco
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,906 miles from Charleston, SC to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $4,252 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to San Francisco move is roughly $10,285. 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 | $2,850 | 300 ft³ | 9.50 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,252 | 450 ft³ | 9.45 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,050 | 750 ft³ | 9.40 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,285 | 1100 ft³ | 9.35 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,880 | 1600 ft³ | 9.30 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,650 | 1800 ft³ | 9.25 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to San Francisco Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (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) |
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. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
Comparing local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & San Francisco, CA can help you familiarize yourself with the unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll take a look at popular neighborhoods in Charleston and find their closest counterparts in San Francisco.
| Charleston | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Charleston | Financial District | Vibrant business hub with historic architecture |
| West Ashley | Sunset District | Suburban feel, family-friendly, parks |
| Mount Pleasant | Noe Valley | Community-oriented, quiet, charming streets |
| James Island | Outer Sunset | Ocean proximity, laid-back vibe |
| North Charleston | Mission District | Industrial roots, vibrant arts scene |
| Sullivan's Island | Marina District | Coastal, upscale dining and recreation |
| Daniel Island | Pac Heights | Exclusive, well-maintained, stunning views |
| Hanahan | Bernal Heights | Residential, community-focused, scenic parks |
| Kiawah Island | Sea Cliff | Elegant, natural beauty, serene environment |
| Isle of Palms | Fisherman’s Wharf | Beach vibe, tourist-friendly attractions |
Exploring your new urban surroundings can be an exciting adventure. If you are accustomed to the bustling yet historic charm of Downtown Charleston, the Financial District in San Francisco offers a mix of contemporary business energy amidst fascinating historical architecture. Enjoy leisurely afternoons in West Ashley? The Sunset District complements your appreciation for suburban living with ample green spaces like Golden Gate Park, perfect for picnics with loved ones. Those who savor coastal living at Isle of Palms will find refreshing familiarity at Fisherman’s Wharf, where beach vibes meet waterfront attractions and seafood dining. Transitions are smoother with these neighborhood echoes of home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to San Francisco
Evaluating a move from Charleston to San Francisco requires an honest reflection of the good and the bad . Both cities offer unique attributes that can significantly impact your lifestyle. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of the potential changes that await.
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Limited tech jobs
- Car dependency
San Francisco, CA- Mild climate
- Seismic safety measures
- Thriving tech hub
- Public transport options
San Francisco, CA- Fast-paced lifestyle
- High living costs
- Frequent traffic jams
- Cooler beaches
Charleston, SC- Southern charm
- Lower cost of living
- Historical sites
- Beach access
When transitioning from Charleston to San Francisco, you'll find a marked difference in climate. Charleston's high humidity and hurricane threats are replaced by the cooler, more stable weather in San Francisco. However, this comes with the city's high cost of living. You'll also benefit from a wealth of tech opportunities, with industry giants in areas like Silicon Valley. While the lifestyle in Charleston may be slower and more relaxed—with places like Battery Park offering serene getaways—San Francisco offers dynamic environments and attractions like Golden Gate Park and popular neighborhoods such as SoMa. Don’t forget the incredible culinary adventures at spots like Boudin Bakery.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture, offering a window into the daily life and traditions of a place. If you're considering a move, understanding the local cuisine can make the transition smoother. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & San Francisco , enabling you to better understand what awaits you in your new home.
| Charleston | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | She-Crab Soup | Mission Burrito |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Oysters | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to San Francisco, you'll find that its neighborhoods are rich with culinary diversity. In the Mission District, countless taquerias serve the iconic Mission Burrito, while the famed sourdough bread can be sampled at historic Boudin Bakery along Fisherman’s Wharf. The vegan scene thrives, especially in areas like the Marina and SOMA, offering delectable options such as avocado toast from places like The Plant Café. Food trucks are ubiquitous, each one a gateway to tastes from around the world, making the dining experience here as varied as the city’s lively streets.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Food is more than just sustenance; it's a way to make a place truly feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your experiences in Charleston to discover similar culinary delights in San Francisco.
| Charleston | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| FIG | Zuni Café | Revered for elevating farm-to-table cuisine |
| Husk | Chez Panisse | Icons in sustainable and local sourcing |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | Swan Oyster Depot | Renowned for fresh, local seafood |
| Fleet Landing | Fog Harbor Fish House | Offers waterfront dining with stunning views |
| Lewis Barbecue | 4505 Burgers & BBQ | Celebrated for smoked meats and casual vibe |
| Poogan’s Porch | Tadich Grill | Offers classic American dishes in a historic setting |
| Rodney Scott's BBQ | Smitten Ice Cream | Known for innovative barbecue, reflecting Rodney's creativity |
| Xia Bao Biscuit | Comstock Saloon | Fusion of bold flavors with a casual pub feel |
| Magnolias | Foreign Cinema | Blends Southern charm with innovative dishes |
| The Ordinary | Anchor Oyster Bar | Both feature a raw bar with fresh, quality seafood |
Charleston's FIG and San Francisco's Zuni Café both embrace farm-to-table philosophies, making them a paradise for those who cherish fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Lovers of seafood will find themselves at home in San Francisco's Swan Oyster Depot, where the dedication to fresh catches mirrors the excellence you’d find at Charleston’s Leon’s Oyster Shop. When craving a mix of Southern hospitality and innovative dishes, both Magnolias in Charleston and San Francisco's Foreign Cinema provide delightful experiences that blend classic elegance with a modern twist. Transition smoothly between these two rich culinary landscapes by exploring the remarkable offerings each city presents.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Charleston and San Francisco compare in terms of housing , costs , and lifestyle to make the best choice for your relocation journey.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial & Georgian | Victorian & Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historical charm, waterfront views | Cityscape views, tech-friendly features |
When deciding between the charming streets of Charleston and the bustling cityscape of San Francisco, several factors come into play. Charleston's affordable housing offers the allure of historical charm and waterfront views, ideal for a more relaxed lifestyle. In contrast, San Francisco presents an urban lifestyle with its Victorian and modern architecture, but at a considerably higher cost. With a walkability and bikeability score quite favorable in San Francisco, you can easily explore the city on foot or bike. However, if you're drawn to tech-friendly amenities and a lively urban culture, San Francisco's real estate offerings may align more with your aspirations.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares to what you're used to. This can help you prepare for different conditions and enjoy your new environment, whether you're transitioning from Charleston 's warm beaches or stepping into San Francisco 's mild climate.
Charleston, SC
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating from Charleston to San Francisco, you're swapping the humid southeastern climate for the cooler, dryer conditions along the California coast. San Francisco has a more moderate temperature range, with summer highs feeling cooler than those in Charleston. While Charleston may experience high humidity and the threat of hurricanes, San Francisco faces earthquakes and boasts milder conditions year-round. You’ll enjoy more sunshine annually in San Francisco, although the Bay Area's infamous fog can temper this. Additionally, allergies might shift from pollen-based in Charleston to grass-related problems in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to San Francisco
If you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to San Francisco, CA , it's crucial to understand the financial differences you'll encounter. Knowing the cost of living and other money-related factors will help you better prepare for your new lifestyle in a different economic environment.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.73% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 8.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Tourism, IT | Technology, Finance, Biotech |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Moving to San Francisco from Charleston means you'll need to account for a significantly higher cost of living. While both cities have state taxes, California's state income tax is almost twice that of South Carolina's, reflecting the affluent economic environment of San Francisco. Housing typically demands more from your budget in California, despite only a marginal increase in property tax rates. Additionally, San Francisco's booming technology and biotech sectors contribute to a higher average household income, contrasting Charleston's mix of healthcare and tourism industries. Be prepared for the economic shift that comes with this relocation, as every financial aspect, from industry opportunities to tax obligations, can impact your experience.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Charleston, SC to San Francisco, CA involves more than just changing locations; it’s about adapting to a new lifestyle. This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This is a comparison of the politics between Charleston & San Francisco , giving you insights into the social dynamics of each city.
| Charleston | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Conservative | Strongly Progressive |
| Local Politics | Republican Leadership | Democratic Leadership |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Religiously Diverse |
When moving to San Francisco, you’ll find yourself in a city known for its progressive politics, contrasting with Charleston’s more conservative leanings. San Francisco's local government is heavily influenced by a democratic vision, reflecting the city's overall liberal stance. This plays a significant role in the city's policies on social issues and urban development. In terms of religion, Charleston is known for its strong Christian community with many opportunities to engage with local churches. Conversely, San Francisco offers a religiously diverse atmosphere with a multitude of spiritual and secular communities, each contributing to the city's unique cultural landscape. Depending on your personal views, this shift could offer a chance for new experiences or require some adjustment.
Charleston vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Charleston to San Francisco entails adapting to new commuting norms and traffic conditions. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & San Francisco to help you better understand what daily commuting will look like in your new city.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
Shifting to San Francisco means grappling with heavier traffic congestion compared to Charleston, which might require some adjustment in your daily travel routines. San Francisco's robust public transit system, encompassing buses, trains, and the BART, makes it feasible to live without a car, in contrast to Charleston where driving is almost essential. Keep in mind the increased commute time in San Francisco, so considering flexible working hours or telecommuting options could prove beneficial. Additionally, the vibrant and extensive public transit network in San Francisco not only reduces dependency on personal vehicles but also promotes an environmentally friendly way to explore the diverse neighborhoods and attractions of the city.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to California Routes
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