Best Charleston to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,856 mile move from South Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Charleston to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to San Jose. 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 Jose Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | 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 Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,856 miles from Charleston, SC to San Jose, CA will cost on average $4,210 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to San Jose move is roughly $10,181. 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 | $2,822 | 300 ft³ | 9.41 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,210 | 450 ft³ | 9.36 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,979 | 750 ft³ | 9.31 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,181 | 1100 ft³ | 9.26 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,729 | 1600 ft³ | 9.21 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,480 | 1800 ft³ | 9.16 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (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 Jose Neighborhood Comparison
To help you compare the local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & San Jose, CA , we've curated a guide to familiarize yourself with San Jose's areas using your Charleston knowledge as a baseline. Discover where you might feel most at home, transitioning between these two vibrant cities.
| Charleston | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Downtown San Jose | Historic charm and cultural scene |
| South of Broad | Willow Glen | Quaint streets and elegant homes |
| Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Japantown | Hip vibe and artistic community |
| West Ashley | Berryessa | Suburban atmosphere with parks |
| Mount Pleasant | Cupertino | Family-friendly with good schools |
| Sullivan's Island | Santana Row | Coastal vibe and trendy spots |
| Daniel Island | Almaden Valley | Planned communities and outdoor activities |
| James Island | Evergreen | Residential and close-knit community |
| North Charleston | South San Jose | Industrial roots and diverse population |
| The Battery | Lynbrook | Historical homes with scenic views |
Exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of San Jose, you may find solace in areas like Downtown San Jose, which echoes the historic charm of Charleston's French Quarter with its cultural venues and landmark buildings. For those enchanted by the picturesque streets of South of Broad, Willow Glen offers its own unique charm with elegant, tree-lined avenues and quaint shops. If you're a fan of Charleston's creative flair and eclectic atmosphere in areas like Cannonborough/Elliotborough, then Japantown in San Jose will likely resonate, offering a blend of historic influence and a thriving artistic community. Meanwhile, the family-friendly nature of Mount Pleasant finds its match in Cupertino, known for its excellent school system and community feel.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to San Jose
When contemplating a move from Charleston, SC to San Jose, CA, it is essential to have an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding the differences can help you better prepare for what lies ahead in your new city.
Charleston, SC- Hurricane risk
- Limited tech jobs
- Hot, humid summers
- Smaller city amenities
San Jose, CA- Stable weather
- Tech industry hub
- Mild, pleasant climate
- Vibrant urban scene
San Jose, CA- Higher cost of living
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Expensive dining options
- Coastal proximity costs
Charleston, SC- Charming historic streets
- Friendly community feel
- Southern cuisine
- Picturesque beaches
When moving to San Jose, you'll find the mild climate a welcome change from Charleston's hot and humid summers. The city's vibrant tech industry presents ample job opportunities compared to Charleston's limited offerings. You can explore San Jose's urban scene by visiting Municipal Rose Garden or dining at Orchard City Kitchen. However, the higher cost of living and the faster-paced lifestyle may take some adjusting compared to the friendly community feel and picturesque charm of Charleston's historic streets. Furthermore, with San Jose's proximity to coastal regions, you'll find beautiful sights like Santa Cruz just a short drive away, offering an opportunity to balance the cosmopolitan lifestyle with soothing natural beauty.
Charleston vs. San Jose Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and plays a significant role in everyday life. Exploring the culinary scene provides a taste of the locality's uniqueness and richness. This guide will provide a glimpse into the comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & San Jose , helping you anticipate the food journey awaiting in your new home.
| Charleston | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | California Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Beef Tacos |
| Most popular street food item | Boiled Peanuts | Takoyaki |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Plate | Vegan Sushi |
| 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 you move to San Jose, you'll find that its foodie scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the multicultural fabric of the city. Neighborhoods like Willow Glen offer charming streets with eateries serving dishes like the iconic California Burrito. For those who love to explore vegan options, the abundance of vegan-friendly restaurants in areas such as Downtown San Jose will allow you to relish dishes such as Vegan Sushi. Additionally, the bustling food truck culture provides a great way to taste an array of flavors, with popular spots scattered throughout the city. Exploring these local specialties will enhance your culinary experience as you settle into the area.
Charleston vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Food is important in making an area home. This restaurant comparison will help someone find their new favorite eateries by using their current hometown as a guide. In this comparison, we link the best of Charleston and San Jose, introducing you to dining havens that match your tastes.
| Charleston | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Manresa | Similar emphasis on farm-to-table exquisite dining experiences |
| FIG | Chez TJ | Both showcase a seasonal menu with an innovative twist |
| Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar | The Table | Offers coastal cuisine with a straightforward approach |
| Rodney Scott's BBQ | Lick's BBQ | Known for authentic Southern BBQ flavor profiles |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Jang Su Jang | Fusion eateries bringing bold Asian flavors |
| 167 Raw | Freddie's @ Mercury 20 | Celebrated for fresh seafood and vibrant ambiance |
| Callie's Hot Little Biscuit | Back A Yard Caribbean Grill | Famous for comforting, baked goods and bites |
| Lewis Barbecue | Smoking Pig BBQ Company | Renowned for Texas-style barbecue meats |
| The Ordinary | Scott's Seafood | Both prioritize superior seafood dishes in welcoming settings |
| Hall's Chophouse | LB Steak | Offers a similar high-end steakhouse experience |
In the search for exquisite dining, Husk in Charleston will find its match at San Jose's Manresa, where the dedication to farm-to-table dining results in remarkable seasonal dishes. For those longing for seafood, Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar parallels The Table with its fresh offerings and serene coastal ambiance. If you're a BBQ enthusiast, experiencing the smoked meats of Lewis Barbecue can seamlessly transition to enjoying the hearty flavors at Smoking Pig BBQ Company in San Jose. Each pairing invites you to explore familiar tastes with unique twists, easing your culinary journey from coast to coast.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how Charleston and San Jose compare in terms of housing costs , architecture , and overall livability .
| Comparison | Charleston | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Mid-century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Porches, historic charm | Open floor plans, tech-friendly |
Moving from Charleston to San Jose involves a substantial shift in real estate dynamics. San Jose's median home prices are significantly higher, reflecting the demand and economic prosperity of the Silicon Valley area. While Charleston exudes old-world charm with its Colonial architecture, San Jose's housing market often highlights mid-century modern designs and tech-ready homes. Despite its higher costs, San Jose offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with a multitude of experiences, albeit with slightly lower walkability scores than Charleston. Exploring local Charleston neighborhoods or San Jose districts in-person will further help understand the unique vibe of each city's locality.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Charleston vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When moving from Charleston, SC to San Jose, CA , understanding the weather differences can help you prepare for your new climate . The comparison highlights the unique characteristics of each location's climate so that you know what to pack, how to adjust , and what to expect throughout the year.
Charleston, SC
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate to Unhealthy |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving to San Jose, you'll notice an increase in sunny days, offering more opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. However, the humidity in Charleston creates a different atmosphere compared to the drier climate of California, impacting how temperatures feel. Be mindful of San Jose's air quality as it can range from moderate to unhealthy, particularly during wildfire season. The city's natural disaster profile includes risks of earthquakes and wildfires, quite different from the hurricanes that you might be familiar with in Charleston. Moreover, while both cities share common allergens, seasonal allergies can affect you differently due to the variation in regional flora.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to San Jose
If you're relocating from Charleston, SC to San Jose, CA , it's essential to compare the cost of living and financial factors between these two cities. This chart provides insights into key finance and economy elements to help you understand potential changes in your financial landscape.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.5% | 0.8% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 9.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Shipping, Healthcare | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Moving from Charleston to San Jose presents significant financial adjustments. The average household income in San Jose is notably higher, reflecting the robust technology-driven economy, but this is offset by a much higher cost of living index. Be prepared for a substantial increase in state income taxes upon arriving in California. The technology sector is a dominant force in San Jose, offering numerous employment opportunities but also contributing to higher property and living costs. Understanding these differences can help you plan your finances accordingly for a successful transition.
Charleston vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
Thinking about moving from Charleston, SC, to San Jose, CA? This snapshot provides a quick overview of the political and religious landscape of each city. See how the typical makeup of residents compares in terms of politics between Charleston & San Jose .
| Charleston | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate with a slight conservative lean | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Influenced by tourism and historical preservation | Tech-driven policies and sustainability initiatives |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian, with historical churches like St. John's Lutheran Church | Religiously diverse, with notable institutions like the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin |
As you transition from Charleston to San Jose, you'll notice a distinct shift in political climates. Charleston tends to lean conservative, while San Jose is known for its liberal environment, largely influenced by the tech industry's progressive ideas. The religious diversity in San Jose offers a broad spectrum of cultural experiences, compared to Charleston's historic Christian roots. Exploring the local politics in San Jose, you'll find an emphasis on sustainability, whereas Charleston's policies often focus on maintaining its rich heritage and tourism. This transition offers a refreshing variety in both social and political life.
Charleston vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Charleston, SC to San Jose, CA introduces you to a contrasting urban environment. Understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & San Jose is crucial for anticipating what your daily commute and traffic navigation will look like in your new city.
| Comparison | Charleston | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In San Jose, you’ll find a more extensive public transit system compared to Charleston, making it feasible to navigate the city without a car. The Valley Transportation Authority offers a comprehensive network of buses and light rail. Although San Jose deals with higher traffic congestion and longer commute times, the public transit options provide a viable alternative. Meanwhile, Charleston, with its limited public transit, often necessitates the use of a car to move around efficiently. Exploring local attractions such as Charleston’s historical sites may require personal vehicles or organized tours.
Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
