Best Charleston to St. Petersburg Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Charleston to St. Petersburg and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 461 mile move from South Carolina to Florida go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Charleston to St. Petersburg 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 Smooth Move Charleston), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to St. Petersburg. 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 St. Petersburg Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Let's Get Moving | 9.14 | 9.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | 123 Moving Florida LLC | 9.13 | 9.31 | Authorized For Broker Property | Contact |
| 5 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.15 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to St. Petersburg
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 461 miles from Charleston, SC to St. Petersburg, FL will cost on average $1,847 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to St. Petersburg move is roughly $4,422. 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 | $1,244 | 300 ft³ | 4.15 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,847 | 450 ft³ | 4.11 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,047 | 750 ft³ | 4.06 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,422 | 1100 ft³ | 4.02 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,364 | 1600 ft³ | 3.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,083 | 1800 ft³ | 3.94 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from St. Petersburg to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to St. Petersburg Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Let's Get Moving
6599 Haines Rd N
St. Petersburg, FL, 33702
About Let's Get Moving
This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida...
Services
- Commercial moving services
- Residential moving services
- Local moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2270761 / 775415 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,000 (2023) |
123 Moving Florida LLC
2452 Enterprise Rd # 2019
Clearwater, FL, 33763
About 123 Moving Florida LLC
123 Moving Florida LLC is a moving company based in Florida, providing a range of moving services at various prices. They...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Hourly moving
- Small moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3017738 / 32646 Authorized For Broker Property Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50 (2021) |
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. St. Petersburg Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, but this guide helps bridge the familiar with the unknown by comparing neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & St. Petersburg, FL . By understanding the closest parallel neighborhoods, you can better navigate and acclimate to your new surroundings.
| Charleston | St. Petersburg | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Historic Downtown | Downtown St. Petersburg | Vibrant culture and historic architecture |
| Mount Pleasant | Old Northeast | Family-friendly with charming homes |
| Sullivan's Island | Tierra Verde | Coastal vibe and upscale atmosphere |
| North Charleston | Kenneth City | Diverse and rapidly growing area |
| West Ashley | Kenwood | Suburban with a strong community feel |
| James Island | Maximo | Boating community with island appeal |
| Daniel Island | Jungle Prada | Upscale living and connected community |
| Isle of Palms | Pass-a-Grille | Prestigious beachfront living |
| Radcliffeborough | Historic Uptown | Academic and eclectic atmosphere |
| Eastside | Childs Park | Urban living with cultural diversity |
When exploring your new home in St. Petersburg, you'll find that the Downtown St. Petersburg area echoes the vibrant culture and historic architecture of Charleston's Historic Downtown. Both districts offer lively arts scenes and numerous dining options, such as the iconic Birch and Vine in St. Petersburg. If you enjoyed the coastal charm of Sullivan's Island, you'll love the stunning waterfront views and upscale atmosphere in Tierra Verde. For those who cherished the suburban feel of West Ashley, the neighborhood of Kenwood offers a similar communal spirit, with local cafes and scenic green spaces like Greenway Park. Both cities present unique blends of culture, history, and community tailored to match your previous experiences while introducing you to new adventures.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to St. Petersburg
When contemplating a move from Charleston, SC to St. Petersburg, FL, it's essential to have an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes each city offers. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of your relocation, providing a detailed comparison to ensure a smooth transition to your new home in St. Petersburg, FL .
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Hurricane threats
- Tourist congestion
St. Petersburg, FL- More sunshine
- Coastal attractions
- Lower living costs
St. Petersburg, FL- Modern developments
- Fewer cultural events
- Less green space
Charleston, SC- Historic architecture
- Cultural festivals
- Scenic parks
As you make the transition to St. Petersburg, you'll find that while the city boasts a sunny disposition and beautiful coastal attractions like the stunning St. Pete Beach, it also trades off some of the historical charm and cultural vibrancy found in Charleston. However, St. Petersburg offers vibrant neighborhoods like the Downtown St. Pete, known for its artsy vibe and an array of local dining options, such as The Birchwood on Beach Drive. While you might miss the expansive Hampton Park in Charleston, the lower cost of living in St. Petersburg might just offer you some room to explore and enjoy your new surroundings.
Charleston vs. St. Petersburg Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Charleston & St. Petersburg helps you understand the unique culinary experiences each city offers. Food is a pivotal aspect of local culture and significantly influences what it's like to live in an area. This guide will enable you to make informed choices about the food scene in your new locale as you plan your move.
| Charleston | St. Petersburg | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Grouper Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Cuban Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Oyster Roast | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles) |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
St. Petersburg offers you a diverse palate with its array of seafood and culturally immersive street foods. You will find the iconic Grouper Sandwich at local spots throughout the downtown area. The city also boasts a vibrant food truck culture with hotspots across the Warehouse Arts District. On the vegan front, St. Petersburg is expanding rapidly, offering popular options like zoodles in cafes around the Central Avenue neighborhood. Dining at Bern’s Steakhouse offers a luxurious taste of St. Petersburg's dining scene.
Charleston vs. St. Petersburg Restaurant Comparison
Food is essential for making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide. Explore the best dining spots as you transition from Charleston to St. Petersburg and savor the experience of discovering familiar culinary delights in your new location.
| Charleston | St. Petersburg | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | The Mill | Southern-inspired menu with a modern twist |
| FIG | Noble Crust | Focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients |
| Lewis Barbecue | Dr. BBQ | Renowned for its smoked meats and vibrant atmosphere |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Izakaya Tori | Asian fusion that plays with flavors and textures |
| Hominy Grill | Gratzzi Italian Grille | Comfort food with a robust, homey vibe |
| The Ordinary | Sea Salt St. Pete | Features local seafood in an upscale setting |
| Poogan's Porch | The Birch & Vine | Offers an elegant twist on classic brunch dishes |
| Butcher & Bee | The Lure | A place for creative small bites and shared plates |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | 400 Beach Seafood & Tap House | Celebrated for its fresh oysters and relaxed ambiance |
| Magnolias | Red Mesa Cantina | Combines high-end flair with bold flavors |
As you settle into St. Petersburg, you'll find exceptional culinary experiences that echo the charm of Charleston's dining scene. At The Mill, expect to delight in Southern-inspired dishes that share the modern flair seen at Charleston's famed Husk. If you're a fan of FIG's dedication to fresh and seasonal produce, Noble Crust serves up a similar philosophy with a menu that evolves with the seasons. Meanwhile, for those who cherished the Asian fusion explorations at Xiao Bao Biscuit, Izakaya Tori offers a new realm of vibrant flavors and textures that excite the palate. With these comparable options, your transition will be as delightful to your taste buds as it is to your sense of adventure in a new city.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. St. Petersburg Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how Charleston and St. Petersburg compare in terms of housing can help you make informed decisions. Our chart provides insights into key factors such as cost and lifestyle , enabling a clearer picture of these vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Charleston | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Georgian | Mid-Century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic Homes | Beachfront Condos |
When considering moving to St. Petersburg, you'll find its affordable median home price of $360,000 offers more value than Charleston's $430,000. While Charleston charms with its Georgian architecture, St. Petersburg appeals with its Mid-Century Modern style, particularly in neighborhoods like the Crescent Lake area. If walkability is a priority, you'll appreciate St. Petersburg's higher score of 7 compared to Charleston. Additionally, the urban lifestyle in St. Petersburg is rated at an 8, largely due to its vibrant arts scene and dining options along 4th Street North.
Charleston vs. St. Petersburg Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, SC to St. Petersburg, FL , it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. Familiarizing yourself with differences in temperature, humidity, and other key weather elements can help you prepare for your new environment and make a smoother transition.
Charleston, SC
St. Petersburg, FL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
St. Petersburg, FL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
St. Petersburg, FL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
St. Petersburg, FL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
You’ll find that St. Petersburg boasts significantly more sunny days annually than Charleston, which can benefit those who love outdoor activities. The winter temperatures in St. Petersburg are noticeably milder, making it an appealing destination for those seeking warmth year-round. While both locations experience high humidity, Charleston might feel slightly less sticky. However, St. Petersburg's higher UV index and rainfall might mean more frequent sunny showers but also necessitate using sunscreen regularly. Air quality remains mostly good but slightly better in Charleston, providing a small environmental advantage.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to St. Petersburg
If you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to St. Petersburg, FL , understanding the financial differences between the two cities can help you plan your budget and manage your expenses . This comparison focuses on key elements of the economy , helping you to be better prepared for the financial transition between Charleston and St. Petersburg .
| Comparison | Charleston | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $64,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 97.8 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.83% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Education | Tourism, Healthcare, Finance |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
Moving to St. Petersburg from Charleston means you could enjoy a lower cost of living as the index in St. Petersburg is slightly less than Charleston’s. Florida’s lack of a state income tax is a significant financial advantage, potentially saving you money annually. However, remember that the average household income is lower in St. Petersburg, which might affect your overall financial comfort. The higher property tax in St. Petersburg could be a consideration if you're planning to purchase a home. Conversely, the sales tax is slightly less, which could help if you frequently shop within the city.
Charleston vs. St. Petersburg Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This section will help you understand how your new home might differ from your old one. Here, we compare the politics of Charleston and St. Petersburg to give you a better idea of what to expect.
| Charleston | St. Petersburg | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately liberal with some conservative areas | Largely progressive with liberal tendencies |
| Local Politics | Influenced by historical and cultural heritage, with a focus on tourism | Driven by arts and culture, focusing on innovation |
| Religion | Christianity is prevalent, with a variety of denominations represented | Diverse religious practices with a significant non-religious population |
Moving from Charleston to St. Petersburg, you may notice a shift toward more progressive politics in your new home. Charleston's political landscape reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, much like its streets lined with historic homes and the modern boutiques of King Street. In contrast, St. Petersburg is known for its vibrant art scene, exemplified by institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts, which also mirrors its progressive political leanings. The religious makeup in Charleston is predominantly Christian, a testament to its Southern roots, whereas St. Petersburg offers a broader spectrum of spiritual beliefs, catering to a more diverse and often non-religious community.
Charleston vs. St. Petersburg Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Planning a move from Charleston, SC to St. Petersburg, FL? This guide provides insights to help you compare the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & St. Petersburg for a smoother transition and better understanding of your daily commute and traffic conditions.
| Comparison | Charleston | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
As you transition from Charleston to St. Petersburg, you'll notice differences in how you navigate each city. St. Petersburg offers more robust public transit options compared to Charleston, earning a rating of 7 out of 10, which means you can more easily access various parts of the city without a car. This could open up opportunities to explore local attractions and services like the thriving downtown St. Petersburg area without the reliance on driving. While both cities have a similar average commute time, St. Petersburg’s slightly less congested traffic might make your daily drives more pleasant.
Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to Florida Routes
Popular Moving Resources
