Best Charleston to Honolulu Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Charleston to Honolulu and need first-hand information you can trust to make this move from South Carolina to Hawaii go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 11 Charleston to Honolulu 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 Smooth Move Charleston), how much the move costs (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Honolulu. 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 Honolulu 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 | Ewa Moving Co. | 8.26 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.15 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC | 7.90 | 7.61 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Honolulu to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Honolulu 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) |
Ewa Moving Co.
91-593 Pohakupuna Rd
Ewa Beach, HI, 96706
About Ewa Moving Co.
Ewa Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company based in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The company provides residential and commercial...
Services
- Residential moving services in Oahu
- Local moving services in Oahu
- Hourly rate moving services in Oahu
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3786678 / 1601075 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50 (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) |
Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC
Honolulu, HI, 96825
About Mint Moving and Cleaning Solutions LLC
Mint Moving & Cleaning Solutions LLC is a locally owned and operated business based in Honolulu, HI, offering services throughout all...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- Office Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3396143 / 1265966 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2019) |
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. Honolulu Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from a familiar city to a new one, comparing local neighborhoods can help ease the transition. By examining the local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Honolulu, HI , you can use your existing city as a baseline to better understand your new surroundings.
| Charleston | Honolulu | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Charleston | Waikiki | Lively nightlife and bustling tourist area |
| Mount Pleasant | Kahala | Upscale residential area with vibrant dining and shopping |
| West Ashley | Waipahu | Suburban feel with historical charm |
| James Island | Kaimuki | Family-friendly vibe and local eateries |
| Sullivan's Island | Lanikai | Quiet beach community |
| North Charleston | Kapolei | Growing community with new developments |
| Isle of Palms | Kailua | Relaxed beach atmosphere |
| Folly Beach | Haleiwa | Surf-centric culture and laid-back vibe |
| Daniel Island | Mililani | Planned community with amenities |
| Summerville | Ewa Beach | Suburban growth with family-oriented appeal |
When exploring the lively charm of Downtown Charleston, imagine transferring that energy to Waikiki, with its vibrant nightlife and constant influx of visitors. Similarly, if the upscale setting of Mount Pleasant draws you in, you might find Kahala in Honolulu appealing, offering luxurious homes surrounded by excellent dining options like Big Island Grill. On the other hand, if you enjoy the historical yet suburban essence of West Ashley, the neighborhood feel of Waipahu may remind you of home, where cultural heritage meets community charm. For those who appreciate the quiet serenity of Sullivan’s Island, Lanikai offers a peaceful retreat with stunning beaches and a tight-knit community. While both cities offer diverse and unique experiences, these neighborhood comparisons aim to provide you with a sense of familiarity and excitement as you embark on your Honolulu adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Honolulu
Relocating from Charleston, SC to Honolulu, HI involves careful consideration, examining the dual sides of the change. This comparison is meant to provide an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks of trading life in South Carolina for a new chapter in Hawaii, ensuring you receive a balanced perspective to make an informed decision.
Charleston, SC- Hurricane threat
- Summer humidity
- Urban sprawl
Honolulu, HI- Stable climate
- Year-round mild weather
- Scenic landscapes
Honolulu, HI- High cost of living
- Limited food diversity
- Travel distance from mainland
Charleston, SC- Historic charm
- Southern cuisine
- Friendly community
As you transition from Charleston to Honolulu, the shift from the humidity of Charleston summers to the consistently mild climate of Hawaii can be a welcome change. In Charleston, there are beautiful historic districts like the Historic Downtown and excellent cuisine offerings, such as the renowned Husk Restaurant. However, Honolulu offers a unique landscape filled with the lush beauty of places like Diamond Head and cultural sites like Pearl Harbor. Despite the appeal of Charleston’s historic charm, the higher cost of living in Honolulu is a significant factor to consider. The local neighborhood parks like Cinech Park provide green spaces, but the array of natural beauty in Honolulu and activities such as surfing at Waikiki Beach can make up for these costs.
Charleston vs. Honolulu Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and greatly enhances the experience of living in a new place. This guide compares the culinary landscapes of two distinct yet vibrant places, Charleston and Honolulu . Exploring their local cuisines will provide wonderful insights into the food scene you're about to become a part of.
| Charleston | Honolulu | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | She-Crab Soup | Poke |
| Most popular meat dish | Shrimp and Grits | Loco Moco |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Green Tomatoes | Spam Musubi |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | Tofu Poke |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Once you arrive in Honolulu, you'll soon discover the vibrant food scene that punctuates each neighborhood. In places like Waikiki and Kaimuki, you'll find Poke shops on almost every corner, showcasing the freshness of local seafood. Meanwhile, Spam Musubi is a must-try, often seen at food stalls throughout Ala Moana. For fine dining, Alan Wong's offers an elevated culinary experience with Hawaiian influences, while The Pig and the Lady is popular for its creative takes on Hawaiian-Vietnamese fusion. The city's inclination towards healthy living is reflected in the numerous vegan options, such as the Tofu Poke, providing delicious alternatives for plant-based eaters.
Charleston vs. Honolulu Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making an area feel like home. This comparison of restaurants in Charleston and Honolulu will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Charleston | Honolulu | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| FIG | Alan Wong's | Exquisite farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on local ingredients |
| Husk | Merriman's | Both showcase regional flavors with a contemporary twist |
| Peninsula Grill | La Mer | Elegant dining with a focus on classic techniques and premium ingredients |
| Butcher & Bee | Koko Head Café | Both offer creative and innovative menu options |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | Nico’s Pier 38 | Fresh seafood served in a casual atmosphere |
| Slightly North of Broad | MW Restaurant | Modern, inventive dishes with local inspirations |
| Fleet Landing | Uncle’s Fish Market & Grill | Seafood with a scenic view |
| Hominy Grill | Highway Inn | Comfort food that celebrates local culinary traditions |
| Rodney Scott's BBQ | Hoku's | Perfectly smoked meats with a Polynesian twist |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Piggy Smalls | Vibrant Asian fusion with bold flavors |
Indulge your taste buds at Alan Wong's in Honolulu, where the exceptional farm-to-table philosophy mirrors what you experienced at Charleston's FIG. For those seeking the essence of regional flavors, a visit to Merriman's is a must, as it mirrors Husk’s contemporary flair. If days spent by the sea define your dining dreams, Nico's Pier 38 offers the same fresh seafood charm as Leon’s Oyster Shop, ensuring you feel the comfort of the coast even across the vast Pacific.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Honolulu Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Charleston and Honolulu compare in terms of housing options. This comparison highlights key differences and aids in making an informed decision .
| Comparison | Charleston | Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Georgian | Plantation and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Southern Porches, Historic Charm | Ocean Views, Lanai |
In Charleston, you're likely to find yourself charmed by the city's rich historical architecture, including Colonial and Georgian styles, which are highlighted by the prevalent use of Southern porches. While the median home prices in Charleston are lower, Honolulu offers unparalleled ocean views, a feature often highlighted in local real estate descriptions. The urban lifestyle in Honolulu, with its vibrant city life and higher walkability scores, offers a different pace compared to the more laid-back feel in Charleston. Despite the higher cost of living, the unique blend of modern conveniences and natural beauty in Honolulu can make it an appealing choice for prospective movers.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Honolulu, HI
1. Kaka'ako: This vibrant neighborhood boasts numerous pet-friendly parks like Mother Waldron Park, along with several pet care options including Petco for your furry friend's needs.
2. Waikiki: Known for its world-famous beaches, Waikiki welcomes pets with open paws, offering dog-friendly areas along the beach and pet-friendly dining options like Barefoot Beach Cafe.
3. Manoa: This lush and serene neighborhood is a paradise for pets, featuring ample green spaces and walking trails such as those found at Manoa Valley District Park, perfect for the active pet and owner alike.
Charleston vs. Honolulu Weather Considerations
When moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the weather in Charleston, SC will compare to what you're used to in Honolulu, HI . This comparison will help you plan and prepare for your relocation.
Charleston, SC
Honolulu, HI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Honolulu, HI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Honolulu, HI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Honolulu, HI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Excellent |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Tsunamis |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Honolulu's climate is remarkably stable year-round, providing consistently warm temperatures even in winter, which is a noticeable contrast to the cooler winter months in Charleston. You might also appreciate the lower humidity in Honolulu, though the higher UV index requires effective sun protection year-round. Additionally, while both cities face natural disasters, the type differs significantly: tsunamis in Honolulu versus hurricanes in Charleston. With more days of sunshine per year and excellent air quality, Honolulu offers a brighter, cleaner atmosphere that may necessitate adjustments to your daily routines and activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Honolulu
When considering a move from Charleston, SC to Honolulu, HI , understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison highlights key differences in cost of living, including income, taxes, and economic factors, to help you make an informed decision about your relocation. Analyzing these aspects will better prepare you for the transition.
| Comparison | Charleston | Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $73,434 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 165.7 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 11% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.53% | 0.28% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 4.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, IT, Healthcare | Tourism, Defense, Agriculture |
| Affluence | Growing | Established |
| Poverty | Moderate | Noticeable |
| Homelessness | Rising | Prevalent |
Relocating to Honolulu from Charleston means confronting a significantly higher cost of living, primarily driven by Hawaii’s unique location and reliance on imported goods. Although the average household income in Honolulu is higher, the elevated cost of living index can offset these earnings, requiring careful budgeting. Additionally, while state income taxes are higher in Honolulu, property taxes are relatively low compared to Charleston. The vibrant tourism and defense sectors in Honolulu contrast with Charleston’s strong aerospace and IT industries, offering different career opportunities depending on your field. Understanding these financial dynamics will help you navigate your new city's economic landscape.
Charleston vs. Honolulu 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. Here is a brief overview of the comparison of the politics between Charleston, SC & Honolulu, HI .
| Charleston | Honolulu | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate to Conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Charleston City Council | Honolulu City Council |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse, with a strong presence of Buddhism |
Charleston tends towards a moderate to conservative political stance, reflecting Southern influences, while Honolulu leans more liberal, aligning with Hawaii's overall political climate. Charleston's religious landscape is predominantly Christian, with many churches like the historic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist anchoring the community fabric. In contrast, Honolulu is home to a more diverse religious mix, significantly influenced by the large Asian community, which contributes to a strong presence of Buddhism alongside Christianity. Understanding these differences can help you appreciate the diverse cultural tapestry you'll encounter after your move.
Charleston vs. Honolulu Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute differences between cities can greatly ease your relocation process. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Honolulu will help you better anticipate the changes in your daily routine, whether you're driving or using public transit.
| Comparison | Charleston | Honolulu |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible |
Charleston offers relatively moderate commute times but has limited public transit options. Driving is the primary mode of transportation, and if you need a vehicle, you might consider renting one from Enterprise Rent-A-Car. On the other hand, Honolulu experiences higher traffic congestion but has better-developed public transit options, making it feasible to navigate the city without a car. The local bus service is a notable alternative to driving, offering more freedom for those who prefer not to drive. The availability of transit options in Honolulu provides a more flexible and often less stressful alternative to car dependency, balancing out the longer commute times and busier roads.
Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to Hawaii Routes
Popular Moving Resources
