Best Charleston to New Orleans Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to New Orleans and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 783 mile move from South Carolina to Louisiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 12 Charleston to New Orleans 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 (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.15 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Bart's Office Inc. | 6.97 | 2.12 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 6.87 | 6.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to New Orleans
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 783 miles from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA will cost on average $2,447 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to New Orleans move is roughly $5,872. 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 | $1,646 | 300 ft³ | 5.49 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,447 | 450 ft³ | 5.44 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,041 | 750 ft³ | 5.39 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,872 | 1100 ft³ | 5.34 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,461 | 1600 ft³ | 5.29 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,428 | 1800 ft³ | 5.24 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from New Orleans to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to New Orleans 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) |
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) |
Bart's Office Inc.
2838 Elysian Fields Ave
New Orleans, LA, 70122
About Bart's Office Inc.
Bart's Office, founded in 1978, stands out in the New Orleans, Louisiana, area as a moving company that specializes in commercial...
Services
- Full service commercial relocation
- Installation/reconfiguration of cubical office space
- Restaurant & Apartment appliance installation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2118069 / 739860 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2023) |
Two Men and a Truck
5029 Bloomfield St
New Orleans, LA, 70121
About Two Men and a Truck
In just over 35 years of operation, Two Men and A Truck has come from humble beginnings to becoming one of...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2147737 / 746991 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 2,300,000 (2022) |
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. New Orleans Neighborhood Comparison
Comparing neighborhoods in Charleston, SC & New Orleans, LA helps you get acquainted with a new city using familiar surroundings. By identifying comparable neighborhoods, you can transition seamlessly and find your new home with ease by using your past experiences as a guide.
| Charleston | New Orleans | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | French Quarter | Historic charm, vibrant nightlife |
| South of Broad | Garden District | Grand homes, historic beauty |
| Harleston Village | Uptown | Residential tranquility, green spaces |
| West Ashley | Mid-City | Eclectic vibe, local arts scene |
| Wagener Terrace | Marigny | Bohemian feel, creative community |
| Daniel Island | Algiers Point | Residential, community-focused |
| Cannonborough/Elliottborough | Bywater | Emerging, artsy enclave |
| Mount Pleasant | Lakeview | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| North Charleston | New Orleans East | Diverse, expansive community |
| Sullivan's Island | Lakefront | Coastal living, scenic views |
Exploring the vibrant life in Charleston's French Quarter, known for its historical significance and lively atmosphere, you'd enjoy the similar ambiance of New Orleans' own French Quarter. Both are rich in history and offer a plethora of nightlife and dining options, with landmarks like the St. Louis Cathedral and St. Michael's Church. If you enjoy the grandiose feel of the homes in South of Broad, New Orleans' Garden District will charm you with its majestic mansions and beautifully preserved streets, where walking along Magazine Street invokes a sense of timeless elegance. For those who relish community-oriented living, Daniel Island's peaceful neighborhoods parallel the serene vibe of Algiers Point, complete with local cafes and riverfront parks like Crescent Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to New Orleans
Deciding to relocate from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA is a significant choice. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes associated with your move from Charleston to New Orleans , allowing for a well-rounded decision-making process.
Charleston, SC- Hurricane risk
- Tourist congestion
- High cost of living
- Limited public transport
New Orleans, LA- Rich culture
- Vibrant nightlife
- Unique cuisine
- Jazz scene
New Orleans, LA- Higher crime rates
- Less waterfront access
- Summer humidity
- Different cuisine
Charleston, SC- Charming architecture
- Beautiful beaches
- Milder winters
- Delicious seafood
Moving to New Orleans presents an opportunity to embrace its vibrant culture, known best for jazz and lively festivals, a contrast to Charleston's quieter charm. Although New Orleans faces challenges like higher crime rates, neighborhoods such as Mid-City offer an array of trendy spots like Café du Monde. You'll trade Charleston’s beautiful, albeit crowded, beaches for the bustling city energy of the French Quarter. Both cities share a love for seafood, though New Orleans adds its signature Cajun twist, found at places like Drago's. While public transport isn't Charleston's forte, New Orleans compensates with its streetcars for a more urban exploration. Whichever city you call home, you'll be surrounded by history, vibrant communities, and mouth-watering food.
Charleston vs. New Orleans Food Guide
When moving to a new city, food is an essential part of immersing yourself in local culture and understanding what it's like to live there. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & New Orleans to inform you about the vibrant food scene awaiting you in New Orleans.
| Charleston | New Orleans | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | She-Crab Soup | Gumbo |
| Most popular meat dish | Shrimp and Grits | Jambalaya |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Green Tomatoes | Beignets |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Vegetable Plate | Vegetable Po'boy |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants |
| |
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In New Orleans, you can expect a culinary adventure around every corner, especially with its thriving foodie scene. For an authentic experience, explore the French Quarter where you can savor iconic beignets at Café Du Monde. For a touch of Southern elegance, visit Commander's Palace in the Garden District, famous for its Creole cuisine. The abundance of food trucks in neighborhoods like the Bywater offers a wide range of inventive street food, reflecting the city’s vibrant and diverse culture. While you’ll find plenty of classic dishes, New Orleans is also becoming increasingly vegan-friendly, with numerous eateries offering plant-based versions of local favorites.
Charleston vs. New Orleans Restaurant Comparison
Food is important in making Charleston, SC feel like home, and this restaurant comparison will help you find their new favorite eateries in New Orleans, LA by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Charleston | New Orleans | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Restaurant August | Both offer exquisite, modern Southern cuisine. |
| FIG | Herbsaint | Similar dedication to farm-to-table seasonal dining. |
| Pearlz Oyster Bar | Acme Oyster House | Renowned for fresh, local Gulf seafood. |
| Lewis Barbecue | The Joint | Praised for exceptional smoked meats and BBQ flavor. |
| Poe's Tavern | Port of Call | Famous for burgers and laid-back, casual vibes. |
| Slightly North of Broad | Cochon | Offers a similar blend of Southern comfort and sophistication. |
| Hominy Grill | Mother's Restaurant | Classic comfort food with a strong sense of place. |
| The Ordinary | Pêche Seafood Grill | Emphasizes fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes. |
| Fleet Landing | Blue Crab Restaurant and Oyster Bar | Coastal dining with waterfront views. |
| Taco Boy | Juan's Flying Burrito | Offers creative tacos with a local twist. |
In your culinary journey from Charleston to New Orleans, you'll discover that the spirit of exceptional dining transcends state lines. At Restaurant August, you can revel in modern Southern cuisine similar to Charleston's beloved Husk. If you've savored the distinctly local flavor found at FIG, you'll love the vibrant farm-to-table offerings at Herbsaint. For seafood lovers, the bustling vibe of Acme Oyster House provides an experience reminiscent of Pearlz Oyster Bar, promising fresh oyster platters that celebrate Gulf flavors. And when you're in the mood for unbeatable barbecue, The Joint in New Orleans mirrors the smoky deliciousness found at Lewis Barbecue. Each city offers unique taste experiences that are sure to make you feel at home, one bite at a time.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. New Orleans Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move—knowing how Charleston and New Orleans compare can be essential for a seamless relocation. You will find differences in housing cost , architecture , and overall urban lifestyle that may significantly impact your decision.
| Comparison | Charleston | New Orleans |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | French Creole |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Porches <a href="https://www.charleston-sc.gov/">and gardens</a> | Balconies <a href="https://www.nola.gov/">and courtyards</a> |
When considering a move from Charleston to New Orleans, the housing landscape presents unique opportunities and challenges. Charleston's Colonial architecture, often featuring charming porches and lush gardens, might be appealing to those who value traditional aesthetics. In contrast, New Orleans offers the vibrant allure of French Creole architecture with the added charm of balconies and courtyards, providing not just a home but a cultural experience. Urban lifestyle in New Orleans scores higher, suggesting a more vibrant city life, which may be a significant draw if you enjoy a bustling environment. Walkability and bikeability differ only slightly, but if you prioritize easy navigation, New Orleans might edge out Charleston in convenience.
Charleston vs. New Orleans Weather Considerations
When moving from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA , it's crucial to grasp how the weather conditions compare. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for new challenges, adapt to local climate conditions, and settle more comfortably into your new home.
Charleston, SC
New Orleans, LA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
New Orleans, LA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
New Orleans, LA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
New Orleans, LA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | New Orleans |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Charleston and New Orleans experience humid conditions, New Orleans typically has a higher annual humidity level, which can feel more intense. Also, if you're used to the moderate coastal air in Charleston, adjusting to New Orleans’ slightly poorer air quality may take time. Furthermore, rainfall is significantly more in New Orleans, possibly requiring a sturdier umbrella. Remember that while both cities face hurricane risks, New Orleans' historical flooding issues might necessitate an extra layer of preparedness.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to New Orleans
If you're considering moving from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living in these two cities compares. Knowing these differences can help you make informed financial decisions and adjust your budget accordingly.
| Comparison | Charleston | New Orleans |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $46,942 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 96 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 6% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.53% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 9.45% |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Tourism, Tech | Tourism, Shipping, Energy |
| Affluence | Moderate | Average |
| Poverty | Below Average | High |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Moderate |
While Charleston boasts a higher average household income, New Orleans offers a lower overall cost of living, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. The cost of housing, groceries, and transportation are generally more budget-friendly in New Orleans. However, Charleston's growing tech industry might provide more career opportunities for professionals in that sector. It's also important to note that while New Orleans has a slightly higher sales tax, its state income tax is marginally lower than in Charleston. These differences can cumulatively impact your daily expenses and savings potential after your move.
Charleston vs. New Orleans 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 includes a look at the politics between Charleston & New Orleans to help you understand the communities better before your move.
| Charleston | New Orleans | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate to Conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | City governance leaning conservative | Strong Democratic presence |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse religious practices |
In Charleston, you may find the political environment leans more towards moderation and conservatism, reflecting the broader southern values of the region. This can be seen in local governance, affecting areas like business policies and community events. In contrast, New Orleans offers a liberal atmosphere supported by a robust Democratic presence that informs its vibrant arts, culture, and social equality initiatives. For example, the city's diverse religious landscape includes a blend of Christian and various other religious traditions, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. While both cities have their unique charms, understanding these dynamics may help you feel more integrated into your new community.
Charleston vs. New Orleans Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Charleston & New Orleans can help you better anticipate your daily commute when moving. This comparison highlights what to expect in terms of time spent commuting, congestion, and public transit availability.
| Comparison | Charleston | New Orleans |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
When moving to New Orleans, you’ll find that the public transit options significantly outpace those in Charleston, making it easier to get by without a car. The city’s extensive transit network, including services like the Streetcar and numerous RTA buses, provides convenience to residents. Although New Orleans experiences slightly higher traffic congestion compared to Charleston, the shorter average commute time can be a pleasant surprise. However, in Charleston, the reliance on personal vehicles is still quite strong, with many destinations requiring a car for easier access.
Additional Resources
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