Best Charleston to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 304 mile move from South Carolina to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Charleston to Durham 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Durham. 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 Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 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 Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 304 miles from Charleston, SC to Durham, NC will cost on average $1,734 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Durham move is roughly $4,145. 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 | $1,169 | 300 ft³ | 3.90 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,734 | 450 ft³ | 3.85 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,858 | 750 ft³ | 3.81 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,145 | 1100 ft³ | 3.77 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,961 | 1600 ft³ | 3.73 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,629 | 1800 ft³ | 3.68 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
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. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
The purpose of this guide is to compare the local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Durham, NC . This will help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your current city as a baseline. We'll match popular neighborhoods in one city with similar ones in the other.
| Charleston | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Ninth Street | Historic charm, vibrant arts |
| South of Broad | Trinity Park | Elegant homes, tree-lined streets |
| Mount Pleasant | Hope Valley Farms | Suburban feel, family-friendly |
| West Ashley | Northgate Park | Sense of community, diverse food scene |
| James Island | Old West Durham | Laid-back vibe, local eateries |
| Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Lakewood | Eclectic atmosphere, up-and-coming |
| Wagener Terrace | Walltown | Budget-friendly, community feel |
| Sullivan's Island | Brightleaf | Upscale, dining and nightlife |
| Summerville | Creekside | Suburban growth, budding communities |
| North Charleston | East Durham | Industrial history, revitalization |
If you adore the historic charm of Charleston's French Quarter, with its cobblestone streets and vibrant art galleries, you'll enjoy strolling through Durham's Ninth Street, where a similar creative energy thrives with colorful murals and unique boutiques. For those who appreciate the elegant homes and tree-canopied streets of South of Broad, Trinity Park offers a slice of this charm with its own stunning homes and beautiful city parks such as the Trinity Park itself. Meanwhile, if the laid-back vibe of James Island resonates with you, Old West Durham's local eatery scene, filled with cozy spots, will make you feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Durham
Moving from Charleston, SC to Durham, NC can be a daunting decision. To assist you in this journey, this comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes associated with this relocation. By exploring both the pros and cons, we aim to offer a balanced perspective on what to expect in your new city.
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Flood-prone areas
- Tourist traffic
- Limited tech scene
- Higher cost of living
Durham, NC- Milder summers
- Less flood risk
- Less congestion
- Thriving tech hub
- More affordable
Durham, NC- Lacks oceanfront
- Less historic appeal
- Less seafood emphasis
- Modern cityscape
- Emerging art culture
Charleston, SC- Beautiful beaches
- Rich history
- Southern cuisine
- Charming architecture
- Established art scene
In your move to Durham, expect a significant shift in lifestyle. While Charleston's Battery Promenade and Rainbow Row provide a coastal charm alongside historic draws, you will find that Durham offers a thriving tech scene and a more relaxed pace. Explore the [Sarah P. Duke Gardens](Sarah P. Duke Gardens) or enjoy a play at the [Durham Performing Arts Center](Durham Performing Arts Center). While the beach is no longer on your doorstep, you'll find solace in the area's beautiful forest trails, such as those in [Eno River State Park](Eno River State Park). Enjoy new dining experiences with local favorites like [Dame's Chicken & Waffles](Dame's Chicken & Waffles) and discover the vibrant mix of cuisines that Durham has to offer.
Charleston vs. Durham Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and significantly influences what it's like to live in an area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Durham to help you better understand the food scene where you are moving to.
| Charleston | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | She-Crab Soup | Carolina Barbecue |
| Most popular meat dish | Shrimp and Grits | Smoked Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Chicken | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | Soy BBQ Sandwich |
| 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 Durham brings you closer to a vibrant culinary scene with a unique take on Southern flavors. One of the must-try experiences is the local Carolina Barbecue, available in various popular spots such as the restaurant Mateo. For those who adore street food, Durham's rich culture of food trucks has you covered with a wide variety of tacos, especially prevalent in the Central Park district. If you’re a fan of vegan cuisine, the Ninth Street neighborhood offers innovative dishes like the soy BBQ sandwich to satisfy your taste buds. Moreover, Durham's food scene fosters a healthy living culture, providing plenty of delicious yet balanced options.
Charleston vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Food is essential in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Charleston, SC, and Durham, NC will help you find your new favorite eateries by using the charm and flavors of your current hometown as a guide.
| Charleston | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Kindred | Known for contemporary Southern cuisine with locally sourced ingredients |
| FIG | Mateo | Offers a modern twist on Spanish flavors, much like FIG's approach to local produce |
| Magnolias | Rose's Noodles, Dumplings & Sweets | A beloved spot for its creative approach to classic dishes |
| Slightly North of Broad | Piedmont | An upscale choice featuring farm-to-table dishes |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | Saint James Seafood | Offers a notable selection of seafood in a casual setting |
| Shem Creek Bar & Grill | The Fish House | Loved for its waterfront view and fresh seafood offerings |
| Hominy Grill | Acme Food & Beverage Co. | A go-to for Southern comfort food |
| Hannibal’s Kitchen | Saltbox Seafood Joint | Specializes in soulful, approachable seafood with a local twist |
| Vicious Biscuit | Biscuitville | A breakfast favorite known for its artisanal biscuits |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Dashi | Combines Asian street food with Southern influences, similar to Xiao Bao's fusion style |
If you've been smitten by the Southern elegance and flavors of Husk in Charleston, a visit to Kindred in Durham is sure to delight with its contemporary Southern flair and dedication to local sourcing. For those who relish in seafood, Saint James Seafood mirrors the casual yet considerate dining experience of Leon’s Oyster Shop, with an outstanding selection of fresh catches. Fans of comfort food won't want to miss Acme Food & Beverage Co., reminiscent of the hearty Southern classics found at Charleston's beloved Hominy Grill. And for those craving a fusion culinary adventure, Dashi offers its own unique blend of Asian street food and Southern comfort, much like the innovative dishes served up at Xiao Bao Biscuit.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move to a new city, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Charleston, SC and Durham, NC will equip you with the essential insights into housing market statistics, architectural styles, and lifestyle attributes, helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Charleston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Charleston Single | Georgian Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic charm, coastal views | Proximity to universities, vibrant arts scene |
While both cities offer unique living experiences, Charleston is often characterized by its historic charm and stunning coastal views, making properties here truly distinctive. The Charleston Single style is an iconic representation of the area’s rich history. On the other hand, Durham offers a more affordable housing market, with homes priced approximately 23% lower on average. The city's thriving academic and cultural landscape, particularly near local universities, adds value to its real estate offerings. Additionally, if cycling is part of your lifestyle, Durham’s higher bikeability score means you'll find it easier to get around on two wheels.
Charleston vs. Durham Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Durham, NC , understanding the weather differences between the two locations is crucial. This guide provides an insightful comparison so you can know what to expect in Durham compared to your experience in Charleston .
Charleston, SC
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving to Durham from Charleston, you'll notice slightly cooler summers and colder winters. The number of sunny days increases in Durham, which could be a welcomed change for outdoor enthusiasts. Humidity in Durham is lower, making the hot days feel less oppressive. However, be prepared for a shift in potential natural disasters, from hurricanes in Charleston to tornadoes in Durham. Air quality is generally moderate in Durham, primarily due to its urban setting, compared to Charleston's consistently good levels.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Durham
If you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Durham, NC, understanding the financial landscape is essential. This comparison gives you a clear view of the differences in cost of living and other economically relevant factors between Charleston and Durham , helping you make informed decisions for your future.
| Comparison | Charleston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 5.25% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.54% | 0.84% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 7.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Research, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate-High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low-Moderate | Low |
The economic landscape between Charleston and Durham shows distinct differences and similarities that are important to consider. For instance, while Charleston has a higher cost of living index, Durham has a higher state income tax rate. This may directly impact your lifestyle depending on your income level. Furthermore, both areas have unique industrial strengths, with Charleston leaning heavily on tourism and manufacturing, whereas Durham's economy thrives on research and education. These factors can affect your job opportunities and professional growth, depending on your industry preference. Additionally, property taxes tend to be higher in Durham, which may influence your decision if home ownership is a priority.
Charleston vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Understanding the comparison of the politics between Charleston & Durham allows you to better anticipate the cultural shift that may come with your move.
| Charleston | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mostly Moderate to Conservative | Mostly Liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican majority, with influence from city council | Democratic majority, strong presence in the city council |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse, including Christianity, Buddhism, Islam |
As you prepare to move from Charleston to Durham, you may notice some differences in local governance and community involvement. While Charleston tends to have a more moderate to conservative political landscape, the atmosphere in Durham leans liberal, which reflects their city council's decision-making processes. Religiously, Charleston is mainly Christian, often closely tied with southern traditions and values, while Durham offers a more diverse religious setting with prominent communities for various faiths like Buddhism and Islam. These changes may align with different public events and opportunities you could participate in, enriching your social engagements in your new city.
Charleston vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic patterns can make your transition from Charleston, SC to Durham, NC much smoother. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Durham to help you better prepare for your new daily routine.
| Comparison | Charleston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
Moving to Durham may offer you a somewhat less congested commute compared to Charleston, as the traffic congestion level is somewhat lower. While Charleston's public transportation options might not be as extensive, Durham provides more comprehensive transit choices, making it possible to live without a car, especially if you plan to reside within city limits or near major amenities. You might find that Durham's efficient public transit system, such as the Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA), offers a practical alternative to driving, which opens up a new lifestyle of convenience and reduced transportation costs. If you're looking for more options or specific routes, you can visit GoTriangle Transit to explore connections across the Research Triangle area.
Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to North Carolina Routes
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