Best Charleston to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 687 mile move from South Carolina to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Charleston to Philadelphia 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 EverSafe Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.50 | 9.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pineapple Movers | 9.43 | 9.62 | 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 Philadelphia
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 687 miles from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $2,011 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Philadelphia move is roughly $4,821. 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 | $1,353 | 300 ft³ | 4.51 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,011 | 450 ft³ | 4.47 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,319 | 750 ft³ | 4.43 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,821 | 1100 ft³ | 4.38 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,945 | 1600 ft³ | 4.34 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,736 | 1800 ft³ | 4.30 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Philadelphia Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
EverSafe Moving Co.
8701 Torresdale Ave
Philadelphia, PA, 19136
About EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261303 / 771755 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2021) |
Pineapple Movers
Collingswood, NJ, 08108
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3579435 / 1208543 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (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. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA can feel overwhelming, but finding neighborhood parallels helps. This comparison will help you discover similar neighborhoods to ease your transition into Philadelphia by using what you already know and appreciate in Charleston.
| Charleston | Philadelphia | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Old City | Historic charm, cobblestone streets |
| Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Fishtown | Trendy, artistic vibe |
| South of Broad | Rittenhouse Square | Upscale, elegant homes |
| West Ashley | Manayunk | Suburban feel with urban perks |
| Mount Pleasant | Chestnut Hill | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| Harleston Village | University City | Academic influence, vibrant community |
| North Charleston | South Philadelphia | Diverse, community-centric |
If you enjoy the elegance and historical charm of Charleston's French Quarter, you'll find much to appreciate in Philadelphia's Old City, known for its cobbled streets and iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell. For a neighborhood with a bustling and trendy atmosphere, akin to Charleston's Cannonborough/Elliotborough, Fishtown offers a similar eclectic mix of artistic influences and innovative culinary delights, such as the popular restaurant Frankford Hall. Meanwhile, Mount Pleasant's family-friendly environment, with its proximity to Shem Creek and versatile outdoor spaces, mirrors the lush residential feel of Chestnut Hill. As you settle into your new city, exploring these neighborhoods can help recreate the sense of community you cherished in Charleston, along with their unique local sights and attractions.
Things to Do in Philadelphia
Tour the Liberty Bell Center- Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Eat at Reading Terminal Market
- Explore the Philadelphia Zoo
- Stroll through Longwood Gardens
- Tour Eastern State Penitentiary
- Bike on Schuylkill Banks
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Philadelphia
This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the relocation from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA , highlighting both cities' good and bad attributes. Whether you value culture over climate or lifestyle over living costs, these charts offer a lens into what you might gain or lose in this move.
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Limited job opportunities
- Hurricane risk
- Traffic congestion
Philadelphia, PA- Cooler summers
- Diverse job market
- No hurricane threat
- Public transportation
Philadelphia, PA- No beaches
- Higher cost of living
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Few historic areas
Charleston, SC- Beach access
- Lower cost of living
- Southern charm
- Historic districts
Moving from Charleston to Philadelphia introduces exciting opportunities and new experiences. Philadelphia's cooler summers and lack of hurricane threats offer a distinct climatic advantage. It has a vibrant job market with diverse opportunities, particularly in areas like finance and healthcare. Neighborhoods like [Rittenhouse Square](Rittenhouse), known for its upscale restaurants and serene parks, offer a different pace than Charleston's more relaxed Southern charm. While you'll miss the beaches and historic districts like [The Battery](The Battery), Philadelphia compensates with cultural landmarks like the [Liberty Bell](Liberty Bell) and world-class museums. With an efficient public transportation system, getting around Philadelphia is considerably more manageable, unlike the congested roads of Charleston.
Charleston vs. Philadelphia Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and significantly influences what it's like to live in a place. This comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Philadelphia will arm you with the culinary insights needed for your move.
| Charleston | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | She-Crab Soup | Cheesesteak |
| Most popular meat dish | Shrimp and Grits | Roast Pork Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Hush Puppies | Pretzels |
| Most popular vegan food | Cauliflower Steak | Vegan Cheesesteak |
| 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 moving to Philadelphia, you’ll find the robust food scene boasts delicious options all over the city. In the heart of the Italian Market neighborhood, you can enjoy an authentic Roast Pork Sandwich. For those interested in vegan culinary adventures, Philadelphia steps up with its Vegan Cheesesteak offerings, often found in neighborhoods like Fishtown. The city’s passion for food is palpable, with food trucks frequently discovered in the vibrant streets of West Philadelphia, highlighting the area's commitment to diverse and accessible dining.
Charleston vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential ingredient for making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will guide you in finding your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown, Charleston, SC, as a culinary guide to Philadelphia, PA.
| Charleston | Philadelphia | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Zahav | Renowned for its culinary innovation and vibrant local flavors |
| FIG | Vernick Food & Drink | Emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients like FIG |
| Lewis Barbecue | Fette Sau | Offers a delightful BBQ experience in a casual setting |
| 167 Raw | Vernick Fish | Celebrates fresh seafood with a contemporary twist |
| Bertha's Kitchen | Carman's Country Kitchen | Brings homestyle comfort food to life |
| The Ordinary | Oyster House | Known for its impeccable seafood offerings |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Han Dynasty | Delivers bold, authentic Asian flavors |
| Callie's Hot Little Biscuit | Federal Donuts | Offers a unique take on local comfort snacks |
| Brown Dog Deli | High Street on Market | Known for gourmet sandwiches and casual dining |
| Tattooed Moose | Memphis Taproom | Combines a laid-back atmosphere with hearty dishes |
When searching for the cozy, charmed ambiance reminiscent of Husk in Charleston, you'll find Zahav in Philadelphia equally enchanting with its innovative dishes and local character. If seafood is your passion, 167 Raw offers a vibrant experience in Charleston, and you'll be pleased to discover a similar fresh and contemporary approach at Vernick Fish. For those irresistible, high-quality bites that make a quick lunch memorable, Charleston's Callie's Hot Little Biscuit has its match in Philadelphia's beloved Federal Donuts, each serving comforting, satisfying treats to enjoy as you settle into your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding housing costs , architecture , and urban lifestyle in Charleston and Philadelphia helps you make informed decisions. Our comparison highlights key features and statistics for smoother relocations.
| Comparison | Charleston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic charm | Proximity to amenities |
Moving from Charleston to Philadelphia presents a change in both cost and lifestyle. While Charleston boasts picturesque Colonial architecture, Philadelphia offers the more urban Federal style, which aligns with its vibrant city life. Renters will find Philadelphia generally more affordable, coupled with higher walkability that compliments the city's dynamic urban scene. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Charleston or the amenities of Philadelphia, both cities offer unique living experiences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA
1. Manayunk: With its easy access to the Wissahickon Valley Park trails and numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, Manayunk is a paradise for pet owners.
2. Fairmount: Known for its proximity to the expansive Fairmount Park, this neighborhood offers endless green spaces and dog parks for your furry friends to explore.
3. Queen Village: This community shines with its welcoming attitude towards pets, featuring several pet stores, doggy daycares, and the beloved Mario Lanza Park where local dogs love to play.
Charleston vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations
If you're relocating from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA , understanding the weather changes you'll experience can help in your transition. By comparing climatic conditions, you can prepare and acclimate to your new environment, making your move smoother and more predictable.
Charleston, SC
Philadelphia, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Philadelphia, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Snowstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Navigating the dramatic seasonal differences, Philadelphia's cooler winters stand out as a key adjustment from Charleston's milder climate. Philadelphia experiences substantial snowfall, unlike the near absence of it in Charleston, necessitating preparations for snow-related travel and attire. Additionally, while humid conditions persist in both cities, Charleston generally feels more humid, making Philadelphia's summers potentially more comfortable for those sensitive to humidity. Both cities receive a comparable number of sunny days, ensuring year-round opportunities for outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Philadelphia
If you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living , income, and other financial aspects in these cities compare. This comparison will guide you to make informed decisions for a seamless transition.
| Comparison | Charleston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $52,899 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 126.5 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 3.07% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.5% | 0.9% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 8% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Military, IT | Education, Health Care, Finance |
| Affluence | Moderate | Diverse |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Noticeable |
The financial landscape between Charleston and Philadelphia varies significantly. While Charleston has a higher average household income, the cost of living is also elevated, making day-to-day expenses comparable to Philadelphia despite its lower income levels. When planning for taxes, consider that Philadelphia boasts a lower state income tax but higher property tax rates. Additionally, the main industries in each city influence job opportunities; Philadelphia's focus on education, healthcare, and finance opens diverse employment avenues. Understanding these differences will help you manage expectations and plan your budget effectively.
Charleston vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison
As you prepare to move from Charleston, SC to Philadelphia, PA, understanding the differences in community dynamics is helpful. Here is a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, allowing you to see how Charleston & Philadelphia compare politically and religiously.
| Charleston | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate-to-Conservative | Largely Liberal |
| Local Politics | City Council - Focus on historic preservation | City Council - Focus on urban development |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Religiously Diverse |
When moving from Charleston to Philadelphia, you'll notice a fascinating shift in political and religious landscapes. Charleston's political scene tends to lean more conservative, with a focus on maintaining its rich historical heritage. In contrast, Philadelphia has a strong liberal presence, with an emphasis on urban modernization and progressive policy initiatives. Religiously, Charleston predominates in Christian practice, reflecting the Southern religious heritage, while Philadelphia offers a more culturally diverse tapestry of faiths, enhancing its broad societal mix. Embracing these differences can enrich your experience in adapting to the vibrant community of Philadelphia.
Charleston vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
In this guide, we'll delve into the everyday realities of traffic and transit, providing a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Philadelphia to help you better understand what the daily commute and transportation systems are like in each city.
| Comparison | Charleston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 31 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
In Charleston, driving is almost a necessity given the limited public transit options. Most people rely on their cars due to convenience and the relatively low traffic congestion levels. In contrast, Philadelphia's well-developed public transportation network, managed by SEPTA, offers a viable alternative to driving, making it easier to live car-free. The availability of buses, trolleys, and trains in Philadelphia significantly reduces the need for personal vehicles, particularly within the city limits. As a result, despite higher traffic congestion, many choose public transit for commuting needs.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to Pennsylvania Routes
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