Best Charleston to Memphis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Memphis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 702 mile move from South Carolina to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Charleston to Memphis 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Memphis. 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 Memphis 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 | Garrett's Hauling | 8.79 | 8.8 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC | 8.56 | 8.38 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.15 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Memphis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 702 miles from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN will cost on average $2,378 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Memphis move is roughly $5,703. 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 | $1,600 | 300 ft³ | 5.33 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,378 | 450 ft³ | 5.28 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,926 | 750 ft³ | 5.23 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,703 | 1100 ft³ | 5.18 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,216 | 1600 ft³ | 5.13 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,153 | 1800 ft³ | 5.08 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Memphis to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Memphis 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) |
Garrett's Hauling
Gallaway, TN, 38036
About Garrett's Hauling
Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Germantown,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3819914 / 1381892 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC
3456 Christy Ln
Bartlett, TN, 38135
About Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Bartlett, TN, with over 14 years of experience in...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3797931 / 1365852 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (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. Memphis Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can present challenges, but by comparing notable neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Memphis, TN , you'll find familiarity amidst change. This guide will help you transition comfortably by identifying similar areas within your new city based on familiar locales in your old one.
| Charleston | Memphis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Downtown | Rich history and vibrant city attractions |
| Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Cooper-Young | Artistic vibe and lively atmosphere |
| West Ashley | East Memphis | Suburban feel with parks and shopping |
| Mount Pleasant | Germantown | Family-friendly with excellent schools |
| Shem Creek | Harbor Town | Waterfront views and seafood dining |
| North Charleston | Midtown | Diverse community with industrial roots |
| James Island | Arlington | Quiet, residential with green spaces |
| Sullivan's Island | Mud Island | Island vibes and beach activities |
| Isle of Palms | Eads | Suburb with recreational amenities |
| Wagener Terrace | University District | Close to colleges and youthful buzz |
Exploring new neighborhoods can be an adventure when you find spots reminiscent of home. For instance, the artistic energy and eclectic vibe you experience in Cannonborough/Elliotborough resemble Memphis’s Cooper-Young, where local eateries and galleries buzz with creativity. If enjoying the waterfront seafood at Shem Creek was a highlight, you'll find similar charm in Harbor Town with its views and dining choices along the Mississippi River. Meanwhile, Mount Pleasant offers a family-friendly setting much like Germantown, along with parks perfect for weekend picnics or leisurely walks. By finding these parallels, settling into Memphis becomes a little easier and a lot more exciting.
Things to Do in Memphis
Explore the Pink Palace Museum- Visit the Memphis Zoo
- Stroll along Beale Street
- Bike in Shelby Farms Park
- Tour the National Civil Rights Museum
- Enjoy BBQ on South Main
- Watch a Grizzlies game at FedExForum
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Memphis
When you're contemplating a move from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN, it's important to have an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. This guide will help you weigh the potential advantages and challenges of both cities, ensuring that you can make the best decision for your future home between Charleston, SC and Memphis, TN .
Charleston, SC- High cost of living
- Tourist congestion
- Hurricane risk
- Limited public transport
Memphis, TN- Affordable housing
- Vibrant music scene
- Strong economy
- Public transport options
Memphis, TN- Modern urban sprawl
- Landlocked
- Fewer seafood options
- Hot, humid summers
Charleston, SC- Charming historic architecture
- Beautiful beaches
- Culinary delights
- Mild winters
While Charleston is renowned for its beautiful beaches, such as Folly Beach, offering a seaside escape and iconic historic architecture, Memphis can captivate with its vibrant music scene and cultural attractions like the Beale Street. The affordability of Memphis allows greater financial flexibility with housing, enabling you to find cozy homes in quaint neighborhoods like Cooper-Young, known for its trendy cafes and artsy vibe. You might miss Charleston's local seafood treasures, but Memphis compensates with its world-famous barbecue spots. For nature lovers, the Overton Park and Memphis Zoo offer expansive green spaces and attractions, making it a commendable alternative to Charleston's parks.
Charleston vs. Memphis Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture, shaping the lifestyle and experiences of an area. This comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Memphis will enhance your understanding of the vibrant food scenes as you transition to your new home.
| Charleston | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Barbecue Ribs |
| Most popular meat dish | Frogmore Stew | Pulled Pork |
| Most popular street food item | Boiled Peanuts | Fried Chicken Sandwich |
| Most popular vegan food | Heirloom Tomato Salad | BBQ Jackfruit Tacos |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you settle in Memphis, you'll quickly discover the city's love affair with barbecue. The legendary barbecue ribs and pulled pork are not only found in famous spots like the cozy Rendezvous in downtown but also in many lesser-known gems across the city. For a more contemporary take on local flavors, check out the Central BBQ; their BBQ jackfruit tacos are a hit among vegans. In vibrant Midtown, food trucks offer an abundance of options for quick bites, ensuring you never run out of exciting culinary adventures. From the thriving street food scene to its historic dining establishments, Memphis offers a delicious platform for both new and existing food lovers.
Charleston vs. Memphis Restaurant Comparison
Settling into a new city involves finding new favorite spots to eat, as food is a cornerstone that makes an area feel like home. This guide will compare some of the top restaurants in Charleston and their close counterparts in Memphis to help you discover new favorite eateries with flavors reminiscent of your current hometown.
| Charleston | Memphis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| FIG | The Beauty Shop | Both restaurants are known for their farm-to-table sophistication. |
| Husk | The Second Line | Each offers a modern take on Southern cuisine with a strong emphasis on local ingredients. |
| Hominy Grill | Brother Juniper's | Known for their hearty Southern breakfasts and brunch offerings. |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | The Half Shell | A classic choice for fresh seafood lovers. |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Buddy's Noodle Bar | Both provide an eclectic menu with Asian-inspired flavors. |
| 82 Queen | The Majestic Grille | Where elegance meets comfort with a Southern twist. |
| Rodney Scott’s BBQ | Central BBQ | For legendary pit-smoked barbecues that keep locals coming back. |
| Poogan's Porch | Automatic Slim's | Beloved for their classic yet innovative Southern dishes at brunch. |
| Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit | Phillip Ashley Chocolates | Offers unique creations, each known for their gourmet, local appeal. |
| Gaulart & Maliclet | Arcade Restaurant | Offers a nostalgic dining experience, much like its Charleston counterpart. |
Dive into Husk and The Second Line to savor a modern twist on Southern cuisine, where local ingredients lead the menu. For seafood enthusiasts, the fresh offerings at Leon's Oyster Shop and The Half Shell are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings with their coastal-inspired dishes. If barbecue is more your style, then you are in luck. Both Rodney Scott’s BBQ and Central BBQ garner attention for their smoked-to-perfection meats, representing the heart of what makes Southern barbecue truly mouth-watering. Finally, breakfast lovers will find it easy to make the transition with Poogan's Porch and Automatic Slim's offering memorable morning meals with a regional flair.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Memphis Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move to a new city, housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle are crucial factors. To assist in your decision-making process, here's a comparison of Charleston, SC and Memphis, TN in terms of real estate characteristics.
| Comparison | Charleston | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Georgian | Beaux-Arts and Art Deco |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic charm, ocean views | Spacious yards, river access |
Charleston's real estate market is characterized by its historic charm and coastal features , often attracting those interested in Southern architecture and scenic views. With a higher median home price, living in Charleston can be seen as more of an investment in heritage and tradition. Meanwhile, Memphis offers more affordability, with a lower median home price and rent , making it attractive for budget-conscious buyers. The city's bicycles and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure have been expanding, offering a good balance between urban living and outdoor activities. Memphis's real estate listings often highlight spacious yards and proximity to the Mississippi River, which appeals to those who appreciate outdoor leisure and space.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Memphis, TN
1. Cooper-Young: This neighborhood is renowned for its pet-friendly restaurants and bars, where you can dine alongside your furry friend at places like Young Avenue Deli.
2. Midtown: Midtown offers plenty of green spaces and dog parks, such as Overton Park, making it perfect for pet owners who love outdoor activities with their pets.
3. Harbor Town: With its scenic walking trails along the Mississippi River and the dog-friendly Mud Island River Park, Harbor Town is ideal for pet owners who enjoy waterside walks.
Charleston vs. Memphis Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN , understanding the weather differences you'll experience can help you prepare and adapt. Being aware of changes in temperature, humidity, and natural phenomena can make your transition smoother and improve your planning. Here, we provide a comparative chart to equip you with valuable insights about your new environment.
Charleston, SC
Memphis, TN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Memphis, TN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Memphis, TN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Memphis, TN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Charleston to Memphis, you'll encounter noticeable differences in weather patterns. Even though both cities experience a fair amount of sunny days, Memphis generally has slightly more sunshine. Humidity levels are lower in Memphis, which might provide a more comfortable atmosphere during the warmer months. However, Memphis is more prone to tornadoes, a shift from the hurricane risks in Charleston. As you prepare for winter, keep in mind that Memphis experiences more snowfall than Charleston, requiring minor adjustments in your winter wardrobe.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Memphis
When you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN , it’s crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare. This comparison will give you insight into economic factors like income, taxes, and industry that could affect your financial planning.
| Comparison | Charleston | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $44,317 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 88.2 |
| State Income Tax | 0.07 | 0.05 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.53 | 0.75 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.0 | 9.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Tourism, Healthcare | Logistics, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Moving from Charleston to Memphis means you'll encounter a noticeable difference in the cost of living. While Charleston has a higher average household income, Memphis boasts a lower cost of living index, which could mean greater purchasing power despite lower incomes. The state income tax in Memphis is slightly lower, potentially offering some savings in taxes on your income. Furthermore, the economic landscape differs, with Charleston's economy driven by industries like aerospace and tourism, while Memphis focuses on logistics and healthcare. These factors may impact job availability and salary expectations, so considering these economic elements is key to a well-rounded financial plan in your new city.
Charleston vs. Memphis Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of Charleston, SC, and Memphis, TN. By examining the politics between Charleston & Memphis , you can better understand what to expect culturally when making your move.
| Charleston | Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate with a slight liberal leaning | Mostly liberal |
| Local Politics | Influenced by historical preservation and tourism | Focused on economic development and education |
| Religion | Primarily Protestant | Diverse religious communities including Baptist and Methodist |
Moving from Charleston to Memphis introduces you to a predominantly liberal environment compared to Charleston's more moderate stance. This means local policies in Memphis tend to emphasize different priorities, such as economic development and education, which may vary from your experiences in a city focused on historical preservation and tourism. While both cities share a strong presence of Protestant faith, Memphis showcases a more diverse religious community, including prominent Baptist and Methodist congregations. Understanding these nuances helps ease the transition as you find your place in your new city.
Charleston vs. Memphis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another involves adjusting to different lifestyles, and understanding daily commute and traffic differences is crucial for prospective movers. This brief comparison will give you insights into the traffic and transportation options between Charleston and Memphis , helping you make informed decisions for a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Charleston | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Manageable |
In Charleston, the average commute time is slightly shorter, which might indicate lighter traffic during peak hours. However, public transit is less accessible, making car reliance more prominent. Conversely, Memphis offers better public transit options, allowing you to navigate the city more easily without a vehicle, although traffic congestion is slightly higher. Exploring local attractions like downtown Charleston or Beale Street in Memphis might help you learn how transport is structured in these cities, as well as how easy or difficult it may be without a car.
Additional Resources
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