Best Charleston to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,047 mile move from South Carolina to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Charleston to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | 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 Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,047 miles from Charleston, SC to Seattle, WA will cost on average $4,372 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Seattle move is roughly $10,578. 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 | $2,930 | 300 ft³ | 9.77 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,372 | 450 ft³ | 9.72 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,250 | 750 ft³ | 9.67 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,578 | 1100 ft³ | 9.62 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,306 | 1600 ft³ | 9.57 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,129 | 1800 ft³ | 9.52 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Seattle Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Familiarizing yourself with a new city can be daunting, but using existing knowledge of neighborhoods from your current city helps ease the transition. This guide compares Charleston, SC & Seattle, WA neighborhoods, helping you find your new community in Seattle.
| Charleston | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South of Broad | Capitol Hill | Historic buildings and vibrant culture |
| Mount Pleasant | Ballard | Quaint charm and coastal vibe |
| West Ashley | West Seattle | Suburban feel with nature access |
| Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Columbia City | Diverse community and artsy scene |
| Harleston Village | Belltown | Downtown proximity and lively streets |
| James Island | Bainbridge Island | Island living with quick city access |
| Folly Beach | Alki Beach | Beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere |
| Sullivan's Island | Magnolia | Scenic beauty and close-knit community |
| Daniel Island | Mercer Island | Family-friendly with community activities |
| Riverland Terrace | Greenwood | Historic charm with community parks |
Moving from South of Broad to Capitol Hill offers you a rich blend of history and modern vibrance. Capitol Hill, known for its stunning parks like Volunteer Park, parallels South of Broad’s classic architectural allure. Similarly, if the coastal charm of Mount Pleasant drew you in with its quaint shops and local dining spots, you'll find Ballard's canals and seafood eateries, including the renowned The Walrus and the Carpenter, very appealing. If island life excites you, Bainbridge Island mirrors the serene environment of James Island while still offering quick access to Seattle’s urban amenities. You will find lush escape parks and friendly neighbors at every corner.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Seattle
This comparison serves to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Charleston, SC to Seattle, WA . By examining both sides, you can make an informed decision about your upcoming move.
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Hurricane threat
- Limited tech industry
Seattle, WA- Crisp marine air
- Minimal natural disasters
- Robust tech hub
Seattle, WA- Modern cityscape
- Frequent rain
- Costly dining
Charleston, SC- Historic charm
- Beautiful beaches
- Southern cuisine
Relocating from Charleston to Seattle offers different cultural and environmental experiences. You might trade the historic charm of Charleston's City Market for Seattle's modern tech-centric neighborhoods. While Seattle's weather might seem less sunny, the city compensates with lush, green views at places like Discovery Park. Additionally, the local dining scene offers diverse international dishes at spots like Flying Fish, in exchange for the classic Southern fare in Charleston. These elements collectively contribute to the enhanced lifestyle Seattle promises.
Charleston vs. Seattle Food Guide
Food is an intrinsic part of local culture, shaping the experience of living in any area. By exploring the local cuisine between Charleston & Seattle , you'll gain insight into the culinary scene of the city you're moving to. This comparison will highlight the unique flavors, dining options, and food culture that define each location.
| Charleston | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Pork | Grilled Halibut |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Oyster Po'Boy | Seattle Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | Tofu Teriyaki |
| 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 into Seattle, you'll find the local food scene to be vibrant and varied, much like its neighborhoods. Pike Place Market is a must-visit for a taste of Seattle's fresh salmon and famous clam chowder. Capitol Hill offers trendy spots with vegan-friendly options like tofu teriyaki, while the abundance of food trucks can be found at events such as the Seattle Street Food Festival. With a high fitness conscientiousness, you’ll notice health-conscious eateries throughout the city serving nutritious meals. Get ready to savor seafood delights and embrace the culinary innovation Seattle is known for.
Charleston vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Charleston-to-Seattle restaurant comparison can help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide. Food is important for making an area feel like home, and finding your preferred dining spots in a new city will make Seattle feel familiar in no time.
| Charleston | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Canlis | Offers upscale dining with locally sourced ingredients |
| FIG | The Walrus and the Carpenter | Both feature farm-to-table dining with a focus on seasonality |
| Lewis Barbecue | Jack's BBQ | Celebrates authentic, slow-cooked barbecue techniques |
| Rodney Scott's BBQ | Bitterroot BBQ | Known for their rotisserie-smoked meats and Southern-style sides |
| Poe's Tavern | Uneeda Burger | Casual spot with creative burgers and a laid-back atmosphere |
| Magnolias | Palace Kitchen | Offers a modern twist on classic comfort food |
| Frothy Beard Brewing Company | Pike Brewing Company | Both brewpubs are known for their extensive craft beer selections |
| Hominy Grill | Lost Lake Cafe & Lounge | Known for serving hearty, comfort food all day long |
| Charleston Grill | Herbfarm | Focus on refined dining with an emphasis on seasonal flavors |
| Butcher & Bee | The London Plane | Both offer modern takes on fresh, vibrant dishes in a chic setting |
When you crave the unmistakable flavors of Southern barbecue, you'll find that Jack's BBQ in Seattle delivers a captivating experience reminiscent of Charleston’s Lewis Barbecue, where authenticity and slow-cooked perfection are savored with every bite. If high-end dining is more your scene, step into Canlis. With its breathtaking views and meticulously sourced ingredients, you’ll be reminded of Husk’s commitment to culinary excellence. Meanwhile, for a casual night out with friends or family, Uneeda Burger offers a similar spirited and innovative burger menu as found at Poe's Tavern, ensuring comfort with each choice you make.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how Charleston and Seattle compare. This guide will help you make a more informed decision.
| Comparison | Charleston | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront views | Mountain views |
Relocating from Charleston to Seattle presents notable differences in housing. While Charleston's colonial architecture embodies its rich history, Seattle's modern style reflects its innovation-driven culture. For those who value walkability and green commuting options, Seattle's score is significantly higher, encouraging more pedestrian-friendly and bike-friendly transportation. Consider Charleston if tranquil waterfront views resonate with you, but know that Seattle offers stunning mountain vistas. This unique aspect of real estate listings can greatly influence any decision based on your lifestyle preferences and priorities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Charleston vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Charleston, SC to Seattle, WA , understanding the differences in weather can help you prepare and adjust smoothly to your new environment. Comparing climatic variations will give you a sense of what to expect in your daily life and how to plan your wardrobe, outdoor activities, and home adjustments.
Charleston, SC
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Charleston to Seattle, you'll notice a significant change in seasonal temperatures, especially in summer. Seattle's cooler summers can be a refreshing change, while Charleston's hot and humid summers might feel oppressive to some. Interestingly, both cities share similar average annual humidity levels, but Seattle's cooler temperatures and fewer sunny days create different humidity-related experiences. The natural disasters prevalent in each area differ, so while Charleston deals with the threat of hurricanes, Seattle's primary concern is earthquakes. Notably, the air quality in Seattle is generally rated better than in Charleston, which may contribute positively to your overall health and comfort in the new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Seattle
When you're moving from Charleston, SC to Seattle, WA , understanding the cost of living differences is crucial. This comparison provides insights into different financial aspects, helping you better plan your move and manage your finances effectively.
| Comparison | Charleston | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.93% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 10.1% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Technology, Aerospace, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Moving from Charleston to Seattle means encountering a significantly higher cost of living. Seattle's cost of living index is notably higher, partly due to its booming tech industry, which also means higher average household incomes. While both cities share a 0% state income tax, property and sales taxes are higher in Seattle, affecting your overall expenses. The economic vibrancy in Seattle is driven by industries like technology and aerospace, which contributes to its affluence. However, this prosperity comes with challenges, as Seattle also reports a significant issue with homelessness compared to Charleston.
Charleston vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
A move between cities often involves understanding cultural and demographic shifts. This guide provides a quick snapshot with a focus on the political and religious makeup comparison between Charleston & Seattle . Understanding these differences can help you get acclimated faster to your new environment, fostering a smoother transition into community life.
| Charleston | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Conservative-leaning local policies | Progressive-driven local policies |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Less religious, diverse spiritual beliefs |
When moving from Charleston to Seattle, you'll notice a marked shift in political atmosphere. Charleston often balances between moderate and conservative politics, whereas Seattle leans distinctly liberal, valuing progressive initiatives like sustainable development. Religiously, Charleston has a robust Christian community, whereas Seattle is characterized by a more secular population with diverse spiritual beliefs, accommodating practices like yoga and meditation, often found in local yoga studios. These differences can certainly offer an intriguing switch in the societal dynamics you're accustomed to.
Charleston vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the nuances of daily commutes and transportation can greatly impact your transition when moving from one city to another. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Seattle , helping you prepare for the differences in commuting between these two distinct urban environments.
| Comparison | Charleston | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
When moving to Seattle from Charleston, one of the most noticeable differences will be the availability and reliability of public transit. Seattle boasts a robust public transportation system, making it feasible to live without a car, which contrasts sharply with Charleston where a car is often necessary. You'll find that while Seattle has higher traffic congestion, it is mitigated by efficient transit options like buses, light rails, and ferries. If you're looking to explore neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or Fremont, the ease of public transport will be a significant advantage.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to Washington Routes
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