Best Charleston to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,000 mile move from South Carolina to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 Charleston to Milwaukee moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is About Time Moving Systems LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston compared to Milwaukee. 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 Milwaukee Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, 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 Milwaukee
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,000 miles from Charleston, SC to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $2,632 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Milwaukee move is roughly $6,323. 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 | $1,769 | 300 ft³ | 5.90 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,632 | 450 ft³ | 5.85 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,349 | 750 ft³ | 5.80 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,323 | 1100 ft³ | 5.75 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,117 | 1600 ft³ | 5.70 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,166 | 1800 ft³ | 5.65 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Milwaukee Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Time Moving Systems LLC
4909 8th Ave
Kenosha, WI, 53140
About About Time Moving Systems LLC
This locally owned and operated moving company serves the Milwaukee, WI, area with high-quality residential and commercial relocation services. About Time...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2525330 / 877057 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2022) |
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
310 Progress Way Suite 140
Sun Prairie, WI, 53590
About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and commercial...
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2627768 / 1031866 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 173,000 (2023) |
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. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison
To help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city, we'll use your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare Charleston, SC & Milwaukee, WI neighborhoods to find similar communities in your new home.
| Charleston | Milwaukee | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Historic Downtown | East Town | Rich in history and culture |
| West Ashley | Bay View | Suburban feel with vibrant business districts |
| Mount Pleasant | Shorewood | Family-friendly with good schools |
| James Island | Riverwest | Artsy, eclectic vibe |
| Sullivan's Island | Oak Creek | Coastal feel, residential |
| North Charleston | Walker’s Point | Dynamic, rapidly developing |
| Folly Beach | Bradford Beach | Popular for its vibrant beach culture |
If you appreciate the history and culture of Charleston's Historic Downtown, you'll find Milwaukee's East Town appealing, where the old-world charm is evident in historic buildings and vibrant arts scene. For those who enjoyed the suburban feel of West Ashley with its thriving business districts, Bay View in Milwaukee offers a similar experience with its eclectic shops and eateries like Honey Butter Cafe. Adventure-seekers who frequented the surf of Folly Beach in Charleston will feel at home at Bradford Beach, where sunbathers and volleyball players create an energetic beach atmosphere. Meanwhile, if James Island's artsy vibe was your go-to, you'll enjoy the creative spirit of Riverwest, known for its community-driven events like the Riverwest24 bike race.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Milwaukee
Relocating from Charleston, SC to Milwaukee, WI involves weighing both the positive and negative aspects of each city. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the pros and cons to aid your decision-making process and help you determine whether the changes you'll experience will meet your needs better in the long run.
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Expensive housing
Milwaukee, WI- Lower humidity
- Less severe weather
- More affordable housing
Milwaukee, WI- Colder winters
- Fewer historical sites
- Fewer festivals
Charleston, SC- Year-round beaches
- Rich history
- Cultural festivals
Charleston's high humidity and hurricane risks may sometimes feel overwhelming, whereas Milwaukee offers milder weather conditions, providing relief, particularly during the summer months. Areas like the historic Third Ward in Milwaukee offer a diverse array of restaurants and parks, making it easy to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about oppressive heat or looming storms. Additionally, Milwaukee's real estate market is generally more affordable, allowing you to explore neighborhoods like Bay View or East Town for a vibrant and welcoming community. While Milwaukee may lack the year-round beaches of Charleston, the city's lakeside attractions and urban green spaces provide ample natural beauty and recreation.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and offers a window into what it's like to live in a particular area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston, SC & Milwaukee, WI to help you better understand the food scene where you're moving to.
| Charleston | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | She-Crab Soup | Bratwurst |
| Most popular meat dish | Shrimp and Grits | Fish Fry |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Green Tomatoes | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Soul Bowl | Vegan Sausage |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Milwaukee's diverse culinary scene is deeply tied to its historic neighborhoods, like the Third Ward, where you can find iconic local dishes such as bratwurst at Glass Nickel Pizza Co.. The city's lively food truck scene is particularly notable in areas like the East Side, reflecting its community-driven vibe. While Charleston is renowned for its seafood, Milwaukee’s array of cheese and sausage offerings hold their own charm, with establishments like Oscar’s Pub & Grill showcasing the quintessential Fish Fry experience. This move grants you the chance to explore Milwaukee’s increasing vegan options, especially in modern spots around Bay View.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison
Discovering your next dining delights in Milwaukee, WI using familiar culinary experiences from Charleston, SC can make your transition to a new home much smoother. Food plays a vital role in feeling at home, and this restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries using your current hometown as a delicious guide.
| Charleston | Milwaukee | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | The Diplomat | Both offer elevated Southern cuisine with a contemporary twist. |
| FIG | Ardent | Known for innovative menus and farm-to-table commitment. |
| Charleston Grill | Lupi & Iris | Fine dining with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. |
| Hominy Grill | Blue's Egg | Classic comfort foods with a modern flair. |
| Pearlz Oyster Bar | St. Paul Fish Company | Both highlight fresh seafood specialties. |
| Rodney Scott's BBQ | Smoke Shack | Authentic barbecue with emphasis on slow-cooked meats. |
| Lewis Barbecue | Iron Grate BBQ Co. | Celebrated for their Texas-style barbecue techniques. |
| Callie's Hot Little Biscuit | Holey Moley Coffee + Doughnuts | A sweet spot for baked goods. |
| Magnolias | Odd Duck | Upscale yet approachable with creative, seasonal dishes. |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | DanDan | Fusion eats that celebrate bold, eclectic flavors. |
In the heart of Milwaukee, you'll find The Diplomat, which deftly mirrors the innovative Southern dishes of Charleston's beloved Husk, ensuring your palate feels right at home. For those who cherish farm-to-table dining, Ardent presents an experience akin to Charleston's FIG, with a commitment to locally sourced, seasonal produce that transforms each meal into a memorable celebration of flavors. Meanwhile, if the rustic allure of Charleston's iconic barbecue calls your name, Iron Grate BBQ Co. offers the same smoky, mouth-watering barbecue experience found at Lewis Barbecue, capturing the essence of Texas-style in the heart of Wisconsin. And when you're seeking sweet treats reminiscent of Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, look no further than Holey Moley Coffee + Doughnuts for a delightful selection of baked goods that satisfy your cravings with local flair.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to know how the two cities compare. Charleston and Milwaukee offer distinct housing markets that vary in cost , architecture , and overall walkability . Using this guide, gain insights into these differences to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Charleston | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic Colonial | Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Porches, Historic Charm | Basements, Spacious Yards |
Charleston's housing market offers beautiful historic homes that reflect its colonial past, often highlighted by charming porches and classic architectural details. This aesthetic does come at a premium, as reflected in higher median home prices and rents compared to Milwaukee. On the other hand, Milwaukee offers more affordability with homes that typically lean towards the Craftsman style, providing features like basements and spacious yards. As a boon for urban dwellers, Milwaukee also scores higher in walkability and bikeability, making it easier to explore local attractions such as Milwaukee's bustling downtown or the scenic lakefront during your everyday journey.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Milwaukee, WI
1. Bay View: Known for its community feel, you'll find an abundance of pet-friendly cafes and a popular dog park, ensuring your furry friend will always feel welcome.
2. Third Ward: This neighborhood boasts stylish pet-friendly apartments and several boutiques like Third Ward Dog, where you can pamper your pooch with the latest trends.
3. Wauwatosa: Offering numerous parks and green spaces, such as the spacious Hart Park, it's a paradise for pets who love the outdoors, making walks and playdates a part of your daily routine.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Charleston, SC to Milwaukee, WI , understanding the weather differences between the two cities is crucial. This comparison allows you to better prepare for the climatic changes you will experience and adapt comfortably to your new surroundings.
Charleston, SC
Milwaukee, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Milwaukee, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Snowstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Charleston to Milwaukee brings significant changes in seasonal temperatures. Milwaukee experiences much colder winters, where temperatures often dip below freezing compared to Charleston's milder conditions. Additionally, Milwaukee receives considerably more snowfall, so investing in appropriate winter gear will be necessary. While sunshine is slightly less frequent in Milwaukee, both cities experience similar humidity levels. However, you may need to adjust to Milwaukee's snowstorm conditions compared to hurricane threats in Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Milwaukee
If you're considering moving from Charleston, SC to Milwaukee, WI , it's important to understand how the cost of living and other financial factors compare to what you are accustomed to. By examining these financial aspects , you can better prepare for changes in expenses and lifestyle associated with the move.
| Comparison | Charleston | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $46,637 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 101.9 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 6.27% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.5% | 2.1% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 5.6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Tech | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Low | Significant |
| Homelessness | Visible | Prominent |
When moving from Charleston to Milwaukee, you'll notice differences in both the tax landscape and economic opportunities. While Charleston features a higher cost of living, Milwaukee offers a lower sales tax, possibly impacting your everyday purchases. However, property taxes are considerably higher in Milwaukee. The industries dominating each city also differ: Charleston thrives with tourism and tech, whereas manufacturing and education play key roles in Milwaukee's economy. Such differences might affect your employment opportunities and lifestyle, informed by each city's unique economic milieu.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison
Use this comparison to quickly understand the residents' political and religious preferences when moving from Charleston to Milwaukee. By comparing the two cities, you can gain insight into the local dynamics and community beliefs. This guide focuses on a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Milwaukee , highlighting key differences and similarities.
| Charleston | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate, leaning conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Predominantly Republican | Democratic stronghold |
| Religion | Highly religious with significant Christian population | Diverse religious landscape |
Experiencing new political dynamics can be an enlightening aspect of moving. Milwaukee's predominantly liberal stance might be refreshing for someone coming from Charleston, where local politics tend to lean Republican. In Milwaukee, you'll likely encounter a diverse religious landscape compared to Charleston's more homogenous Christian community. This shift offers a chance for broader perspectives and varied community life. Engaging with local community centers and diverse faith groups can ease this transition.
Charleston vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the nuances of daily commutes in new locations can ease your transition to a new city. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Milwaukee , highlighting key differences to familiarize you with what to expect when driving or using public transit in each city.
| Comparison | Charleston | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
Moving to Milwaukee might offer you a slight edge in terms of commute times, as both cities have similar averages, but Milwaukee's availability of public transit is more robust. This expansive transit system may allow you to comfortably navigate the city without a car, unlike in Charleston where a vehicle is often necessary. While traffic congestion is slightly higher in Milwaukee, the city's efficient public transit options can offset this concern. As you settle in, explore local Milwaukee services, like the Milwaukee County Transit System, to assess how well your new commute matches your lifestyle needs.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to Wisconsin Routes
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