Best Memphis to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Memphis to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 704 mile move from Tennessee to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Memphis to Charleston 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 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 Memphis compared to Charleston. 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 Memphis to Charleston 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 | Country Club Moving & Packing Inc. | 8.60 | 9.31 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC | 8.56 | 8.38 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Memphis to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 704 miles from Memphis, TN to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,380 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Memphis to Charleston move is roughly $5,708. 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 | $1,602 | 300 ft³ | 5.34 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,380 | 450 ft³ | 5.29 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,929 | 750 ft³ | 5.24 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,708 | 1100 ft³ | 5.19 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,222 | 1600 ft³ | 5.14 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,160 | 1800 ft³ | 5.09 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Memphis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Memphis to Charleston 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) |
Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.
691 Crestover Dr
Collierville, TN, 38017
About Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.
Country Club Moving and Packing Inc. is a family-owned moving company that has been providing high-quality, low-price moves since 1994 in...
Services
- Local and Long Distance Moving
- Whole House Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1552549 / 576653 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (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) |
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.
Memphis vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Discover your new surroundings with ease by using this comparison of the local neighborhoods between Memphis, TN & Charleston, SC as your guide. You'll find the familiar charm of Memphis reflected in Charleston’s neighborhoods.
| Memphis | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Vibrant arts scene, eclectic vibe |
| East Memphis | West Ashley | Suburban feel, family-friendly |
| Cooper-Young | Park Circle | Trendy eateries, lively nightlife |
| Harbor Town | Daniel Island | Waterfront living, community-centric |
| Germantown | Mount Pleasant | Upscale, excellent schools |
| South Main | French Quarter | Historic charm, artistic flair |
| Downtown | Downtown Charleston | Business hub, vibrant culture |
| Bartlett | North Charleston | Residential areas, community parks |
| Collierville | Goose Creek | Suburban charm, friendly community |
| Binghampton | Old Village | Emerging area, local art culture |
Transitioning from the artistic flair of South Main in Memphis to Charleston’s French Quarter will be a delight for any art enthusiast. With its historic streets and galleries like Reynolds Gallery, you will find a familiar artistic spirit. If you enjoy the suburban charm of East Memphis, West Ashley offers numerous family-friendly parks such as West Ashley Park, known for its scenic trails and recreational facilities. For those who relish waterfront views in Harbor Town, Daniel Island provides not only stunning riverside views but also a tight-knit community feel with events at Town Center. The community-centric parks and vibrant café culture echo the beloved neighborhood spirit found in Memphis.
Things to Do in Charleston
Stroll the Historic Battery- Kayak on Kiawah Island
- Explore the Hunting Island State Park
- Visit the Patriots Point Museum
- Catch a show at Gaillard Center
- Shop at City Market
- Discover art at Gibbes Museum
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Memphis to Charleston
Moving from Memphis, TN to Charleston, SC involves a balance of different lifestyle changes. In this guide, you will find a series of comparative charts offering an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation. It's an opportunity to consider how the distinctive qualities of each city will impact your daily life.
Memphis, TN- Extreme summer heat
- High crime rate
- Limited beachfront
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Poor air quality
Charleston, SC- Cooled coastal breezes
- Safer neighborhoods
- Access to beaches
- Smoother traffic flow
- Cleaner air
Charleston, SC- Limited live music scene
- Higher cost of living
- Narrower food variety
- Fewer large events
- Humid climate
Memphis, TN- Rich music culture
- Affordable housing
- Diverse cuisine
- Vibrant arts scene
- Lower humidity
Exploring Charleston promises a refreshed lifestyle with pleasing coastal winds and a prominent sense of safety, allowing you to enjoy areas like the scenic Waterfront Park. Local beaches such as Folly Beach invite you to unwind or take on water sports. However, living here comes at a price; the overall cost of living tends to be higher, impacting your budget for entertainment and dining compared to the affordability found in hotspots like Memphis's Beale Street. The vibe of Charleston exudes a quaint, historic charm, striking a contrast with Memphis’s pulsing music scene and vibrant neighborhoods. Every community you explore, from King Street for shopping to Mia Market for dining, offers its own quaint highlights.
Memphis vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential component of local culture that shapes everyday life in a region. This comparison of the local cuisine between Memphis & Charleston provides insight into the food scene as you transition between these vibrant cities.
| Memphis | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue Ribs | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | BBQ Nachos | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ Sandwich | Quinoa Salad |
| 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 Charleston, you'll notice a distinctive Southern charm that is reflected in the city's cuisine. The celebrated shrimp and grits can be found in neighborhoods like the historic French Quarter, where restaurants such as Husk offer a taste of local culture. Charleston's food scene is highly rated, making it a paradise for foodies with its diverse offerings. Don't miss exploring the city's renowned fried chicken, particularly in restaurants scattered around Downtown Charleston. While Memphis is known for its smoky barbecue, Charleston provides a fresher take on Southern traditions with options that cater to health-conscious and vegan diners alike.
Memphis vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Memphis and Charleston will guide you in finding your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a reference.
| Memphis | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous | Husk | Celebrated for its Southern barbecue excellence and traditional ambiance |
| Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken | Leon’s Oyster Shop | Known for its outstanding fried chicken and Southern comfort atmosphere |
| Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar | Halls Chophouse | Offers a similar upscale dining experience with exquisite steaks and wines |
| The Arcade Restaurant | Early Bird Diner | Equally famous for its classic American diner vibe and hearty breakfast options |
| Belly Acres | Five Loaves Cafe | Matches the creative flair with inventive, locally-sourced dishes |
| Paulette's Restaurant | Slightly North of Broad (SNOB) | Both are revered for their fine dining atmospheres and exquisite New American cuisine |
| Central BBQ | Rodney Scott's BBQ | Renowned for its authentic BBQ offerings reminiscent of Memphis' flavors |
| Blue Plate Cafe | The Park Cafe | Shares a similar appeal for its comforting, homestyle breakfast and brunch menu |
| The Beauty Shop Restaurant | Butcher & Bee | Combines eclectic charm with a farm-to-table approach akin to The Beauty Shop |
| Huey's Restaurant | Poe's Tavern | Known for its relaxed atmosphere and consistently good burgers, echoing the spirit of Huey's |
When searching for Southern barbecue perfection, Husk in Charleston mirrors the savory excellence of Memphis's Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous, wrapping you in warm tradition with every bite. Meanwhile, the crispy delights at Leon’s Oyster Shop evoke the heartwarming experience of Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, ensuring that familiar comfort greets you at the table. For those who appreciate a refined dining experience, Halls Chophouse offers an elegant atmosphere and quality culinary craftsmanship that rivals Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar, creating a memorable evening out. Relax in creative culinary charm with Butcher & Bee transforming fresh, local ingredients into imaginative dishes, reflecting the innovative spirit you once loved at The Beauty Shop Restaurant. Each stop offers not just meals, but vibrant experiences that make Charleston feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Memphis vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move, and understanding the differences in housing between Memphis and Charleston can greatly aid your decision-making. This comparison highlights crucial aspects of urban living, like housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle attributes, to help you make a well-informed, seamless transition.
| Comparison | Memphis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Bungalow | Charleston Single, Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Yard, Garage | Historic Charm, Proximity to <a href="https://www.charlestoncvb.com">Downtown</a> |
When considering the housing market, Charleston tends to have higher prices, reflective of its bustling downtown and historical appeal. A hallmark of Charleston real estate is its unique architecture, exemplified by the Charleston Single House design. In contrast, Memphis, known for its rich cultural scene, offers more affordable home prices and larger lot sizes. If walkability is significant to you, you'll find Charleston more conducive to on-foot and bike travel, thanks to its compact, tourist-friendly urban design. Both cities promise diverse lifestyles, but adapting to Charleston's higher cost of living might afford you access to a more vibrant, historically rich environment.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, SC
1. North Charleston : With its large number of parks and proximity to the North Charleston Riverfront Park, you'll find plenty of space for daily walks and outdoor adventures with your furry friend.
2. James Island : This neighborhood offers easy access to the James Island County Park, which features a dedicated dog park and trails for exploring nature with your pet.
3. West Ashley : Known for its pet-friendly community vibe, you can enjoy numerous walking trails and amenities at the West Ashley Greenway and nearby parks where pets are warmly welcomed.
Memphis vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Memphis, TN to Charleston, SC , understanding the weather differences between these two cities can help you prepare for your new environment. Comparing temperature , humidity , and other climate factors will give you a clear idea of what to expect in your new home.
Memphis, TN
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Memphis, TN
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Memphis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The weather in Charleston might come as a mild surprise, especially if you're accustomed to Memphis's cooler winters and somewhat drier atmosphere. You'll find Charleston enjoys warmer winters, albeit with a bit more humidity year-round. Summer UV Index is higher in Charleston, so extra sun protection is wise. While tornadoes are more common in Memphis, be prepared for hurricane awareness in Charleston. The air quality tends to be better in Charleston, making it a breath of fresh air as you settle into your new surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Memphis to Charleston
When you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This comparison between Memphis and Charleston highlights the financial differences, helping you make informed decisions about your relocation.
| Comparison | Memphis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $44,317 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.2 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.75% | 0.55% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.75% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Transportation, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Tourism, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Low |
Relocating to Charleston from Memphis means facing a higher cost of living, but also enjoying a greater average household income. While Memphis does not impose a state income tax, Charleston's 7% could be a significant consideration. Property taxes in Charleston are lower than in Memphis, potentially balancing some of the cost differences in living expenses. You'll also find that different industries dominate the economy in Charleston, with tourism playing a significant role compared to Memphis's focus on transportation and manufacturing. These financial insights can greatly aid in planning your move and adjusting to the economic climate of a new city.
Memphis vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents by exploring the comparison of the politics between Memphis & Charleston . Discover how these dynamics shape each city’s unique community culture.
| Memphis | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Majority Democratic | Mixed, with a Republican tendency |
| Local Politics | Progressive initiatives | Historically conservative, shifting slightly |
| Religion | Diverse faith representations, Christian majority | Christian dominance, growing interfaith communities |
When moving from Memphis to Charleston, you’ll find yourself transitioning from one politically rich landscape to another. Memphis, predominantly Democratic, embraces a variety of progressive initiatives that influence daily life and community projects. On the other hand, Charleston presents a mix, often leaning Republican. Yet, it’s essential to note that Charleston has seen a gradual shift towards a more middle-ground approach in recent years, possibly influenced by its growing diversity. As for religious landscapes, both cities have a strong Christian presence, but Charleston’s growing interfaith communities offer an increasingly diverse religious tapestry. You may find exploring local places of worship, like visiting the historic churches of Charleston, to be a fascinating insight into this unique cultural blend.
Memphis vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the contrast in traffic and transportation options between Memphis and Charleston can help you adjust seamlessly to your new environment. Whether you're wondering what the daily commute looks like or how to navigate public transit, this overview will guide you through the differences to expect in each city.
| Comparison | Memphis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes, but limited |
While both cities have similar average commute times, Charleston tends to face slightly higher traffic congestion. This could mean a bit more time spent navigating the roads, especially during peak hours. Public transit options are somewhat better in Charleston than in Memphis, offering a marginal advantage if you prefer not to rely on a car. Although a personal vehicle might still be necessary in Memphis, Charleston's public transit, while not extensive, can serve your needs for basic commutes. Checking out local transit options like the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) may help in navigating your new city more smoothly.
Additional Resources
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