Best Nashville to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Nashville to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 550 mile move from Tennessee to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Nashville 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 Nashville 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 Nashville 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 | Little Guys Movers Nashville | 9.07 | 9.01 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | 6th Man Movers | 9.00 | 8.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Smooth Moving & Storage | 8.93 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Nashville to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 550 miles from Nashville, TN to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,249 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Nashville to Charleston move is roughly $5,387. 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 | $1,514 | 300 ft³ | 5.05 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,249 | 450 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,711 | 750 ft³ | 4.95 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,387 | 1100 ft³ | 4.90 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,756 | 1600 ft³ | 4.85 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,636 | 1800 ft³ | 4.80 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Nashville guide.
Compare the 5 Best Nashville 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) |
Little Guys Movers Nashville
Nashville, TN, 37201
About Little Guys Movers Nashville
Established in 1992, Little Guys Movers Nashville is a highly regarded franchise providing numerous moving and packing services. They cater to...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4004993 / 1506293 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
6th Man Movers
309 Hermitage Ave
Nashville, TN, 37210
About 6th Man Movers
As a locally owned and operated moving company based in Nashville, Tennessee, 6th Man Movers serves Nashville residents with high-quality relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance
- Labor Only
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2315850 / 853001 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 12,508 (2022) |
Smooth Moving & Storage
3620 Trousdale Dr
Nashville, TN, 37204
About Smooth Moving & Storage
Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2472874 / 1244900 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (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.
Nashville vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from Nashville, TN to Charleston, SC? Let us help you get to know your new home by using the familiar as a guide. Compare the local neighborhoods; Nashville, TN & Charleston, SC , to find the best match in Charleston based on Nashville's popular areas.
| Nashville | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Gulch | Upper King Street | Trendy, nightlife and dining |
| East Nashville | North Charleston | Artistic, eclectic vibe |
| 12 South | West Ashley | Family-friendly, boutique shopping |
| Germantown | Historic Charleston | Historic charm, gastronomy |
| Green Hills | Mount Pleasant | Upscale, suburban living |
| West End | Cannonborough/Elliotborough | Local charm, proximity to schools |
| Midtown | South of Broad | Classic, upscale living |
| Belle Meade | Shem Creek | Affluence, waterfront views |
| The Nations | Park Circle | Emerging, community-driven vibe |
| Downtown Nashville | French Quarter | Cultural hub, tourist attractions |
If you've enjoyed the vibrant energy and modern appeal of The Gulch, you'll find much to explore at Upper King Street in Charleston, with its bustling nightlife and diverse dining options. Those who love the eclectic atmosphere of East Nashville will appreciate the artistic vibe of North Charleston, home to unique art galleries and community events. If 12 South's quaint boutiques and family-friendly environment suit you, then West Ashley in Charleston offers similar bliss, with even more local shops and green spaces like Highwood Park. Finally, for those awe-inspired by Germantown's mix of historic architecture and innovative cuisine, Historic Charleston provides a seamless transition, with renowned landmarks and revered eateries like Husk and FIG.
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 Nashville to Charleston
When considering a move from Nashville, TN to Charleston, SC, it's essential to assess an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. By weighing both cities' unique features, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.
Nashville, TN- Traffic congestion
- Lack of beaches
- Higher utility costs
- Hot, humid summers
- Limited historic sites
Charleston, SC- Less traffic
- Beautiful beaches
- Lower utility expenses
- Mild climate
- Rich history
Charleston, SC- Smaller music industry
- Fewer international options
- Less art-centric
- No professional teams
- Quieter evenings
Nashville, TN- Vibrant music scene
- Diverse eateries
- Thriving arts scene
- Major sports teams
- Lively nightlife
Charleston, with its stunning beaches, including Folly Beach and Isle of Palms, offers a coastal lifestyle that Nashville, with its proximity only to rivers and lakes, cannot. History buffs will delight in exploring the cobblestone streets and antebellum homes that Charleston is renowned for. Though Nashville boasts a vibrant music scene with iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium, Charleston provides a quieter, yet equally rich cultural experience through its historic landmarks like the Fort Sumter National Monument. While Nashville’s dynamic neighborhood cafes and lively districts, such as Broadway, are loved by many, Charleston has its own charming offerings like the charming cafes in Charleston City Market.
Nashville vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and a key aspect of living in any area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Nashville & Charleston to help you better understand the food scene where you're considering moving.
| Nashville | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Hot Chicken | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | She-Crab Soup |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Catfish | Fried Green Tomatoes |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Hot Chicken | Stuffed Acorn Squash |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
If you’re moving to Charleston, prepare your taste buds for the unique flavors of the Lowcountry. Popular dishes like Shrimp and Grits can be savored at local favorites like Fleet Landing or within the historic French Quarter. While Charleston's food truck scene might not rival Nashville's, you can still enjoy spontaneous culinary delights around Upper King Street or at food truck festivals. The vegan scene in Charleston continues to grow with restaurants in neighborhoods like the Cannonborough-Elliotborough area offering dishes like Stuffed Acorn Squash, perfect for those seeking plant-based options. Explore these culinary delights and more as you settle into your new home.
Nashville vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide. Embrace the culinary journey as you transition from Nashville to Charleston .
| Nashville | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Husk Charleston | Equally celebrated for its Southern-inspired menu with locally sourced ingredients |
| Rolf and Daughters | Fig | Known for inventive takes on traditional dishes, with fresh, local ingredients |
| Prince's Hot Chicken Shack | Leon’s Oyster Shop | While Charleston favors seafood, its comfort food offerings capture local traditions |
| Arnold's Country Kitchen | Hominy Grill | Offers classic Southern comfort food with a twist |
| Bastion | The Ordinary | Focused on a unique menu that blends creativity with local staples |
| The Catbird Seat | The Grocery | Provides a chef's counter experience with seasonal tasting menus |
| Pinewood Social | The Darling | Offers a casual yet chic ambience with a focus on social dining |
| Loveless Cafe | Poogan's Porch | Renowned for its home-style breakfast and Southern hospitality |
| The Patterson House | The Cocktail Club | Specializes in artisanal cocktails in a sophisticated setting |
| City House | Trattoria Lucca | Combines Italian roots with a southern twist, both offering a convivial atmosphere |
As you make your way from Nashville to Charleston, you'll find Husk Charleston offers a similar dedication to Southern flavors as its Nashville counterpart, both emphasizing fresh local ingredients. Venture to (Fig) to experience inventive cuisine akin to the culinary creativity you loved at Rolf and Daughters. Discover (Leon’s Oyster Shop), where even if hot chicken is a Nashville staple, you'll appreciate Leon’s focus on comfort food with a seafood twist, reflecting the region's coastal heritage. The Grocery in Charleston, much like The Catbird Seat, offers a dynamic, chef-driven experience with seasonally curated menus that are sure to delight. Exploring these Charleston hotspots will help ease your transition while offering new culinary delights to call your own.
Ready to start your move?
Nashville vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how the Nashville and Charleston housing markets compare so you can make an informed decision about your relocation .
| Comparison | Nashville | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Contemporary | Colonial, Georgian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listings | Open floor plans, large yards | Historic charm, proximity to beach |
When considering a move, you'll notice that both Nashville and Charleston offer unique housing options that reflect their distinctive character. Nashville often attracts those who appreciate a blend of Craftsman and Contemporary architecture, with many homes featuring expansive floor plans and large yards. On the other hand, Charleston is renowned for its Colonial and Georgian styles, appealing to those charmed by historic aesthetics and the allure of coastal living, thanks to its proximity to beaches. Additionally, Charleston offers higher walkability scores, making it an attractive option for those preferring a pedestrian-friendly environment. Both cities provide a variety of living experiences, whether you lean towards the energetic urban lifestyle of Nashville or the scenic beauty and historic charm of Charleston.
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.
Nashville vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're planning on moving from Nashville, TN to Charleston, SC , knowing the weather differences between these locations is essential. This comparison will help you adjust to the regional climate and anticipate any changes in daily life related to weather conditions, such as clothing and outdoor activities.
Nashville, TN
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Nashville, TN
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Nashville, TN
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Nashville, TN
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Nashville | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Nashville experiences more prominent seasonal changes, Charleston offers milder winters with higher average temperatures. The increase in annual rainfall in Charleston may influence your outdoor activities, but the slightly higher number of sunshine days can make up for it. You might also experience more consistent humidity levels in Charleston, which can impact your comfort and how you manage household moisture. Additionally, Charleston's susceptibility to hurricanes as opposed to Nashville's tornadoes will necessitate different preparedness strategies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Nashville to Charleston
If 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 aims to provide insights into the financial landscape, including Nashville, TN and Charleston, SC , helping you make informed decisions about your move.
| Comparison | Nashville | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,857 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.9 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73% | 0.54% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 9.0% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Music, Education | Tourism, Military, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Competitive |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
When moving from Nashville to Charleston, you might notice a slight increase in the cost of living index, but household incomes tend to be higher in Charleston, which can offset this difference. While both states enjoy zero state income tax, the property tax in Charleston is notably lower than in Nashville, providing potential savings if you plan to purchase a home. Additionally, Charleston's economy is heavily influenced by tourism and the military, contrasting with Nashville's focus on healthcare and music. This shift in predominant industries might present new job opportunities or challenges, depending on your field of work.
Nashville vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Exploring a new city involves understanding its residents. This guide offers a quick look at the political and religious composition, comparing Nashville & Charleston . It's a handy snapshot for anyone planning a move between these two vibrant cities.
| Nashville | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate to Liberal | Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive city policies focused on growth and innovation | Traditional with an emphasis on historical preservation |
| Religion | Diverse with a range of Christian denominations | Predominantly Christian with a strong Southern Baptist influence |
When you're considering moving from Nashville to Charleston, understanding the local dynamics can be quite enlightening. For example, Nashville's political makeup tends to be more moderate to liberal, aligning with its progressive city policies that drive growth and innovation. You may find a variety of initiatives focusing on technology and the arts. On the other hand, Charleston leans conservative, with local politics often centered around historical preservation and traditional values. Religion also plays an important role in Charleston, with a more pronounced Southern Baptist influence. Experiencing both cities offers a unique blend of cultures and a chance to explore different community values and lifestyles.
Nashville vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
The purpose of this guide is to help you compare the traffic and transportation options between Nashville, TN and Charleston, SC , so you can better understand what the daily commute and traffic might be like in your new city.
| Comparison | Nashville | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes, in certain areas |
When comparing Nashville to Charleston, one noticeable difference is the commute time, with Nashville averaging about four minutes longer. Traffic congestion is also higher in Nashville, which could add some stress to your daily drive. On the plus side, Charleston's public transit system seems to be slightly more accommodating, making it feasible to rely on it in certain areas. In Nashville, however, you'd find it more challenging to get by without owning a car, given the city's sprawling nature and limited public transportation.
Additional Resources
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Popular Nashville to South Carolina Routes
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