Best Memphis to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Memphis to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 601 mile move from Tennessee to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 Memphis to Charleston 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 Ready Set Movers), 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 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Garrett's Hauling | 8.79 | 8.8 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Country Club Moving & Packing Inc. | 8.60 | 9.31 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC | 8.56 | 8.38 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Memphis to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 601 miles from Memphis, TN to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,292 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Memphis to Charleston move is roughly $5,493. 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 | $1,543 | 300 ft³ | 5.14 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,292 | 450 ft³ | 5.09 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,783 | 750 ft³ | 5.04 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,493 | 1100 ft³ | 4.99 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,910 | 1600 ft³ | 4.94 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,809 | 1800 ft³ | 4.89 |
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)
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) |
Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
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
Moving to a new city can feel daunting, especially if you're unfamiliar with its neighborhoods. By using your existing city as a reference point, this guide seeks to compare neighborhoods between Memphis, TN & Charleston, WV , helping you find comfort in the unknown by identifying areas in Charleston that resemble those you know in Memphis.
| Memphis | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Cooper-Young | East End | Artsy vibe, local eateries |
| Downtown Memphis | Downtown Charleston | Entertainment hub, vibrant nightlife |
| Midtown | South Hills | Eclectic mix, historic architecture |
| Germantown | South Hills | Suburban feel, strong community |
| Collierville | Edgewood | Family-friendly, expansive parks |
| Harbor Town | Kanawha City | Riverside setting, modern living |
| East Memphis | South Hills | Shopping, dining, suburban vibe |
| South Main | Capitol Market Area | Vibrant arts scene, trendy shops |
| Victorian Village | Historic East End | Preserved architecture, historic charm |
| University District | West Side | Academic institutions, youthful energy |
If you've enjoyed the artsy vibe and local eateries of Memphis' Cooper-Young, you'll likely feel at home in Charleston's East End, known for its eclectic charm and vibrant community arts scene. East End features neighborhood favorites like the Bluegrass Kitchen and the Cooper-Young Festival, reminiscent of East End's community-focused gatherings. If Downtown Memphis's energy is what you crave, Downtown Charleston will captivate with its blend of historic appeal and modern amenities, from the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences to the bustling Capitol Market.
Things to Do in Charleston
Explore the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences- Stroll through Capitol Market
- Hike in Kanawha State Forest
- Catch a show at Mountain Stage
- Shop at Charleston Town Center
- Learn at West Virginia State Museum
- Enjoy a meal at Bricks & Barrels
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Memphis to Charleston
The purpose of this comparison is to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Memphis, TN to Charleston, WV . This guide uses two charts to help you weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect in your move.
Memphis, TN- High crime rates
- Summer heat
- Limited green spaces
- Higher cost of living
Charleston, WV- Lower crime rates
- Cooler climates
- Abundant parks
- Affordable housing
Charleston, WV- Limited nightlife
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer job opportunities
- Fewer cultural events
Memphis, TN- Rich music scene
- Renowned BBQ culture
- Diverse job market
- Vibrant festivals
Moving to Charleston, WV from Memphis, TN brings a change of pace and lifestyle that might just be what you’re looking for. While Memphis offers vibrant attractions like Beale Street and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Charleston offers more tranquil settings like the serene Kanawha State Forest. Dining enthusiasts might miss the BBQ of Memphis, but Charleston has its own unique flavors to explore, such as the charming cafes on Capitol Street. Although you might find a smaller job market in Charleston compared to the bustling industries in Memphis, the lower crime rates and affordable living can offer a balanced quality of life. If neighborhood parks are a priority, Charleston offers beautiful spots like the Cato Park for leisure and outdoor activities.
Memphis vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and can significantly influence your living experience. In this comparison, we will explore the local cuisine of Memphis & Charleston to better familiarize you with the food scene in your new home.
| Memphis | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue | Ramp |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Venison |
| Most popular street food item | BBQ Nachos | Pepperoni Rolls |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | Stuffed Peppers |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Though Memphis and Charleston each offer a distinct food culture, transitioning to Charleston allows you to explore new tastes and traditions. Must-try items in Charleston include ramps and pepperoni rolls, often found in neighborhoods like Kanawha City. For a sample of local excellence, be sure to visit Bluegrass Kitchen in the East End, known for its modern takes on Appalachian classics. While it may not match Memphis in abundance of food trucks, Charleston offers its own delightful culinary surprises with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Here, the community values health and nutritional balance, offering more vegan and farm-to-table options.
Memphis vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Discovering new taste experiences in Charleston, WV when moving from Memphis, TN can ease your transition into your new home. By comparing some of the best restaurants in both cities, you'll find places that might quickly become your new favorites, thanks to the touch of familiarity they offer from your current hometown.
| Memphis | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Paulette's | The Block | Offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on local ingredients |
| Central BBQ | Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill | Renowned for its authentic and flavorful barbecue |
| Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken | Bluegrass Kitchen | Known for comfort food with a modern twist |
| The Beauty Shop | Ichiban Pan-Asian Restaurant | Delivers eclectic dining in a quirky, stylish setting |
| Bishop | Laury's Restaurant | Offers upscale dining with a focus on sophisticated meals |
| Aldo's Pizza Pies | Pizzeria Uno | Provides a casual and inviting atmosphere with delicious pizzas |
| Rizzo's by Michael Patrick | South Hills Market and Cafe | Features creative dishes using local ingredients |
| Arcade Restaurant | First Watch | Offers classic breakfast and brunch options in a nostalgic setting |
When looking to capture the local essence, stepping into The Block in Charleston might remind you of Paulette's in Memphis, with its commitment to elegance and seasonal local ingredients. For fans of genuine barbecue, Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill in Charleston mirrors the flavorful authenticity of Memphis's Central BBQ. If you're craving comforting fried chicken with creative flair, Bluegrass Kitchen may emerge as your new go-to spot. Both restaurants offer a familiar sense of warmth and indulgence while embracing their unique regional cultures, ensuring you have a wonderful dining experience. Explore these eateries as a way to blend old favorites with exciting new tastes.
Ready to start your move?
Memphis vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
When relocating, understanding the housing market differences between Memphis and Charleston is crucial. Housing is a significant commitment, impacting not just your finances, but your lifestyle and day-to-day living. This comparison will help you navigate the real estate factors in deciding which city suits you best.
| Comparison | Memphis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Queen Anne |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listings | Spacious yards, historical charm | River views, victorian details |
When moving from Memphis to Charleston, the contrast in architecture is notable. Charleston, with its historic Queen Anne styles, offers a more quaint and traditional aesthetic, while Memphis may provide more spacious properties often celebrating Colonial Revival charm. Walkability is higher in Charleston, making it easier to explore downtown attractions and local hotspots by foot. On the other hand, Memphis offers a vibrant urban lifestyle, which could appeal more to those seeking a bustling city environment. Each city has its unique flavor, so consider your priorities when deciding which elements of lifestyle and convenience matter most to you.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, WV
1. South Hills: This neighborhood offers plenty of green spaces and parks like South Hills Park for your pets to enjoy and explore.
2. Kanawha City: Known for its friendly community and pet-friendly businesses such as the Pet Valu store, making it easy for you to find everything your pet needs.
3. East End: With amenities like the Kanawha County Public Library offering pet-friendly events, it's a vibrant area where both you and your pet can feel at home.
Memphis vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Memphis, TN to Charleston, WV , understanding the weather differences is crucial to adapting to your new environment. Not only does the climate vary, but the number of sunny days, humidity levels, and potential natural disasters may also differ significantly. This comparison will help you prepare better for the changes you'll face.
Memphis, TN
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Memphis, TN
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Memphis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Flooding | Flooding, Snowstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Memphis enjoys more sunshine throughout the year, Charleston experiences cooler summers with milder temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. The humidity levels in both cities are quite similar, but Charleston's slightly higher gives a more humid feeling especially in the summer. If you are sensitive to cold weather, be prepared in Charleston, where snowfall is significantly higher, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. For allergy sufferers, pollen is a common trigger in both locations, so plan your medication accordingly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Memphis 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 examines the financial aspects of relocating from Memphis, TN to Charleston, WV , highlighting key differences to help you make informed decisions.
| Comparison | Memphis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $44,317 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.2 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.7% | 0.55% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Transportation, Healthcare, Education | Healthcare, Retail, Government |
| Affluence | Moderate | Modest |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Minimal |
When relocating from Memphis to Charleston, one crucial consideration is the difference in state income tax; Memphis boasts no income tax, while Charleston has a notable 6.5% rate. This difference may significantly impact your net income. Property taxes are somewhat lower in Charleston, offering slight relief for homeowners. While both cities have a similar cost of living index, Memphis's higher average household income might offer more buying power. Understanding these nuances can guide your financial planning as you make the transition.
Memphis vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
For those considering a move, this comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. The comparison of the politics between Memphis & Charleston will help you understand the cultural distinctions and help you prepare for your new home environment.
| Memphis | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly Democratic | Mixed, but leaning Republican |
| Local Politics | Strong focus on urban development and progressive policies | Emphasis on traditional values and economic development |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape with a significant African American Protestant community | Largely Christian with a dominant presence of Protestant denominations |
Moving to a new city often involves adapting to a different political and religious culture. In Memphis, you'll find a vibrant Democratic community with a focus on progressive policies, while Charleston offers a more Republican-leaning atmosphere. As you explore the differences, you'll notice that Memphis prioritizes urban development, a testament to its bustling heart, while Charleston often emphasizes traditional values, a reflection of its rich history. Religious diversity in Memphis, particularly within the African American Protestant community, adds to its unique cultural tapestry, while Charleston's deeply rooted Christian community provides a different spiritual landscape for you to consider. Understanding these dynamics can play a crucial role in making your transition as smooth as possible.
Memphis vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
If you're considering a move from Memphis, TN to Charleston, WV, it's important to compare the traffic and transportation options between Memphis & Charleston to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. Knowing these differences can help you adjust to your new surroundings more quickly and effectively.
| Comparison | Memphis | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 18 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but limited |
Moving to Charleston from Memphis means you'll likely enjoy a shorter average commute time, as a typical drive in Charleston takes about 18 minutes compared to Memphis's 24 minutes. Traffic congestion is also lower in Charleston, so your time on the road will often be stress-free. Although public transit is somewhat available in both cities, you'll find it slightly more accessible in Memphis. However, living in Charleston offers a bit more flexibility as you can manage without a car, albeit with some limitations. To plan your transit options around town, the Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority offers useful resources for public transport in Charleston.
Additional Resources
Memphis Moving Services
Popular Memphis to West Virginia Routes
Popular Moving Resources
