Best Houston to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Houston to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,106 mile move from Texas to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Houston 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 Smooth Move Charleston), 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 | Pinpoint Movers | 8.76 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Right Rate Movers of Houston | 8.67 | 8.59 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Go Movers | 8.50 | 9.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Houston to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,106 miles from Houston, TX to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,722 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Houston to Charleston move is roughly $6,543. 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 | $1,830 | 300 ft³ | 6.10 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,722 | 450 ft³ | 6.05 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,499 | 750 ft³ | 6.00 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,543 | 1100 ft³ | 5.95 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,437 | 1600 ft³ | 5.90 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,527 | 1800 ft³ | 5.85 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Houston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Houston 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) |
Pinpoint Movers
7100 Regency Square Blvd Suite 199
Houston, TX, 77036
About Pinpoint Movers
Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all...
Services
- Homepage:
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3070055 / 944442 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Right Rate Movers of Houston
2925 Richmond Ave
Houston, TX, 77098
About Right Rate Movers of Houston
Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Labor Only
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2200927 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Go Movers
Missouri City, TX
About Go Movers
Go Movers has been serving as Houston, TX's trusted relocation experts for the past 10 years. They provide both local and...
Services
- Local moves
- Nationwide moves
- Cheap moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3790949 / 1365663 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (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.
Houston vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Use this guide to familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare neighborhoods between Houston, TX & Charleston, SC to help make your transition smoother.
| Houston | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| River Oaks | South of Broad | Upscale, historic charm |
| The Heights | Wagener Terrace | Eclectic, artistic vibe |
| Montrose | Cannonborough/Elliottborough | Artsy, vibrant culture |
| Midtown | King Street Historic District | Nightlife, entertainment hub |
| West University | Charlestowne | Academic, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Galleria/Uptown | Downtown Charleston | Shopping, commercial center |
| Memorial | Harleston Village | Suburban feel, city access |
| Rice Military | French Quarter | Mixed-use, lively street scene |
| Energy Corridor | West Ashley | Corporate spaces, residential areas |
| Bellaire | James Island | Quiet, suburban with local conveniences |
If you love the upscale, historic atmosphere of River Oaks, you'll find similar elegance in South of Broad. This area boasts historic homes and picturesque streets, resembling River Oaks’ polished vibe. Meanwhile, the artistic spirit of The Heights is reflected in Wagener Terrace, known for its eclectic charm and community galleries. For an energetic night out, King Street Historic District in Charleston channels Midtown's lively nightlife, offering a plethora of dining and entertainment options. As you explore, enjoy Charleston’s local hotspots like Magnolia Plantation and Gardens or the stunning views at Waterfront Park.
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 Houston to Charleston
Relocating from Houston, TX to Charleston, SC? This honest comparison will help you weigh the pros and cons of your move . Discover how Houston's challenges can transform into Charleston's allures and, conversely, what you'll miss most about Houston and gain in Charleston .
Houston, TX- High humidity
- Heavy traffic
- Flooding risks
- Flat landscape
- Urban sprawl
Charleston, SC- Pleasant weather
- Charming downtown
- Rich history
- Scenic beaches
- Walkable neighborhoods
Charleston, SC- Limited job market
- Fewer culinary options
- Fewer medical facilities
- Less nightlife
- Higher living costs
Houston, TX- Thriving economy
- Diverse food scene
- Strong healthcare
- Entertainment options
- Low cost of living
While moving from Houston to Charleston, you'll likely appreciate Charleston’s cozy charm and beautiful vistas, such as the Battery, a picturesque promenade strewn with Southern history. Neighborhoods like Mount Pleasant offer a distinct contrast with their quaint appeal and inviting Park Circle restaurants, compared to Houston's bustling urban sprawl. You might find downtown Charleston's history more endearing than Houston’s modest vistas. For green spaces, enjoy waterfront views at Waterfront Park instead of the sprawling open areas of Houston's Hermann Park. While you may miss Houston's larger market and vibrant culinary culture, the promise of Charleston's inviting community could be refreshing if you value participation in local culture more than diversity.
Houston vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle and traditions of an area. In this guide, we'll explore the local cuisine between Houston & Charleston to provide you with insights into the flavors and dining experiences you can expect in your new city.
| Houston | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Tex-Mex | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Brisket | Lowcountry Boil |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fried Green Tomatoes |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Vegan Grits |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Charleston's food scene draws heavily from the rich history and flavors of the Lowcountry. You'll find iconic dishes like shrimp and grits at local favorites such as Husk in the historic downtown area. Charleston is renowned for its fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed while exploring its charming neighborhoods. While not as vegan-oriented as some larger cities, Charleston offers a unique blend of traditional Southern cuisine and emerging vegan options, particularly in vibrant areas like North Charleston and West Ashley. The abundance of local farms also means that fresh, seasonal produce is always just within reach, making for a delightful culinary journey as you settle into your new home.
Houston vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Comparing Houston to Charleston can make your move smoother, especially when considering what delights your taste buds. Food is essential in feeling at home, and this restaurant comparison will guide you to find your new favorite eateries using your current hometown as a guide.
| Houston | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Uchi | O-Ku | Both offer innovative twists on traditional Japanese cuisine |
| Hugo's | Minero | Both celebrate rich flavors of authentic Mexican favorites |
| Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen | Hank's Seafood Restaurant | Both beloved for fresh and flavorful seafood dishes |
| Common Bond | Callie's Hot Little Biscuit | Both known for artisan baked goods and breakfast offerings |
| The Breakfast Klub | Toast! All Day | Both are perfect for breakfast lovers seeking hearty morning meals |
| Killen's Barbecue | Lewis Barbecue | Both are essential stops for classic barbecue lovers |
| Ninfa's on Navigation | Papi's Taqueria | Both are go-to spots for authentic Tex-Mex favorites |
| Xochi | Zia Taqueria | Both shine with regional Mexican dishes and vibrant salsas |
| Riel | Magnolias | Both praised for inventive takes on New American cuisine |
| Underbelly | Husk | Both restaurants embrace regional ingredients and Southern traditions |
When you're in the mood for exceptional Japanese cuisine, head to O-Ku in Charleston, where the creative sushi rolls and modern ambiance reflect what you'd find at Houston's renowned Uchi. For a comforting brunch experience, visit Callie's Hot Little Biscuit in Charleston, which offers mouth-watering baked goods just like Houston's cherished Common Bond. And when your cravings veer towards barbecue, Lewis Barbecue delivers savory, slow-cooked meats reminiscent of the legendary offerings at Houston's Killen's Barbecue. These culinary gems ensure your gastronomic journey from Houston to Charleston is nothing short of delicious.
Ready to start your move?
Houston vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It’s crucial to know how Houston and Charleston compare in terms of costs , architecture , and walkability to make an informed decision .
| Comparison | Houston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern Suburban | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Smart Home Features | Historic Charm |
When considering a move from Houston to Charleston, one of the first things you'll notice is the difference in architecture. Houston tends to feature modern suburban homes, while Charleston is known for its charming colonial-style houses, often highlighted in real estate listings. While median home prices are higher in Charleston, you may find the historic charm and vibrant urban lifestyle linked to a more walkable city an attractive benefit. Charleston's walkability score of 8 out of 10 makes it an ideal place if you prefer exploring the city on foot. Additionally, both cities offer unique amenities, but Houston's emphasis on smart home features may align better if you're interested in tech-forward living.
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.
Houston vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're relocating from Houston to Charleston , understanding the key differences in weather can help you prepare for changes in temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors. By comparing these two cities, you can get a clearer picture of what to expect and how to adjust to your new climate.
Houston, TX
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Houston, TX
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Houston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating from Houston to Charleston, it's essential to consider the similarities and differences in climate. Both cities experience high humidity levels, although Charleston's is slightly higher. You might notice slightly cooler summer temperatures in Charleston, which could be a relief. While both locations are prone to hurricanes, Charleston enjoys better air quality overall. Additionally, Charleston has a bit more sunshine annually, which might enhance your opportunities for outdoor activities. Tailoring your lifestyle adjustments to these elements can make your move more seamless.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to Charleston
When you're considering a move from Houston, TX to Charleston, SC , understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison will shed light on various aspects like household income, cost of living, and taxes, helping you make an informed decision and adjust your financial plans accordingly.
| Comparison | Houston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $55,499 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.2 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 7% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.31% | 0.57% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Energy, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Tourism, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Low |
When moving from Houston to Charleston, you should be aware of key differences in financial aspects. Although Houston boasts a higher average household income, Charleston's cost of living index is notably higher, which may impact your day-to-day expenses. Additionally, while Houston residents enjoy no state income tax, Charleston imposes a 7% tax, which could affect your net income. Interestingly, property tax in Charleston is significantly lower than in Houston, potentially easing the financial burden if you plan to buy a home. The diverse industries in both cities offer employment opportunities but align with their unique economic profiles.
Houston vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this comparison is to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, focusing on the politics between Houston & Charleston .
| Houston | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Progressive-leaning | Conservative-leaning |
| Local Politics | Democratic-majority city government | Republican-majority city council |
| Religion | Diverse faith landscape | Predominantly Christian |
When moving from Houston to Charleston, understanding the political spectrum can enrich your transition experience. Houston's political atmosphere tends to lean progressive, with a city government often led by Democrats. In contrast, Charleston exhibits a conservative influence, predominantly governed by a Republican-majority city council. When it comes to religious diversity, Houston offers a varied faith landscape, reflecting the city's multicultural population, while Charleston is primarily rooted in Christianity. This difference may impact your community engagements and cultural experiences as you settle into your new city.
Houston vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Whether you're planning to make Charleston your new home or just curious about the day-to-day logistics, this is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Houston & Charleston to aid you in better understanding what the daily commute and traffic are like.
| Comparison | Houston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
When considering your move, you'll find that navigating Houston often demands a car due to the sprawling layout and significant traffic congestion, which scores an 8 out of 10. In contrast, Charleston provides a more car-optional lifestyle, especially if you reside downtown. While public transit options are slightly more limited in Charleston, you may enjoy a shorter average commute time of 24 minutes, compared to Houston's 30. This difference can make your daily routine less hectic, offering more time to explore local spots like Rainbow Row or enjoy a quiet evening along the historic streets of Charleston.
Additional Resources
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