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 1,265 mile move from Texas to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 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 Ready Set Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 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 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pinpoint Movers | 8.76 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Right Rate Movers of Houston | 8.67 | 8.59 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Go Movers | 8.50 | 9.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Houston to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,265 miles from Houston, TX to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,857 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Houston to Charleston move is roughly $6,874. 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 | $1,920 | 300 ft³ | 6.40 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,857 | 450 ft³ | 6.35 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,724 | 750 ft³ | 6.30 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,874 | 1100 ft³ | 6.25 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,918 | 1600 ft³ | 6.20 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,068 | 1800 ft³ | 6.15 |
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)
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) |
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.
Houston vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
To help you familiarize yourself with an unfamiliar city, we'll use your current location as a baseline by comparing local neighborhoods between Houston, TX & Charleston, WV . By finding parallels, you can have a smoother transition and feel more at home.
| Houston | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Montrose | East End – Artsy vibe and diverse community | East End – Artsy vibe and diverse community |
| River Oaks | South Hills – Affluent area with elegant homes | South Hills – Affluent area with elegant homes |
| The Heights | Bridge Road – Charming, pedestrian-friendly | Bridge Road – Charming, pedestrian-friendly |
| Midtown | Capitol Street – Urban living and nightlife | Capitol Street – Urban living and nightlife |
| Galleria/Uptown | Kanawha City – Shopping and commercial center | Kanawha City – Shopping and commercial center |
| West University | South Hills – Quaint streets and community vibe | South Hills – Quaint streets and community vibe |
| Rice Military | South Park – Trendy area with new developments | South Park – Trendy area with new developments |
| Medical Center | Kanawha City – Proximity to healthcare facilities | Kanawha City – Proximity to healthcare facilities |
| Garden Oaks | Forest Hills – Family-friendly and green spaces | Forest Hills – Family-friendly and green spaces |
| Museum District | Downtown Charleston – Cultural hubs and museums | Downtown Charleston – Cultural hubs and museums |
For art lovers drawn to Montrose in Houston, the East End in Charleston echoes a similar creative energy with gallery spots like ArtWalk. If you're fond of the lush landscape and classic architecture of River Oaks, South Hills offers an inviting blend of elegance amidst beautiful parks like Kanawha State Forest. Those who enjoy the bustling commercial ambiance of Galleria/Uptown will find Kanawha City appealing with its assortment of shops and eateries. Meanwhile, Museum District enthusiasts will appreciate cultural spots such as the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences located in Downtown Charleston. These neighborhoods offer rich experiences that make the transition smoother while exploring the new city.
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 Houston to Charleston
Making the move from Houston, TX to Charleston, WV involves weighing the pros and cons of each city. This guide outlines the positive aspects of Charleston while also highlighting the challenges of Houston , providing an honest reflection of this relocation decision.
Houston, TX- High humidity
- Traffic congestion
- Hurricane risk
- High living costs
Charleston, WV- Milder summers
- Less traffic
- Minimal natural disasters
- Lower living costs
Charleston, WV- Limited food options
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less entertainment variety
- Quieter evenings
Houston, TX- Diverse cuisine
- Large job market
- Rich cultural scene
- Vibrant nightlife
Moving from Houston to Charleston brings you to a city with significantly milder summers thanks to its cooler temperate climate, which can be quite refreshing if you're used to dealing with the high humidity typical of Houston. You’ll also find less congestion in Charleston, offering a more relaxed pace of life compared to the often traffic-laden streets of Houston. While Houston offers a rich cultural tapestry and a variety of international dining options, Charleston’s charm lies in its local establishments like the popular Blue Moose Café and unique attractions such as the Kanawha State Forest and neighborhood parks that offer a peaceful retreat. Though you may miss the vast job market of Houston, Charleston’s lower cost of living can provide economic relief and a chance to explore new opportunities. Whether you're strolling through the vibrant Capitol Market or enjoying a quiet evening by the Kanawha River, Charleston offers a unique lifestyle that balances city comforts with natural serenity.
Houston vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. To give you a taste of what to expect, we'll compare the local cuisine between Houston & Charleston so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Houston | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Tex-Mex | Pepperoni Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Brisket | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Street Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Impossible Burger |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Charleston, WV, you'll find its famous pepperoni rolls in local bakeries and cafes such as Taylor Books Cafe in the vibrant East End district. While Charleston's food scene may not boast the quantity of food trucks found in Houston, it shines at spots like Pies & Pints and Blue's BBQ. Here, you can savor regional specialties that highlight West Virginia's rich culinary tradition. If you're exploring plant-based options, try establishments around Capitol Market, where you can experience the city's evolving vegan scene. Though not as expansive as Houston's, Charleston's foodie culture has its unique charm for adventurous eaters.
Houston vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is important for making an area home. This comparison of Houston, TX to Charleston, WV eateries will help you find your new favorite restaurants by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Houston | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Uchi | Ikebana | Japanese fine dining experience |
| Underbelly | Bluegrass Kitchen | Farm-to-table showcasing local ingredients |
| Killen's BBQ | Dem 2 Brothers And A Grill | Popular BBQ with smoked meats |
| Pondicheri | Street Eats | Exploring modern Indian flavors |
| Nancy's Hustle | Noah's Eclectic Bistro | Casual, creative dining |
| Hugo's | Mi Cocina de Amor | Authentic Mexican cuisine |
| Goode Company Seafood | Sushi Garden | Fresh seafood with sushi bar |
| The Original Ninfa's on Navigation | Plaza Maya | Celebrating traditional Mexican dishes |
| El Tiempo Cantina | La Carreta | Known for Tex-Mex favorites |
| Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen | Shuckers | Local seafood with Southern flavors |
For sushi enthusiasts, Ikebana in Charleston mirrors the high-end experience found at Houston's Uchi, offering exquisite Japanese cuisine. When you're craving authentic Mexican flavors, Mi Cocina de Amor provides an experience akin to dining at Houston's celebrated Hugo's, with traditional dishes that tell a story of regional heritage. If a farm-to-table experience is what you're after, Bluegrass Kitchen prides itself on using local, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes reminiscent of Houston's Underbelly. Charleston's restaurant scene offers delightful alternatives that ensure your palate continues to be pleased in your new hometown.
Ready to start your move?
Houston vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, real estate is one of the most crucial aspects to evaluate. Understanding how Houston and Charleston compare in terms of housing can help you make an informed decision. Our chart delves into various aspects, from costs to lifestyle amenities, providing a comprehensive comparison of the two cities.
| Comparison | Houston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Contemporary | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open Floor Plans, Pools | Historic Charm, Gardens |
When comparing the housing markets in Houston and Charleston, you'll notice significant differences in both cost and lifestyle. For instance, the median home price in Houston is substantially higher than in Charleston, reflecting its status as a major urban center. However, Charleston offers unique features such as its Victorian architecture , which adds a distinct charm to the city's neighborhoods. If you enjoy walking, Charleston scores slightly better in walkability, conducive to exploring local attractions like the historic district. With various open floor plans and pools in Houston homes, and gardens and historic charm in Charleston properties, you might find that each city offers a diverse range of features worth considering during your move.
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.
Houston vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, it's essential to understand how the weather compares to what you are used to. This comparison between Houston, TX and Charleston, WV will help you prepare for the differences in climate and daily conditions.
Houston, TX
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Houston, TX
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Houston, TX
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Houston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Flooding, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Houston to Charleston, you'll notice a significant drop in both summer and winter temperatures. Charleston's summers are milder, and winters are considerably colder compared to the warm winters in Houston. The air quality in Charleston is generally better, which may benefit those with respiratory sensitivities. However, you might need to adjust to the increased snowfall in Charleston, as Houston rarely experiences snow.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to Charleston
When considering a move from Houston to Charleston , it's vital to understand how your financial landscape will shift. This comparison outlines differences in key money and economic factors to help you prepare for living expenses, income , and overall economic conditions.
| Comparison | Houston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $55,499 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.2 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 6.5 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.09 | 0.59 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25 | 6.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Energy, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Government, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Modest |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Significant |
| Homelessness | Visible | Less evident |
When moving from a city like Houston to Charleston, you'll find significant financial shifts. While Houston boasts a higher average household income, it also has a higher cost of living compared to Charleston. Despite Charleston's modest income levels, you'll benefit from much lower property taxes. However, unlike Houston, West Virginia imposes a state income tax, which could affect your take-home pay. The economic milieu is also distinct, with Houston's economy anchored in energy and manufacturing, whereas Charleston leans towards government and healthcare sectors.
Houston vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in these two cities. Compare the politics of Houston & Charleston to better understand the differences in local attitudes and lifestyles.
| Houston | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leaning Democrat | Leaning Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive | Conservative |
| Religion | Religiously diverse, with significant Christian and Muslim populations | Predominantly Christian |
When moving from Houston to Charleston, you're likely to notice the shift from a progressive political climate to a more conservative one. While Houston is known for its vibrant political debates and diversity, Charleston tends to reflect more traditional values. In terms of religion, Houston's melting pot of faiths offers a wide array of worship options, ranging from megachurches to smaller congregations like local mosques. Meanwhile, Charleston primarily features Christian denominations, with many residents attending established churches such as First United Methodist Church in the city.
Houston vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To better understand the daily commute and traffic dynamics, here’s a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Houston, TX & Charleston, WV . This will help you anticipate how your routine might change and plan accordingly when moving between these cities.
| Comparison | Houston | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Unlikely | Possible |
Moving from Houston to Charleston might transform your daily routine due to the less congested traffic in Charleston. While Houstonites often face long commute times accompanied by high traffic congestion, you might enjoy a more relaxed drive along Charleston’s roads. Public transit in Houston, although more developed, doesn't always eliminate the need for a car, whereas Charleston, with its shorter distances, allows you to manage without a car if necessary. While options such as METRO in Houston provide extensive coverage, Charleston presents a tranquil alternative with a different set of transportation perks.
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