Best Virginia Beach to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Virginia Beach to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 421 mile move from Virginia to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 19 Virginia Beach 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 Marathon Moving Services), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marathon Moving Services | 9.27 | 9.25 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Prime Movers USA | 9.07 | 9.39 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | A Friendly & Affordable Mover | 8.23 | 8.74 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Virginia Beach to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 421 miles from Virginia Beach, VA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,139 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Virginia Beach to Charleston move is roughly $5,119. 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 | $1,441 | 300 ft³ | 4.80 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,139 | 450 ft³ | 4.75 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,528 | 750 ft³ | 4.70 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,119 | 1100 ft³ | 4.65 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,366 | 1600 ft³ | 4.60 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,197 | 1800 ft³ | 4.55 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Virginia Beach guide.
Compare the 5 Best Virginia Beach to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Marathon Moving Services
This listing has been claimed by Marathon Moving ServicesMMS
Virginia Beach, VA, 23464
About Marathon Moving Services
Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Packing & Delivery
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3572153 / 1552140 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
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) |
Prime Movers USA
531 Fountain Lake Dr
Virginia Beach, VA, 23451
About Prime Movers USA
Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...
Services
- Local moves (within 50 miles)
- Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
- Packing/unpacking services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2995403 / 21183 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 9,060 (2023) |
A Friendly & Affordable Mover
This listing has been claimed by A Friendly & Affordable Mover516 Central Dr Suite 104
Virginia Beach, VA, 23454
About A Friendly & Affordable Mover
A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one...
Services
- Local and long-distance professional moving services
- Free in-home estimates
- Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3239170 / 1036449 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
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.
Virginia Beach vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a daunting task, but by comparing familiar neighborhoods with their counterparts in the new locale, you can create a sense of familiarity. This guide aims to help you navigate your move by highlighting the local neighborhoods between Virginia Beach, VA & Charleston, WV .
| Virginia Beach | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Chic's Beach | Kanawha City | Waterfront vibe, beach proximity |
| Oceanfront | Downtown Charleston | Vibrant nightlife, tourist spots |
| Hilltop | South Hills | Elevated views, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Croatan Beach | South Charleston | Quiet suburban beach feel |
| Great Neck | East End | Strong community feel, access to schools |
| Alanton | Bridge Road | Residential charm, trees |
| Thoroughgood | Edgewood | Historic homes, serene setting |
| Pungo | Randolph | Rural vibe, agricultural backdrop |
| Ghent | Northgate | Arts district, trendy restaurants |
| London Bridge | West Side | Growing business sector |
Exploring these neighborhoods can help you get a feel for what each city has to offer. If you're fond of the vibrant energy found in the Oceanfront neighborhood of Virginia Beach, with its bustling boardwalk and array of dining options like Lager Heads, you'll find similar excitement in Downtown Charleston. There, you can immerse yourself in the lively bar scene or enjoy local favorites like Blue Smoke Salsa. For those who appreciate a more relaxed, community-centric lifestyle akin to Hilltop, South Hills might be your perfect match, offering picturesque parks and family-friendly spaces. And if rural settings appeal to you, transitioning from Pungo's expansive fields and inviting farm-to-table cuisine to Randolph’s homely farm markets presents a seamless shift.
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 Virginia Beach to Charleston
Relocating can be daunting, but reflecting on both the good and the bad attributes reveals an honest reflection of Virginia Beach and Charleston . The following charts provide insight into what you might gain and lose with this move.
Virginia Beach, VA- High cost of living
- Tourist congestion
- Limited mountain views
- Hurricane risk
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Quiet atmosphere
- Scenic mountain beauty
- Reduced weather threats
Charleston, WV- No nearby beaches
- Fewer restaurant options
- Less entertainment
- Colder winters
Virginia Beach, VA- Beach access
- Diverse dining scene
- Numerous attractions
- Mild winters
Moving to Charleston, WV offers you the advantage of a lower cost of living, which can be appealing if you find Virginia Beach's expenses overwhelming. The scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains you'll experience in Charleston are breathtaking, particularly if you've missed seeing such landscapes. On the other hand, you might miss the energetic vibes and beach access of Virginia Beach, with places like the Virginia Beach Oceanfront spilling over with activities and lively crowds. In Charleston, you’ll find a quieter lifestyle, yet spots like Great Whitewater Goods strive to entertain with a variety of recreational gear for outdoor adventures. While you might find fewer restaurant options, eateries such as Black Sheep Burrito & Brews add to the city’s charm, giving you the chance to savor local flavors.
Virginia Beach vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and plays a big role in what it's like to live in an area. We'll conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between Virginia Beach & Charleston , so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Virginia Beach | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | She-crab soup | Pepperoni roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled pork BBQ | Country fried steak |
| Most popular street food item | Fish tacos | Hot dogs with sauce |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu stir-fry | Black bean 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, part of your culinary exploration might include indulging in the iconic pepperoni roll, especially found in downtown eateries. Restaurants like Black Sheep Burrito & Brews offer a contemporary take on local favorites. While the vegan scene might not be as vast as larger cities, places like Bluegrass Kitchen serve delicious options like black bean burgers in the vibrant East End neighborhood. Although the abundance of food trucks doesn't match the bustling scene in Virginia Beach, the close-knit community-oriented events in Charleston provide a charming food experience that's unique in its own way.
Virginia Beach vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential part of feeling at home, and finding your new favorite restaurants can make a world of difference. This comparison of Virginia Beach and Charleston eateries will guide you in your culinary journey by using familiar tastes and experiences as a reference for your new hometown.
| Virginia Beach | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Terrapin Restaurant | The Market | Offers a fine dining experience focusing on locally sourced ingredients. |
| Doc Taylor's | First Watch | Casual brunch spot known for its traditional American breakfast options. |
| Eat: An American Bistro | Laury's Restaurant | A sophisticated setting with a focus on contemporary American cuisine. |
| Waterman's Surfside Grille | Hale House | Renowned for its iconic seafood dishes and waterfront feel. |
| ShoreBreak Pizza & TapHouse | Pies & Pints | Known for their extensive craft beer options and creative pizza offerings. |
| Blue Seafood & Spirits | Bluegrass Kitchen | Celebrated for their innovative approach to traditional dishes. |
| Commune | Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Emphasizes organic and locally sourced ingredients. |
| Repeal Bourbons and Burgers | Tricky Fish | Offers gourmet burgers with a wide selection of bourbons. |
| The Bee & The Biscuit | The Bridge Road Bistro | Offers a warm and inviting breakfast experience. |
| Esoteric | The Block | Features a modern twist on classic favorites with seasonal menus. |
When you're in Charleston and craving an upscale dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, head over to The Market—a destination that parallels the elegance and flavor depth of Virginia Beach's Terrapin Restaurant. For a brunch outing that feels like home, check out First Watch, where you'll find a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of Doc Taylor's, perfect for enjoying a hearty breakfast plate. If pizza and craft beer are your go-to comforts, the creative offerings at Pies & Pints will satisfy the nostalgia for ShoreBreak Pizza & TapHouse, with unique flavors and a selection of local brews. In Charleston, explore the intersection of tradition and innovation in dining, making the most of what each establishment brings to your plate.
Ready to start your move?
Virginia Beach vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to know how the two cities, Virginia Beach and Charleston, compare. Understanding differences in housing can significantly impact your decision and help you find the ideal place to call home.
| Comparison | Virginia Beach | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern Coastal | Traditional Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Beach proximity, open floor plans | Fireplaces, hardwood floors |
When moving from Virginia Beach to Charleston, you’ll notice a considerable difference in the real estate market. In Virginia Beach, the proximity to the coast not only influences the architecture style, often featuring modern coastal designs, but also the housing costs, which tend to be higher. This contrasts with Charleston's traditional colonial architecture and more affordable housing prices. While both cities offer appealing aspects, Charleston may attract those looking for budget-friendly living with its lower median home price and rent. Even though Virginia Beach has a slightly higher walkability score, Charleston provides charm and comfort with popular features like fireplaces and hardwood floors often mentioned in real estate listings. Exploring areas like Virginia Beach's oceanfront or Charleston's historic districts can provide a better feel for each city’s unique lifestyle.
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.
Virginia Beach vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences between Virginia Beach, VA and Charleston, WV is crucial when relocating. It helps you prepare for what to expect and adapt more smoothly to your new environment. The following chart highlights key climate factors between the two cities.
Virginia Beach, VA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Virginia Beach, VA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Virginia Beach, VA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Virginia Beach, VA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Virginia Beach | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving to Charleston, you might notice a shift in both temperature and weather patterns. Summers remain warm, but Charleston has cooler nights, providing a refreshing change. Winters are noticeably chillier, with Charleston experiencing more snow, which can be an exciting or challenging aspect depending on your preferences. You might miss the sunny days of Virginia Beach, as Charleston receives fewer each year. However, Charleston’s air quality tends to be better, contributing to a fresher atmosphere. While Virginia Beach is prone to hurricanes, Charleston is more susceptible to floods, requiring different preparations for natural disasters.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Virginia Beach to Charleston
When you're transitioning from Virginia Beach to Charleston, understanding how the cost of living and financial landscape will change is crucial. This comparison highlights key factors, helping you prepare for what to expect when trading the coastal lifestyle of Virginia Beach for the historic charm of Charleston .
| Comparison | Virginia Beach | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $81,634 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 5.75% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.88% | 0.59% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, Tourism, Education | Energy, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Low |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
While moving from Virginia Beach to Charleston can present financial changes, you might benefit from a lower overall cost of living thanks to Charleston's lower housing costs. The average household income is notably higher in Virginia Beach, which reflects its more affluent economy, bolstered by strong industries like military and tourism. However, Charleston's key industries such as energy and healthcare continue to play a significant role in its economic structure, providing opportunities for those in these fields. Despite a higher state income tax in Charleston, you might find the lower property taxes advantageous if you plan to buy a home in the area.
Virginia Beach vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
Comparing the political and religious landscape can help you get a sense of your new environment. This comparison of the politics between Virginia Beach & Charleston provides a quick glance at how these cities differ, allowing you to better understand their unique civic cultures and religious inclinations.
| Virginia Beach | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Conservative | Leans Liberal |
| Local Politics | City Council focuses on tourism and military | City Council emphasizes economic diversification |
| Religion | Diverse with significant Christian presence | Predominantly Christian with various denominations |
As you move from Virginia Beach to Charleston, it's important to note the shift in political inclinations. While Virginia Beach leans conservative, largely influenced by its military presence and tourism, Charleston tends to be more liberal, with a focus on economic diversification to revitalize the region. This political shift might impact community involvement, city council dynamics, and even local policies you encounter. Religiously, both cities boast a significant Christian presence, but Virginia Beach's more diverse population leads to a wider range of religious practices. This diversity can offer a richer array of cultural and spiritual events to explore in your new community.
Virginia Beach vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Are you considering a move and want to better navigate your daily commute? This piece offers a comparison of traffic and transportation options between Virginia Beach and Charleston, WV to help you understand how your daily journey may change.
| Comparison | Virginia Beach | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 18 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Possibly |
While Virginia Beach offers a more vibrant urban environment, it often comes with a longer average commute time and higher traffic congestion. You might find yourself relying on a car more often because the public transit system, while available, is not as expansive. In contrast, Charleston’s smaller size and reduced traffic congestion frequently lead to shorter commute times. The ability to navigate the city without a car can be more feasible here, thanks to the city's compact layout and slightly lower congestion index. Consider how these differences align with your lifestyle when planning your move.
Additional Resources
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