Best Seattle to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,021 mile move from Washington to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle 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 Seattle to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,021 miles from Seattle, WA to Charleston, SC will cost on average $4,350 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Charleston move is roughly $10,524. 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 | $2,915 | 300 ft³ | 9.72 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,350 | 450 ft³ | 9.67 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,213 | 750 ft³ | 9.62 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,524 | 1100 ft³ | 9.57 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,228 | 1600 ft³ | 9.52 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,041 | 1800 ft³ | 9.47 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Charleston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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) |
People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (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) |
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.
Seattle vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Use this guide to help you transition smoothly from your current home by discovering the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Charleston, SC . Find similar communities based on the unique charm and amenities of each area.
| Seattle | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Ballard | Mount Pleasant | Waterfront and family-friendly |
| Capitol Hill | Downtown Charleston | Vibrant nightlife and cultural hub |
| Fremont | West Ashley | Artsy vibe with eclectic shops |
| Queen Anne | South of Broad | Historic architecture with scenic views |
| Greenwood | Park Circle | Bohemian culture with diverse restaurants |
| West Seattle | James Island | Relaxed coastal living |
| South Lake Union | North Charleston | Tech-driven with modern amenities |
| Belltown | French Quarter | Trendy and bustling |
| Magnolia | Isle of Palms | Quiet residential, nature nearby |
| Beacon Hill | Harleston Village | Diverse community with rich history |
Exploring the lively energy of Capitol Hill with its myriad cafes and music venues might remind you of Charleston’s downtown area, where the bustle never dies down, and historical wonders hide around every corner. Or if the scenic vistas and iconic architecture of Queen Anne charm you on a daily basis, Charleston's South of Broad neighborhood offers a picturesque escape with its cobblestone streets and grand homes. For those drawn to the artsy essence of Fremont, West Ashley’s similar eclectic scene with murals and local art shops will ensure you feel right at home. Each neighborhood captures a little piece of Seattle while offering a new twist of Southern hospitality and local traditions.
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 Seattle to Charleston
As you prepare for your move from Seattle, WA to Charleston, SC, it's crucial to evaluate the pros and cons of resettling between Seattle, WA and Charleston, SC . These charts offer an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision.
Seattle, WA- Rainy weather
- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Limited beach access
Charleston, SC- Sunnier climate
- Lower housing costs
- Less congestion
- Beautiful beaches
Charleston, SC- Fewer tech jobs
- Limited diversity
- Car-dependent areas
- Fewer major events
Seattle, WA- Thriving tech scene
- Diverse dining options
- Walkable neighborhoods
- Rich cultural events
As you transition from the vibrant tech landscape of Seattle to the historic charm of Charleston, you'll encounter both rewarding and challenging changes. Seattle's bustling tech scene, exemplified by the renowned Amazon and Microsoft headquarters, provides an abundance of career opportunities that might be scarcer in Charleston. However, Charleston offers a more relaxed pace with stunning beaches like Folly Beach, and lower overall living costs, particularly in affordable neighborhoods like Kiawah Island. While Seattle's culinary scene stands out with diverse eateries such as Canlis, Charleston's local cuisine, especially its seafood, will delight your taste buds at places like Hank's Seafood. Do explore Charleston's scenic parks, like Charleston Parks Conservancy, offering serene spots amidst the Southern charm.
Seattle vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture, shaping the experience of living in a new place. In this guide, we’ll explore a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Charleston , providing you with insights into what awaits your palate on your journey to your new home.
| Seattle | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Seafood Chowder | Shrimp and Grits |
| Most popular meat dish | Salmon | Fried Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Buddha Bowls | Collard Greens |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Charleston, the hearty and flavorsome Shrimp and Grits is a must-try dish found at Husk in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood. If you're seeking to explore classic Southern comfort, Fried Chicken from venues like Hominy Grill is not to be missed. Charleston's culinary charm extends beyond its classic dishes, with a vibrant food scene that thrives in areas such as King Street, offering an array of tastes that cater to both the traditionalist and the adventurous foodie. While vegan options are available, notably Collard Greens, Charleston is famed for its traditional comfort foods, distinctively Southern in their roots.
Seattle vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is a cornerstone of feeling at home in any city. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown of Seattle as a guide to explore Charleston's culinary scene.
| Seattle | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Husk | Both offer an elevated dining experience with a focus on local ingredients |
| Spinasse | Le Farfalle | Delivers authentic Italian flavors with handcrafted pasta |
| Pike Place Market | Charleston City Market | A bustling marketplace with diverse food offerings |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | The Ordinary | Renowned for fresh seafood served in a vibrant setting |
| Salumi | Butcher & Bee | Offers carefully cured and crafted sandwiches |
| Tilikum Place Cafe | Hominy Grill | Classic brunch dishes in a cozy neighborhood spot |
| Starbucks Reserve Roastery | Second State Coffee | A haven for coffee enthusiasts with quality brews |
| Mama's Mexican Kitchen | Minero | Rustic yet modern Mexican cuisine in a lively space |
| Shiro's Sushi | O-Ku | Masterful sushi creations with a stylish Southern ambiance |
| Dick's Drive-In | Handy & Hot | Iconic comfort food offering a taste of local nostalgia |
When it's time to indulging in an exquisite culinary experience, both Canlis in Seattle and Husk in Charleston set the stage for unforgettable evenings with their dedication to local, high-quality ingredients. If pasta is your passion, Spinasse in Seattle and Le Farfalle in Charleston offer a sensory journey through handcrafted Italian delights that would make any food lover swoon. Meanwhile, the lively atmosphere and fresh seafood at The Walrus and the Carpenter in Seattle are beautifully mirrored at The Ordinary in Charleston, where the sea's bounty is celebrated in sophistication. Exploring these culinary matches assures that your taste buds remain just as delighted in Charleston as they've been in Seattle.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to know how the housing in Seattle and Charleston compare in terms of cost , architecture , and lifestyle . This comparison helps you make an informed decision, ensuring your new home meets your needs and expectations.
| Comparison | Seattle | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Water views, Rooftop decks | Historic charm, Large porches |
Moving from Seattle to Charleston means experiencing significant changes in your housing environment. Seattle, with its modern architectural style and high walkability, offers an urban lifestyle that embraces stunning water views and innovative home features like rooftop decks. In contrast, Charleston charms with its colonial architecture and historical allure, often highlighting large porches and lush greenery. While Seattle's housing market is considerably more expensive, Charleston provides a more cost-effective alternative, allowing for budget-friendly options in an area rich with cultural heritage.
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.
Seattle vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. By analyzing key weather differences between Seattle, WA and Charleston, SC , you can better prepare for changing conditions in your new environment.
Seattle, WA
Charleston, SC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Charleston, SC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Charleston, SC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Charleston, SC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When transitioning from Seattle to Charleston, you'll notice significant changes in both temperature and sunshine. Seattle's cooler summers and mild winters contrast with Charleston's hot, humid summers and milder winters. The increased availability of sunlight in Charleston, with nearly 60 more sunny days annually, might encourage a more outdoor lifestyle. However, the heightened UV index means you should take added precautions regarding sun exposure. Additionally, the shift from the earthquake-prone Pacific Northwest to the hurricane-vulnerable Southeast will alter your approach to natural disaster preparedness. While both cities experience high humidity, Seattle's air quality tends to be better overall, potentially impacting those sensitive to air pollutants.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle 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 will highlight key differences, especially when relocating from Seattle to Charleston .
| Comparison | Seattle | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $74,139 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 98.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.93% | 0.52% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1% | 9% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Engineering | Hospitality, Military, Medical |
| Affluence | Prosperous | Comfortable |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Minimal |
Moving from Seattle to Charleston can mean lower living costs, as seen in the substantial difference in the cost of living index. While Seattle boasts a higher average household income, Charleston offers an affordable lifestyle with lower property taxes. Different industries dominate each city, with technology leading in Seattle and hospitality in Charleston, influencing job opportunities and economic landscapes you may encounter. Furthermore, you may find a noticeable variance in homelessness, as Seattle has a more significant rate compared to the minimal levels in Charleston.
Seattle vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
In order to facilitate a smooth transition, here is a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. This comparison of the politics between Seattle & Charleston will help you better understand the local communities.
| Seattle | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mostly Liberal | More Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive City Council; Support for local initiatives | Traditional governance with focus on local businesses |
| Religion | Religiously Diverse | Predominantly Christian |
When moving from Seattle to Charleston, you may notice that the political landscape shifts from a predominantly liberal population in Seattle to a more conservative community in Charleston. This might reflect in various aspects like city policies and daily interactions. Furthermore, while Seattle boasts a diverse tapestry of religious beliefs, Charleston tends to have a more homogeneous religious community, largely centered around Christian faith. Understanding these contrasts can help ease the adaptation process as you settle into your new surroundings.
Seattle vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
If you're planning a move from Seattle, WA to Charleston, SC, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation can help you better navigate your daily commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Charleston provides insights into what you can expect, helping you decide whether you can get by without a car and how public transit options compare.
| Comparison | Seattle | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | No |
When moving from Seattle to Charleston, it's important to consider how transportation options differ between these cities. Seattle boasts a robust public transit system, including buses, light rail, and ferries, making commuting without a car feasible. This is a contrast to Charleston, where public transit is less extensive, and having a car is often necessary for convenience. While Seattle suffers from higher traffic congestion, its public transportation helps mitigate this issue, allowing you to navigate the city efficiently. In Charleston, you might find the roads less congested but having personal transportation becomes more critical for accessing all the city has to offer.
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