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 2,545 mile move from Washington to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 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 $2,500 - $9,500 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 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,545 miles from Seattle, WA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,945 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Charleston move is roughly $9,534. 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 | $2,645 | 300 ft³ | 8.82 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,945 | 450 ft³ | 8.77 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,538 | 750 ft³ | 8.72 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,534 | 1100 ft³ | 8.67 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,788 | 1600 ft³ | 8.62 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,422 | 1800 ft³ | 8.57 |
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) |
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) |
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.
Seattle vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from the neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Charleston, WV can seem daunting, but understanding their comparables can make the transition smoother. By using Seattle's neighborhoods as a baseline, you can become more familiar with what Charleston has to offer and find the areas that might feel like home.
| Seattle | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | East End | Vibrant cultural scene |
| Belltown | Downtown Charleston | Urban living, amenities |
| Ballard | South Hills | Family-friendly, community feel |
| Fremont | Kanawha City | Artistic vibe, local shops |
| West Seattle | South Charleston | Close-knit, scenic views |
| Greenwood | North Charleston | Laid-back, residential charm |
| Queen Anne | Edgewood | Upscale, historic architecture |
| Magnolia | South Hills | Elegant green spaces |
| Columbia City | West Side | Diverse, welcoming atmosphere |
| South Lake Union | Midland Trail | Bustling, tech-oriented |
For fans of Seattle's Capitol Hill, with its lively arts and music venues such as the famous Neumos, Charleston's East End offers a similar vibrancy, highlighted by galleries and community events. Belltown's urban charm, matched by Charleston's Downtown, provides an array of restaurants and nightlife, with places like Blossom sure to delight foodies. If you enjoy Fremont’s quirky artistic community, complete with independent boutiques and events like the Fremont Fair, you'll find a kindred spirit in Kanawha City, where local shops and a growing arts scene flourish. Meanwhile, if the proximity to stunning views in West Seattle appeals to you, South Charleston's river views and park areas will make your transition an easy one.
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 Seattle to Charleston
Making the move from Seattle, WA to Charleston, WV offers an opportunity to weigh and consider both the pros and cons of each location. This comparison gives an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping to inform a balanced decision between life in Seattle and Charleston, WV .
Seattle, WA- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Rainy weather
Charleston, WV- Affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Sunnier climate
Charleston, WV- Limited job market
- Fewer cultural events
- Fewer restaurants
Seattle, WA- Thriving tech industry
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Diverse dining options
Moving from Seattle to Charleston offers distinct changes. Seattle’s high cost of living is relieved by Charleston’s more affordable housing options, making neighborhoods like the East End particularly appealing. While in Seattle you might dodge traffic on the I-5, Charleston provides a more relaxed commute, allowing you to enjoy places like [Haddad Riverfront Park](https://www.charlestonwv.gov/government/city-departments/parks-recreation). Although you might miss Seattle's bustling [Pike Place Market](https://www.pikeplacemarket.org) or diverse dining options like Canlis, Charleston offers its local charm, with dining experiences at [Bluegrass Kitchen](https://www.bluegrasswv.com), and a taste of southern hospitality. While the tech scene in Seattle is a major draw, Charleston's smaller job market encourages a more community-oriented style of living that you might find refreshing.
Seattle vs. Charleston Food Guide
Food is a key aspect of local culture and influences what it's like to live in an area. By providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Charleston , you'll be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Seattle | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Seafood Chowder | Pepperoni Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Cedar Plank Salmon | Country Ham |
| Most popular street food item | Clam Chowder | BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Sushi | Vegan Biscuits and Gravy |
| 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 from Seattle to Charleston, you'll experience a shift in culinary offerings. While Seattle dazzles with its wide array of seafood and bustling food truck culture, Charleston has its own southern charm with unique dishes like the pepperoni roll, especially popular in local spots like Fole's. If you enjoy street food, you'll need to hunt a bit further in Charleston compared to Seattle's food truck abundance. Neighborhoods like Kanawha City are good spots to find hidden gems and quintessential southern meals. Vegan options, while not as prevalent in Charleston as in Seattle, can still be found in welcoming spots like Bluegrass Kitchen.
Seattle vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is a key element in making any area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries in Seattle and Charleston by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Seattle | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Pink Door | The Block Restaurant & Wine Cellar | Elegant Italian dining with a focus on ambiance and artistry |
| Tavolàta | Laury’s Restaurant | Known for refined pasta dishes in a chic setting |
| Pike Place Chowder | First Watch | Offers fresh and hearty chowders and coastal fare |
| Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge | Bluegrass Kitchen | Serves creative Southern-inspired dishes with flair |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | 1010 Bridge | Celebrated for seafood dishes with a modern twist |
| Kedai Makan | Graziano's Pizza | Offers flavorsome Asian cuisine and street food vibes |
| Canlis | The Chop House | High-end fine dining experience with a focus on steaks |
| Marination Ma Kai | Tricky Fish | Loved for its unique take on Hawaiian-Korean fusion cuisine |
| Beecher's Handmade Cheese | Rodney's on the Creek | Artisan cheese and sandwich creations |
| Serious Pie | Pies & Pints | Known for creative and gourmet pizza offerings |
In your culinary journey from Seattle to Charleston, many intriguing similarities yet delightful distinctions await your discovery. For example, while The Block Restaurant & Wine Cellar captures the essence of Seattle's beloved The Pink Door with its refined Italian menu and artistic atmosphere, it also weaves in local charm unique to Charleston. When in the mood for premium seafood, a visit to 1010 Bridge will recall familiar elements from The Walrus and the Carpenter with fresh, innovative dishes that reinforce the value of seafood in both cities. Meanwhile, at Graziano's Pizza, the fusion of Asian flavors will remind you of the vibrant street food experience at Seattle's Kedai Makan. Enjoy discovering these parallels as you explore your new neighborhood’s blossoming food scene.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, real estate becomes a key factor. Comparing Seattle and Charleston's housing markets will provide insights into costs, lifestyle, and architectural variety, helping you make an informed decision about what each city has to offer. Understanding these differences ensures you choose the right environment for your needs.
| Comparison | Seattle | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Colonial and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, <a href="https://www.pnwrestaurants.com">proximity to dining</a> | Historic charm, access to heritage sites |
Seattle is known for its modern and Craftsman-style homes, reflecting its reputation for both innovation and tradition. This contrasts with Charleston's affinity for historic Colonial and Victorian homes, which add a quaint charm to the residential landscape. You might find Seattle's higher walkability and bikeability appealing if you value an active lifestyle and easy access to urban amenities. In Charleston, the focus is more on historical appeal and peaceful neighborhoods, making it perfect for experiencing the slower pace of life while still enjoying unique local attractions like those found in heritage sites and scenic landscapes.
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.
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 comparing the Seattle and Charleston climates, you'll better prepare for changes in temperature, precipitation, and air quality that can impact your daily life and well-being.
Seattle, WA
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Floods | Floods, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The transition from Seattle to Charleston means adjusting to a slightly warmer summer and experiencing a more dramatic drop in winter temperatures. Charleston has more rainfall annually, which contributes to different natural disaster scenarios, such as floods and tornadoes. Additionally, you'll encounter more snow during winter months, which might be a significant change if you are accustomed to Seattle's milder winters. Despite these differences, both cities share similar humidity levels but differ slightly in air quality and UV index ratings, which can affect outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Charleston
When moving from Seattle to Charleston , it's crucial to understand the financial differences between the two locations. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and anticipate changes in your lifestyle. The chart highlights the key financial aspects of each city, aiding in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Seattle | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 6.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.98% | 0.59% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25% | 6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tech, Aerospace, Retail | Healthcare, Education, Energy |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Minimal |
As you transition from Seattle to Charleston, you'll experience a significant decrease in the cost of living—nearly 30% lower. While Seattle boasts high incomes, it also has no state income tax, which can substantially influence your financial strategies. In contrast, Charleston's state income tax might be a new consideration, but you'll benefit from lower property and sales taxes. Understanding these financial dynamics will help you maximize your economic stability in your new city.
Seattle vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
To give you a quick understanding of your new community, we've put together a snapshot highlighting the political and religious makeup of Seattle and Charleston . This comparison will help you see how the cities differ when it comes to local culture and values.
| Seattle | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly Liberal | Predominantly Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Traditional policies |
| Religion | Higher percentage of non-religious | Higher percentage of Christian |
When comparing Seattle, WA, to Charleston, WV, you'll find a significant shift in political and religious views. Seattle's predominantly liberal stance promotes progressive policies, often reflected in its support for environmental initiatives and tech-driven solutions. On the other hand, Charleston leans more conservatively, with traditional values informing its political landscape. Religion plays an essential role in Charleston's community life, where churches are often integral to social gatherings and local events, contrasting with Seattle's more secular atmosphere.
Seattle vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Whether you're moving for work, family, or just a change of scenery, it's important to understand your new locale. This comparison focuses on the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Charleston to help you better grasp what the daily commute and traffic are like in these two cities.
| Comparison | Seattle | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
Living in Seattle, you'll likely face significantly more traffic congestion compared to Charleston, where the roads are less busy and commutes tend to be quicker. While Seattle boasts robust public transit options with a variety of buses and a light rail system, moving to Charleston means fewer choices, though you can still get by without a car. The differences extend further into lifestyle; for instance, Seattle offers bustling neighborhoods and an extensive public transport web, ideal for urban exploration, while Charleston provides a quieter atmosphere with more reliance on personal vehicles for longer trips.
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