Best Milwaukee to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Milwaukee to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,002 mile move from Wisconsin to South Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 Milwaukee 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 About Time Moving Systems LLC), 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 Milwaukee 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.

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Best Milwaukee to Charleston Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1About Time Moving Systems LLC9.339.33Authorized For HHGContact
2Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.309.31Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Smooth Move Charleston9.219.46Authorized For HHGContact
4Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
5The Go To Guys, LLC9.078.7Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Milwaukee to Charleston

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,002 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Charleston, SC will cost on average $2,633 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Charleston move is roughly $6,327. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,771300 ft³5.90
1 Bedroom$2,633450 ft³5.85
2 Bedrooms$4,351750 ft³5.80
3 Bedrooms$6,3271100 ft³5.75
4 Bedrooms$9,1231600 ft³5.70
5+ Bedrooms$10,1731800 ft³5.65
*Please note: These Wisconsin to South Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Wisconsin & South Carolina. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed WI to SC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Milwaukee guide.

Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Charleston Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

About Time Moving Systems LLC Logo

About Time Moving Systems LLC

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 2,396+ data points

4909 8th Ave

Kenosha, WI, 53140

About About Time Moving Systems LLC

This locally owned and operated moving company serves the Milwaukee, WI, area with high-quality residential and commercial relocation services. About Time...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2525330 / 877057

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 2,029+ data points

310 Progress Way Suite 140

Sun Prairie, WI, 53590

About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and commercial...

Services

  • Residential moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Local/statewide moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2627768 / 1031866

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved173,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Smooth Move Charleston Logo

Smooth Move Charleston

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2357653 / 834668

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Ready Set Movers Logo

Ready Set Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 902+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2150739 / 756179

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
The Go To Guys, LLC Logo

The Go To Guys, LLC

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 275+ data points

Bayside, WI, 53217

About The Go To Guys, LLC

The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3760134 / 1338262

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Milwaukee vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

By comparing neighborhoods in Milwaukee, WI & Charleston, SC , we aim to help you familiarize yourself with Charleston by using your current surroundings as a guide. Discover the similarities and transitions from one vibrant cityscape to another.

MilwaukeeCharlestonHow They're Similar
East SideDowntown CharlestonBustling nightlife, art scene
Bay ViewAvondaleTrendy restaurants, eclectic vibe
Third WardFrench QuarterHistoric charm, upscale shopping
RiverwestCannonborough-ElliotboroughArtsy, diverse community
Walker's PointWestsideCultural fusion, culinary hotspots
ShorewoodSullivans IslandSuburban feel, proximity to water
Brewer's HillHarleston VillageResidential, historic homes
Brady StreetKing StreetLively ambiance, busy shopping area
Lincoln VillageNorth CentralFamily-oriented, diverse demographics
Historic Mitchell StreetDowntown CharlestonMixture of history and modernity

Exploring Milwaukee’s East Side offers you a blend of urban lifestyle with its bustling parks and trendy eateries, akin to the vibrant energy you'd find on King Street in Charleston. If you're fond of the artsy and diverse vibes of Riverwest, the colorful streets of Cannonborough-Elliotborough will feel like home with its mix of art galleries and eclectic cafés. Walker's Point may be known for its rich cultural tapestry and fashionable dining spots, echoed in Charleston's flourishing Westside neighborhood, where diverse culinary expressions come to life. Meanwhile, the historic allure found in Milwaukee’s Third Ward is mirrored by Charleston’s French Quarter, where you can enjoy an engaging walk through timeless charm with notable landmarks such as the Charleston City Market.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Charleston

Considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Charleston, SC ? Explore this comparison to gain an honest reflection of both the advantages and challenges associated with such a relocation. Understand how each city offers a unique lifestyle that could impact your daily life.

CONs
PROs
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Harsh winters
  • Limited beaches
  • Industrial areas
  • Higher state taxes
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Milder winters
  • Beautiful coastline
  • Charming historic districts
  • Tax-friendly state
Charleston, SC iconCharleston, SC
  • Smaller arts community
  • Rising property costs
  • Predominantly seafood
  • Fewer freshwater lakes
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Thriving arts scene
  • Affordable housing
  • Diverse food options
  • Lakeside activities

Living in Charleston, SC offers the delight of strolling through the historic district or savoring seaside views, a stark contrast to Milwaukee's industrial zones. You might find downtown Milwaukee's art galleries thriving, while Charleston's art scene, though smaller, is enriched by venues like the Spoleto Festival. In Milwaukee, the variety in cuisine from Pierogi at Polish Fest to the iconic Friday fish fry presents a broad palette, contrasting with Charleston's famed seafood dishes. Housing costs are more competitive in Milwaukee, yet Charleston entices with its waterfront properties. As you compare these cities, consider the vibe of Milwaukee's Bay View neighborhood versus Charleston's Elliottborough to see which suits your lifestyle best.

Milwaukee vs. Charleston Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture and significantly influences lifestyle. We'll help you understand this better by highlighting a comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Charleston so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.

MilwaukeeCharleston
Most iconic local food itemCheese CurdsShrimp and Grits
Most popular meat dishBratwurstShe-Crab Soup
Most popular street food itemCustardBenne Wafers
Most popular vegan foodCauliflower WingsCollard Greens
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Husk
  • Hominy Grill
  • Poogan's Porch
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 landscape is vibrant and deeply connected to its Southern roots. You'll find the famed Shrimp and Grits, particularly in establishments near Downtown Charleston like Husk and Hominy Grill. If you're a food truck enthusiast, the city's offering is broad, highlighted during events in the North Charleston area. Meanwhile, the city's embrace of vegan choices, like collard greens, positions it as a more vegan-friendly locale compared to Milwaukee. Explore neighborhoods like the French Quarter to experience Charleston's rich culinary tapestry.

Milwaukee vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Food is an integral part of making an area feel like home. This Milwaukee to Charleston restaurant comparison will help guide you in finding new favorite eateries as you transition from your current hometown to a new one.

MilwaukeeCharlestonWhat You'll Love
SanfordHuskRenowned for its contemporary takes on Southern cuisine just as Sanford redefines Midwestern flavors
Odd DuckThe OrdinaryBoth feature innovative small plate offerings with a focus on fresh, local ingredients
Blue's EggToastKnown for artisanal brunch fare, much like Blue's Egg
Buckley's Restaurant & BarPoogan's PorchOffers a blend of classic and contemporary dishes in a cozy setting
Lakefront BreweryPalmetto Brewing CompanyA staple for craft beer enthusiasts in Charleston, similar in approach to Lakefront
Ristorante BartolottaTrattoria LuccaBoth deliver authentic Italian cuisine with a twist of elegance
Bacchus - A Bartolotta RestaurantFigBoth enhance the dining experience with seasonal and sustainable upscale options
Sobelman's Pub & GrillHome Team BBQEach establishment captures the essence of casual dining with a focus on hearty flavors
Louise's TrattoriaIndacoBoth are known for their vibrant Italian offerings featuring fresh ingredients
Story Hill BKCXiao Bao BiscuitInnovation shines through brunch offerings, tapping into cultural diversity much like Story Hill

In Milwaukee, Sanford offers a reimagined fine dining experience with a nod to Midwestern flavors, while Charleston's Husk brings a similar contemporary flair to Southern classics. If innovative small plates are your go-to, Odd Duck in Milwaukee and The Ordinary in Charleston will feel like home with their bold approaches using locally sourced ingredients. Blue's Egg sets a high brunch bar, and you'll find its equivalent at Charleston’s Toast, known for its artisanal morning fare. For a more laid-back yet flavorful experience, head to Palmetto Brewing Company in Charleston which echoes Milwaukee's own Lakefront Brewery with its locally loved craft beers. Exploring these culinary parallels simplifies your transition, making it easier to savor familiar meals in brand-new settings.

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Milwaukee vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's vital to understand how Milwaukee and Charleston's housing markets compare regarding costs, styles, and livability to assist in making informed decisions.

ComparisonMilwaukeeCharleston
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsmanCharleston Single House
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingFinished BasementsPorches

Moving from Milwaukee to Charleston involves navigating different aspects of housing. While Milwaukee offers more affordable options, with a median home price of $225,000, Charleston's charm comes with higher price points at around $385,000. This is in part due to the distinctive Charleston Single House style. Milwaukee is favored for its higher walkability and bikeability, ideal for those who enjoy a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle. However, Charleston’s vibrant urban life, showcased by its popular porches and local cafes like Coffee Folks, makes for a unique cultural and historic experience.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Milwaukee vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

When moving from Milwaukee to Charleston , it's crucial to understand how the weather will differ from what you're accustomed to. This comparison provides insights into the distinctive climatic features you'll experience, helping you prepare for and adapt to your new environment.

Summer icon
80/63

Milwaukee, WI

90/74

Charleston, SC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31/18

Milwaukee, WI

60/39

Charleston, SC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34

Milwaukee, WI

48

Charleston, SC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
45

Milwaukee, WI

0.5

Charleston, SC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMilwaukeeCharleston
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersSnowstormsHurricanes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Milwaukee to Charleston means adjusting to a more subtropical climate. You'll experience warmer winters in Charleston, with daytime highs that resemble Milwaukee's spring temperatures. However, the increased warmth brings higher humidity and a greater chance of hurricanes, unlike Milwaukee's snowstorms. Sunshine abounds more in Charleston, brightening your new adventures but also requiring vigilant sun protection due to a higher UV Index. Additionally, while allergies remain a consideration in both cities, you'll find that grass pollen is more prevalent in Charleston compared to Milwaukee's dominant ragweed allergens.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Charleston

If you're moving from Milwaukee to Charleston , understanding how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to is crucial. This comparison helps you better plan your move, adjust your budget, and anticipate changes in your financial landscape. Prepare yourself by assessing differences in taxes, incomes, and living expenses between these distinct cities.

ComparisonMilwaukeeCharleston
Avg. Household Income$46,637$74,139
Cost of Living Index101.998.3
State Income Tax6.27%7%
Avg. Property Tax2.48%0.57%
Avg. Sales Tax5.6%9%
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, EducationTourism, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateGood
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessImprovingStable

Moving from Milwaukee to Charleston means adjusting to a higher cost of living, reflected by Charleston's cost of living index of 105 compared to Milwaukee's 90. Although average household incomes are higher in Charleston, so are sales taxes at 9%, compared to Milwaukee's 5.6%. Property taxes, however, are significantly lower in Charleston. You may also experience different industry dynamics; while Milwaukee thrives on manufacturing, Charleston's economy largely revolves around tourism. These distinctions highlight the financial shifts you might face while transitioning to life in Charleston.

Milwaukee vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

Comparing the sociopolitical landscape of Milwaukee and Charleston offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Milwaukee & Charleston's political comparison helps potential movers understand the community dynamics they may encounter in their new home.

MilwaukeeCharleston
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive policies supportedTraditional values emphasized
ReligionMajority CatholicPredominantly Protestant

When moving from Milwaukee to Charleston, you'll notice a shift in the political atmosphere. Milwaukee, with its urban setting, often supports progressive policies which is evident in the local government's initiatives. Charleston, on the other hand, fosters a community favoring traditional values, reflective of its Southern heritage. The religious makeup also contrasts, as Milwaukee's Catholic majority stands against Charleston's Protestant predominance, impacting the social life and community events in each city. Understanding these differences can help you better integrate into your new community.

Milwaukee vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the nuances of daily commuting and traffic can significantly impact your transition from Milwaukee to Charleston. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Charleston to help make your move smoother.

ComparisonMilwaukeeCharleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2224
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

While Milwaukee offers more robust public transit options, allowing for easier car-free living, Charleston's transit system might require you to rely more on private vehicles. The average commute times for both cities are relatively similar; however, Charleston tends to have slightly more traffic congestion. Consider checking out Milwaukee's public transit site for further details which might ease your travel, whereas in Charleston, you might explore opportunities for ridesharing or biking, especially in its charming and compact downtown area.

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