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 585 mile move from Wisconsin to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 16 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 $1,500 - $5,500 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.
Best Milwaukee to Charleston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Milwaukee to Charleston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 585 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Charleston, WV will cost on average $2,279 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Charleston move is roughly $5,460. 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 | $1,534 | 300 ft³ | 5.11 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,279 | 450 ft³ | 5.06 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,760 | 750 ft³ | 5.01 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,460 | 1100 ft³ | 4.96 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,862 | 1600 ft³ | 4.91 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,755 | 1800 ft³ | 4.86 |
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
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2525330 / 877057 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2022) |
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2627768 / 1031866 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 173,000 (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) |
The Go To Guys, LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3760134 / 1338262 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |
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.
Milwaukee vs. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison
If you're planning to move from Milwaukee, WI to Charleston, WV, this guide will help you use Milwaukee, WI & Charleston, WV neighborhoods as a baseline to familiarize yourself with the new area, offering insights into the lifestyle and facilities of each community.
| Milwaukee | Charleston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Third Ward | East End | Art and culture hub |
| Bay View | South Hills | Vibrant, trendy feel |
| Riverwest | Kanawha City | Eclectic and diverse |
| Walker's Point | Downtown Charleston | Revitalized with nightlife |
| East Side | North Charleston | Young, energetic vibe |
| Harbor View Hills | Fort Hill | Quiet suburban atmosphere |
| Avenues West | West Side | Blending residential and commercial |
| Story Hill | East End | Scenic, historic charm |
| Historic Mitchell Street | West Side | Rich in history with community spirit |
| Lower East Side | North Charleston | Thriving with young professionals |
In Milwaukee’s Third Ward, you are surrounded by art galleries, theatres, and eclectic dining options like the Public Market. You'll find a similar creative environment in Charleston's East End, where the local arts scene thrives, along with indie restaurants like Pies & Pints. If Bay View’s trendy vibe and street festivals resonate with you, South Hills in Charleston delivers a comparable energy with buzzing coffee shops and local gatherings. Meanwhile, Riverwest, known for its diverse community and bohemian charm, finds its parallel in Kanawha City, an eclectic suburb with unique shops and eateries. Explorer-friendly Riverwest attracts adventurers to live music events and communal parks, akin to Kanawha City's vibrant social atmosphere. For those seeking quiet, suburban streets, Harbor View Hills and Charleston’s Fort Hill both offer serene parks and local gathering spots with green trails and open spaces ideal for a peaceful lifestyle.
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 Milwaukee to Charleston
Making the move from Milwaukee, WI to Charleston, WV can be a transformative life decision. This analysis provides an honest reflection of both the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your options and make an informed choice.
Milwaukee, WI- Harsh winters
- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Industrial areas
- Limited outdoor recreation
Charleston, WV- Milder weather
- Affordable housing
- Lesser congestion
- Scenic landscapes
- Abundant hiking trails
Charleston, WV- Fewer job opportunities
- Limited nightlife
- Fewer dining options
- Less cultural diversity
- Inland location
Milwaukee, WI- Thriving job market
- Abundant entertainment
- Diverse food scene
- Cultural attractions
- Lakefront access
Charleston, WV is known for its milder weather and breathtaking scenic landscapes like those found in Joplin Park and the surrounding Appalachian mountains, offering ample hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The city boasts affordable housing options, making it an attractive place for those looking to stretch their budget further. However, it offers fewer job opportunities than Milwaukee, which can impact career-oriented individuals. You might miss the diverse food scene of Milwaukee, with its vibrant restaurants such as Mader's Restaurant and the cultural attractions that give the city its rich, unique character. Still, Charleston provides a closeness to nature and a less congested lifestyle, ideal for those wishing for a slower pace and community-oriented living.
Milwaukee vs. Charleston Food Guide
Exploring food is an integral part of understanding local culture and lifestyle. This guide provides insights into the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Charleston, WV , helping you become better acquainted with the culinary landscape of your new home.
| Milwaukee | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cream puff | Pepperoni roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Hot bologna sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Cheese curds | Souvlaki |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu scramble | Grilled vegetable platter |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Charleston, WV, you'll discover a distinct array of foods that reveal the city's character. Begin your culinary adventure in the East End, where the iconic pepperoni roll is a must-try. If you're seeking a lively spot, head over to the downtown area and enjoy a meal at the celebrated Bluegrass Kitchen, known for its fresh and locally sourced menu. For those interested in street food, souvlaki is a popular choice in local fairs and markets throughout Charleston, offering a new tasting experience. Dive into the heart of this city through its rich culinary scene and find your favorite flavors.
Milwaukee vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison
Food is a cornerstone of feeling at home, and this restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries by using Milwaukee and Charleston as a guide.
| Milwaukee | Charleston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Sanford | South Hills Market & Cafe | An intimate and upscale dining experience similar to Sanford. |
| Blue's Egg | First Watch | Offers a wide array of breakfast and brunch options akin to Blue's Egg. |
| Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro | Laury's Restaurant | Both serve exquisite French cuisine with impeccable service and ambiance. |
| AJ Bombers | Five Guys | Known for their perfect burgers, similar to AJ Bombers. |
| Harbor House | Hale House | Specializes in seafood and offers a scenic view like Harbor House. |
| Colectivo Coffee | Moxxee Coffee | A trendy spot for coffee lovers, rivaling the vibe and brews of Colectivo. |
| Comet Cafe | Bluegrass Kitchen | A haven for comfort food lovers, akin to Comet Cafe’s offerings. |
| Odd Duck | Lola's Pizza | Creative menus inspired by local ingredients similar to Odd Duck. |
| Goodkind | Bricks & Barrels | Both have an urban feel with unique and crafted cocktails. |
| BelAir Cantina | Mi Cocina de Amor | Vibrant atmospheres with a Mexican flair, similar to BelAir Cantina. |
When you’re missing the upscale vibe of Sanford in Milwaukee, Charleston’s South Hills Market & Cafe has you covered with its refined setting and tastefully crafted menu. For those casual brunch mornings, you can delve into hearty offerings at First Watch, which mirrors the breakfast brilliance of Blue's Egg. Seafood lovers transitioning to Charleston will find solace at Hale House, where their selection and views give you a slice of Milwaukee's Harbor House ambiance. And if you seek a cozy spot for your coffee fix with a trendy vibe, Moxxee Coffee outshines as Charleston’s counterpart to Colectivo Coffee.
Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical consideration when moving. To make a successful transition, it's essential to understand how the housing landscape in Milwaukee compares to Charleston. This comparison offers insights into key housing elements that could impact your decision-making.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Cream City Brick | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood Floors, Lake Views | Spacious Yards, Porch |
When considering a move to Charleston, you'll find that housing costs tend to be more affordable compared to Milwaukee, with a significantly lower median home price. This difference could give you more financial flexibility. The architecture in Milwaukee, known for its unique Cream City Brick style, contrasts with Charleston's traditional Colonial homes, which often feature large yards. Despite Milwaukee's higher scores in walkability and bikeability, Charleston provides serene and spacious living environments, which might appeal to those seeking a less urban lifestyle but still desiring convenience in amenities.
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.
Milwaukee vs. Charleston Weather Considerations
When moving from Milwaukee, WI to Charleston, WV , understanding the weather differences is crucial for maintaining your lifestyle comfortably. Adapting to the local climate impacts everything from your daily wardrobe choices to seasonal activities and overall well-being in your new home.
Milwaukee, WI
Charleston, WV
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Charleston, WV
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Charleston, WV
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Milwaukee, WI
Charleston, WV
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Lake Effect Snow | Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When transitioning from Milwaukee to Charleston, you'll find that the winters in Charleston are generally milder, with temperatures seldom dipping as low as the harsh cold experienced in Milwaukee. Although Charleston receives more rainfall throughout the year, it encounters less snowfall, which might be a pleasant change if you prefer less severe winter conditions. Interestingly, both locations have a similar number of sunny days, but Charleston's higher humidity might make summers feel warmer. If you suffer from allergies, note that the allergens in Charleston differ slightly, with tree pollen and grass being prevalent in contrast to Milwaukee’s ragweed and pollen.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Charleston
If you're considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Charleston, WV , it's vital to understand how the cost of living and financial aspects will differ. This guide aims to provide a comparison to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $46,637 | |
| Cost of Living Index | 101.9 | 92.7 |
| State Income Tax | 6.27% | 6.50% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.68% | 0.54% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.60% | 6.00% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health, Education | Healthcare, Retail, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Modest |
| Poverty | Notable | Higher |
| Homelessness | Spread | Concentrated |
Understanding the financial landscape when moving from Milwaukee to Charleston can help you adjust your expectations. For instance, even though Charleston has a lower average household income, the cost of living is significantly less, which can balance out your purchasing power. Additionally, while state income tax is slightly higher in Charleston, the property tax rate is considerably lower compared to Milwaukee, suggesting potential savings for property owners. Moreover, the predominant industries in each city offer a glimpse into local employment opportunities, with Charleston focusing more on healthcare and retail, while Milwaukee emphasizes manufacturing. These factors are crucial when planning your move and managing your budget effectively.
Milwaukee vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison
As you prepare to move from Milwaukee, WI to Charleston, WV, it's essential to understand the local culture. This snapshot provides a quick, at-a-glance view of the typical political and religious makeup of each city. Here's a comparison of the politics between Milwaukee & Charleston so that you can get a sense of the differences and similarities in the community.
| Milwaukee | Charleston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly Democratic | Predominantly Republican |
| Local Politics | Urban initiatives and progressive policies | Focus on small business and coal industry |
| Religion | Varied, with strong Catholic community | Majority Protestant, evangelical presence |
Understanding the political climate will give you a better sense of community priorities in each location. In Milwaukee, you might find yourself surrounded by urban initiatives, emphasizing progressive policies that support city growth. Charleston, however, tends to focus on issues pertinent to small businesses and the coal industry, reflecting its economic and cultural heritage. As for religious affiliations, Milwaukee has a diverse community with a significant Catholic presence, while Charleston predominantly leans Protestant with a notable evangelical influence, which might impact local community events and holidays.
Milwaukee vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving to a new city. This guide provides insights to help you better navigate your relocation by highlighting the key differences in traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Charleston .
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 18 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, but not ideal | Challenging |
Commuting in Milwaukee offers the advantage of better public transit options compared to Charleston, providing you with more flexible travel choices. The average commute time in Milwaukee is slightly longer, but the city's robust transit system compensates for this with numerous routes and services. Charleston, on the other hand, has less traffic congestion, making driving a more fluid experience, but you might find that relying on a car is more crucial due to limited public transit options. While you may get by without a car in Milwaukee, especially if you live near local transit hubs or key points in the city, you'll find that having your own vehicle in Charleston significantly enhances your mobility.
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